Condition Lookup
Speciality:
Ophthalmology
Number of Conditions: 53
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Surface and External Eye Conditions
Symptoms:
red eyes; itchy eyes; tearing; discharge from eyes; crusting of eyelids
Root Cause:
Infection or irritation causes inflammation of the conjunctiva.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation; culture if infectious cause is suspected.
Treatment:
Antibiotic drops for bacterial infections, antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis.
Medications:
Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., Erythromycin , Ofloxacin ), antihistamines (e.g., Ketotifen ) for allergic conjunctivitis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; affects millions of people globally each year.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Viral or bacterial infections, allergies, exposure to irritants.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Viral cases resolve within 1–2 weeks; bacterial cases improve with antibiotics.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary infections, scarring (rare).
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
poor vision in one eye; difficulty focusing
Root Cause:
Poor vision in one eye due to developmental issues during childhood.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual acuity tests revealing a difference between eyes.
Treatment:
Patching the stronger eye, corrective lenses, and vision therapy.
Medications:
No medications; patching or atropine drops (to blur vision in the dominant eye).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2–3% of children; most common cause of vision loss in one eye.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Strabismus, significant refractive error, deprivation (e.g., cataracts).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; poor outcomes if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent vision loss in the affected eye.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
blurry vision; seeing floaters; difficulty seeing at night; vision loss
Root Cause:
High blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels, causing leakage or blockages.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Dilated eye exam, OCT, and fluorescein angiography.
Treatment:
Anti-VEGF injections (Ranibizumab, Aflibercept), laser therapy, or vitrectomy.
Medications:
Anti-VEGF injections (e.g., Ranibizumab , Aflibercept ), corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone implants), and laser therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 3 diabetics globally, with higher rates in uncontrolled diabetes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, longer diabetes duration.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable if detected early; late stages may lead to permanent vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Blindness, retinal detachment, and macular edema.
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Refractive Errors
Symptoms:
blurry distance vision; squinting; eye strain; headaches
Root Cause:
Light focuses in front of the retina due to an elongated eyeball or overly curved cornea.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye exam using a phoropter and Snellen chart.
Treatment:
Corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses), Laser surgeries: LASIK, PRK, or SMILE.
Medications:
No medications; corrective lenses, orthokeratology, or atropine eye drops (low-dose atropine is used experimentally to slow progression).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 30% of the global population; rising prevalence among children and young adults due to increased near-work activities.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, prolonged screen time, limited outdoor activities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Correctable with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery; progression often stabilizes in adulthood.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration in severe cases.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Refractive Errors
Symptoms:
blurry close vision; difficulty reading; eye strain; headaches
Root Cause:
Light focuses behind the retina due to a shorter-than-normal eyeball or flat cornea.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Refraction test and visual acuity assessment.
Treatment:
Corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses), Laser surgeries: LASIK or PRK.
Medications:
No medications; corrective lenses or surgical correction (e.g., LASIK).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5–10% of adults; more common in children and older adults due to lens changes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, smaller eyeball size, age-related lens changes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often manageable with corrective lenses or surgery; may improve in children as the eye grows.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Eye strain, amblyopia in children, and increased risk of angle-closure glaucoma.
Astigmatism
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Refractive Errors
Symptoms:
blurry or distorted vision at all distances; eye strain; headaches
Root Cause:
Irregular curvature of the cornea or lens prevents proper focusing of light on the retina.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Corneal topography and refraction tests.
Treatment:
Corrective lenses (glasses or toric contact lenses), Laser surgeries: LASIK or PRK.
Medications:
No medications; corrective lenses or surgical correction (e.g., LASIK).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1 in 3 people worldwide, often combined with myopia or hyperopia.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, injury or surgery affecting the cornea, keratoconus.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Easily correctable with glasses, contacts, or surgery; may worsen without treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain.
Presbyopia
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Refractive Errors
Symptoms:
difficulty focusing on nearby objects; holding reading materials farther away
Root Cause:
The lens loses elasticity with age, reducing its ability to focus on nearby objects.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Refraction test and near vision testing.
Treatment:
Reading glasses or bifocals, Multifocal contact lenses, Corneal inlays or lens replacement surgery.
Medications:
No medications; corrective lenses, surgical correction, or presbyopia-correcting eye drops (e.g., Pilocarpine , brand Vuity).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Universal after age 40, affecting nearly everyone by their 50s.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, hyperopia, and certain systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with glasses, contacts, or surgical options.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reduced ability to perform close tasks like reading.
Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
blurred central vision; difficulty reading; distorted vision
Root Cause:
The macula deteriorates over time, leading to gradual central vision loss.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT).
Treatment:
Dry AMD: Nutritional supplements (AREDS2 formula).
Medications:
Antioxidant vitamins and zinc (e.g., AREDS formulation).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60, affecting millions globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, smoking, obesity, family history, poor diet, UV exposure.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progression is slow but irreversible; supplements may help slow further degeneration.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe central vision loss, difficulty reading, recognizing faces.
Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
rapid central vision loss; dark or blank spots in vision
Root Cause:
Abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina damages the macula.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
OCT and fluorescein angiography.
Treatment:
Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF injections (Bevacizumab, Ranibizumab).
Medications:
Anti-VEGF injections (e.g., Ranibizumab , Bevacizumab , Aflibercept ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 10–15% of AMD cases; more aggressive than dry AMD.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Similar to dry AMD, including smoking and age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, progression may slow; untreated cases lead to rapid vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe vision loss, scarring, and legal blindness.
Retinal Detachment
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden floaters; flashes of light; shadow over vision
Root Cause:
The retina separates from its supportive tissue, disrupting vision processing.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundoscopic exam, OCT, or ultrasound.
Treatment:
Surgical repair: pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle, or vitrectomy.
Medications:
No medications; surgical intervention (e.g., pneumatic retinopexy, vitrectomy).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 10,000 people annually, more common in middle-aged and older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High myopia, trauma, previous eye surgery, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Urgent surgery improves outcomes; delays can result in permanent vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent vision loss, secondary glaucoma.
Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders or Vascular Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden vision loss; blurred central vision
Root Cause:
Blockage of a retinal vein leads to fluid leakage and swelling.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination, OCT, fluorescein angiography.
Treatment:
Anti-VEGF injections (Aflibercept, Ranibizumab), laser therapy.
Medications:
Anti-VEGF injections (e.g., Ranibizumab , Bevacizumab ), corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone implants).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 4–5 in 1,000 adults, more common in those over 50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, glaucoma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision can improve with timely treatment; untreated cases may lead to permanent vision impairment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Macular edema, neovascularization, secondary glaucoma.
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders or Vascular Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden, painless vision loss
Root Cause:
Arterial blockage restricts blood flow to the retina, causing ischemia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination, OCT, fluorescein angiography.
Treatment:
Emergency: lowering intraocular pressure, ocular massage.
Medications:
No proven medications; ocular massage, acetazolamide (to reduce intraocular pressure), and hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 1–2 in 100,000 individuals annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cardiovascular disease, hypertension, smoking, embolism.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor; vision loss is usually irreversible without immediate intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe, permanent vision loss; secondary neovascular glaucoma.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders or Vascular Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden vision loss; blurry vision; distorted vision
Root Cause:
Blockage in a retinal vein leads to fluid buildup and vision impairment.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination, OCT, fluorescein angiography.
Treatment:
Anti-VEGF injections, steroid implants, laser therapy.
Medications:
Anti-VEGF injections (e.g., Ranibizumab , Aflibercept ), corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone implants).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Second most common retinal vascular disorder; affects older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision may improve with treatment; untreated cases lead to permanent vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Macular edema, neovascular glaucoma, secondary vision loss.
Stargardt Disease
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders, and Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
blurred central vision; difficulty seeing in low light
Root Cause:
A genetic mutation leads to degeneration of the macula, affecting central vision.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus photography, OCT, fluorescein angiography, genetic testing.
Treatment:
No cure; low-vision aids, avoid excessive light exposure.
Medications:
No established medications; experimental therapies include vitamin A analogs and gene therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common form of inherited macular degeneration; affects 1 in 8,000–10,000 people.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations in the ABCA4 gene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision loss is progressive and irreversible.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe central vision loss affecting reading and detailed tasks.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
night blindness; tunnel vision; loss of peripheral vision
Root Cause:
Genetic condition causing degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electroretinography, visual field testing, genetic testing.
Treatment:
Low vision aids and vitamin A supplementation under supervision.
Medications:
Vitamin A supplementation (high doses), experimental gene therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 1 in 4,000 people globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive vision loss; no cure currently.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complete blindness in advanced stages.
Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Corneal Disorders
Symptoms:
severe eye pain; red eyes; blurry vision; light sensitivity
Root Cause:
Acanthamoeba infection of the cornea, often linked to improper contact lens hygiene.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Corneal scraping and culture, confocal microscopy.
Treatment:
Antimicrobial drops (Chlorhexidine or PHMB), corneal transplant if severe.
Medications:
Antimicrobial eye drops (e.g., Polyhexamethylene biguanide, Chlorhexidine ), antifungals (e.g., Voriconazole ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; primarily affects contact lens users.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor lens hygiene, swimming or showering with lenses, corneal trauma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable if detected early; advanced cases may require corneal transplant.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe corneal scarring, vision loss, blindness.
Keratitis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Corneal Disorders
Symptoms:
eye pain; red eyes; blurry vision; light sensitivity; discharge from eyes
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the cornea caused by infection, injury, or contact lens misuse.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination and corneal scraping for culture.
Treatment:
Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops depending on the cause.
Medications:
Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., Moxifloxacin ), antifungals (e.g., Natamycin ), or antivirals (e.g., Ganciclovir for viral keratitis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among contact lens users; incidence varies globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact lens misuse, trauma to the cornea, immune suppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with early intervention; severe cases may result in vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, perforation, vision loss.
Corneal Ulcer
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Corneal Disorders
Symptoms:
eye pain; red eyes; blurry vision; white spot on cornea; discharge from eyes
Root Cause:
An open sore on the cornea caused by infection or trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination, corneal scraping for culture.
Treatment:
Antibiotic eye drops, antifungal eye drops, and avoiding contact lenses during treatment.
Medications:
Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., Ciprofloxacin , Ofloxacin ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in developing countries due to infection.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact lens misuse, trauma, immune suppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with early intervention; severe cases can lead to vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, perforation, blindness.
Keratoconus
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Corneal Disorders
Symptoms:
blurry vision; distorted vision; light sensitivity
Root Cause:
Progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea into a cone shape.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Corneal topography mapping the curvature of the cornea.
Treatment:
Rigid gas-permeable lenses, corneal cross-linking, or corneal transplant in severe cases.
Medications:
No medications; riboflavin (Vitamin B2) with UV light for corneal collagen cross-linking.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people; more common in adolescents and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, chronic eye rubbing, Down syndrome.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive condition; severe cases may require corneal transplant.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe astigmatism, corneal scarring, vision loss.
Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Optic Nerve Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden vision loss; visual field defect
Root Cause:
Reduced blood flow damages the optic nerve.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination, visual field testing.
Treatment:
High-dose corticosteroids (Arteritic AION) or manage vascular risk factors.
Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) in some cases of non-arteritic AION.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults; affects 2–10 per 100,000 annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Giant cell arteritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision loss is usually permanent; early treatment can prevent progression.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe vision impairment, secondary complications from associated conditions.
Optic Neuritis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Optic Nerve Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden vision loss; pain with eye movement; reduced color vision
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with multiple sclerosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual acuity tests, pupil response tests, MRI to check for multiple sclerosis.
Treatment:
Intravenous corticosteroids like Methylprednisolone.
Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Methylprednisolone ) and disease-modifying therapies for underlying multiple sclerosis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1–5 per 100,000 annually; often associated with multiple sclerosis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases, infections, MS.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision often improves with treatment; recurrence is possible.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent optic nerve damage, vision loss.
Optic Nerve Atrophy
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Optic Nerve Disorders
Symptoms:
vision loss; reduced peripheral vision; difficulty with color vision
Root Cause:
Damage to the optic nerve reduces its ability to transmit visual information.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual field testing, optic nerve imaging.
Treatment:
Managing underlying conditions; damage is often irreversible.
Medications:
No medications; management of the underlying cause.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically associated with other optic nerve disorders or systemic conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, glaucoma, ischemia, tumors, multiple sclerosis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision loss is usually irreversible; management focuses on preventing further damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe vision impairment or blindness.
Open-Angle Glaucoma
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Glaucoma
Symptoms:
gradual loss of peripheral vision; tunnel vision
Root Cause:
Increased eye pressure damages the optic nerve over time.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, or Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual field testing.
Treatment:
Medications like Latanoprost or Timolol, laser trabeculoplasty, or surgery.
