Older adults with low scores on tests of cognitive function, including thinking, learning and memory appear more likely to have the early stages of the eye disease age-related macular
Age-related macular degeneration that results in early stages of the eye disease is more likely in adults with low scores on tests of cognitive function (including thinking, learning and memory). The report appears in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—the leading cause of visual impairment in industrialized nations—has long been thought to share a common pathway with Alzheimer's disease, according to background information in the article. First, both conditions involve similar changes in the brain and eye, including the buildup of protein fragments known as beta-amyloid. "Second, clinical studies suggest that AMD and Alzheimer's disease share similar vascular risk factors, such as hypertension [high blood pressure] and cigarette smoking," the authors write. "Both AMD and Alzheimer's disease have been linked to an increased risk of stroke."
Diabetic Retinopathy - Risk Factors - Symptoms - Treatment - Diagnosis - FAQs
The term ‘diabetic retinopathy’ refers to changes in the retina which often occur in people with diabetes.
The term ‘diabetic retinopathy’ refers to changes in the retina which often occur in people with diabetes.
After controlling for age, sex, race and the center at which they participated in the study, the one-fourth of individuals with the lowest scores on one cognitive test were twice as likely to have early-stage AMD as were individuals with higher scores. However, there was no association between AMD and scores on a second cognitive test, dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
"In conclusion, we found an association between low cognitive function and early AMD in this older population," the authors write. "These data, along with others, provide further support that AMD and cognitive impairment may share similar complex pathogenesis [development] and risk factors."
Cataract - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
A cataract is cloudiness in the crystalline lens of the eye that results in a gradually progressive painless diminution of vision.
A cataract is cloudiness in the crystalline lens of the eye that results in a gradually progressive painless diminution of vision.
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Glaucoma - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Glaucoma is a group of disorders involving the optic nerve, often associated with a rise in intraocular pressure. Uncontrolled glaucoma can lead to blindness.
Glaucoma is a group of disorders involving the optic nerve, often associated with a rise in intraocular pressure. Uncontrolled glaucoma can lead to blindness.
Macular Degeneration can be Conquered Through Peripheral Vision
Macular degeneration can be conquered by using peripheral vision, says the Macular Disease Society of the UK.
Macular degeneration can be conquered by using peripheral vision, says the Macular Disease Society of the UK.
