Eyecare
Focusing Problems
Shortsightedness (myopia) makes it difficult to sea objects in the distance. This is simple to correct with glasses or contact lenses.
Longsightedness (hyperopia) makes it difficult to see objects that are close to you. This is easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Astigmatism is a focusing error caused by a variation in the shape of the front of your eye. Again, this can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Presbyopia makes it difficult specifically at reading distance. Presbyopia usually developes between the ages of 40 and 65 and is a normal part of ageing. Glasses or contact lenses can restore normal vision.
Amblyopia is sometimes known as 'lazy eye' and means that the vision from one eye is not sending effective messages to the brain. Untreated amblyopia in children can lead to permanent vision problems. The earlier that it is detected, the easier it is to treat.
Eye coordination disorder is a tendency for the eyes to point in different directions. If this is extreme, it may lead to a squint — when one eye is effectively 'turned off' and points in a different direction. Glasses or special exercises can help to correct this.
Color vision deficiencies are sometimes referred to as colourblindness. In fact, it really means that someone may confuse two colours (like red and green). This is generally inherited and affects more men than women. Children, particularly boys, should be tested for this.
Eye Conditions and Diseases
Glaucoma occurs when the nerve cells that transmit information from the eye to the brain become damaged. It is often associated with a build-up of pressure in the eye. Glaucoma is largely symptom-free until permanent damage has occurred, and if untreated can cause blindness. An optometrist can diagnose it in its early stages and refer the patient for treatment. Glaucoma usually affects over 40s and tends to be hereditary.
Cataracts are a cloudiness that develops in the normally clear lens of the eye. They are particularly common in people over 65 and get progressively worse. To prevent blindness, cataracts need to be detected early and monitored. They can be fixed surgically if required.
Floaters and spots are specks and particles that can sometimes be seen in the field of vision. Most people see them at some point and they do not cause any problems. However, if they suddenly appear or worsen, then it is important to see your optometrist as this may be a sign of serious problems such as a detached retina.
Diabetes is a common cause of eye problems, affecting 70 per cent of diabetics within 15 years of diagnosis. Problems can include glaucoma, cataracts and retinopathy, a condition that causes changes at the back of the eye. It is vital that diabetics see an optometrist every year, or more often if they have retinopathy.
Pterygia are small triangular growths on the cornea (the clear central part of the eye). They are not cancerous or dangerous, but can be uncomfortable and eventually interfere with vision. They can be removed surgically.
Macular degeneration causes the loss of central vision. It usually affects the over 50s, although inherited forms of the disease can affect younger people. Symptoms can include straight lines that appear wavy, difficulty in using fine vision and difficulty in seeing anything straight in front of you. It can cause irreversible vision loss and it is important that it be detected as soon as possible.
You should always have any growth in or around your eye checked by an optometrist as soon as possible.
Keeping Your Eyes Healthy
Sun — When outside and in bright sunlight, always wear sunglasses that comply with Australian Standard AS1067 or EPF10. This will protect the front of your eye from solar damage, and will also protect the lens and slow down cataract formation. UV damage has also been implicated in macular degeneration. If you work outside as part of your job, then you may find that your sunglasses are tax deductible.
Diet — Eyes love a healthy diet! Recent studies have shown that a poor and over-processed diet can contribute to macular degeneration. Foods to eat that might help include fresh fruit, dark green leafy vegetables, fish and other foods rich in omega oils. You should also keep your cholesterol and blood pressure levels low.
Smoking — Smoking has been shown to contribute to macular degeneration. Smoke can also cause eye irritation, particularly for contact lens wearers.
The most important way to keep your eyes healthy is to make regular visits to your optometrist.
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