Medications:
Prostaglandin analogs (e.g., Latanoprost , Bimatoprost ), beta-blockers (e.g., Timolol ), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., Dorzolamide ), alpha agonists (e.g., Brimonidine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2–3% of people over 40 worldwide; most common form of glaucoma.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, high intraocular pressure, age, African or Hispanic descent.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision loss is irreversible, but progression can be slowed with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gradual loss of peripheral vision, blindness if untreated.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Glaucoma
Symptoms:
severe eye pain; headaches; nausea; blurry vision; halos around lights; red eyes
Root Cause:
Sudden blockage of drainage canals raises eye pressure and damages the optic nerve.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Gonioscopy and IOP measurement.
Treatment:
Medications like Latanoprost or Timolol, laser trabeculoplasty, or surgery.
Medications:
Hyperosmotic agents (e.g., Mannitol ), acetazolamide , and surgical or laser procedures (e.g., iridotomy).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than open-angle glaucoma; more prevalent in Asian populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hyperopia, advanced age, female gender, family history.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sudden and severe vision loss, optic nerve damage.
Usher Syndrome
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
hearing loss; night blindness; peripheral vision loss
Root Cause:
Genetic disorder causing progressive vision and hearing loss.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Genetic testing, audiology tests, retinal exams.
Treatment:
No cure; hearing aids, cochlear implants, low vision aids.
Medications:
No specific medications; management includes cochlear implants and low-vision aids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 4–17 per 100,000 people globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autosomal recessive inheritance, consanguineous relationships.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive vision and hearing loss; management focuses on slowing progression.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complete blindness and deafness in advanced stages.
Aniridia
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
absence of iris; light sensitivity; blurry vision
Root Cause:
A congenital condition causing partial or complete absence of the iris.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical observation, genetic testing.
Treatment:
Tinted lenses, manage associated conditions (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts).
Medications:
No specific medications; artificial iris implants and lubricating eye drops for dry eye.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 1 in 50,000–100,000 people worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations in the PAX6 gene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life-long condition; management can mitigate complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Glaucoma, cataracts, corneal opacification.
Coloboma
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
keyhole-shaped defect in iris or retina; vision impairment
Root Cause:
A developmental defect results in gaps in the iris, retina, or optic nerve.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination, imaging studies.
Treatment:
Cosmetic contact lenses, surgery in severe cases.
Medications:
No specific medications; supportive treatments such as low-vision aids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Congenital malformations, genetic syndromes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the extent of the defect; vision can be preserved in mild cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision impairment, retinal detachment.
Microphthalmia
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
abnormally small eyes; vision impairment
Root Cause:
A congenital condition where one or both eyes are underdeveloped.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging.
Treatment:
Prosthetic eyes for cosmetic appearance, low-vision therapy.
Medications:
No specific medications; prosthetic treatments and low-vision aids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 births worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, maternal infections during pregnancy (e.g., rubella, toxoplasmosis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Vision depends on the severity; prosthetic eyes are often required for cosmetic purposes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision impairment or blindness, associated structural abnormalities.
Leber Congenital Amaurosis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Congenital or Genetic Conditions
Symptoms:
severe vision loss; blindness at birth
Root Cause:
A genetic disorder severely affects the retina’s ability to detect light.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electroretinography, genetic testing.
Treatment:
Gene therapy (Voretigene neparvovec), vision rehabilitation.
Medications:
Gene therapy (e.g., Voretigene neparvovec ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 2–3 per 100,000 people worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic mutations, autosomal recessive inheritance.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Severe vision loss from birth; recent gene therapies have shown promising results.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nystagmus, light sensitivity, total blindness.
Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
bulging eyes; dry eyes; red eyes; double vision; eyelid retraction
Root Cause:
Inflammation and swelling around the eyes due to thyroid dysfunction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, thyroid function tests, imaging studies.
Treatment:
Steroids (Prednisone), radiation therapy, orbital decompression surgery.
Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), biologics (e.g., Teprotumumab ), and lubricating eye drops.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 25–50% of people with Graves' disease; more common in middle-aged women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Thyroid dysfunction, smoking, family history of autoimmune disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms often improve with thyroid treatment; severe cases may require surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Double vision, corneal exposure, optic nerve compression leading to vision loss.
Eye Allergies (Allergic Conjunctivitis)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
itchy eyes; red eyes; tearing; eye swelling
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction causes inflammation of the conjunctiva.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Patient history, examination to determine underlying cause.
Treatment:
Antihistamine drops (Olopatadine), cold compresses, oral antihistamines.
