National Eye Exam Month is a prime opportunity to address a common issue among seniors - itchy eyes. This uncomfortable condition is not just a minor annoyance; it signifies that the eyes are struggling with irritants, allergies, or more severe health conditions.
As we age, our bodies, including our eyes, undergo various changes which can increase our sensitivity to such issues. So, if you or a loved one are constantly rubbing those eyes to relieve the itch, don't ignore the problem. Senior Helpers Princeton will guide you through the common causes of itchy eyes in seniors, enlighten you on the importance of regular eye exams and discuss how a professional eye doctor can assist in managing and treating this bothersome condition.
Common Causes of Itchy Eyes in Seniors
Itchy eyes among seniors can be a result of several factors. Dry eyes can occur due to age-related changes or medications that alter the tear composition. These changes can cause the eyes to feel scratchy or stingy, often leading to itchiness. Allergies can also cause itchy eyes, as they induce an overreaction from the immune system, releasing histamines into the eye tissues.
Other common causes include conjunctivitis, an inflammation resulting from an infection or allergies, and blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid that often accompanies dry eye and other conditions. These factors are common, but other health issues can also lead to itchy eyes.
Importance of Eye Exams for Seniors
Just as you would seek professional help for persistent pain or discomfort in your body, it is equally vital to get professional attention for itchy eyes. Regular eye exams not only flag potential vision problems but also help identify causes of discomfort, like persistent itchiness.
Brushing off these symptoms can be detrimental to your eye health and overall well-being. Ignoring such issues may lead to further complications resulting from untreated conditions and affect your quality of life.
How an Eye Doctor Can Help
An eye doctor plays an important role in diagnosing and treating the cause of itchy eyes. They can conduct various tests to pinpoint the exact issues causing the discomfort. Based on these results, a comprehensive care plan can be developed to manage and treat itchiness.
For dry and itchy eyes, for instance, your doctor might recommend lubricating eye drops or changes to your environment or lifestyle. For allergies, antihistamines or corticosteroids may be used to combat the symptoms. Also, for infections like conjunctivitis, antibiotics or other treatments might be needed. Thus, an eye doctor can provide specific and targeted solutions to relieve itchy eyes.
Senior Helpers Offers Personalized Healthcare Support
Dealing with itchy eyes is more than just managing a minor annoyance; it's about investing in your eye health and overall quality of life. No one should have to "make do" with constant discomfort. Regular eye exams and professional help are key to managing and treating itchy eyes.
If you are a senior living in Princeton, Plainsboro, Lawrenceville, or Pennington, don't hesitate to reach out to Senior Helpers Princeton. Our professional team is here to guide and assist you, ensuring that your golden years are undisturbed by such inconveniences. Contact us to learn more about our senior care services and support!