Our
eyes are a remarkable gift that allows us to experience the world around us.
However, they are also
vulnerable to various disorders and diseases that can impair our vision and, in severe cases, lead to blindness.
Understanding the common eye disorders and taking proactive measures to protect our
eyesight is essential for maintaining a high quality of life. In this article, we will delve into
some of the most prevalent eye disorders, eye diseases, and vision problems, emphasizing the
significance of early detection and appropriate care.
What are eye common eye problems?
Common
eye problems are prevalent among both adults and children and can affect individuals differently. They range
from temporary issues like conjunctivitis or pink eye, styes, and dry eyes, to more
long-lasting conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and
diabetic retinopathy.
Additionally,
refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and
presbyopia can cause blurred vision. Strabismus or crossed eyes and amblyopia or lazy
eye are common in children.
Most
eye problems are treatable if detected early, so regular eye check-ups are
crucial.
(1) Cataracts:
Cataracts
occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. This can cause blurriness, poor night vision, and
sensitivity to light. Surgery is sometimes used to treat cataracts to restore clear vision.
Cataracts commonly occur in people aged 40 and above, and are the leading cause of
blindness worldwide. They form slowly and usually without pain, although they can sometimes
appear rapidly. The
lens of the eye works much like a camera. It focuses light to enable clear
vision. With a
healthy lens, the light passes right through to the retina at the back of the
eye, where an
image is perceived. When cataracts form, they block some of the light passing
through the lens,
causing vision problems. If cataracts continue to progress and interfere with everyday activities, doctors suggest
a surgical procedure to remove the affected lens and replace it with an artificial lens.
Cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment. Early detection through regular eye
examinations can help manage cataracts effectively before they significantly affect vision.
Types of cataracts:
(i)
Nuclear cataracts
(ii)
Cortical cataracts, and
(iii)
Posterior subcapsular cataracts.
(2) Glaucoma:
This
pressure builds up as a result of a blockage in the eye’s drainage system,
which is meant to manage
the fluid that naturally fills the interior of the eye. When this system is blocked or does not work properly,
fluid accumulates and pressure within the eye increases. This condition can affect people of
all ages but it is more prevalent in older adults, and in those with a family history of the
disease. Other risk factors include being of African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage, having
certain medical conditions (like diabetes), having had an eye injury or certain types of eye
surgery, taking corticosteroid medications (especially eye drops) for a long period of time
etc. Regular eye checkups including measurement of eye pressure is crucial for individuals
at risk of glaucoma. Types of glaucoma include:
(i)
Primary open-angle glaucoma
(ii)
Angle-closure glaucoma, and
(iii)
Normal tension glaucoma.
(3) Macular Degeneration:
The
macula is a small part in the center of the retina, a thin layer of tissue
located at the back of
the eye. This area is responsible for clear, detailed vision used in activities
such as reading,
driving, and recognizing faces or colors. It is recommended to have regular eye exams as it is the best way to catch
macular degeneration in its early stages before more significant vision loss occurs.
Types
of macular degeneration include:
(i)
Dry Macular Degeneration
(ii)
Wet Macular Degeneration
(4) Astigmatism:
Astigmatism
occurs when the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, is not perfectly round but instead is shaped more
like a football. The cornea is responsible for refracting or bending the light that enters the
eye, and in order to see clearly, the light should be evenly distributed across the retina at the
back of the eye. In individuals with astigmatism, the irregular shape of the cornea can
cause light to be focused in multiple points on the retina, which compromises clear vision.
Astigmatism symptoms may
include blurry or distorted vision at all distances, eyestrain, squinting to see clearly, headaches,
difficulty driving especially at night, and feeling fatigued after performing tasks requiring a
clear vision such as reading or using a computer. Prescription eyeglasses or contact
lenses can usually correct the light refraction issues caused by astigmatism. Refractive
surgeries such as LASIK or PRK are popular surgical remedies to reshape the cornea and
correct the vision. Consult with an eye professional to know the best treatment option for
individual conditions.