Medications:
Antihistamine/mast cell stabilizer eye drops (e.g., Olopatadine , Ketotifen ), corticosteroids for severe cases (e.g., Loteprednol ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–30% of the population, especially during allergy seasons.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander), family history of allergies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are manageable with medications and allergen avoidance.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic irritation, secondary infections due to frequent eye rubbing.
Scleritis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
severe eye pain; red eyes; decreased vision; light sensitivity
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the sclera, often linked to autoimmune conditions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination, possible imaging.
Treatment:
Oral NSAIDs (Ibuprofen), steroids (Prednisone), or immunosuppressive therapy.
Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., Indomethacin ), corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in people with autoimmune disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with medication; severe cases may lead to complications if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal thinning, perforation, vision loss.
Uveitis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
eye pain; red eyes; light sensitivity; blurry vision; seeing floaters
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the uvea, often linked to autoimmune or infectious causes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive eye exam, including slit-lamp examination and dilated fundus examination.
Treatment:
Corticosteroid eye drops like Prednisolone, oral steroids for severe cases.
Medications:
Corticosteroid eye drops (e.g., Prednisolone acetate), systemic corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), and immunosuppressants (e.g., Methotrexate ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; accounts for about 10–15% of vision loss in the US.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune diseases, infections, trauma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable; chronic cases may require long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment.
Episcleritis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
red eyes; mild discomfort
Root Cause:
Mild inflammation of the episclera, often self-limiting.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination distinguishing it from scleritis.
Treatment:
Artificial tears, topical NSAIDs (Ketorolac), resolves on its own in most cases.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., Loteprednol ), NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in young and middle-aged adults; self-limiting.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Idiopathic in most cases; sometimes associated with autoimmune diseases.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Resolves spontaneously within 1–2 weeks; rarely leads to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Mild discomfort, recurrence in chronic cases.
Ocular Toxoplasmosis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Inflammatory or Immune-Related Disorders
Symptoms:
blurry vision; eye pain; seeing floaters; red eyes
Root Cause:
Infection of the retina by Toxoplasma gondii, typically a reactivation of a latent infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Retinal examination, blood tests for Toxoplasma gondii antibodies.
Treatment:
Antimicrobials (Pyrimethamine, Sulfadiazine) and corticosteroids.
Medications:
Pyrimethamine , sulfadiazine , folinic acid, and corticosteroids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 30% of the global population; reactivation occurs in immunocompromised individuals.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii (contaminated food, water, or cat feces).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with medication; vision loss may persist in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Retinal scarring, recurrent inflammation, vision loss.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Surface and External Eye Conditions
Symptoms:
stinging; burning; dry eyes; gritty sensation; red eyes; light sensitivity; blurry vision
Root Cause:
Insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation causes dryness and irritation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Tear break-up time test, Schirmer’s test, or Slit-lamp examination.
Treatment:
Artificial tears, prescription medications like Restasis, or punctal plugs.
Medications:
Artificial tears, cyclosporine eye drops (e.g., Restasis ), lifitegrast eye drops (e.g., Xiidra).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5–50% of people worldwide, more common in older adults and women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, hormonal changes, screen use, environmental factors, autoimmune diseases.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with proper treatment; chronic cases may persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic irritation, corneal damage, reduced quality of life.
Blepharitis
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Surface and External Eye Conditions
Symptoms:
red eyes; swollen eyelids; itchy eyes; flaking skin around eyes; burning; crusting of eyelashes
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins due to bacterial overgrowth or clogged oil glands.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination of the eyelids and eyelashes, sometimes using a slit-lamp.
Treatment:
Warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, and antibiotic ointments like Erythromycin.
Medications:
Warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, and antibiotic ointments (e.g., Erythromycin ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; affects people of all ages, especially those with oily skin or dandruff.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor eyelid hygiene, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic but manageable with consistent treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent styes, dry eyes, corneal irritation.
Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Surface and External Eye Conditions
Symptoms:
growth on conjunctiva; red eyes; eye irritation
Root Cause:
Abnormal cell growth on the conjunctiva due to UV exposure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Biopsy of the lesion.
Treatment:
Surgical excision, topical chemotherapy (Mitomycin C), cryotherapy.
Medications:
Topical chemotherapy (e.g., Mitomycin C, 5-Fluorouracil).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; higher prevalence in regions with high UV exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
UV exposure, HPV infection, HIV/AIDS.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early-stage lesions have a good prognosis with treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, invasion of deeper ocular structures.
