Any changes in the eye can affect the vision which can either be temporary or can result in permanent loss of vision. Regular check-ups are always recommended to identify any problems of the eyes and to initiate a prompt treatment plan as not all eye diseases exhibit symptoms. In the case of double vision, fluid secretion from the eyes and inflammation requires immediate attention. Some of the diseases of the eyes include diabetic eye disease, conjunctivitis, corneal diseases, macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and retinal detachment.
Macular degeneration
This is one of the major reasons of vision loss and is considered as a disease that cannot be cured. This occurs when the center part of the retina known as macula deteriorates. The macula is responsible for the central vision that helps people with various essential activities such as identifying fine details, reading, driving and recognizing the colors. The early stages of this disease do not affect the vision but later it can develop a blurry vision that progresses to complete loss of central vision. Although the exact cause of macular degeneration is not known, some of the risk factors include smoking, family history and age.
Diabetic eye disease
This is a group of eye problems that affects individuals with diabetes and consists of diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataract and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy is the common vision loss among the diabetic people where the retinal blood vessels may leak causing vision problems. The diabetic macular edema occurs when the part of the retina known of the macula enlarges. The cataract is the clouding of the eyes lens and glaucoma can develop damage to the optic nerve with increased pressure within the eye. Individuals with diabetes should get regular eye examination at least once a year to prevent developing any eye complications or vision loss. It is also important that these individuals continue to control diabetes in order to prevent or in some cases delay the vision loss.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the tissue of the eye (the conjunctiva) and is commonly known as the red eye. The symptoms of conjunctivitis include watery eyes, itchiness and stickiness of the eyelashes. This condition can develop as the result of bacterial or viral infection, allergy or irritant substances that contact the eye. Recovery is often possible without the need for medication within a couple of weeks, however, in the severe cases antibiotic eye drops may be required to treat the infection.
Corneal diseases
The cornea of the eye is the dome-shaped outermost part of the eye that acts as protective shield against dust and other harmful materials. It also assists with the focus of the eyes. Various infections, allergy, injuries and exposure to toxic materials can affect it. Some of the common signs of problems with the cornea include the reduced vision, watery or red eyes and pain. The treatment for problems with the cornea includes laser surgery, medicated eye drops and contacts prescription.
References
https://www.macular.org/what-macular-degeneration
https://nei.nih.gov/health/diabetic/retinopathy
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Conjunctivitis-infective/Pages/Introduction.aspx
