Common Eye Conditions and Their Symptoms
Our eyes are the windows to the world, offering us a constant stream of visual information. But just like any other part of our body, they’re susceptible to various conditions that can impact our sight and comfort. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing these conditions effectively, so knowing the warning signs is key.
Refractive Errors
These are the most common vision problems, affecting how light focuses on the retina. Symptoms include:
Blurry vision at near or far distances (nearsightedness or farsightedness)
Distorted vision at any distance (astigmatism)
Difficulty focusing on near objects after age 40 (presbyopia)
Dry Eyes
This occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms include:
Gritty, burning sensation
Stinging or itching
Redness
Light sensitivity
Watery eyes (ironically)
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
This inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane lining your eyelids and whites of your eyes, can be caused by allergies, viruses, or bacteria. Symptoms include:
Redness
Itching and burning
Tearing
Discharge (clear, green, or pus-like)
Sensitivity to light
Gritty feeling
Eye Allergies
Similar to Pink Eye, but triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms include:
Itching and burning
Redness
Watering eyes
Puffy eyelids
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
This progressive deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, affects older adults. Symptoms include:
Blurred central vision
Straight lines appearing wavy
Difficulty seeing in low light
Difficulty recognizing colors
Glaucoma
This group of eye diseases damages the optic nerve, which transmits visual information to the brain. Often there are no early symptoms, but later stages may cause:
Peripheral vision loss
Tunnel vision
Eye pain (in some cases)
Cataracts
A clouding of the eye’s lens, causing blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. Symptoms develop gradually and include:
Cloudy or blurry vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Increased sensitivity to glare
Fading of colors
Keep In Mind…
This is not an exhaustive list, and any persistent or concerning eye symptoms warrant a visit to your eye doctor. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention of potential problems. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if you experience any of these symptoms – your precious vision deserves the best care!
If you have any questions about how your eyes can benefit from the suggestions above, or if you have concerns about your eyes, feel free to call our office with any additional questions regarding your situation.
Thank you for choosing Fillmore Eye Clinic!
Call our office at:
1-800-323-4764
