Many diseases and conditions can affect the eyes. Some do not cause permanent damage, but may cause discomfort until resolved. However, some symptoms may seem minor, but may lead to serious eye conditions. If symptoms do not improve within a day or two, or if the symptoms worsen, contact an eye doctor for an evaluation.
Vision
Changes in vision may indicate a problem with the eyes. Blurry vision that comes and goes may result from the surface of the eye drying out; using artificial tears periodically may improve the condition. Many people over 40 begin having difficulty reading, a condition called presbyopia. This is a normal part of aging that can be resolved with reading glasses.
Vision may also change suddenly, causing black areas in vision, double vision or sudden blurriness. In these cases, the National Library of Medicine advises to immediately go to an eye care professional or the emergency room for evaluation.
Pain and Irritation
Surface irritation may make the eyes feel scratchy or cause a burning sensation. The eyes may itch and have a slight ache. The surface of the eyes may also appear red. These symptoms may indicate an infection such as conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye." Dry eyes may also cause these symptoms. A doctor should examine the eyes and determine necessary treatment. If the eye itself feels a deep, throbbing ache or a stabbing pain, a visit to an eye doctor or emergency room is warranted, since this may indicate an infection inside the eye or other conditions such as glaucoma, states the National Library of Medicine.
Excessive Tearing
Dry eyes may cause the eyes to water excessively, sometimes causing excessive tearing. This is the eyes' natural response to surface dryness, though excessive watering actually washes away any good tear film in the eyes' surface, exacerbating the problem. Watery eyes may also indicate a blocked tear duct that prevents the tears from draining, or may also indicate that the glands make too many tears, according to the National Library of Medicine. An infection or foreign body in the eyes may also cause excessive tearing.
Discharge
Infections or allergies may cause the eyes to have a mucus-like discharge. Conjunctivitis, for example, often causes the eyes to have a crust in the morning that may necessitate gently prying the eyelids open. A warm cloth placed on the eyes for a few minutes will soften the crust and allow the eyes to open easily. In cases where the discharge has a green or pus-like appearance accompanied by other symptoms such as light sensitivity and vision changes, this could indicate a serious eye condition that will have to be evaluated by a doctor, notes the National Library of Medicine.
