Regular visits to your eye care provider are key to detecting and treating eye conditions early—before they lead to long-term vision loss. If you experience any sudden or unusual changes in your vision, schedule an eye exam immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your vision for life.

Age-Related Eye Conditions

• Macular Degeneration
  A leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60, macular degeneration affects the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management.
• Cataracts
  Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s lens, often developing with age. While common, they can significantly impact vision and quality of life. Fortunately, cataract surgery is safe and effective.
• Presbyopia
  Presbyopia is the gradual loss of near vision that typically begins in your 40s. It occurs as the eye’s lens becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on close objects.

---

Eye Diseases That Threaten Vision

• Glaucoma
  Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased eye pressure. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, but early treatment can slow its progression.
• Diabetic Retinopathy (optional addition if relevant)
  Caused by complications of diabetes, this condition damages blood vessels in the retina and can lead to severe vision loss if not managed properly.
• Retinal Detachment
  A detached retina requires urgent care. Warning signs include flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over your vision. Without treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss.

---

Eyelid & Surface Eye Disorders

• Blepharitis
  Chronic inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, crusting, burning, and blurry vision.
• Stye & Chalazion
  Both are bumps that appear on the eyelid. A stye is a painful infection, while a chalazion is a blocked oil gland that grows more slowly and is usually painless.
• Bell’s Palsy (Eye-related symptoms)
  Facial nerve paralysis can impact blinking and eyelid control, risking eye dryness and corneal damage.

---

Irritation, Infections & Inflammation

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
  Highly contagious, this inflammation of the conjunctiva is common in children and spreads quickly. Most cases are viral or bacterial and treatable.
• Corneal Ulcer
  A painful open sore on the cornea, often caused by infections or contact lens misuse. It requires prompt treatment to prevent scarring or vision loss.
• Acanthamoeba Keratitis
  A rare but serious infection, typically linked to improper contact lens hygiene. Prevention is key, as the condition can lead to vision loss.
• Ocular Rosacea
  An inflammatory condition that affects both the skin and the eyes, causing redness, irritation, and swollen eyelids.
• Uveitis
  Inflammation of the eye’s middle layer. It may be linked to infections, autoimmune diseases, or occur without a clear cause.
• Optic Neuritis
  An inflammation of the optic nerve often associated with multiple sclerosis or autoimmune conditions. Symptoms include pain and sudden vision loss.

---

Vision Development & Function Issues

• Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
  A misalignment of the eyes where they do not work together, leading to double vision or reduced depth perception.
• Nystagmus
  An involuntary, rapid movement of the eyes that can cause vision instability and difficulty focusing.
• Astigmatism
  A common condition where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision.
• Color Blindness
  A hereditary or acquired condition that affects color perception—most commonly red-green confusion.
• Low Vision
  Describes significant visual impairment that can’t be fully corrected with glasses or contacts. It may result from various eye conditions.

---

Occupational & Lifestyle-Related Conditions

• Computer Vision Syndrome
  Prolonged screen use can lead to eye strain, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision. Proper screen habits and regular breaks can reduce symptoms.
• Eye Occlusions
  Blockages in the blood vessels of the eye can lead to sudden, severe vision loss. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate care.
• Pinguecula & Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)
  Growths on the white part of the eye due to UV exposure or irritation. While usually benign, they can interfere with vision if they grow large.
• Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
  A broken blood vessel in the eye can look alarming but is generally harmless and resolves on its own.

Eye conditions range from mild to vision-threatening, but many are manageable with early detection and proper care. If you’re experiencing symptoms or due for a check-up, schedule an appointment with your optometrist today.