(5) Corneal Abrasion:
It's
important to see a doctor if you suspect you have a corneal abrasion, as left
untreated, it can become
infected or develop into a corneal ulcer, which can lead to loss of vision. Treatment typically involves
antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection, along with pain relievers and a patch to
reduce light sensitivity. Reducing your risk of corneal abrasions can be done by using
protective eyewear when performing activities that may pose a risk to your eyes - such
as construction, sports, or even gardening. It's also important to use good hygiene
when inserting, removing, and cleaning contact lenses.
In
most cases, corneal abrasions will heal within a couple of days with proper
treatment, though more
serious cases may require additional care and time to fully heal. It is advised
to seek
professional help promptly if you experience any symptoms related to corneal abrasions.
(6) Retinal Detachment:
Retinal
detachment can happen to anyone but is more prevalent among people over age 40, especially men and those with severe
nearsightedness or people with a family history of retinal detachment. At Spectra Eye Hospital, we have a
team of experienced ophthalmologists and eye surgeons who utilize advanced diagnostic
equipment and techniques. It is our aim to provide the best patient care, ensuring that you not
only receive high quality medical attention but also comprehensive pre-postoperative
care. We offer a
range of surgical treatments for retinal detachment such as vitrectomy, scleral buckle procedure and pneumatic
retinopexy depending on your specific condition. Our specialists are dedicated in
explaining each procedure and finding the most suitable one for individual patient. Visit our
Spectra Eye Hospital or call us to plan your consultation today.
Don't
risk your sight, when it comes to your vision, trust only the specialists.
(7) Diabetic Retinopathy:
Diabetic
retinopathy is a severe complication of diabetes that can compromise vision.
High blood sugar levels
can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, resulting in bleeding, fluid buildup and the obstruction of
adequate blood supply to the retina. Over time, this can lead to the deterioration of the
light-sensitive tissues in the retina, negatively impacting vision quality and leading to vision
loss if not adequately addressed.
The
progression of diabetic retinopathy is usually slow, and early stages might not
display any noticeable
symptoms.
Symptoms
that may develop as the condition progresses, typically affecting both eyes, include:
-
Blurry vision
-
Difficulty seeing at night
-
Seeing an increasing amount of floaters
-
Dark or empty areas in your field of vision
-
Vision loss
Several
tests can help diagnose diabetic retinopathy, including a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and optical
coherence tomography (OCT). OCT provides detailed images of the retina to see if fluid
has leaked into retinal tissue. Managing your diabetes is the primary strategy to prevent
diabetic retinopathy. Regular monitoring of your blood sugar and blood pressure levels,
along with frequent diabetic eye exams can catch the condition early, improving the
outcomes.
(8) Subconjunctival Haemorrhage:
A
subconjunctival hemorrhage is a relatively minor eye condition where a tiny
blood vessel breaks on
the surface of the eye, leading to the appearance of a red spot on the white
part (sclera) of
the eye. The conjunctiva, a clear membrane covering the inside of the eyelid
and the white of
the eye, contains delicate blood vessels that can easily rupture, causing blood
to leak and pool
under the conjunctiva. As a result, the white part of the eye turns bright red, resembling a small blood spot.
While the appearance of
a subconjunctival hemorrhage may seem alarming, it is usually not a cause for concern. Most cases do
not cause any symptoms such as pain, swelling, or changes in vision. Additionally, the
blood is trapped within the conjunctiva and does not affect the cornea or the inner eye,
ensuring that vision remains unaffected. While subconjunctival hemorrhages do not usually require
treatment, artificial tears (eye drops) may be used to relieve any minor eye irritation. If
someone experiences pain along with the red spot or recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages, it
is advisable to seek medical attention as there might be an underlying condition that
requires evaluation. Most individuals with subconjunctival hemorrhages experience no
vision problems and can expect the condition to resolve without complications. However,
in cases where risk factors are present or if hemorrhages recur frequently, further
evaluation and management may be necessary.
(9) Age-related Macular Degeneration:
Age-Related
Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that primarily affects individuals aged 50 years or older.
It is a leading cause of vision loss in this age group. AMD specifically impacts the macula,
which is the central part of the retina responsible for providing sharp, detailed vision.
