What are the some eye diseases that may lead to blindness?
The primary cause of vision impairment and blindness in the United States is age related disease. Today, approximately 10 million Americans are blind or have a visual impairment severe enough to affect their daily living. Of that 10 million, more than half are age 65 or older. By the time we reach our senior years, we, or someone close to us, will be facing a significant vision loss: age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and/or glaucoma. Normal vision, (20/20), occurs when light is focused directly on the retina rather than in front of or behind it. Cataract A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens. Cataracts usually appear with age and may be a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation contained in sunlight or lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking and diet. Diabetic Retinopathy A common complication of diabetes, it affects the tiny blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels can break down, leak or become blocked, impairing vi
