The following is a list of common eye conditions. For information about cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy please see Eye Diseases.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Commonly called “lazy eye,” amblyopia can be treated successfully if detected early enough in childhood. Amblyopia refers to reduced vision in one or both eyes with no pathology present. It is usually due to a eye that drifts inward (esotropia) or outward (exotropia), also known as strabismus, or due to a high or uneven refractive error (need for glasses) that has not been corrected very early in life. It can also develop due to visual deprivation such as a patch on the eye of a very young infant or a droopy eyelid that covers the eye, for example.
Astigmatism
Often mistakenly called “stigmatism,” this common vision problem can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery. Astigmatism is when the visual system of the eye is not perfectly round, but is more oval in shape.
Blepharitis
This refers to inflammation of the eyelids. Red, swollen eyelids and crusty debris at the base of your eyelashes are signs you may have blepharitis.
CMV Retinitis
AIDS or other diseases that affect your immune system can increase your risk of serious eye problems from cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
Eye Allergies
This is characterized by red, swollen or itchy eyes.
Eye Floaters and Spots
“Floaters” are usually harmless pieces of the vitreous gel in the back of the eye that have formed blobs that cause a shadow on the retina as they move past your line of sight. If you notice a sudden increase in floaters or floaters accompanied by flashes of light, see your eye doctor immediately to rule out a retinal detachment or tear.
Farsighted (Hyperopia)
Also called farsightedness, hyperopia is a common vision problem that can cause headaches, eyestrain and trouble reading. This is easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Keratoconus
This eye disease causes the cornea to grow thinner and bulge forward in an irregular cone-shape. Treatment options range from rigid gas permeable contact lenses to a cornea transplant.
Low Vision
Low vision is the term used to describe reduced eyesight that cannot be fully corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or eye surgery. The primary causes of low vision are eye diseases, but low vision also can be inherited or caused by an eye or brain injury.
Nearsighted (Myopia)
Also called nearsightedness, myopia is when someone is able to see close objects, but distant objects are blurred. This is easily corrected with glasses or contacts. Refractive surgeries such as Lasik may also be an option.
Ocular Hypertension
This is when the fluid pressure within the eye is higher than normal. It is a risk factor for glaucoma.
Photophobia
This refers to extreme light sensitivity.
Pingueculae & Pterygia
Pingueculae and pterygia are funny-looking words for growths on the surface of your eye. A pinguecula is a yellowish-white callous-like lump on the white part of the eye. A pterygium is a vascularized triangular-shaped growth that extends from the conjunctiva onto the cornea.
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
This refers to a red eye that can be infectious, allergic, or inflammatory.
Ptosis
Ptosis is a drooping eyelid. Surgery is usually required to correct this problem.
Retinal Detachment
A detached retina is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment is imperative to avoid vision loss. This refers to a separation of the layers of the retina (the lining of the back of the eye that processes visual information and sends it to the brain).
Retinitis Pigmentosa
These inherited disorders, commonly abbreviated as RP, cause progressive peripheral vision loss, night blindness and, eventually, central vision loss.
Styes
A stye is an infected lid gland, similar to a pimple.
Uveitis
This refers to a inflammation of the uvea which includes the choroid, ciliary body and iris. It is often associated with other medical conditions, including a variety of auto-immune disorders.