Eye conditions often give signs and symptoms of a potential problem. For many people, an eye doctor may have a simple solution for the eye condition. However, some conditions may require long-term care. Early detection of some eye conditions may reduce the risk of permanent damage to the eyes. Because of this, anyone who has any unusual symptoms or changes should contact an eye doctor for an eye examination.
Redness
Red eyes may indicate a number of conditions. Allergies commonly cause eye redness, and a person may find that using an allergy eye drop improves symptoms. Most drug stores carry over-the-counter allergy eye drops, though some people require a prescription drop for full relief. Eye infections such as conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” cause the eye to appear red. Pink eye may improve without medication, but the condition often requires an antibiotic or anti-fungal eye drop for treatment. A bright red area on the white of the eye may result from a broken blood vessel, a condition called a subconjunctival hemorrhage, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. These bleeds do not require medical treatment unless the area bulges or has other symptoms. The bleed will often disappear gradually, much like a bruise on the skin.
Irritation
In response to eye many eye conditions, some people experience itching, burning or general discomfort in their eyes. Allergies and eye infections tend to cause itching. Conditions such as dry eye, which occurs when the surface of the eye does not have enough lubrication, will cause a burning sensation. Dry eye may also cause a foreign body sensation. For mild itching, a cool washcloth held to the eyes may help relieve symptoms, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. However, many people may need to use artificial tears or medicated drops to help resolve the source of the irritation.
Vision Changes
Changes in vision often indicate a more serious condition, though blurry vision may simply require a change in glasses correction. As well, for people in their 40s, the natural aging of the eye may create difficulties in reading, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Reading glasses may help resolve the changes in vision. However, vision that changes suddenly and does not improve may indicate a serious condition. If many new floaters appear in the vision, along with a dark “curtain” that covers part of the vision, this may indicate a retinal detachment. Wet macular degeneration may also cause vision loss. This occurs when abnormal blood vessels bleed behind the back lining of the eye. For any sudden vision changes, a person should seek medical attention immediately, even if the changes occur at night or on a weekend.
