Retinal vascular diseases stem from localized structural changes in the blood vessels and capillaries in the eye. The health of the walls of small vessels and capillaries in the eye and retina depends on the quality as well as the quantity of the blood supply. Damage can result in a reduction in the blood flow which can cause irreversible changes to the peripheral retina that may not have any symptoms at all. If this damage happens centrally, severe and sometimes irreversible vision loss can arise.
Retinal vascular diseases are a leading cause of blindness in the Western world and require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Annual or bi-annual exams for healthy adults screen for early warning signs of these issues. Common causes of retinal vascular disease that cause vision loss include diabetic retinopathy (proliferative diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema), hypertensive retinopathy, hypercholesterolemia and clotting disorders (vein and artery occlusions), macular degeneration (both “wet” or neovascular, and dry). The top 3 retinal vascular diseases leading to severe sight impairment are wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.
Visit our vision clinic in central West Edmonton for comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, glasses, and more. Louie Eyecare Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality optometric services and products to our patients. Our team of experienced optometrists is here to help you with all of your eye care needs. Schedule an appointment today!
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9:00-5:00
Wednesday 9:00-5:00
Thursday 9:00-5:00
Friday 9:00-5:00
Saturday 9:00-2:00
Closed Sunday / Holidays
Seniors can maintain good eye health by eating a healthy diet, wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes from UV rays, and avoiding smoking. They should also be vigilant about any changes in their vision and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any concerns.
If an eye condition is detected, the optometrist will discuss and educate the patient in a way that is easy to understand. If the condition requires treatment, they will discuss risks and benefits, and initiate treatment. If surgical intervention is required they will refer the senior to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Seniors should make a list of any concerns or symptoms they are experiencing and bring it to their appointment. They should also bring any eyewear they are using or would like to ask questions about, as well as a list of any current medications.
An eye exam for seniors typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the exam.
Some optometrists offer tele-optometry services, which allow seniors to have an eye exam from the comfort of their own home using video conferencing technology.
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