What Are Some Common Eye Disorders?

Your eyes are one of your most precious assets, but they're also vulnerable to a range of common disorders. Being aware of these disorders and staying proactive about eye health, you can maintain clear vision and catch potential issues early. Here are some of the most prevalent eye disorders and why scheduling annual eye exams is essential for early detection.
 

Cataracts

Cataracts develop when the eye’s lens becomes clouded, leading to blurred vision, difficulty with night vision, and faded colors. Though they’re often associated with aging, cataracts can occur at any age due to factors like trauma or prolonged exposure to UV rays. Early stages may not affect vision significantly, but as cataracts progress, they can impair daily activities.
 

Glaucoma

Known as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. Because early-stage glaucoma shows no noticeable symptoms, regular glaucoma screenings are critical for detecting it before it leads to irreversible vision loss.
 

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, especially the age-related form (AMD), affects central vision. The macula, responsible for sharp, detailed vision, deteriorates over time, leading to difficulty recognizing faces, reading, or driving. Early detection can help slow progression through treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
 

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms include burning, itching, and redness, making it uncomfortable and even painful. Severe dry eye can damage the corneal surface, affecting vision quality.
 

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels in the retina. This condition can lead to blurred vision, dark spots, and vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy progresses without symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular eye exams are essential for those with diabetes.
 

Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism)

Refractive errors—such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism—are very common and usually corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. Regular eye exams help monitor changes in vision and ensure you have the most accurate prescription.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Shalimar Eye Care Today

At Shalimar Eye Care, we’re here to help you maintain optimal eye health through comprehensive exams and advanced diagnostic tools. Make annual eye exams part of your routine to safeguard your vision and stay on top of any potential issues.
 

Don’t wait for symptoms of an eye disorder to appear, schedule your next eye exam with Shalimar Eye Care today. Visit our office in Shalimar, Florida, or call (850) 972-1600 to learn more about how we can protect your vision.