Understanding the Risk Factors for Retinal Diseases
Our Beverly Hills eye care center is well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of patients. We have spent years enhancing vision, restoring vision, and preventing permanent vision loss, and we have so using state-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques.
There are many different retinal diseases we can diagnose and treat. Rather than treatment, however, we'd like to turn out attention to prevention. Let's look at some of the risk factors that can make retinal problems more likely.
Types of Retinal Conditions
There are many kinds of retinal conditions that can negatively impact your vision and wellness. A few of the retinal conditions include:
- Retinal Tears and Detachment
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD/ARMD)
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Macular Holes
- Central Serous Choroidoretinopathy
The risk factors below are related to one or more of the above retinal conditions.
Advanced Age
As you grow older, you become more susceptible to a whole host of medical issues, with retinal disease and conditions among them. This is why it's important to get regular eye exams after you have turned 50 years old.
Genetics/Family History
Your genes have a major impact on future wellness and health. If you have a parent or other relatives who have had retinal health issues or have dealt with retinal conditions, you are more likely to face similar problems down the road.
Previous Eye Injuries
Serious eye injuries can affect you short-term as well as in the long run. If you have suffered a major eye injury that caused a retinal tear or some other kind of trauma, you are more likely to experience retinal conditions in the future.
Previous Eye Surgeries
A previous surgery can cause issues with your retinal health further down the road. Even a cataract removal procedure can lead to heightened risk of retinal detachment and other issues.
Diabetes
Diabetes can lead to a number of health problems, among them a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. It's estimated that 80 percent of patients who have suffered from diabetes for at least 20 years will develop diabetic retinopathy.
Smoking
It's well established that smoking can affect respiratory health and cardiovascular health. It can also have a negative impact on vision, making numerous retinal conditions more likely, including a form of AMD.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can lead to a number of issues involving the blood vessels of the eyes, which increases your risk for different retinal conditions.
Obesity
Since obesity is linked to both diabetes and high blood pressure, it should come as no surprise that people who are obese and who suffer from obesity for years may experience issues with retinal health.
Treating Retinal Conditions
If you are at risk for a retinal condition, it's important that you undergo an eye exam. Early detection can lead to effective treatment. In the end, that means preventing vision loss and improving your overall quality of life.
Contact Our Team of Eye Care Specialists
To learn more about retinal conditions and how they can be treated, be sure to contact our team of retinal specialists today. We look forward to your visit and helping you see clearly for the future.