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Bernie Sanders
In reply to the discussion: Bernie's coming to Raleigh, NC (I gotta work!) [View all]Donkees
(31,080 posts)25. Here's an excerpt, could be just normal aging in eyes:
Nuclear Sclerosis Is a Normal Change in Aging Eyes
Nuclear sclerosis is considered a normal change to the lenses of the eyes. It usually develops in both eyes simultaneously and is often seen in animals over the age of six. The condition isnt painful. It comes on gradually, and pets are able to adapt very well to the minor changes in vision that occur.
In younger animals, the lens of the eye is clear because it is composed of tissue fibers that are perfectly organized. But as a pet grows older, more and more fibers are deposited to the outer rings of the lens. Since the lens resides inside a capsule and cant expand to accommodate the additional fibers, the new fibers push the older fibers close together and toward the center of the lens. This compression causes the lens to harden and cloud over.
Nuclear Sclerosis or Cataracts?
The only clinical symptom of nuclear sclerosis is a cloudy appearance of the lens of the eye. Occasionally, a pet will develop mild problems judging distance and range.
Most veterinarians can quickly tell the difference between nuclear sclerosis and a more serious problem, like cataracts, with an ophthalmologic exam. The corneas are typically checked first, often using a device called a slit lamp. If theres cloudiness on or just behind the cornea, the problem is not nuclear sclerosis.
When your vet (or a veterinary ophthalmologist) looks deeper into the eye with an ophthalmoscope, which may require the use of medicated drops in your pets eyes, he or she will be able to see all the way through to the retina if nuclear sclerosis is present. If the problem is a cataract, it will partially or completely block the view of the retina. If your vet cant see through the lens, neither can your pet.
Unlike cataracts, nuclear sclerosis doesnt seriously affect vision and no treatment is necessary. And if your pet has nuclear sclerosis, it doesnt mean she will automatically also develop cataracts. However, if you notice your pets eyes taking on a different color, its very important that your vet make sure its nuclear sclerosis and not another more serious eye condition.
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