What Are the Signs of Eye Disease?

We are supposed to get yearly eye exams but what are we looking for aside from whether or not we need glasses? Most people know eye diseases exist but aren’t quite sure just what symptoms they should be on the lookout for. So here’s the breakdown for you.

 

Some eye diseases have impactful signs they are happening. Things like blurred vision, visual disturbances and issues with sight. Yet others happen silently and in the background. If you are never checked, you’d never know (until it’s too late.) Here are the big ones we are vigilantly screening for when you get your annual eye exam:

 

Cataracts - this causes a clouding of your lens and is the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. This disease process is gradual and can show up as blurred vision, halos, double vision and having issues seeing at night or with bright lights.

 

Glaucoma - a group of diseases that affect the optic nerve. Can lead to blindness if left untreated.

 

Macular Degeneration - this medical condition often has no symptoms early on, causes blurred central vision and/or loss of vision in the center of the eye.

 

Diabetic Retinopathy - this eye disease causes damage to the blood vessels in the back of the eye and can lead to blindness.

 

Ocular Surface Disease - although some people are very symptomatic with this, others (especially long term contact lens wearers) can have major issues without knowing it. Also known as dry eye disease this can lead to corneal ulcers and vision loss.

 

There are also a variety of lesser common eye diseases that you are screened for during an eye exam. These can include issues caused by infections (bacterial or viral) or issues caused by other health issues happening in your body systems. It might surprise you to know that your eye exam can detect not only eye disease but also a variety of other health conditions you should be aware of. These include:

 

High blood pressure

High Cholesterol

Diabetes

Brain Tumours

Lupus

Specific Cancers

Multiple Sclerosis

Thyroid Disease

Autoimmune disorders

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sickle Cell Disease

Stroke

 

This list is by no means comprehensive and your eye doctor is able to see much more. An eye exam is the best way to take a peek at what’s inside, whether or not you are having symptoms. Curious what's involved in an eye exam? Read about it here.

 

Our passion is helping you live your best life. Dr. Lawson and the team at Eyes On You are obsessed with helping you achieve your health goals and are up to date on cutting edge technology, treatments and studies to enhance your well-being.


Want to experience the best eye exam of your life? Book your appointment now and make it happen with Eyes On You.
 

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