The Most Common Eye Problems in Auckland, NZ

Over time, as we age, it’s inevitable to develop eye diseases and disorders. Some of which can be treated then completely healed. For some eye problem cases, however, a cure may not be available yet at the moment. In such cases, eye doctors will offer a treatment plan that can slow down the disease’s progression. 

In this article, we have listed down some of the most common eye problems, as well as some tips on proper eye care and the possible treatment plans for each disease or disorder.

Cataracts

Cataracts are a common eye condition among adults, and they come in a variety of types, but the most common symptom is your vision becomes blurry, cloudy, or hazy. The protein build-up in your eyes causes this, which blocks the light from passing through, hence the hazy vision. 

Cataracts are considered to be a progressive type of eye disease; they develop slowly, and the good news is that they can be fully treated with surgery once your symptoms have worsened, such as gearing closer to vision loss, or upon your doctor’s recommendation.

If you are diagnosed at an early stage and your symptoms are mild, you may be recommended to get new eyeglasses prescriptions instead.

Glaucoma 

When there is a build-up of increased pressure in the eyes, then you may be prone to developing an eye condition called glaucoma. It is a condition that worsens over time as the optic nerve in your eyes is damaged. The optic nerve is what enables our brain to produce the images that we see with our eyes. When this deteriorates in the long run, it creates a blind spot in your eyes’ visual field.

Similar to cataracts, glaucoma occurs gradually; the symptoms are not usually noticeable until the damage or symptoms have progressed at an advanced stage; which is why regular eye check-ups are highly advisable, most especially if the condition runs in your genes or you’re often experiencing symptoms of vision problems.

The progression of glaucoma may be slowed down or even prevented from turning into a full-blown case of blindness as long as it receives the necessary treatment, most especially when detected at an early stage. 

Depending on the stage of glaucoma, eye doctors would usually recommend the following treatments:

• Regular application of prescribed eye drops can help lessen the build-up pressure in your eyes

• Surgery aids in removing the fluid blockage that’s contributing to the pressure your eyes feel.

• Regular exercise can help in regulating your blood flow, which also impacts the pressure in the body.

• Regular intake of prescribed oral medicines is an effective treatment for glaucoma. Make sure to take the medicine as instructed by your doctor and avoid skipping out on your meds intake as it may affect your healing process.

• Protect your eyes by wearing protective gear when necessary. This will help in preventing any potential trauma it may experience

Keratoconus

Keratoconus brings about a case of sensitivity to light and blurred vision because of the cornea’s cone-shaped form, which becomes thin over time. Unlike cataracts and glaucoma, this eye condition is more prone to children and young adults.

Keratoconus also progresses gradually over time and may span for as long as 10 years. If detected early, there is a higher chance of correcting the condition by wearing soft contact lenses or prescribed eyeglasses. If your condition becomes more advanced, a cornea transplant surgery may be recommended by your eye doctor. 

If left untreated, while it will not cause complete blindness, keratoconus may lead to your vision becoming worse over time.

Undergoing regular eye check-ups as well as preventing from rubbing your eyes may be helpful in steering clear of keratoconus.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a very common occurrence when the eyes lack lubrication, giving off that itchy and inflamed sensation. It’s common among aging adults where there is a decrease in tear production. Young adults may also experience this, which is dependent on their lifestyle practices. If your eyes don’t get the rest it needs, it can lead to your eyes experiencing the drought. Smoking is another leading cause of dry eyes. Being inside an airconditioned room is a contributing factor.

Luckily, a case of dry eyes is quite manageable to treat. Apart from the regular check-up with your eye doctor, you may want to start making adjustments in your lifestyle practices that are directly affecting the drought season in your eyes. 

For instance, if you work a lot in front of your computer or your phone, make sure your eyes get a break by looking away. If you have been prescribed eye drops, regularly apply them as it will help create lubrication for your eyes.

If left untreated, dry eyes may lead to further cornea damage, eye inflammation, and potential vision loss.

Create a Solution for Your Eye Problems with NVision Eyecare in Auckland, NZ

Say goodbye to your eye problem woes with NVision Eyecare. We specialize in eye problems such as Keratoconus and Dry Eyes, and with our state-of-the-art technology, we are confident in offering just some of the best treatment plans for your eyes.  If you are in Auckland, we are looking forward to your visit to our clinic soon! Book a schedule online or call us at 09-884-0034.