There are two main types of AMD: Dry AMD and Wet AMD.
Dry
AMD is more common and occurs when the macula thins with age and tiny clumps of protein called drusen develop. This
leads to a gradual loss of central vision. Currently, there is no treatment for dry AMD, but
some individuals with certain risk factors or significant vision loss might benefit from
taking specific nutritional supplements. Wet AMD, although less common, is more severe. It involves the
growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which may leak blood or fluids,
leading to scarring of the macula and faster vision loss. Treatment for wet AMD includes
anti-VEGF drugs, which reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels and slow any leaking. Laser
surgery is also used in some cases to treat certain types of wet AMD. Regular eye exams are
essential for early detection and management of AMD to preserve as much vision as possible.
(10) Corneal Ulcer:
A
corneal ulcer, also known as keratitis, is a painful open sore or erosion on
the surface of the
cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped outermost layer of the eye. The
cornea plays a crucial
role in focusing light onto the retina for clear vision. Corneal ulcers can
occur due to various
causes, and they are considered a serious eye condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Treatment for this
disorder includes antibiotics, antiviral medication, and corticosteroids. In severe cases, surgery may be
necessary to repair the damage.
(11) Scleritis:
Scleritis
is a rare and serious eye disorder that affects the white part of the eye,
known as the sclera. This
condition involves inflammation of the sclera, leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.
Individuals with scleritis may also experience light sensitivity and persistent
irritation. This eye disorder can be extremely painful and has the potential to cause permanent vision
loss if not promptly and appropriately treated.
Treatment for scleritis
typically involves a multi-faceted approach to address the inflammation and manage the symptoms
effectively:
(i)
Prescription Medications
(ii)
Corticosteroid Injections
(iii)
Surgery
In
addition to medical interventions, it is essential for individuals with
scleritis to adhere to their
prescribed treatment plans diligently and attend regular follow-up appointments
with their eye
care provider. Early diagnosis and timely treatment play a critical role in preserving vision and preventing
long-term complications. Individuals experiencing symptoms of scleritis, such as
severe eye pain, redness, or light sensitivity, should seek immediate medical attention to
ensure prompt evaluation and appropriate management of this serious eye disorder.
(12) Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO):
Central
Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) is a relatively common eye disorder that occurs when there is a blockage in the
central retinal vein, which is responsible for carrying blood away from the retina. This blockage
leads to impaired blood flow and accumulation of fluid, causing swelling in the retina. CRVO
can result in vision loss and other visual disturbances.
Symptoms
of CRVO include:
1.
Blurred or Distorted Vision: The blockage in the retinal vein can lead to
blurry or distorted vision,
making it difficult to see objects clearly.
2.
Dark Spots: Patients with CRVO may experience the appearance of dark spots or
floaters in their field
of vision.
3.
Difficulty Seeing at Night: Night vision may be particularly affected, and
individuals may struggle
to see in dim lighting conditions.
Treatment
options for CRVO aim to manage the condition and prevent further vision loss.
It is crucial for
individuals experiencing symptoms of CRVO, such as sudden vision changes or dark spots in their vision, to seek
immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can play a significant
role in managing the condition and preventing permanent vision loss.
Regular
follow-up visits with an ophthalmologist are essential for monitoring the
progress of the disease
and adjusting treatment as necessary to optimize visual outcomes.
(13) Dry Eye:
Dry
eye is a common eye condition characterized by insufficient tear production or
rapid tear evaporation,
leading to inadequate moisture and lubrication on the eye's surface.
Tears are crucial
for maintaining eye health and clear vision. The tear film is composed of three layers - oily, watery, and mucus
layers - each serving a specific purpose to keep the eyes smooth, clear, and moist.
When the tear film is
disrupted, individuals may experience symptoms such as stinging, burning, blurred vision, a gritty
sensation, and redness. Various factors can contribute to dry eye, including aging, hormonal
changes, certain medical conditions, environmental factors, prolonged digital device
use, and certain medications.
