A Look at 4 Common Eye Conditions: Causes, Signs, and Symptoms

August 19, 2020

A Look at 4 Common Eye Conditions: Causes, Signs, and Symptoms

As per the recent reports by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 12 million people aged 40 years and above in the United States of America have some form of vision impairment. This number includes one million people that are blind, eight million that experience vision loss due to uncorrected refractive errors, and three million that have vision impairment after correction. The leading causes of blindness and low vision are primarily age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract, and diabetic retinopathy. While these diseases can have an adverse impact on an individual’s life, they can be cured if diagnosed and treated early in their development. Our Texas eye surgery center offers help to thousands of people every year. Read this blog post to know about the signs and symptoms of four common eye conditions.

1. Cataract

A cataract in the eye starts when proteins form clumps, preventing the lens from sending clear images to the retina. Patients with severe blurry vision due to cataracts can go for cataract surgery in Waxahachie, Texas, to replace the cloudy lens with a clear, artificial one.

Causes of Cataract

  • Smoking
  • Ultraviolet Radiation
  • Prolonged use of steroids and other medications
  • Diabetes
  • Trauma
  • Radiation Therapy

Signs and Symptoms of Cataract

  • Blurry vision
  • Seeing faded colors
  • Increased sensitivity to glare
  • Halos surrounding lights
  • Double vision

2. Astigmatism

Astigmatism is caused when the curvature of the cornea becomes irregular and cannot focus the light rays at the same point. This refractive error causes blurry vision by changing the way the eye perceives light, and the image becomes unclear both at near and distance sight.

Causes of Astigmatism

There is no specific cause of astigmatism as it runs in the genes. Some are born with this refractive error while others develop the problem later in life. Patients who seek astigmatism treatment in Waxahachie, Texas, or anywhere in the USA during the early stages can get it cured or easily mitigate the symptoms.

Astigmatism Signs and Symptoms

  • Blurry and poor vision
  • Strain in eyes, especially while reading
  • Repeated headaches

3. Droopy Eyelid

Ptosis or Droopy Eyelid is a condition where the eyelid falls below the usual level and covers a portion of the eye, interfering with the visual function. In severe cases, patients start looking older, weak, and tired. There are many surgical and non-surgical droopy eyelids treatments available to tighten the skin under the skin and prevent them from drooping. To get the appropriate treatment, contact the Texas eye surgery center.

Causes of Droopy Eyelids

  • Nerve dysfunction or muscle weakening affecting the eyelid muscles
  • Significant damage to the ligaments and muscles of the eyelid
  • Congenital weakness of eye muscles
  • Eye tumors

Signs and Symptoms of Droopy Eyelids

  • Puffiness in the lower eyelid
  • Reduced upper eye surface
  • Bags under the eyes
  • Excessive skin in the upper eyelids
  • Visual obstruction in severe cases

4. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal Ulcers cause a scratch on the external layer of the cornea. This condition occurs when mechanical trauma and microbes break down the corneal surface, further causing eye infection.

Causes of Corneal Ulcers

  • Bacterial or fungal infection
  • Injury to eyeball
  • Use of eye lenses for an extended period

Signs and Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers

  • Eye pain
  • Eye discharge
  • Blurred vision
  • Increased light sensitivity

Wrap Up

Although these eye conditions can significantly change the way you see the world and adversely impact your social and emotional well being, they can be treated and cured if they are addressed on time. For more information about available treatments for these conditions such as cataract surgery, contact Texas Eye and Cataract’s team of specialists. Book an appointment with the Texas Eye and Cataract Center by simply filling out our appointment form. You can also call 469-505-2020 or email us at info@teceyecare.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I give someone recovering from cataract surgery?

The most practical gifts are preservative-free artificial tears, wraparound sunglasses, audiobooks or a podcast subscription, meal delivery, button-front or zip-front pajamas, a warm eye compress mask, and a drop or medication organizer. Offering your time for rides, errands, or company is also one of the most appreciated gifts of all.

What should I avoid giving a cataract surgery patient?

Avoid heavily fragranced flowers, gifts that require lifting or assembly, eyedrops that are not preservative-free, and fitness or exercise-related gifts. These either pose a physical risk during recovery or aren't appropriate until the patient is cleared for full activity.

How long does cataract surgery recovery take?

Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days to a week. Restrictions on bending, lifting, and swimming typically ease within two to four weeks, and most patients are fully back to normal routines by the one-month mark.

Why can't cataract surgery patients wear pullover shirts?

Raising the arms overhead to pull on or remove a shirt can accidentally bump or put pressure on the operated eye during early recovery. Button-down or zip-front tops are a safer, more comfortable choice for the first week.

Can cataract surgery patients watch TV or use their phone?

Screen time is generally recommended to be limited for the first one to three days after surgery, as it can cause eye strain during early healing. Audiobooks and podcasts are a great alternative during this period.

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