Common Eye Conditions

Here is an explanation of just a few common eye conditions which you might find useful.

Amblyopia (lazy eye) – poor vision in an eye that is otherwise physically normal. It is often, but not always associated with Strabismus. (see below)
 
Astigmatism – a condition where the irregular shape of the eye causes distorted vision.
Blepharitis – when the eyelids become sore and inflamed causing discomfort and irritation. It is caused when the glands near your eyelids become blocked or infected. It is not contagious.

Cataracts – changes in clarity of the natural lens inside the eye that gradually degrades visual quality causing blurred eyesight.

Conjunctivitis – An inflammation of the conjunctiva. This is the transparent layer that lines the inner eye lids and also covers the white part of the eye. The three main causes are: 1. Bacteria 2. Virus 3. Allergy

Diabetic retinopathy – is a condition where complications from diabetes cause damage to the retina which can eventually lead to blindness.

Dry Eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) – is a condition where the eyes do not make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly.

Glaucoma – is a disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, leading to progressive, irreversible loss of vision.

Hemianopia – Defect vision in half of the visual field in one or both eyes. It is sometimes found following a stroke.

Iritis – Inflammation of the Iris (the coloured part of the eye). It can cause extreme pain, light sensitivity and if not treated can cause sight loss. It is often an effect of a disease (e.g. arthritis) in another part of the body. It often re-occurs.

Keretitis – Infection or inflammation of the Cornea. (the clear ‘window’ at the front of the eye). It can be caused by Bacteria, Virus or Fungus, intense UV light (‘arc eye’), vitamin A deficiency, injury or allergy.

Long-sight (Hypermetropia) – a condition where you have difficulty seeing objects close up but can generally see things fairly clearly in the distance, unless the level of long sight is high when even this may become blurred.

Macular degeneration – is a condition which usually affects older adults where damage to the centre of the retina (the macula) causes a loss of vision in of the centre of the visual field.

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) – A separation of the clear jelly like substance, which fills most of the interior of the eyeball and gives the eye its shape, from the retina underneath it. This often results in flashing lights and large floaters in the vision. Although no urgent treatment is needed, the symptoms are very similar to a more serious ‘retinal detachment’. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should call the practice and request an urgent appointment.

Presbyopia – the progressive ageing of the lens of the eye usually affecting people over 40 which makes it difficult to shift focus between near and distant objects.

Pterygium – A triangular shaped growth that grows across the white of the eye and sometimes onto the cornea. It can be common in people who exposed to dry and dusty conditions. It can be uncomfortable and a lubricant drop may be required. In extreme cases, minor surgery may be required.

Retinal detachment – A separation of the light sensitive area at the back of the eye (the Retina), from its underlying support structures. It often presents itself as a ‘curtain’ coming across vision. It may also be accompanied by flashing lights. May cause severe loss of vision unless treated quickly. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should call the practice and request an urgent appointment.

Short-sight (Myopia) – a condition where you can see objects clearly close up but cannot see things in the distance. Increasing levels of short sight mean that close objects have to be held progressively closer to the eyes in order to be seen.

Strabismus (squint) – eyes that do not line up with each other. One or both eye may appear to turn.

Subconjunctival haemorrhage – A leakage of a small amount of blood (haemorrhage) in one of the small blood vessels that run within the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white of the eye). Because the blood tends to spread out, the result is a large dark ‘blot’ appearing on the white of the eye. Although this looks very alarming, it should not cause pain or any problems with vision. It is totally harmless and will disappear in up to 2 weeks.

These descriptions are for guidance only. If you have any questions, please call the practice where we will be happy to help.

For more information about most of these conditions and a few others, we recommend that you visit the Eye Care Trust.

Back to top