For
the treatment of dry eye, advanced technologies like LipiView and LipiFlow may be used, which are available at
Spectra Eye Hospital.
i) Lipiview Eye Treatment - LipiView is a diagnostic device that assesses the tear
film and measures the
lipid layer, providing valuable information for personalized treatment plans.
ii) Lipiflow Eye Treatment - LipiFlow is a therapeutic device
that uses gentle heat and pressure
to unclog and stimulate the meibomian glands, improving the quality of the oily layer in the tear film. By
addressing the underlying cause of dry eye, these technologies can help alleviate symptoms and improve
the overall health and comfort of the eyes.
It's
important to note that the availability of these technologies may vary from one
eye care center to
another. If you are interested in undergoing LipiView and LipiFlow treatments
for dry eye, we
recommend consulting with an eye care specialist in Spectra Eye Hospital.
Why visit Spectra Eye Hospital to fix common eye disorders?
Spectra
Eye Hospital is equipped with the latest and most modern facilities to offer treatments for conditions such as
myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism, glaucoma, cataract, retinal disorders, and pediatric
ophthalmology. Apart from regular eye check-ups, we have various specialized treatments
available such as cataract surgery, corneal surgery, refractive surgery, retina services,
pediatric services, glaucoma services and contact lens services.
Quality
patient care and safety is our main priority and we ensure the highest
standards of cleanliness
and hygiene in all our facilities. We follow rigorous international standards
for patient care,
safety, privacy, and infection control. We also believe in maintaining a complete transparency in dealing
with our patients and ensure that they are well-informed about their condition, expected
outcomes, and potential risks involved in the treatments. We adopt a holistic approach towards
patient care where we not only focus on treating the condition, but also on preventive
care and lifestyle counseling to maintain healthy eyes. We make sure your appointments are
scheduled conveniently and there is minimal waiting time during your visit. We also
offer services for insurance coverage and easy financing options for our patients.
At
Spectra Eye Hospital, every patient is important to us, and we work towards
providing exceptional
service and care. We invite you to visit us for a unique and caring experience
in eye care. We
assure you excellent, world-class eye care right here in your city. We look forward to serving you.
FAQs
Q: What are some common eye problems and disorders?
A:
There are a range of common eye problems and disorders such as cataracts, conjunctivitis, also known as
"pink eye" optic nerve disorders, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and
amblyopia famously known as "lazy eye";. According to the National Eye Institute, other
conditions such as dry eyes, digital eye strain, and floaters are also very common.
Q: Can a common eye disorder turn into a disease?
A:
Yes, a common eye disorder if not treated appropriately can lead to a more
serious eye disease. For
example, untreated conjunctivitis can sometimes cause vision loss. Therefore,
it is important to
see your eye care professional regularly for check-ups to ensure optimum eye health.
Q: What are floaters and are they a common eye problem?
A:
Floaters are small specks or clouds that drift in your field of vision,
particularly when looking
at a white background or the sky. They are quite common and usually aren't a
cause for concern.
However, a sudden increase in floats could signal a serious eye condition such as a retinal tear and should prompt
a visit to an eye specialist.
Q: What is the most common eye disorder that can lead to
blindness?
A:
The most common cause of vision impairment and blindness is age-related macular degeneration. According to the
National Eye Institute, this disease affects the macula (the middle layer of the eye) causing
damage to the sharp and central vision a person needs to see objects clearly.
Q: How can one protect themselves from common eye disorders?
A:
Protecting your eyes from common eye disorders involves regular eye check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle
which includes a balanced diet and quitting smoking. It also helps to protect your eyes from
harsh sunlight and wear protective eyewear during activities that risk eye injury.
Q: Can conjunctivitis be considered a common eye problem?
A:
Yes, conjunctivitis commonly known as pink eye, is a common eye problem. It's
either caused by a viral
or bacterial eye infection or a blocked tear duct. Those infected may experience symptoms such as redness,
itchiness, and a feeling of a foreign object in the eye.
Q: Where can I find more information on common eye disorders?
A:
You can find more information on common eye disorders from reliable medical
sources, such as medical
centers, healthcare websites or from Spectra Eye Hospital's website. You may also converse with an eye care
professional or an eye specialist.