Eyecare Health: Eye Conditions & Diseases
» Vision Problems » Healthy Eyes » Glasses & Lense Care
Glaucoma occurs when the nerve cells that transmit information from the eye to the brain become damaged. It is often associated with a build-up of pressure in the eye. Glaucoma is largely symptom-free until permanent damage has occurred, and if untreated can cause blindness. An optometrist can diagnose it in its early stages and prescribe treatment to prevent damage. Glaucoma usually affects over 40s and tends to run in families.
Cataracts are a cloudiness that develops in the normally clear lens of the eye. They are particularly common in people over 65 and get progressively worse. To prevent blindness, cataracts need to be detected early and monitored. They can be fixed surgically if required.
Floaters and spots are specks and particles that can sometimes be seen in the field of vision. Most people see them at some point and they do not cause any problems. However, if they suddenly appear or worsen then it’s important to see your optometrist as this may be a sign of serious vision problems such as a detached retina.
Diabetes is a common cause of vision problems – affecting 70 per cent of diabetics within 15 years of diagnosis. Problems can include glaucoma, cataracts and retinopathy, a condition that causes changes at the back of the eye. It is vital that diabetics see an optometrist every year, or more often if they have retinopathy.
Pterygia are small triangular growths on the cornea (the clear central part of the eye), They are not cancerous or dangerous, but can be uncomfortable and eventually interfere with vision. They can be removed by surgery.
Macular Degeneration causes the loss of central vision. It usually affects the over 50s, although inherited forms of the disease can affect younger people. Symptoms can include straight lines that appear wavy, difficulty in using fine vision and difficulty in seeing anything straight in front of you. It can cause irreversible vision loss and it’s important that it be detected as soon as possible.
You should always have any growth in or around your eye checked by optometrist as soon as possible.
