Understanding common eye problems
Our eyesight is one of our most valuable assets if not the most important. As we age eye problems can develop or worsen so it is vitally important you know what the red flags are for any potential eye issues. We guide you through the most common of eye problems but remember if you are concerned about your eyes, always consult an optometrist or doctor.
Itchy and red eyes
There are a few reasons why you might wake up one morning and find your eyes bloodshot and itchy. This can be due to infections such as conjunctivitis, an allergy such as hay fever or most commonly an irritation such as smoke, dust or make-up. Staring at computer/tablet/smartphone screens can strain eyes as well causing both redness and dryness.
Red eyes is not usually a dangerous condition. Removing the irritant or apply a few eye drops can usually clean and lubricate the eyes. If a red eye persists though and is deeply uncomfortable then check with your optometrist.
Conjunctivitis
Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is an extremely infectious (but not serious) eye condition. Your eyelids and eyeball becomes inflamed leaving you with sore, itchy, sensitive eyes that take on a pinkish colour, hence the term pink eye. Often there is a discharge that can form a crust during the night as well. Conjunctivitis is common but not serious and easily treated. It usually clears up in a few days if detected and treated promptly and properly.
Dry eyes
Are your eyes constantly feeling dry, gritty or sore? Your eyes may not be getting enough moisture. Our eyes produce tears that lubricate our eyeballs and when we blink, it clears your eyes of any irritants. However, as we get older we produce smaller volumes of tears and as a result, dry eyes are quite common among the over 60 population. Some medications can cause eye dryness as well as the climate and air conditioned places.
Dry eyes are usually not a sign of a serious problem but if you have constant and severe eye dryness it can lead to inflammation, infection and even scarring. Consult your optometrist.
Floaters
If you occasionally see spots in your eyes, you might not be imagining it. Eye floaters are dark specks, spots, threads or clumps that seem to appear in front of your eyes. They form within the clear, jelly-like substance inside your eye (the vitreous). Floaters unfortunately become more common as we age because the vitreous begins to dissolve and liquefy.
While floaters are undeniably annoying, they are usually harmless. There is no treatment for them but if there is a sudden increase than schedule an eye examination. Your optometrist will be able to check your eyes are correctly positions, healthy and not symptomatic of anything more serious.