10 Common Eye Diseases Explained

Introduction

Our eyes are one of the most precious gifts, allowing us to see and experience the world. However, like any other part of the body, they can be affected by various diseases. Some eye conditions are minor and easily treatable, while others can lead to serious vision problems if left unchecked.

In this article, we’ll discuss 10 common eye diseases, their symptoms, causes, and how they can affect your vision. We’ll also share some helpful tips to protect your eyes and when to seek medical help.

1. Cataracts

Here are the details about cataract,

What is it?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which leads to blurry or dim vision. It usually develops slowly and is common in older adults.

Symptoms:

• Below are the symptoms for cataract,

• Blurry or foggy vision

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Sensitivity to light

• Fading of colors

Causes & Risk Factors:

Below are the causes and risk factors for cataract,

• Aging (most common cause)

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Prolonged UV exposure

How to Manage It?

• Below are the ways to manage cataract,

• Wear sunglasses to protect against UV rays.

• Eat a diet rich in antioxidants (leafy greens, fruits).

• Surgery is the most effective treatment to replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.

2. Glaucoma

Here are the details about Glaucoma,

What is it?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. If untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

Symptoms:

Below are the symptoms for glaucoma,

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision

• Severe eye pain (in acute cases)

• Headaches and nausea

• Blurred vision

Causes & Risk Factors:

Below are the causes and risk factors for glaucoma,

• High eye pressure

• Family history of glaucoma

• Age (over 60)

• Diabetes or high blood pressure

How to Manage It?

Below are the ways to manage glaucoma,

• Regular eye check-ups (especially after 40).

• Use prescribed eye drops to reduce pressure.

• Early treatment can prevent vision loss.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips

Dr. Madhurjya Gogoi

Ophthalmologist

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Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS DNB (Opthal)

Nashik

Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik

₹800

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Ophthalmologist

14 Years • MBBS, D.O., D.N.B., F.I.C.O

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Tondiarpet, Chennai

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Dr Monica Gour

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MS(Ophthalmology) Fellowship in Cornea

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

₹800

Online Consult

₹800

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Dr. Sharon Dsouza

Ophthalmologist

15 Years • MBBS,MS in Ophthalmology ,Fellowship – Cornea & Refractive Surgery ,PhD in Ocular Immunology

Bengaluru

Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru

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3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Here are the details about AMD,

What is it?

AMD affects the macula (central part of the retina), leading to loss of central vision needed for reading and recognizing faces.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of AMD,

• Blurry or distorted central vision

• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces

• Dark spots in vision

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of AMD,

• Aging (most common in people over 50)

• Smoking

• Genetics

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage AMD,

• Eat foods rich in lutein (spinach, kale).

• Quit smoking.

• Regular eye exams for early detection.

4. Diabetic Retinopathy

Here are the details about Diabetic Retinopathy,

What is it?

A complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy,

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Dark spots or floaters

• Poor night vision

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of Diabetic Retinopathy,

• Poorly controlled diabetes

• High blood pressure

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage Diabetic Retinopathy,

• Keep blood sugar levels under control.

• Regular eye screenings if you have diabetes.

• Laser treatment can help in advanced cases.

5. Dry Eye Syndrome

Here are the details about dry eye syndrome,

What is it?

A condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of dry eye syndrome,

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of dry eye syndrome,

• Aging

• Screen overuse (computer/phone)

• Dry or windy climates

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage dry eye syndrome,

• Use artificial tears.

• Take breaks from screens (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

• Stay hydrated.

6. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Here are the details about Conjunctivitis,

What is it?

An infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin, clear layer covering the white part of the eye).

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of conjunctivitis,

• Redness

• Itching or burning

• Watery or sticky discharge

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of conjunctivitis

• Bacterial or viral infection

• Allergies

• Irritants (smoke, chlorine)

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage conjunctivitis

• Avoid touching eyes.

• Use warm compresses for relief.

• See a doctor if symptoms worsen.

7. Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism)

Here are the details about Refractive Errors,

What is it?

Common vision problems where the eye doesn’t focus light properly, causing blurry vision.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of Refractive Errors,

• Blurry vision (near or far)

• Headaches

• Eye strain

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of Refractive Errors,

• Genetics

• Aging (presbyopia after 40)

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage Refractive Errors,

• Wear glasses or contact lenses.

• LASIK surgery is an option for some.

8. Stye (Hordeolum)

Here are the details about Stye,

What is it?

A painful red bump near the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of Stye,

• Swelling and tenderness

• Redness

• Crusting around the eyelid

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of Stye,

• Bacterial infection

• Poor eyelid hygiene

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage Stye,

• Apply warm compresses.

• Avoid squeezing it.

9. Retinal Detachment

Here are the details about Retinal Detachment,

What is it?

A serious condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position, leading to vision loss.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of Retinal Detachment,

• Sudden flashes of light

• Floaters

• Dark curtain over vision

Causes & Risk Factors:

Here are the causes and risk factors of Retinal Detachment,

• Eye injury

• Severe nearsightedness

How to Manage It?

• Seek emergency care if symptoms appear.

10. Blepharitis

Here are the details about Blepharitis,

What is it?

Inflammation of the eyelids, often due to clogged oil glands.

Symptoms:

Here are the symptoms of Blepharitis,

• Red, swollen eyelids

• Crusty eyelashes

• Itchy or burning sensation

How to Manage It?

Here are the ways to manage Blepharitis,

• Clean eyelids gently with warm water.

• Use doctor-recommended ointments.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience:

• Sudden vision loss

• Severe eye pain

• Persistent redness or irritation

• Early detection and treatment can save your vision!

Need an eye check-up? Book a consultation with an eye specialist on Apollo 24|7 today!

Final Tips for Healthy Eyes

Below are few tips for healthy eyes,

• Eat a balanced diet (carrots, fish, leafy greens).

• Wear sunglasses outdoors.

• Take breaks from screens.

• Get regular eye exams.

Conclusion

Understanding the most common eye diseases can help you recognize early warning signs and seek timely care. While some conditions are age-related or genetic, many can be managed or even prevented with regular eye exams, proper hygiene, and healthy lifestyle choices. 

Consult Top Specialists

Dr. Madhurjya Gogoi

Ophthalmologist

19 Years • MBBS, MD(AIIMS)

Guwahati

Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati

₹900

Visit Doctor

Dr. Smita Gaurav Gujarathi

Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS DNB (Opthal)

Nashik

Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik

₹800

Online Consult

₹800

Visit Doctor

Dr Rajaram Thangasamy

Ophthalmologist

14 Years • MBBS, D.O., D.N.B., F.I.C.O

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Tondiarpet, Chennai

₹600

Visit Doctor

Dr Monica Gour

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MS(Ophthalmology) Fellowship in Cornea

Lucknow

Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow

₹800

Online Consult

₹800

Visit Doctor

Dr. Sharon Dsouza

Ophthalmologist

15 Years • MBBS,MS in Ophthalmology ,Fellowship – Cornea & Refractive Surgery ,PhD in Ocular Immunology

Bengaluru

Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru

₹950

Online ConsultAvailable tomorrow at 08:30 AM

₹950

Visit DoctorAvailable in 5 minutes