Eye Health
Listed are a few common eye problems:
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye conditions in which the optic nerve (the nerve at the back of the eye) is damaged, often in association with raised pressure within the eye. This leads to a reduction in the field of vision and in the ability to see clearly. In most cases glaucoma sufferers will experience no symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
Cataracts
Over half of those over 65 have some cataract development and most cases can be treated successfully with surgery. A cataract is not a skin that grows over the eye but a clouding of part of the eye called the lens. Vision becomes blurred or dim because light cannot pass through the clouded lens to the back of the eye.
Detached Retina
Retinal detachment is a rare but serious and sight-threatening event which occurs when the retina – the light-sensitive inner lining of the back of the eye – becomes separated from the underlying tissue. This may be caused by a hole or tear in the retina which allows fluid to get underneath, weakening the attachment of the retina which then becomes detached - rather like wallpaper peeling off a damp wall. Detached retina can also be caused by an injury or may be a consequence of other eye conditions or surgery.
Squint
A squint (also known as a strabismus) is a condition that arises because of an incorrect balance of the muscles that move the eye, faulty nerve signals to the eye muscles and focusing faults (usually long sight). If these are out of balance, the eye may turn in (converge), turn out (diverge) or sometimes turn up or down, preventing the eyes from working properly together. Squint can occur at any age. A baby can be born with a squint or develop one soon after birth. Around 5 - 8% of children are affected by a squint or a squint-related condition, which means one or two in every group of 30 children. If a child appears to have a squint at any age from six weeks onwards, it is important to seek professional advice quickly. Many children with squints have poor vision in the affected eye. If treatment is needed, the sooner it is started the better the results. Squint can be a complex condition and not every situation is covered here. Your optometrist will be pleased to give further advice, if needed. Children will benefit from support and encouragement during treatment and you should not be afraid to ask questions which will help you understand the condition. The successful outcome of treatment depends upon everyone co-operating.