The Visible Effects of Time on the Eyes!

Aging is a natural part of life. While time itself is intangible, its effects on the human body are quite visible, especially in our most sensitive organ: the eyes. Kudret Eye Istanbul's ophthalmologist Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek emphasizes that the risk of eye diseases increases with age and provides information on age-related eye diseases and their treatments.

Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek explains: “Our eyes are among the first organs to show the unwanted signs of aging. Eye bags, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are more common as we age. Additionally, dry eyes and presbyopia, which is difficulty seeing up close, are other conditions that appear with age.”

Highlighting the increased prevalence of cataracts and presbyopia with advancing age, Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek provides insights into intraocular lens surgeries used to treat these conditions: “Cataracts are caused by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, impairing vision. Although cataracts can be congenital and present in infants, their incidence increases with age. Approximately 90% of cataract cases in people over 60 are due to aging. If left untreated, cataracts can progress over time, eventually leading to total blindness. Surgery is the only treatment method, where the clouded natural lens is replaced with an intraocular lens that is fully compatible with the eye, restoring clear vision. Another condition treated with intraocular lens surgery is presbyopia, which occurs when the eye’s lens loses its natural elasticity over time, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. This condition typically begins to appear after age 45, and presbyopia patients require glasses to see up close. Today, smart lenses used in intraocular lens surgeries allow for clear vision at near, intermediate, and distant ranges, enabling patients to say goodbye to reading glasses, a symbol of aging.”

Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek warns about glaucoma and macular degeneration: “Glaucoma, also known as ocular hypertension, is a dangerous disease that can cause permanent vision loss by damaging the optic nerves. While it can occur in any age group, everyone over 40 is at risk. Since it can progress silently without any symptoms, it can lead to unexpected vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. Those over 40, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, diabetics, long-term corticosteroid users, people with high eye pressure, and patients with high hyperopia, high myopia, or those who have sustained eye injuries are all in the risk group. Glaucoma is treated with medication, laser, and surgical methods depending on its type. Another age-related disease is macular degeneration, commonly known as AMD, which primarily affects those over 55-60 years old. Aging, hypertension, genetic factors, smoking, prolonged sun exposure, high lipid cholesterol levels, and being overweight are causes of AMD. Patients with AMD, like anyone who values their health, should quit smoking if they do, always wear UV-protected sunglasses in sunny weather, consume green vegetables, and have regular eye exams. Lutein, vitamins A, C, E, and zinc are important in protective treatment, and they should consult their doctors about these.”

Dr. Deniz Oygar Baylançiçek points out that menopause can lead to dry eyes: “Menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 45-55, is one of the causes of dry eyes in women. Hormonal changes during menopause decrease tear production and increase tear evaporation. Additionally, various medications used to treat menopausal symptoms can cause dry eyes. Untreated dry eyes can lead to permanent corneal damage. I recommend regular eye exams, just as regular gynecological exams, bone density measurements, and other tests are necessary during menopause.”

Remember, these blog posts are for informational purposes only. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please consult a doctor.