A Comprehensive Overview of Common Eye Diseases seen by Top Calgary Optometrists

Eye diseases can range from benign conditions to those that threaten vision. Understanding these conditions is vital for early detection and effective management. In this article, we will explore various eye diseases, including their symptoms and implications.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, primarily age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a disease that affects the central part of the retina, the macula. It leads to a loss of central vision, crucial for detailed tasks like reading and driving. AMD is divided into dry and wet forms, with dry AMD being more common but less severe than wet AMD. Key symptoms include blurry vision, dark spots in central vision, and distorted lines.

Eye Floaters

Floaters are small, shadowy shapes that appear in one's field of vision, often described as spots, threads, or cobweb-like. They are caused by small pieces of debris floating in the vitreous, the gel-like substance filling the eye. While usually benign, a sudden increase in floaters, especially accompanied by light flashes, can indicate a retinal tear or detachment, requiring urgent medical attention.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of genetic disorders that affect the retina's ability to respond to light. It causes a slow loss of vision, beginning with decreased night vision and loss of peripheral vision. Over time, RP can lead to blindness. There's currently no cure, but treatments aim to slow its progression and manage symptoms.

Graves Eye Disease

Graves eye disease, also known as thyroid eye disease, is an autoimmune condition often associated with hyperthyroidism. It causes inflammation and swelling in the eye muscles and tissues, leading to symptoms like bulging eyes, double vision, dry eyes, and vision loss.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. This irregularity leads to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Astigmatism often occurs with other refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) and is commonly corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Pinguecula

A pinguecula is a common, non-cancerous growth on the conjunctiva, the clear, thin tissue covering the white part of the eye. It appears as a yellowish patch or bump near the cornea, often on the side closest to the nose. It's caused by UV light exposure, dry eyes, or dust and is usually harmless.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva. It can be viral, bacterial, or allergic in origin. Symptoms include redness, itching, and discharge from the eyes. While usually not serious, it can be highly contagious in its infectious forms.

Drusen

Drusen are tiny yellow or white deposits under the retina, often found in people over 60. They can be an early sign of AMD. While not harmful in themselves, the presence of extensive drusen increases the risk of developing advanced AMD.

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects are seen clearly. It results from a longer-than-normal eyeball or a steeply curved cornea, focusing images in front of the retina. Myopia is corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Eye Disease with Diabetes

Diabetes can lead to several eye conditions, with diabetic retinopathy being the most serious. High blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems. Early stages may cause mild vision issues, but advanced stages can result in significant vision loss. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial in preventing diabetic eye diseases.

Conclusion

Eye diseases, ranging from common refractive errors to more serious conditions like AMD and diabetic retinopathy, have varying impacts on vision and quality of life. Understanding these conditions, their symptoms, and effects on vision is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Regular eye exams are key in detecting these diseases early, allowing for effective management and preservation of eye health. Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall has expert Optometrists that can help if you have concerns with any of the conditions discussed above.