Strabismus
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Movement and Alignment Disorders
Symptoms:
misaligned eyes; double vision; eye strain; reduced depth perception
Root Cause:
Misalignment of the eyes caused by uneven muscle control or neurological issues.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye alignment tests, Hirschberg test, cover-uncover test.
Treatment:
Glasses, prism lenses, vision therapy, or surgical correction of eye muscles.
Medications:
No medications; corrective surgery or botulinum toxin injections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 2–4% of children globally; can persist into adulthood.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, prematurity, neurological disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with early intervention; untreated cases may lead to amblyopia.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reduced depth perception, amblyopia.
Nystagmus
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Movement and Alignment Disorders
Symptoms:
uncontrolled eye movements; blurry vision
Root Cause:
Uncontrolled eye movements due to abnormal function in the brain or inner ear.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye movement recordings, neurological evaluation.
Treatment:
Glasses, medications like Gabapentin, or eye muscle surgery.
Medications:
No medications; gabapentin and memantine have been used experimentally.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects about 1 in 1,000 people, including congenital and acquired cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Neurological disorders, albinism, inner ear issues, genetic factors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition; vision aids can help manage symptoms.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reduced visual acuity, difficulty with tasks requiring stable vision.
Ocular Melanoma
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Tumors and Neoplasms
Symptoms:
flashes of light; seeing floaters; possible flashes; vision changes; dark spots on iris
Root Cause:
A rare cancer develops in the melanocytes of the eye.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination, ultrasound, MRI, biopsy.
Treatment:
Radiation therapy (brachytherapy), laser therapy, surgical removal.
Medications:
Radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, and experimental targeted therapies.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects 6 per million people annually, more common in Caucasians.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
UV exposure, light-colored eyes, genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early detection improves outcomes; advanced cases may metastasize.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Vision loss, eye removal, metastasis to the liver or other organs.
Night Blindness (Nyctalopia)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Vision Impairment and Light Sensitivity
Symptoms:
difficulty seeing in low light
Root Cause:
Poor function of rod cells in the retina limits vision in low-light conditions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, thyroid function tests, imaging studies.
Treatment:
Treat underlying cause (e.g., Vitamin A deficiency, manage retinitis pigmentosa).
Medications:
Vitamin A supplementation if due to deficiency.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in people with Vitamin A deficiency or genetic retinal disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Vitamin A deficiency, retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the underlying cause; treatable in cases related to nutritional deficiencies.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulty navigating in low-light conditions, increased risk of falls or accidents.
Photophobia
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Vision Impairment and Light Sensitivity
Symptoms:
light sensitivity; eye pain in bright environments
Root Cause:
Increased sensitivity of the retina or optic nerve to light stimuli.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Patient history, examination to determine underlying cause.
Treatment:
Protective eyewear, manage underlying conditions (e.g., migraines).
Medications:
Treat underlying cause; lubricating eye drops and tinted lenses.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common as a symptom of many eye conditions or systemic diseases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Migraine, meningitis, corneal abrasions, uveitis, albinism.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Improves with treatment of the underlying cause; may persist in chronic conditions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Avoidance of bright environments, reduced quality of life.
Hypertensive Retinopathy
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Vascular Disorders
Symptoms:
vision changes; headaches
Root Cause:
High blood pressure damages retinal blood vessels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination revealing narrowed arteries, hemorrhages.
Treatment:
Control of blood pressure and regular eye exams.
Medications:
No direct medications; antihypertensive drugs (e.g., Lisinopril , Amlodipine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in people with chronic high blood pressure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Uncontrolled hypertension, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable if hypertension is controlled; severe cases may result in vision loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Retinal hemorrhages, macular edema, optic nerve damage.
Central Serous Retinopathy
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Vascular Disorders
Symptoms:
blurry vision; distorted images; blind spots
Root Cause:
Fluid buildup under the retina causes distortion and detachment.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundus examination revealing narrowed arteries, hemorrhages.
Treatment:
Observation, laser therapy, or medications like Spironolactone.
Medications:
No specific medications; off-label use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (e.g., Eplerenone ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1 in 10,000 people annually, more common in men aged 20–50.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, steroid use, Type A personality, high blood pressure.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Resolves on its own in most cases; chronic cases may require treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent vision distortion or loss in severe cases.
Ocular Migraine
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Neurological or Headache-Associated Disorders
Symptoms:
temporary visual disturbances; flashes of light; blind spots; zigzag patterns in vision
Root Cause:
Temporary visual disturbances caused by blood flow changes in the brain.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on symptoms and ruling out other conditions.
