Quick Guide to Common Eye Problems and Infections

By admin | Mar 24, 2017

Many people will experience an eye problem to some degree throughout their life time. It is important to understand eye problems and the symptoms associated with these conditions as some may need further attention from an eye care specialist.

Uveitis is a disease that causes the uvea (middle layer of the eye) to become inflamed. When inflammation occurs the tissues in the eye are compromised and damage and vision loss may occur. Symptoms of Uveitis include blurred vision, eye pain, eye redness and light sensitivity.

Floaters are small spots or specks that “float” across your field of view. Although floaters are usually normal they may still be an indicator of a more serious eye problem. If you notice a significant change in the number of spots, flashes or a dark curtain like shadow in your peripheral field it is important to see your eye care specialist away.

Dry Eyes occur when your eyes have trouble producing enough natural tears. In some severe cases, dry eye can lead to some vision loss. Dry eye disease is a chronic condition that needs evaluation and treatment by your eye care specialist.

Cataracts are cloudy areas that develop on the lens of the eye. Light passes through the lens to the retina at the back of your eye where images are processed. When a cataract is present light cannot pass through easily causing a glare or halo around lights. Cataracts do not cause symptoms of pain or redness.

Glaucoma is an eye disease that may cause an elevation in eye pressure that can damage your optic nerve. Glaucoma can be caused by anything that blocks the normal outflow of fluid from the eye including an eye injury, new blocked blood vessels or inflammatory diseases of eye. Treatments include prescription eye drops or surgery.

Retinal Disorders The retina is a thin lining in the back of your eye that is made up of cells that collect images and send them to your brain. Retinal disorders block the sending of images to your brain. Age related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Detachment are a few disorders that need to be monitored closely by your eye care specialist.

Corneal Diseases The cornea helps to focus the light that comes into your eye. Disease, infection, eye injuries, and exposure to toxins can damage the cornea. Symptoms include red eyes, watery eyes, pain, reduced vision or haloes.

If you are experiencing any eye problems and notice a significant increase in symptoms, please consult your eye care specialist. Here at Retina Consultants of Boston, we are committed to comprehensive care and timely management of your eye problems to help preserve your eye sight.