Fimela.com, Jakarta – Eye health is a valuable asset that is often overlooked. Many people may not realize that certain eye conditions can gradually worsen over time, leading to a decline in vision. These conditions are known as progressive eye diseases, where vision may deteriorate slowly without clear early symptoms.
Progressive eye diseases tend to worsen over time, causing a gradual loss of visual function. While treatment can help slow or even halt the progression in some cases, it may not always fully restore vision. Some of these conditions are age-related, while others are linked to underlying medical issues.
According to Consultant Ophthalmologist at Mayapada Eye Centre, dr. Ucok P. Pasaribu, Sp.M(K), many eye diseases develop progressively without obvious early signs, and are often only recognized once they begin to interfere with daily activities—especially among office workers with high digital screen exposure.
“Factors such as excessive screen time, insufficient eye rest, and poor workplace lighting can accelerate digital eye strain and other vision problems,” he explained.
Below are several types of progressive eye diseases that require special attention:
1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a progressive condition caused by damage to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. It is a leading cause of blindness, especially among older adults. Early symptoms may include blurred or distorted areas in the center of vision. As the disease progresses, it can significantly impair activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
2. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that causes vision loss due to damage to the optic nerve, which transmits visual signals to the brain. It is often associated with increased intraocular pressure caused by fluid buildup. Vision loss typically begins in the peripheral field and may progress to central vision. Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it may not show symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
3. Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss or blindness. It involves progressive damage to the blood vessels in the retina. As it worsens, symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, or dark spots. Up to 90% of vision loss caused by diabetes can be prevented with early detection and regular eye examinations.
4. Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive condition in which the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This distortion prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred and worsening vision over time if left untreated.
5. Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
Retinitis Pigmentosa is a group of inherited progressive eye disorders characterized by retinal degeneration. It often begins at a young age with night blindness, followed by gradual loss of peripheral vision, eventually leading to tunnel vision.
6. High Myopia (Pathological Myopia)
High myopia is defined as a refractive error of -6.00 diopters or more. This condition increases the risk of serious eye problems such as retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, and strabismus. In some cases, it may develop into pathological myopia, which involves progressive retinal damage and can lead to permanent vision loss.
7. Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred vision. This condition develops gradually and is the most common cause of vision loss in people over 45. Although progressive, cataracts can be effectively treated with surgery by replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one.
Sumber: Anisha Saktian Putri – fimela.com
( https://www.fimela.com/health/read/6268274/jenis-penyakit-mata-bersifat-progresif-yang-perlu-diwaspadai )