Overview
Eye problems range from mild irritation and allergies to infections and glaucoma, a condition in which raised pressure inside the eye slowly damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, so regular eye checks are important, especially after 40.
Causes
- Raised pressure inside the eye (glaucoma)
- Bacterial or viral infections (conjunctivitis)
- Allergies
- Dry eyes from screens, dust and air conditioning
Risk factors
- Age over 40
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes and high blood pressure
- Long-term steroid use
- Long hours on screens
Symptoms
- Red, itchy or watery eyes
- Discharge or sticky eyelids (infection)
- Gritty, dry feeling
- Gradual loss of side vision (glaucoma)
- Sudden eye pain, blurred vision and halos around lights (urgent)
Diagnosis
An eye doctor examines the eyes, measures eye pressure and checks the optic nerve and field of vision.
Management
- Eye drops prescribed for glaucoma, used every day
- Antibiotic drops for bacterial infection
- Lubricating drops for dry eyes
- Regular eye checks
- Never using numbing eye drops at home
When to see a doctor
See an eye doctor for eye pain, a red eye with blurred vision, sudden vision changes, or flashes and floaters. Sudden severe eye pain with blurred vision is an emergency.
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from your doctor. Prescription medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription. Questions? Ask our pharmacist on WhatsApp.