When people think about eye conditions and problems affecting vision, most would assume that it relates primarily to those who are a bit older. After all, the most help you might need with your vision when you are younger, or even middle-aged, is glasses and contacts, right? The short answer is no, there are many reasons why someone of any age, whether they are a baby or well into their 80's, might require eye surgery. Here are a few reasons why you should never take your vision for granted, and also three conditions you should try to keep tabs on to make sure they do not happen to you.

Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are often wrongly lumped in as a symptom of old age, but that is not always true. Cataracts can form on anyone, and indeed, many younger people suffer from cataracts for longer because they are not aware of the symptoms or just assume that it could not happen to them. A wide range of causes can produce cataracts, from too much sunlight to intense trauma of the eyes, to something as unavoidable as genetics. If you suspect you may have cataracts, you should always go and get checked out by an optometrist.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes affects many Australian's in many different ways. One way, which is perhaps one of the most dangerous, is by affecting the very small blood vessels that connect to the back of your eyes. If these get too damaged then the effect can be irreversible, and this can happen at virtually any age. It is why your GP and regular doctor will monitor your vision so closely if you have diabetes. Surgery can limit the damage and prevent further loss, but if it is done too late, then even this preventative work can be in vain, so make sure to always be proactive about your sight if you have diabetes.

Glaucoma Surgery

One of the more well-known surgeries relates to a series of conditions all grouped under glaucoma. Glaucoma is when the optic nerve is damaged, but there can be a few causes that are alleviated through surgery, and you can develop these conditions at any age. Generally, it is because there is a lot of pressure on the eye, and these surgeries are quite quick and easy, lasting less than an hour and providing long-lasting help. If you get diagnosed with glaucoma, don't worry, there are ways to treat it that can get you back to normal with very little risk!