Exam May Uncover Stroke Risk, When It's All A Blur

EYE EXAM MAY UNCOVER STROKE RISK
People aged fifty years and older have every reason to schedule regular comprehensive eye exams, which may uncover eye diseases and conditions that can be helped with early treatment. In addition, there is also some evidence to suggest that a thorough eye exam may help to identify those who are at increased risk for a common type of heart-rhythm disorder. “Atrial fibrillation,” which is common in older individuals, not only raises the risk of stroke, but it also triggers angina (heart-related chest pain) or heart failure in some people. Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder. It may display no symptoms or may be associated with palpitations, fainting, chest pain, or congestive heart failure. If the ophthalmologist detects micro-bleeds or micro-aneurysms in the smaller vessels of the eye’s retina, patients should consider consulting with their physicians about heart monitoring.
WHEN IT’S ALL A BLUR
While cataracts commonly occur among older individuals, many may not be aware that they are suffering symptoms because cataracts develop slowly and painlessly. As the eye lenses become progressively more clouded, cataract sufferers experience blurred vision, which makes objects appear as though they are being viewed through a cloudy piece of glass. Viewed objects may also appear to have a yellowish tint. Both eyes are generally affected, although one is usually worse than the other. Bright, glare-free lighting may help significantly improve blurriness. However, when things get to a point where cataracts interfere with work and leisure activities, cataract surgery that involves removing the damaged lens and replacing it with an artificial one is the best option.
 
–William S. Mayo, DO is a double board certified ophthalmologist who has been practicing in Oxford, Mississippi since 1990 and is the owner of Mayo Eye Center.  He has also been a member of the American Osteopathic Association Board of Trustees since 2007.