Have you ever experienced blurry vision, discomfort in your eyes or difficulty seeing at night? These symptoms could be signs of common eye conditions that require attention from an ophthalmologist. Understanding these conditions can help you take better care of your eyes and seek timely medical advice when needed. In this blog, we’ll explore five common eye conditions treated by ophthalmologists and highlight the importance of professional eye care.
1. Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition, particularly among older adults. They may occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, possibly leading to blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night and sensitivity to light. Cataracts tend to develop slowly and can potentially impair vision over time. Ophthalmologists diagnose cataracts through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include a visual acuity test and a slit-lamp examination. Treatment often involves cataract surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial one, which may help improve vision.
2. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye. Eye pain is not a typical symptom of common glaucoma types but is more associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma, a rarer form. Symptoms may include loss of peripheral vision and halos around lights. Many forms of glaucoma progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection. Treatment options include medications, laser therapy, or surgery to manage eye pressure and prevent further damage.
3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration affects the macula, responsible for sharp central vision. AMD is classified as dry or wet. Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly, while wet AMD can cause rapid vision loss. Symptoms include blurred or distorted central vision and difficulty recognising faces. Ophthalmologists use visual acuity tests, retinal exams, and imaging like optical coherence tomography (OCT) for diagnosis. Nutritional supplements may help slow the progression of dry AMD.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that may affect the blood vessels in the retina. High blood sugar levels can damage these vessels, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness. Symptoms may include floaters, blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. Managing sugar levels and having regular eye exams are key to preventing and detecting diabetic retinopathy early. Treatments may include laser surgery, injections and vitrectomy, which can help control the condition and prevent further vision loss.
5. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This condition can cause discomfort, redness and a gritty sensation in the eyes. It may result from various factors, including age, certain medications and environmental conditions. Diagnosing dry eye syndrome involves assessing tear production and the quality of tears. Treatment may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, procedures to block tear ducts to conserve tears.
Why See An Ophthalmologist?
Consulting an ophthalmologist is essential for identifying and treating common eye conditions. Regular eye exams can detect problems early, allowing for timely intervention and better management of eye health. Ophthalmologists can handle a wide range of eye issues, providing care tailored to your specific needs.
Book An Appointment With An Ophthalmologist
Eye health is an essential aspect of overall well-being. Recognising and understanding common eye conditions can prompt timely medical attention and improve your quality of life. At Pacific Eye Clinic, we offer comprehensive eye care services, including diagnosis and treatment for a variety of eye conditions. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about your eye health, schedule an appointment today.
Author
Dr Marc Wei
Dr. Marc Wei is the principal specialist laser and cataract surgeon at Pacific Eye Clinic in Southport on the Gold Coast. He has 20 years of trusted experience in advanced laser cataract surgery and has completed more than 15,000 procedures over the course of his career.
