Medical Eye Problems

If you experience any sudden changes in your eyes like pain, redness or the constant feeling that something is in your eye, it could indicate a serious problem that requires medical attention. Some medical eye problems can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated right away.

Regular eye checkups are an important part of keeping your eyes healthy, because some medical eye problems may not show symptoms right away.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

• Acanthamoeba keratitis can result in contact lens wearers who don't practice good hygiene when handling their lenses. Once contracted, it is difficult to treat. In a worst-case scenario, you could require a corneal transplant.

  Acanthamoeba keratitis is caused by Acanthamoeba, which is an amoeba. An amoeba is a one-celled organism usually found in tap water, well water, dirt and sewage systems. When this amoeba gets in your eye, Acanthamoeba keratitis is the result. Symptoms include redness, pain, tearing, feeling that something is in your eye and blurry vision. It's easy for doctors to misdiagnose the condition, because it's so similar to others. In most cases permanent vision loss is the result.

  Practicing good contact lens hygiene is the best way to prevent this condition. Always wash your hands before handling contacts, follow the doctor's care guidelines, never use tap water on lenses and soak your lenses every night in fresh disinfecting solution.

Allergies

• Eye allergies are usually a symptom that comes with other conditions like hay fever. Some medications and cosmetics can also trigger symptoms. The allergies usually affect the conjunctiva, which is the inner tissue lining of the eye covering the eyeball. Whenever you open your eye, it is exposed to the environment. Eye allergy symptoms include itching, watering and burning red irritated eyes. In some cases the eyelids swell as a result; sometimes they swell shut. Pollen is usually to blame, although indoor allergens like dust, pet dander and molds can also be a trigger.

  Treatment usually involves antihistamine drops and decongestants. Severe cases may require a topical steroid short-term.

Blepharitis

• Blepharitis is a condition where the eyelids are inflamed, especially on the edge of the lid along the lashes. It is usually caused by a low-grade baterial infection, but can also be caused by a skin condition.

  The symptoms include eye irritation, burning, tearing, a feeling that something is in the eye, dryness, redness and a crusty debris along the lash line caused by excessive tearing.

  Your doctor may prescribe warm compresses on the eye area, cleaning the lids regularly and antibiotics. Doctors may in some cases also prescribe artificial tears to provide lubrication to dry eyes.

Cataracts

• Cataracts are caused by proteins clumping together and creating a cloud on the lens. Over time, a cataract can grow larger and make it harder to see. When you have a cataract, light can seem glaring when you look at it directly.

  No one really knows why cataracts appear. They are known to occur as we age. Studies suggest that exposure to ultraviolet light can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts. Eye doctors recommend wearing sunglasses with ultraviolet protection and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes.

  Surgery is the only treatment available when your cataracts progress to the point that you cannot see well. Nine out of 10 people who undergo surgery regain good vision.