Your eyes are a complex and sensitive part of your body, so it’s not surprising that they can be susceptible to various problems. Some eye conditions are relatively minor and only require simple treatment, while others can be more serious and lead to permanent vision loss.
In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most common eye conditions and what you can do to look after your eye health.
10 Common Eye Conditions
Myopia
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects appear clear. It usually begins during childhood. Myopia can be corrected with contact lenses, Orthokeratology lenses or glasses.
Hyperopia
Hyperopia is a refractive error that causes close objects to appear blurry while distant objects appear clear. It also typically begins in childhood. Hyperopia can be corrected with contact lenses, refractive surgery or glasses.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a refractive error that causes objects to appear blurry at all distances. It often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia. Astigmatism can be corrected with contact lenses, refractive surgery or glasses.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a condition that affects everyone over 40 and causes the inability to focus on close objects. It is not a form of myopia or hyperopia but rather occurs due to the eye’s natural ageing process. Presbyopia can be corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, which causes blurred vision. They typically develop slowly and first become noticeable in people over 60. Cataracts can be treated with surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition that involves damage to the optic nerve. This damage is usually caused by increased pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss and blindness if it is not treated. Treatment for glaucoma typically involves prescription eye drops or surgery.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration is another common eye condition. It involves damage to the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.
Age-related macular degeneration can also lead to vision loss and blindness if not treated.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy develops when diabetes damages the blood vessels in the retina. The retina is a sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, and if diabetic retinopathy is left untreated, it can cause vision loss or blindness. There are two main types: non-proliferative and proliferative.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tears that lubricate your eyes are not produced in sufficient quantities. It can cause discomfort, redness, and a burning sensation in the eyes. Treatment for dry eye syndrome typically involves using artificial tears or ointments. In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend special contact lenses or surgery.
Pink Eye
Pink eye, or bacterial conjunctivitis, is an infection of the eye’s outermost layer caused by bacteria. It is often highly contagious and spreads quickly through contact with contaminated objects or fluids from an infected person’s nose or mouth. Treatment typically involves antibiotic eyedrops or ointment for seven to ten days.
Inherited Eye Diseases
An inherited eye disease is one passed down from a person’s parents. While many inherited eye diseases can be treated effectively, some can lead to vision loss or blindness.
There are dozens of inherited eye diseases, but some are more common than others, such as retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision, you must see an optometrist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preserving your vision. And, while there is no cure for some eye conditions, there are treatments available that can help slow their progression or improve your symptoms.
Let’s prevent any chance of vision impairment. So don’t delay—make an appointment with an eye doctor today! Early detection and treatment are important in preventing vision loss and blindness.
About Beyond Eyecare
At Beyond Eyecare, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive general eye examination. We take a holistic approach to optometry, seeing every patient as a whole and not just treating a symptom.
Our goal is to provide every one of our patients with the clear vision needed to enjoy their lifestyle, career and hobbies. We believe everyone deserves a clear vision and are dedicated to providing our patients with the best care.
If you need an eye exam or have questions about your vision, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
