What should be done for blurred vision in the elderly?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Blurry vision in the elderly may be caused by presbyopia, eye strain, dry eye syndrome, cataracts, glaucoma, or other conditions. To maintain eye health and prevent blurred vision, it is important to practice proper eye usage, avoid prolonged screen or book viewing, ensure regular eye rest and relaxation, and maintain good eye hygiene to help prevent the development of eye diseases.
Generally, blurred vision in the elderly may be caused by conditions such as presbyopia, eye strain, dry eye syndrome, cataracts, or glaucoma. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include general management and medication. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Presbyopia
With aging, the lens of the eye gradually hardens and loses elasticity, while the ciliary muscle's ability to contract diminishes, leading to reduced accommodation. This makes it difficult to focus clearly on nearby objects, resulting in blurred vision. Wearing reading glasses can help correct vision in daily life.
2. Eye Strain
Prolonged use of the eyes—such as when viewing computers, mobile phones, or reading—can lead to overuse and decreased accommodative function, causing blurred vision in older adults. It is important to maintain proper reading distance and adequate lighting in daily activities.
3. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome results from insufficient tear production. This condition leads to inadequate moisture on the eye surface, causing blurred vision, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as photophobia and excessive tearing. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, or polyvinyl alcohol eye drops.
4. Cataracts
Cataracts can result from aging of ocular tissues or local nutritional disturbances. The lens gradually becomes cloudy, obstructing light entry into the eye, leading to decreased vision and blurred sight. Symptoms may include glare sensitivity and altered color perception. Under medical supervision, medications such as vitamin B complex tablets, Bingzhen Quyi eye drops, or phacolysin eye drops may be used for treatment.
5. Glaucoma
Glaucoma may be triggered by genetic factors, myopia or hyperopia, or eye injuries. This disease causes elevated intraocular pressure, damaging the optic nerve and leading to vision loss and blurred vision. Symptoms may include eye pain, headache, and nausea. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as timolol maleate eye drops, acetazolamide tablets, or pilocarpine nitrate tablets.
To maintain eye health and prevent blurred vision, individuals should practice proper eye usage habits, avoid prolonged screen or book gazing, ensure regular eye rest and relaxation, and maintain good eye hygiene to prevent the onset of eye diseases.
