5 Common Eye Diseases to Look Out For

Did you know that almost 7% of children have a diagnosed eye condition while 12 million adults have some level of vision impairment?

Not only will learning about the most common eye diseases help you stay in tune with your body, but this information can also encourage you to get your vision checked once a year.

So what are common eye diseases that everyone should look out for? Keep reading to learn about 5 conditions that can harm your health.

1. Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the most common eye disease in older adults, which is why it’s essential to visit the eye doctor at least once a year as you age. This condition occurs when the macula, which is the center part of the retina, deteriorates over time. Macular degeneration is an incurable disease that can cause vision loss, struggling to see in low lighting, blurriness, and other vision problems.

2. Refractive Errors

Out of all the common eye diseases and treatments out there, the top issue that children and adults face is refractive errors. Refractive errors are the umbrella term for vision issues that are caused by light not being able to pass through the eyes the right way. Some different types of refractive errors include nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatisms, which can all be solved by wearing glasses or getting corrective surgery.

3. Dry Eyes Syndrome

If you’re dealing with dry itchy eyes regularly, then you may be suffering from dry eyes syndrome. Some people can experience discomfort seasonally from allergies while others have chronic irritation. Aging and wearing contacts are two main culprits, but anyone can develop this condition.

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a disease that’s caused by fluid pressure increasing in the eyes and it can be broken down into two categories called open-angle and closed-angle. Open-angle can cause slow vision loss over years while closed-angle can have a fast and painful onset. Since glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and damage over time, it’s essential to visit the optometrist regularly so it can get caught and treated right away.

5. Cataracts

The different types of cataracts are some of the most common eye diseases in children and adults alike. Some people are born with cataracts while others can develop issues as they age. Since cataracts can affect the centers, edges, and backs of the lenses, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis so you can seek treatment like corrective surgery.

Now You Know Which Common Eye Diseases to Look Out for

By taking the time to learn about common eye diseases, you’ll be better at recognizing them when something may be wrong. The sooner you get help, the better your chances are at correcting the problem and preventing long-term damage.

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