Conditions

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic eye disease that damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. While peripheral vision remains unaffected, AMD can gradually impair activities like reading, recognising faces and driving. It typically affects older adults and may progress slowly or quickly depending on the type.

Blepharitis refers to the inflammation of the eyelid margins, typically involving both eyes. It occurs when the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become blocked or irritated by bacteria, leading to redness, swelling and discomfort. While not contagious, this condition is often chronic and can lead to other eye surface problems if not treated properly.

A cataract is a condition where the clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult for light to pass through clearly. This results in blurry or distorted vision and may eventually lead to vision loss if left untreated. Cataracts are commonly associated with ageing, but they can also result from other medical or lifestyle factors.

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes are unable to maintain a healthy layer of tears. This can happen either because tear production is too low or because the tears evaporate too quickly. A stable tear film is essential for clear vision and to protect the eye from dust, pollutants and infections.

An eye naevus, often called an eye freckle, is a pigmented spot or lesion that appears in or on the eye. Similar to moles on the skin, most eye freckles are non-cancerous and do not affect vision. However, some require monitoring to ensure they do not undergo changes that may suggest malignancy. Eye naevi can be present from birth or may develop over time.

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve over time, often resulting in vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Damage normally starts at the periphery and gradually progresses toward the central vision.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the normally round cornea becomes thin and bulges outward into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape distorts light entering the eye, resulting in blurred and distorted vision.

The condition typically begins in the teenage years or early adulthood and tends to progress over time. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, early diagnosis and management can help slow progression and improve visual outcomes.

Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO) is one of the most common complications that can occur after cataract surgery. While some refer to it as a "secondary cataract," it is not the same as the original cataract and does not involve a new cataract forming.

PCO occurs when the capsule that holds the artificial lens implant becomes cloudy due to cell growth, resulting in blurred or hazy vision. This condition can happen months or years after surgery and may affect one or both eyes.

Presbyopia is a common age-related condition where near vision becomes blurry. It typically begins in people over 40 years old and results from the eye’s lens losing its ability to adjust focus. Everyday tasks like reading a menu or using your phone may become more difficult without holding items farther away.

Pterygium is a non-cancerous growth of tissue that appears on the white part of the eye (sclera). This wedge-shaped growth can slowly extend across the cornea and may cause visual disturbances if left untreated. It typically appears on the side of the eye closest to the nose and is commonly referred to as Surfer’s Eye.

While usually harmless, pterygium can lead to astigmatism, irritation, or even vision changes when it grows toward the central cornea.

Recurrent Corneal Erosion is a condition that affects the outermost layer of the eye — the corneal epithelium. This layer serves as a barrier against dust, debris and bacteria. In RCE, the epithelium fails to stay properly attached to the underlying corneal tissue, leading to repeated episodes of breakdown. These erosions usually happen after waking up and are often accompanied by sharp eye pain. This is due to the eyelid sticking to the weakened epithelium and pulling it away when opened.

Refractive errors occur when the eye does not bend light properly, preventing it from focusing directly on the retina. This can result in blurred vision, whether for nearby or distant objects. These conditions are very common and can develop at any age, often progressing over time.

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also called Graves' orbitopathy or Graves' ophthalmopathy, is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissues surrounding the eyes. It is commonly associated with overactive thyroid function, particularly in people diagnosed with Graves’ disease. TED cau ses inflammation of the eye muscles, connective tissue, and fat behind the eyes, which can result in eye bulging, discomfort, and in some cases, vision impairment.