What are some of the most common problems affecting the eyes?

The human eye is very sensitive, therefore, eye-related problems have become more common with increase in pollution and excessive screen time.

Cataracts are by far the most common eye problem, affecting over 22 million Americans who are 40 years or older. This clouding of the eye’s natural lens is the most common cause of vision loss in the world. The condition is mostly age-related, but it can also result from an injury, UV exposure, or protein deterioration.

Another common eye ailment is Keratoconus, which is a progressive disease in which the cornea begins to thin and bulge. The cornea is the outer lens of the eye and usually has a rounded or dome-like shape. With keratoconus, the cornea takes on a more cone-like shape, affecting the retina and distorting vision.

People suffering from types 1 and 2 diabetes are prone to diabetic retinopathy. This is when the excessive blood sugar alters the blood vessels in the back of the eye, preventing the retina from receiving essential nutrients.

Macular degeneration is another common eye problem that is caused by the degeneration of the macula, which is the central part of the retina. Age, smoking habits, and family history can make people more prone to this disease.

The appearing of spots in your vision could be a symptom of floaters. This is usually not a cause for alarm, as these spots may be due to the eye’s gel-like substance becoming loose and forming a shadow on the retina. In some cases, however, the spots are a symptom of a torn retina, which can be serious. Retinal detachment, or the separating of the retina from the back of the eye, is common among people with myopia.

Knowing the symptoms help, as one can immediately consult a specialist. More importantly, regular eye checkups can result in the early diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders.