Most Common Eye Diseases

One of your most valuable assets is your eyesight. Unfortunately, it is constantly under threat from hundreds of eye problems as well as everyday dangers. Many vision issues are treatable, but some have no cure. Fortunately, you can protect your eye health by seeing your eye doctor regularly and following a healthy lifestyle. 

 

How Common Are Eye Conditions and Diseases?

Millions of Americans aged 40 and above have corrected vision or meet the definition of legal blindness. According to the CDC, about 7% of American kids under 18 have a diagnosed eye condition or disease.

Nearly 3% of them have impaired vision or are blind. Vision loss is one of the leading causes of disability among adults in the U.S. and one of the most disabling childhood conditions. 

Fortunately, it is never too late to focus on your eye health. Regular comprehensive eye exams can lead to early diagnosis critical to preventing, slowing, or correcting most eye diseases. Some of the most common eye diseases include the following:

Keratoconus

A healthy cornea has a dome shape. Sometimes, the collagen that holds the cornea in place weakens, causing the cornea to lose shape and become cone-shaped. That is what eye doctors call keratoconus. The eye condition can cause severe vision loss if not treated early. If left untreated, you may require a cornea transplant. 

Cataracts

The primary characteristic of a cataract is a milky, cloudy lens. Cataracts can develop at any age but are more common in people over 50. Most cataracts are age-related but can also result from UV exposure, trauma, or protein deterioration over time. The gradual breakdown of protein causes the clouding of the eye’s lens. 

Macular Degeneration

The main characteristic of this eye condition is damage to the light-sensitive area of the retina, known as the macula. Risk factors for macular degeneration include age, family history, and smoking. There is no known cure for this condition, but treatment can slow its progression. 

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes-related high blood sugar can cause diabetic retinopathy, leading to permanent vision loss and blindness if left untreated. Chronic high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye. That can prevent the retina from getting the nutrients it needs to maintain good eyesight. Anyone with diabetes can develop the condition. 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a common eye condition associated with increased pressure inside the eye, causing worsening damage to the optic nerve. If left unaddressed, the damage to the optic nerve can lead to permanent vision loss. Unfortunately, people with glaucoma rarely experience any early symptoms or pain that would be an indicator of a problem. This is one of the many reasons why eye doctors recommend regular comprehensive eye exams. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent vision loss. 

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your tear glands produce poor-quality or insufficient tears to lubricate your eyes and keep them comfortable. This condition can cause a burning or itching sensation in the eye. It can also cause vision loss if left unaddressed. 

It is possible to cure or at least slow the progression of these common eye conditions if caught early by an eye doctor. Regular eye exams are the best way to ensure healthy eyes and vision for years to come.

For more information on common eye diseases or to schedule a routine eye exam, contact Eye Care North at our office in Cave Creek, Arizona by calling 480-781-4446 today!