Our eyes play a very vital part in our lives, but just like most aspects of our body, they can be prone to certain diseases and conditions. This is why it’s incredibly essential that we take care of them, and most importantly, get frequent checks.

In this article, we are going to explore ten different eye conditions and how they can be treated. Interested? Then let’s get started.

Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions and can get worse with age. They cause your vision to become blurry or cloudy as they affect your lens, which is usually clear. Some of the most common symptoms associated with this condition include sensitivity to light, seeing double, and vision trouble in the dark.

The only way to completely remove cataracts is with some type of eye surgery. However, if you catch them early enough, a change in your prescription glasses may be of some help.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration occurs when the nerves to your eyes become damaged. It is often permanent and can result in severe loss of eyesight. You may begin to experience certain symptoms such as blurred vision, blind spots, and have trouble judging distances. These also generally get worse over time.

Currently, there is no treatment for this condition. However, there are preventive measures that you can take. These include monitoring your blood pressure, living a healthy lifestyle, and wearing sunglasses when outside.

Refractive Errors

When an individual’s eye is unable to bend light correctly, this is called a refractive error. It can blur your vision and sometimes cause eye crossing in children. Most cases can be treated with corrective lenses, but refractive surgery like Lasik Utah can also be used in some circumstances.

Keratoconus

The cornea is the clear shaped dome near the front of your eye. Keratoconus is a condition that occurs when this dome thins and becomes more coned shaped. Like many of these conditions, it causes your vision to blur, and you may become sensitive to light.

During the early stages, it can be corrected with glasses or fitted contact lenses. However, if it becomes more severe, a transplant will be needed.

Tearing

Tearing, also known as epiphora or watering eye, is the definition given to someone with an overflow of tears (without explanation). In children, one of the most common causes is a blocked tear duct however, it could also be because of an over-production of tears due to an irritant.

Depending on the course of the tearing, treatment can vary. However, in most cases, it can easily be treated by either removing the irritant, treating an infection, or with minor surgery.

Glaucoma

Another well-known condition, Glaucoma, is the name given to a group of diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve (usually the result of abnormally high blood pressure in the eye). There are two different types, each with various side effects, including headaches, pain, and blurred vision.

If left untreated, it will cause blindness, so it’s important to take preventative measures. This includes wearing eye protection, getting regular eye exams, and taking any prescribed eye drops regularly.

Floaters

Floaters are small specks that float in the fluid of your eye. While they might seem daunting, they should cause no pain. However, they can be a bit of a nuisance. In most cases, they are generated from aging but can also occur if you have had eye trauma that has resulted in eye-bleeding or inflammation. You may need to visit a doctor if they become more abundant or if they are starting to affect your peripheral vision.

While you can get laser surgery or surgery to remove these, there are other ways to reduce them. Have a look at some natural remedies for eye floaters to get started.

Dry eyes

Opposite to tearing, dry areas are caused when an individual is unable to produce enough lubrication. This can cause the eyes to become extremely irritated and eventually cause damage to the surface. The most common symptoms include burning, redness, eye fatigue, and eye sensitivity.

If you are experiencing dry eyes, there may be a variety of different causes. It could be from medication, another medical condition, or from aging. However, there are specific ways that can prevent it from getting worse. For example, eye drops are a great way to keep them well lubricated and can take away some of the pain.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the medical name given to the process of gradually losing your eyesight with age. This is due to your eyes being unable to focus appropriately on nearby objects. For example, you may need to pull things closer or further away from you to actually read them. While it ultimately does end up affecting everyone, some are more prone to it than others.

In order to treat the condition, eyeglasses, or contacts are the most common solution. However, you can choose to undergo refractive surgery or install implants.

Amblyopia 

Also known as Lazy Eye, Amblyopia occurs when one eye has reduced vision. This then causes the weaker eye to wander in different directions. Premature children and those with developmental disabilities are most at risk; however, it can also affect those with a history of it in the family.

As it presents itself early on, it can be treated relatively easily if diagnosed. In most cases, corrective eyewear will be issued; however, eye patches and eye drops can also be given to help strengthen the weaker eye. In some cases, surgery can also be needed; however, this is not common.

And that’s it! These were ten common eye conditions and how they can be treated. If you find that you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, make sure that you visit your local optometrist and get an eye test ASAP. This way, you have the opportunity to catch the condition as early as possible and better your chances of keeping your eyesight.