Warning signs of an eye problem vary with conditions causing changes in the eye. Some eye conditions occur suddenly, causing dramatic changes. Other types of eye diseases gradually damage the eye, causing slow, nearly imperceptible changes. In such cases, a person might not notice an eye problem until significant damage has occurred. It's best to stay alert for an eye condition in its early stages.
Step 1
Evaluate the comfort of the eye's surface. Eye discomfort or pain might indicate a number of conditions, including an infection, dry eye or a scratch on the surface, according to Medline Plus. Minor discomfort and achiness simply could indicate eye strain and the need for a new eye glass prescription. In contact lens wearers, the pain could indicate a problem with the contacts, such as a tear or improper fit. Discuss eye pain or surface irritation that does not improve with a doctor.
Step 2
Monitor the eyes' appearance. If your eyes appear clear and white one day, but the next day seem red and irritated, you might have an eye condition. Infections, corneal ulcers and foreign bodies in the eye can cause redness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Broken blood vessels on the white part of the eye's surface could cause a bright red patch, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. By itself, the hemorrhage might not indicate a problem. However, frequent hemorrhages, particularly in people taking blood thinners, could indicate an eye or overall health problem.
Step 3
Test your vision periodically. Select an object, such as a table lamp, then cover one eye and look at the item. If the object does not seem as clear, your vision may have changed, indicating a possible eye condition. Repeat the test with the other eye. Diseases, such as macular degeneration, can cause sudden vision changes, causing straight lines or objects to appear bent or twisted. Prompt treatment of some forms of macular degeneration may help restore some of the lost vision, according to the National Eye Institute. Prompt detection of macular degeneration and other conditions that affect vision will allow you to seek help early, before vision further erodes.
Tips and Warnings
- Have a routine eye exam and follow-up as needed. This will aid in early detection of eye disease. If you have a family history of eye disease, inform your eye doctor. This will help the doctor monitor for changes.
- If you notice unusual symptoms or if the symptoms fail to improve, contact an eye doctor immediately to prevent damage to vision or overall eye health.
Things You'll Need
- Mirror
- Table lamp
