Signs and Symptoms of Common Eye Diseases

At Iris Bright Optometry, we believe that being informed about eye health can help prevent serious complications down the road. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of common eye diseases is essential, as timely detection allows for better treatment and outcomes. Let’s look at some of the most prevalent eye conditions, their symptoms, and when to seek professional care.

Cataracts

Cataracts develop gradually, leading to cloudy or blurred vision as the natural lens of the eye becomes opaque. This is most common in older adults but can occur earlier due to genetics or injury.

•            Symptoms: Blurry or clouded vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, halos around lights, and fading colors.

•            When to See an Optometrist: If you notice persistent cloudiness or trouble seeing in low-light conditions, schedule an eye exam to explore treatment options. When the cataract is mild, updating your glasses may be sufficient to help you see better. When the cataract is moderate or advanced, our eye doctor may recommend you consider cataract surgery.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is primarily caused by increased pressure in the eye, leading to optic nerve damage. Without treatment, it can lead to irreversible blindness.

•  Symptoms: Often called the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma may initially present with no symptoms. In moderate stages, you may experience loss of peripheral vision but may not notice it as the symptoms are slow and gradual. In advanced stages, symptoms include significant loss of peripheral vision, eye pain, redness, and halos around lights.

•  When to See an Optometrist: Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for individuals over 40 or with a family history of glaucoma. Glaucoma is also more prevalent in African American and Latin populations. Early detection is key to slowing its progression.

•  Our office uses Optomap retinal imaging (Irvine and El Cajon locations) and Optical Coherence Tomography OCT scans of the optic nerve (Irvine location only) to detect and diagnose glaucoma.

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50.

•  Symptoms: Blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and needing brighter lighting for close work.

•  When to See an Optometrist: If you notice central vision changes, such as distortion or dark spots, reach out for an exam. Similar to glaucoma, symptoms are slow and gradual. However, unlike glaucoma, loss of vision starts in the center and expands out to the periphery. Early intervention can help manage progression. Current research suggests nutrition with high amounts of antioxidants may slow or prevent the progression of macular degeneration.

•  Our office uses Optomap retinal imaging (Irvine and El Cajon locations) and Optical Coherence Tomography OCT scans of the macula (Irvine location only) to better diagnose AMD.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. It’s common among people with diabetes and can lead to blindness if left untreated. 

•  Symptoms: Dark spots or shadowy strings (floaters), blurred vision, fluctuating vision, and vision loss. Uncontrolled high blood sugar levels will make you more myopic (nearsighted).

•  When to See an Optometrist: Diabetic patients should schedule annual eye exams to monitor for any early signs of retinopathy, allowing for timely intervention. Medical insurance typically covers one annual eye exam for diabetic patients.

•  Our optometrists use dilation and/or Optomap retinal imaging as a screening tool for diabetic retinopathy but may further order Optical Coherence Tomography OCT scans (Irvine location only) of the retina to further evaluate. Treatment options include diabetic medication through coordinated care with your PCP, injections or laser treatment from an ophthalmologist.
 

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication on the eye’s surface and the general instability of the tear film. It is often associated with aging, environmental factors, make-up, contact lenses or prolonged screen use. Dry eye is primarily caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and has been linked to various inflammatory lifestyle choices and auto-immune diseases.

•  Symptoms: A stinging or burning sensation, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred or fluctuating vision, eye fatigue, recurrent corneal ulcers and/or styes.

•  When to See an Optometrist: If symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatments, an optometrist can help diagnose and recommend in-home treatments, medications or in-office specialized therapies for long-lasting relief such as Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and Radiofrequency (RF), which are currently all available in our Irvine location.

Keratoconus

This condition causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward, creating a cone shape. It’s more common in younger individuals and may require special scleral lenses or surgical options like crosslinking.

•  Symptoms: Blurred or distorted vision, sensitivity to light, glare, and difficulty with night vision.

•  When to See an Optometrist: If glasses or contact lenses fail to improve your vision, an optometrist can assess your cornea for keratoconus and explore treatment options based on severity.

Preventative Eye Care Tips

Regular eye exams play a critical role in maintaining eye health, as they allow for early detection of potential problems, often before any symptoms arise. By catching these issues early, treatment can be more effective and help prevent vision loss or other complications down the line.

Leading a healthy lifestyle is also essential in preserving eye health. A balanced diet rich in nutrients/antioxidants, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of developing many eye diseases. These lifestyle choices support not only overall health but also the longevity of clear, strong vision.

Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is another important preventative measure. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays helps to shield the eyes from early onset of conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration, which are often exacerbated by prolonged sun exposure.

Schedule Your Next Eye Exam with Iris Bright Optometry Today

Incorporating regular eye exams, healthy lifestyle choices, and UV protection into your routine can go a long way in preserving your vision and preventing common eye conditions. At Iris Bright Optometry, we’re here to support you every step of the way in maintaining optimal eye health.

If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, or if you’re experiencing any changes in your vision, schedule an appointment with Iris Bright Optometry. Contact either of our offices in Irvine, CA at (949) 585-9403 or in El Cajon, CA at (619) 447-8494 to book an appointment today