What Are Common Eye Diseases?

Our eyes, which are the windows to the world, can develop problems due to genetic factors, environmental influences like infections, or aging.

Conditions such as myopia, astigmatism, or hyperopia can be easily treated, but for other diseases, close monitoring by an eye doctor is essential.

Many of us don't visit the doctor unless we encounter discomfort, but many eye diseases can be diagnosed and treated early, often preventing more serious issues.

What Are the Symptoms of Common Eye Diseases?

For early detection of eye diseases, watch for the following symptoms:

• Dryness, itching, swelling, blurriness, redness, eye pain, glare, and light sensitivity
• A family history of retinal diseases, cataracts, glaucoma, or keratoconus
• Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension that affect your eyes
• Previous eye surgery
• Trauma to the eye, such as impacts, scratches, or injuries

Don't neglect visiting your eye doctor early and for regular check-ups!

Most Common Eye Diseases

Age-Related Eye Diseases

• Age-related macular degeneration (retinal degeneration)
• Cataracts (loss of lens transparency)
• Diabetes-related eye diseases (diabetic retinopathy)
• Glaucoma (high eye pressure)
• Macular degeneration (damage to the part of the eye responsible for sharp vision)

Congenital Eye Diseases

• Strabismus (crossed eyes)
• Color blindness
• Amblyopia (lazy eye)

Infections, Inflammations, and Allergies

• Stye
• Uveitis (inflammation of the uvea)
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid)

Genetic and Environmental Eye Diseases

• Behçet's disease
• Eyelid problems
• Keratoconus (corneal thinning and bulging)

Why Eye Exams Are Important

Even if you don’t have any symptoms or issues, regular eye exams are crucial:

Routine eye exams can help prevent irreversible damage to the retina and optic nerve, which may occur before symptoms are noticeable.

How Often Should You See an Eye Doctor?

• The first eye exam should take place when the baby is 6 months old to identify congenital diseases early, such as congenital cataracts and corneal diseases.
• Healthy individuals without any eye diseases should have eye exams every 2 years until they reach 50, and then annually after that.
• For individuals with eye problems, it's important to follow the recommended schedule for check-ups based on their specific condition.