Eye health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet many of us take it for granted until issues arise. Common eye conditions can range from mild annoyances to serious diseases that threaten vision. Understanding these conditions, their symptoms, and potential treatments is key to maintaining eye health and seeking appropriate care. This post from Brice Hwang, MD, navigates through several prevalent eye conditions, from the discomfort of dry eyes to the seriousness of glaucoma.
Brice Hwang, MD, on Dry Eyes
What It Is:
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This condition can lead to irritation, redness, and, in severe cases, vision impairment.
Symptoms:
- Stinging or burning sensation
- Scratchiness or the feeling of something in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision, often worsening at the end of the day
Treatment:
Managing dry eyes might include using artificial tears, prescription eye drops that increase tear production, or procedures to block tear ducts and retain natural tears. Lifestyle changes, such as taking breaks during long tasks involving screens and using a humidifier, can also help.
Brice Hwang, MD, on Cataracts
What It Is:
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. It’s the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 40 and a principal cause of blindness worldwide.
Symptoms:
- Clouded, blurred, or dim vision
- Increasing difficulty with vision at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Seeing “halos” around lights
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
Treatment:
In the early stages, stronger lighting and eyeglasses can help you deal with cataracts. However, when impaired vision affects your everyday activities, cataract surgery, which involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one, may be recommended.
Brice Hwang, MD, on Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What It Is:
AMD is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision. It’s a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
Symptoms:
- Blurred or reduced central vision
- A need for brighter light when reading or doing close work
- Difficulty adapting to low light levels
- Increased blurriness of printed words
- Decreased intensity or brightness of colors
Treatment:
While there’s no cure for AMD, treatment can slow its progression. This may include dietary supplements, laser therapy, or medications that are injected into the eye. Early detection is crucial for effective management.
Brice Hwang, MD, on Glaucoma
What It Is:
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, essential for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in your eye and is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over 60.
Symptoms:
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, symptoms may include loss of peripheral vision, eye pain, nausea, and seeing halos around lights.
Treatment:
Glaucoma treatment includes eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, or surgery to lower eye pressure. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent vision loss.
Brice Hwang, MD, on Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
What It Is:
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. It can be allergic, bacterial, or viral.
Symptoms:
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Itchiness in one or both eyes
- A gritty feeling
- Discharge that forms a crust during the night
- Tearing
Treatment:
The appropriate treatment for conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye) depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In cases where the condition is caused by allergies, allergy eye drops may be administered to alleviate symptoms. On the other hand, bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated using antibiotic drops or ointments prescribed by a medical professional. In the case of viral conjunctivitis, the condition must run its course, but it may be possible to alleviate symptoms through the use of eye drops or compresses. It is important to note that self-diagnosis and self-treatment can lead to complications, so it is recommended to seek professional medical advice before administering any treatment.
Recognizing the symptoms of common eye conditions and seeking timely medical advice can prevent potential complications, including vision loss. Regular eye exams play a crucial role in detecting these conditions early, even before symptoms appear. By staying informed and proactive about eye health, Brice Hwang, MD, believes you can navigate these common conditions effectively and maintain your vision’s clarity and quality.
