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What are the Most Common Eye Diseases?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

There are many types of eye diseases and conditions. Among the most commonly diagnosed are conjunctivitis, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Some eye diseases are merely annoying and uncomfortable. Others, however, are serious enough to cause damage to the eye and even blindness.

Conjunctivitis is among the most common diseases that affect the eye. This condition causes the affected eye to become red, inflamed, and itchy. It may also cause the eyelids to swell and emit a discharge. Some people also experience a scratchy feeling in their eyes and pain when the eyes are exposed to bright light. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or allergy. Depending on the type of conjunctivitis, treatment may include antibiotics, antihistamines, and steps intended to keep the patient more comfortable.

Anatomy of the human eye.
Anatomy of the human eye.

Glaucoma is a group of conditions marked by damage to the nerve at back of the eye, which is called the optic nerve. Its excessive pressure is often caused by an abnormal amount of pressure inside the patient’s eye. Unfortunately, glaucoma damages vision, and is among the most frequent causes of blindness. There is no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment may help to prevent or slow damage to the vision. Treatment may include medicated eye drops, medication to lower pressure in the eye, or surgery.

An optometrist examines a patient's eyes.
An optometrist examines a patient's eyes.

For diabetics, one of the possible complications of problems with blood sugar is diabetic retinopathy. This eye condition is marked by damaged blood vessels in the eyes. As diabetic retinopathy progresses, new blood vessels may grow over the retina, the tissue that lines the inside of the eye. Scar tissue may form because of this new growth, causing the retina to detach from the eye. Without treatment, which may include the use of lasers to seal damaged blood vessels and get rid of new blood vessel growth, this disease causes blindness.

A tube of ointment for treating conjunctivitis, a common eye disease.
A tube of ointment for treating conjunctivitis, a common eye disease.

As people age, they may be more prone to developing age-related macular degeneration, one of the top causes of vision loss in people who are 60 years of age or older. Age-related macular degeneration causes macula cells to die, leading to vision loss. The macula is a particularly sensitive part of the retina and is responsible for central vision. For some people, age-related macular degeneration progresses slowly enough that they do not notice significant loss of vision, but others experience rapid progression and obvious vision loss. Doctors cannot cure macular degeneration, but they can use treatment, such as laser surgery, antioxidants, and injectable drugs, to slow it down and prevent vision loss.

Glaucoma is among the most common cause of blindness.
Glaucoma is among the most common cause of blindness.

It’s important to note that many eye diseases do not cause symptoms in their early stages. Others may cause early symptoms that don’t seem threatening enough to see an eye doctor. However, there are some eye conditions that lead to sight loss, and catching some eye diseases early may prevent or slow loss of vision. As such, it’s important to see an eye doctor for regular checkups as well as anytime visual changes occur.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a TheHealthBoard writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a TheHealthBoard writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon1002969

Your inferior rectus and medial rectus muscles are not working well. That's why you are facing these problems. You might need in to go for a therapy or EOM surgery.

anon1000024

A blood vessel broke in my eye. The first time was when I was lifting heavy weights. The second time it just happened. What can it be? I'm in my mid 30s.

anon130754

If you want to get rid of it, see a doctor. I'm pretty sure there's medication for that sort of stuff, but you might have to go in for surgery. i knew a girl who had something like that and she had surgery and it's better.

anon117398

Can anyone help me please? i have a problem from birth. my left eye ball moves up or on the side (means i lose control of it) especially when i hate something, or try to focus on something, but I don't know what exactly doctors call it. my eye has been diagnosed by many doctors but everyone said to ignore it, but i can't. i feel so confused because of it.

Can anyone tell me what i can do get it the right way? Please, please help me, as i am 25 years old, and going to get married soon.

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    • Anatomy of the human eye.
      Anatomy of the human eye.
    • An optometrist examines a patient's eyes.
      By: daniel rajszczak
      An optometrist examines a patient's eyes.
    • A tube of ointment for treating conjunctivitis, a common eye disease.
      By: motorlka
      A tube of ointment for treating conjunctivitis, a common eye disease.
    • Glaucoma is among the most common cause of blindness.
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      Glaucoma is among the most common cause of blindness.
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      Laser surgery may be prescribed to treat some common eye diseases.
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      Age-related macular degeneration is one of the top causes of vision loss in people who are over 60 years of age.
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