Treatment:
NSAIDs for headache management and avoiding known triggers.
Medications:
Migraine prophylaxis medications (e.g., Propranolol , Topiramate ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1 in 200 people; more common in women and those with a history of migraines.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, dehydration.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are temporary and usually resolve within an hour; rarely causes long-term issues.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rarely, retinal migraine can lead to permanent vision loss in one eye.
Hordeolum (Stye)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Eyelid Disorders
Symptoms:
red lump on eyelid; eye pain; eye swelling; tearing
Root Cause:
A bacterial infection in an oil gland at the base of an eyelash.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the eyelid.
Treatment:
Warm compresses and antibiotic ointments if needed.
Medications:
Warm compresses and antibiotic ointments (e.g., Bacitracin ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; affects people of all ages, particularly those with poor eyelid hygiene.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Bacterial infection, oily skin, poor hygiene, chronic blepharitis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Self-limiting and resolves within a week with warm compresses.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of a chalazion, cellulitis in rare cases.
Chalazion
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Eyelid Disorders
Symptoms:
painless lump on eyelid; eye swelling
Root Cause:
A blocked oil gland in the eyelid forms a painless lump.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination.
Treatment:
Warm compresses, steroid injections, or surgical removal if persistent.
Medications:
Warm compresses; corticosteroid injections in resistant cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; more frequent in people with blepharitis or oily skin conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Blocked oil glands, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often resolves on its own; persistent cases may require minor surgery.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cosmetic deformity, chronic inflammation.
Pterygium
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Conjunctival Disorders
Symptoms:
raised growth on conjunctiva; red eyes; eye irritation
Root Cause:
A benign growth on the conjunctiva, often linked to UV exposure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination.
Treatment:
Lubricating eye drops, steroid drops, or surgical removal if vision is affected.
Medications:
Artificial tears and corticosteroid eye drops (e.g., Loteprednol ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in people living in sunny, windy, or dusty environments.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
UV exposure, dry climates, chronic irritation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Non-threatening; surgery is effective for severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal distortion, astigmatism, vision impairment in advanced cases.
Pinguecula
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Conjunctival Disorders
Symptoms:
yellowish growth on conjunctiva; eye irritation; dry eyes
Root Cause:
A yellowish growth on the conjunctiva caused by sun exposure and irritation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination.
Treatment:
Artificial tears, surgical removal for cosmetic reasons.
Medications:
Artificial tears and corticosteroid eye drops (e.g., Loteprednol ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; particularly in people with high UV exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sunlight exposure, aging, eye irritation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Benign and typically asymptomatic; manageable with artificial tears.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Inflammation (pingueculitis), discomfort, cosmetic concerns.
Floaters and Flashes
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Vitreous and Retinal Disorders
Symptoms:
spots or lines in vision; flashes of light; seeing floaters
Root Cause:
Changes in the vitreous gel pull on or damage the retina.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Eye examination.
Treatment:
Observation or laser therapy for retinal tears.
Medications:
No medications; monitor for retinal detachment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common, especially with aging; most noticeable after age 40.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, nearsightedness, trauma, posterior vitreous detachment.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Benign in most cases; may indicate retinal detachment in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Retinal tears or detachment in rare instances.
Color Blindness
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Color Perception Disorders
Symptoms:
difficulty distinguishing colors
Root Cause:
A genetic deficiency in cone cells reduces color perception.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Color vision tests (Ishihara plates).
Treatment:
Special lenses or glasses to enhance color perception.
Medications:
No medications; supportive aids like color-correcting lenses.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic inheritance (X-linked recessive), retinal or optic nerve damage.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition; adaptive devices can improve color differentiation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Difficulty distinguishing colors in daily activities or professions.
Ocular Herpes (Herpes Keratitis)
Specialty: Ophthalmology
Category: Corneal and Viral Disorders
Symptoms:
eye pain; red eyes; tearing; light sensitivity; blurry vision
Root Cause:
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination, corneal scrapings for lab analysis.
Treatment:
Antiviral eye drops or oral medications like Acyclovir.
Medications:
Antiviral eye drops (e.g., Ganciclovir ), systemic antivirals (e.g., Acyclovir ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1.5 million people globally; recurrent in about 10% of cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Herpes simplex virus infection, immune suppression, stress.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable; recurrence is common, and severe cases may lead to scarring.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, vision loss, recurrence.