Eye is an important organ for human survival that helps us see the world widely and perform necessary activities more efficiently. However, with prolonged use, the eyes can deteriorate with age like other organs, leading to diseases such as cataracts… a common disease among elderly Thais.
Pterygium… degeneration from wind and sun
Pterygium is caused by the degeneration of the eye lens, occurring when the eyes are exposed to a lot of sun and wind. It is commonly found in the elderly and usually occurs at the inner and outer corners of the eyes because these areas are exposed to the wind. This causes the tissue in those parts of the eye to thicken and harden, leading to eye irritation, itching, or discomfort. Increased wind exposure can cause more inflammation and redness of the eyes.
Pterygium is the least dangerous type of growth. If it is not severe, it does not affect vision or cause vision loss in the future. The only symptom is eye irritation, which can be treated with eye drops or artificial tears. Protection from sun and wind by wearing sunglasses and taking breaks from work to rest the eyes is recommended. However, if left untreated for a long time, the pterygium can grow larger and encroach onto the cornea.
Pinguecula… progression from pterygium
Pinguecula is a condition that continues from pterygium. When inflammation increases, the size of the growth enlarges and spreads onto the cornea. It can occur at either the inner or outer corner of the eye, eventually becoming a “pinguecula,” which causes the eyeball to lose its normal round shape because the growth invades from the side and causes increased eye irritation.
Causes of pinguecula include dryness, excessive sun exposure, and degeneration of the eye lens. As the pinguecula grows, it extends onto the cornea, affecting vision by causing changes in eyesight and blurriness. Some patients neglect the condition for a long time until the pinguecula completely covers the cornea, resulting in vision loss. Therefore, if symptoms occur, it is important to see a doctor at an early stage.
Glaucoma… high intraocular pressure condition
Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure inside the eye increases. Normally, the eye contains fluid that maintains pressure to keep the right amount of fluid inside. When intraocular pressure rises due to an imbalance in fluid production and drainage, the eye becomes harder. This condition is called “glaucoma,” although there are no actual nodules inside the eye.
Imbalance in fluid production and drainage can be caused by
- Genetics: people with a family history where a father or mother had glaucoma
- Older age: eyes do not drain fluid as well as when younger
When fluid drainage in the eye is imbalanced, the pressure increases beyond normal and damages the delicate structures of the eye, including pressing on the optic nerve at the back of the eye. This causes damage and gradual loss of the optic nerve, leading to partial vision loss. Sometimes, if detailed vision testing is not done, patients may not realize they have vision loss. If left untreated for a long time, it can cause complete optic nerve damage and total blindness.
Glaucoma can be prevented by annual eye health check-ups, especially for those with eye problems or a family history of glaucoma. Regular check-ups help detect the disease early and allow timely treatment because glaucoma progresses very slowly. Sometimes, it shows no symptoms and can only be detected by measuring eye pressure and examining the optic nerve. Treatment for glaucoma involves controlling the pressure to keep it stable.
Cataract… due to clouding of the natural eye lens
Cataracts occur when the natural eye lens, which functions to receive light, becomes cloudy, turning yellow, brown, or white and opaque. This is caused by lens degeneration from prolonged use. As age increases, the lens changes color. People with a family history of cataracts, such as a father or mother with cataracts, experience faster lens degeneration and color changes than the general population. Cataracts are commonly found in patients aged 50 and above, especially those who work outdoors, in agriculture, and usually affect both eyes simultaneously.
The normal lens is clear and focuses incoming light onto the retina. When cataracts develop, they cause blurred vision, changes in eyesight, and poor focus. If the cataract becomes very dense and mature, it can block the eye and cause vision loss. Most patients come with symptoms of blurred vision or light sensitivity, but no pain, as cataracts act like a fog or curtain blocking vision only. Cataracts can be treated by surgery to remove the cloudy lens and restore clarity because cataracts are caused by actual nodules inside the eye.
