common eye CONDITIONS

Eye diseases are relatively rare, although they become more common as we get older. All eye diseases should be regarded as serious - even diseases that appear mild have the potential to cause serious damage if not treated appropriately. Many serious eye diseases do not have dramatic symptoms. Some people with serious eye diseases don't realise there is a problem until they've suffered irreversible damage.

Everyone should have an eye examination every two years. We may recommend more frequent checks if you're at higher risk.

Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is damage to the macula. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. AMD FAQs

Diabetic Retinopathy
For those with diabetes changes may occur and damage the retina at the back of the eye. The risk of developing retinopathy increases with the length of time you have had diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy FAQs

Cataract
Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the clear lens inside the eye. This cloudiness results in poor vision in the same way that a dirty window scatters light. FAQs on Cataract. Cataract FAQs

Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition in which the nerve cells which transmit information from the eye to the brain become damaged and prevents visual information from getting from the retina in the eye to the brain. Glaucoma FAQs

Pterygium
A pterygium (pronounced ter-idge-ee-um) is a triangular-shaped lump of tissue with blood vessels that grows from the conjunctiva on to the cornea. Pterygium FAQs

Reproduced with permission from Optometry Australia