Eye Problems in Adults

by Carol Gomes

Common eye problems among adults are difficulty in focusing on near or distant objects, blurred vision, iris color change, swollen eyelids, frequent pain in the eyes, appearance of dark spots in the center of viewing, dry eyes, itching, watery eyes, difficulty in adapting to darkness, double vision, and distortion. Below, we've detailed some of these problems.

  • Presbyopia is the loss of ability to see close objects or small prints; this can be rectified using glasses.
  • Tiny spots or floaters in the range of vision are normal, but can also indicate retinal detachment, which requires immediate medical attention. It is best to check with a doctor if you often experience floaters or spots in your vision.
  • Cataracts are cloudy areas that cover part or whole of the eye and obstruct the light from passing through the lens and back to the retina, causing vision impairment. Cataracts require proper medical treatment.
  • Glaucoma develops when the optic nerves get damaged, causing an increase in the pressure in the eye. This can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness. This is often caused by a bad eye infection, injury to the eyes, blood vessel blockage, or inflammation of the eyes. This can occur without obvious symptoms or pain and needs immediate medical treatment. The treatment includes oral medications, eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery.
  • Corneal diseases that occur due to disease, exposure to toxic substances, and infection can damage the cornea, leading to redness, watery eyes, pain, or a halo effect. It can be treated using medication, eyeglasses, or surgery.
  • Eye discharge can be due to bacterial or viral infections; the color will be white or yellow, depending on whether it is bacterial or viral. Eye discharge needs medical attention. The doctor will check for vision and other signs of problems and prescribe medication accordingly. Use of eye drops for a few days to a few weeks based on the severity and to prevent further infection may be advised.

Diabetic Eye Problems

As the name suggests, diabetic eye problems are eye problems that a diabetic person is more prone to due to his/her diabetic condition. People with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, are at risk for diabetic retinopathy. This is caused due to the damage of the blood vessels in the back of the eye where the retina is located. Being predisposed to this condition, it is imperative for people with diabetes to have a comprehensive eye exam every year. The warning signs and symptoms include floaters, missing areas of vision, gradual vision loss, and difficulty in seeing at night. People with diabetic retinopathy need to keep in check their levels of cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure in order to prevent progress of the condition.

Reference

  1. http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/conditions/vision_and_eye_health/types_of_vision_problems.htm
  2. http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/diabetic/retinopathy.asp

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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