Eye

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss and blindness. It often progresses without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This makes regular eye exams crucial for early detection and treatment. Several types of glaucoma exist, each with distinct characteristics and risk factors.

A stye is a painful, red bump on the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection of the oil glands. It can occur externally, at the base of the eyelash, or internally, within the tarsal plate of the eyelid. It is a common eye problem that can usually be managed at home, but some cases may require treatment by a doctor. Symptoms include eyelid swelling, redness, pain, and the formation of a small pustule.

Xerophthalmia is a progressive eye disease caused by vitamin A deficiency, leading to dryness and damage in the tear ducts and eyes. If left untreated, it can cause night blindness and even blindness due to corneal damage. Symptoms include dryness and wrinkling of the conjunctiva, night blindness, Bitot's spots, corneal ulcers, and softening of the cornea. Treatment involves vitamin A therapy and dietary changes to include vitamin A-rich foods.

Eye infections are common conditions caused by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, affecting different parts of the eye. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, itching, and blurred vision. Recognizing the early signs of an eye infection is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention and preventing complications.

Color blindness, also known as color vision deficiency, is a condition where an individual has difficulty distinguishing between certain colors. It is most commonly inherited genetically but can also be acquired due to various factors such as eye diseases, injuries, or certain medications. The condition affects the retina's ability to process light and images correctly, leading to a different perception of colors than those with normal color vision.

Keratitis is an inflammatory condition of the cornea, the clear dome-shaped window at the front of the eye. It can be caused by various factors, including infections and non-infectious causes, and can lead to corneal blindness if not treated promptly and properly. Treatment for keratitis depends on the cause and severity of the condition.

Cataracts are a common eye condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or distorted vision, glare, and sensitivity to light. The condition typically develops gradually and can affect one or both eyes. Treatment options include lens replacement surgery, which involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one.

Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that can develop in people with diabetes due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. These conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma, can cause vision problems and even blindness if left untreated. Regular eye exams and maintaining good blood sugar control are crucial for preventing and managing diabetic eye disease.

Wet age-related macular degeneration (WMD) is a serious eye condition affecting the central part of the retina, known as the macula. It is characterised by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. This leads to fluid and blood leakage, causing damage and scarring to the macula. Wet AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, typically occurring in people over the age of 50. Treatment options like anti-VEGF injections, can help slow disease progression and preserve vision.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, also known as dry eye, is a common eye condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to dryness, discomfort, and potential vision problems. Dry eye can be caused by various factors, including age, certain medications, and underlying health conditions.