During a comprehensive eye examination your optometrist can detect various eye conditions and/or signs of which could indicate problems in your general health.Acute anterior uveitis is the term used to describe inflammation of the eye. Symptoms include eye redness and pain, blurry vision, light sensitivity, and floating spots in the eyes.
For more information see the Acute Anterior Uveitis leaflet
Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss. The Macula is the area of the eye responsible for turning light into fine colour images in the brain, which allow people to read, drive and perform other daily activities. We can advise on the best way to reduce your risk or how to cope with an existing condition.
For more information see the Age Related Macular Degeneration leaflet or check out the video
Allergic conjunctivitis is a common eye condition, where the tissue around the eye becomes inflamed due to a reaction to pollen, dust mites, pet dander or other allergy causing substances.
For more information see Allergic Conjunctivitis leaflet.
Bacterial & viral conjunctivitis (pink eye) are both highly contagious. They can spread easily from person to person. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually causes a yellow/green sticky discharge throughout the day, itchiness and swollen eyelids. Viral conjunctivitis causes a sticky discharge in the morning, then a watery discharge throughout the day and swollen eyelids.
For more information see Bacterial and Viral Conjunctivitis leaflet.
Blepharitis is a common eye condition that causes the eyelids to become sore and inflamed. There are two main types of blepharitis – anterior and posterior. It doesn’t normally cause serious damage to the eyes, but it can be very uncomfortable.
For more information see the Blepharitis leaflet.
A cataract is part of the normal aging process affecting the lens of the eye causing it to become cloudy and scatter the light entering the eye. A cataract is easily diagnosed by your optometrist, and they will refer you to a specialist if necessary.
For more information see the Cataracts Leaflet or check out the video
A chalazion is small fluid filled cyst in the eyelid. It more commonly affects the upper lid and can affect both eyes.
For more information see the Chalazion Leaflet
Many people, who use computers, complain of eye strain. Looking at a monitor for long periods of time can strain your eyes, cause headaches or discomfort. Usually, eye strain isn’t serious and will go away after some rest. For some simple steps to help reduce visual fatigue and increase efficiency, click here
Corneal Foreign Body is a term used to describe material sticking to the cornea. It may be windblown or occur whilst undertaking DIY, gardening, hammering or grinding.
For more information see the Corneal Foreign Body leaflet.
Diabetics should have annual free NHS eye exam. This allows your optometrist to detect the early signs of Diabetic Retinopathy which could lead to blindness if left untreated. To help monitor changes in your condition we will take a digital retinal image which will be kept on file.
For more information see the Diabetes and your eyes leaflet or check out the video
Dry eye is the name given to a range of conditions where the quality or quantity of tears is poor causing itchy, uncomfortable eyes. Some eyes compensate by producing too many tears and become watery. Your optometrist can diagnose dry eye and advise you how best to manage the condition.
For more information see the Dry Eye Leaflet and check out the video
Floaters look like small dark spots or strands that appear to float in front of your eyes. Floaters are very common and are normally harmless. They are more common if you are short sighted or as you get older. Some people also notice they see flashes of light. These can be due to movement of the gel inside the eye. Very occasionally, flashes or an increase in floaters can be a sign of a retinal detachment, which needs treating as soon as possible. This is more common as you get older or in people who are short sighted or have had eye surgery.
For more information see the Flashes and Floaters leaflet
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of conditions where the pressure of the fluid inside the eye is too high causing damage to its light sensitive structures. This causes a gradual loss of vision leading to tunnel vision if left untreated. If there is a family history of glaucoma you are entitled to a free eye exam yearly when you are over 40 years of age.
For more information see the Glaucoma leaflet or check out this video
Herpes Simplex Keratitis is a viral infection of the cornea, the same virus that causes cold sores. It’s very common and often flares up during periods of fatigue or feeling run down.
For more information see the Herpes Simplex Keratitis leaflet.
Marginal Keratitis is the term used to describe inflammation at the edge of the cornea. It is often caused by blepharitis, inflammation of the eyelid margin.
For more information see Marginal Keratitis leaflet.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment is the term used to describe the normal degeneration of the jelly filling inside the eye.
For more information see Posterior Vitreous Detachment leaflet.
Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that occurs when the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from the blood vessels that supply it with oxygen and nutrients.
For more information on what to look out for see Retinal Detachment leaflet.
A corneal abrasion, also known as a scratched cornea is an injury to the surface of the eye that can cause eye redness and significant discomfort. A scratched cornea usually heals on its own within 24 to 48 hours.
For more information see Scratched Cornea leaflet.
After aging, smoking is the biggest risk factor for developing macular degeneration. Smoking also increases your risk of developing Cataracts.
For more information see Smoking & Eye Health leaflet.
A subconjunctival haemorrhage is a bleed underneath the conjunctiva – the transparent layer which lies over the white of the eye (the sclera). This bleeding is caused by the leaking of a blood vessel in the conjunctiva.
For more information see Subconjunctival Haemorrhage leaflet.
