Top 10 Common Eye Conditions We Screen For
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1. Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism, Presbyopia)
Description: Conditions affecting how light focuses on the retina, leading to blurred vision.
Symptoms: Blurred vision, squinting, eye strain, headaches.
Refractive errors occur when the eye does not focus light precisely on the retina, causing blurred vision at distance, near, or both. Myopia affects distance clarity, hyperopia affects near tasks, astigmatism distorts images, and presbyopia reduces near focus with age. Signs to watch for include blurred or fluctuating vision, eye strain, headaches after reading or screen use, and holding material very close or far away.
2. Cataracts
Description: Clouding of the eye’s natural lens.
Symptoms: Blurred or hazy vision, glare sensitivity, faded colours.
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, usually developing gradually with age, though earlier onset can occur. Patients often report hazy vision, glare and halos around lights at night, and colours appearing faded. Frequent prescription changes may be noticed, and timely referral for surgical evaluation can restore clarity when indicated.
3. Glaucoma
Description: Increased pressure in the eye damaging the optic nerve.
Symptoms: Gradual vision loss, halos around lights, tunnel vision in advanced stages.
Glaucoma describes a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve, often linked to increased eye pressure but also occurring at normal pressures. Early stages may be asymptomatic, which underscores the importance of regular screening. Over time, peripheral vision can narrow, and some patients notice halos or vague eye discomfort, particularly in advanced cases.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Description: Damage to retinal blood vessels due to diabetes.
Symptoms: Blurred vision, floaters, fluctuating vision, vision loss.
Diabetic retinopathy results from diabetes-related changes to the retinal blood vessels that can threaten sight if unmonitored. Early detection is essential, as symptoms may be subtle until the condition advances. People should look for fluctuating or blurred vision, dark spots or floaters, difficulty reading, and challenges with night vision, and they should keep diabetes well-controlled.
5. Dry Eye Syndrome / Dry Eye Disease
Description: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality.
Symptoms: Burning, gritty sensation, watery eyes, blurred vision.
Dry eye disease arises when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tear quality is poor, leading to irritation and intermittent blurred vision. Environmental factors, prolonged screen time, contact lens wear, and certain medications can contribute. Symptoms include burning or gritty sensations, watering that does not relieve dryness, light sensitivity, and vision that clears after blinking.
6. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Description: Deterioration of the central retina (macula).
Symptoms: Distorted vision, dark spots in central vision, difficulty reading.
AMD affects the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for fine detail. Patients may notice distortion of straight lines, difficulty recognising faces, or a dark or empty spot in the centre of vision. Regular monitoring and lifestyle measures, including UV protection and healthy diet, support macular health alongside clinical care.
7. Eye Muscle Disorders (Strabismus, Convergence Insufficiency)
Description: Misalignment or weakness of the eye muscles.
Symptoms: Double vision, difficulty focusing, eye strain.
Eye muscle disorders affect how the eyes align and work together, influencing depth perception and comfort. Adults may notice double vision, headaches with near work, and losing place while reading, whereas children may show a visible eye turn in photographs. Targeted therapy, prisms, or surgical input may be considered after comprehensive assessment.
8. Conjunctivitis (Infective or Allergic “Pink Eye”)
Description: Inflammation of the eye’s outer layer.
Symptoms: Redness, itching, tearing, discharge.
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the eye’s surface caused by infection, allergens, or irritants, and some forms can be contagious. Patients may notice redness, tearing, discharge or crusting, and a gritty sensation. Itching is common with allergic types, and symptoms may follow colds, flu, or exposure to seasonal allergens.
9. Keratoconus
Description: Progressive thinning of the cornea causing irregular shape.
Symptoms: Blurred or distorted vision, frequent prescription changes.
Keratoconus involves progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, creating irregular astigmatism and visual distortion. Individuals often experience frequent prescription changes, glare, ghosted images, and increasing light sensitivity. Specialised lenses or advanced treatments may be recommended to stabilise the cornea and optimise vision.
10. Retinal Detachment (Urgent)
Description: Separation of the retina from its underlying tissue.
Symptoms: Sudden flashes of light, floaters, curtain-like shadow over vision.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from its supporting tissue and constitutes an ocular emergency. Warning signs include sudden flashes of light, a new shower of floaters, a curtain or shadow across the field of view, and sudden drop in vision. Immediate assessment is critical, as prompt treatment can help preserve sight.
When to Seek Immediate Care
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Sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, trauma
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Flashes, new floaters, or a shadow/curtain in vision
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Chemical exposure to the eye
How Often to Test
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Adults (18–60): Every 1–2 years, or as advised
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Children: At key developmental stages and if any learning or visual concerns arise
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Seniors (60+): Annually
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Diabetes/Glaucoma/High-risk: As per clinical guidance (often annually or more frequently)