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Eye Problems, Noninjury
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Many people have minor eye problems, such as eyestrain, irritated
eyes, or itchy, scaly eyelids (blepharitis 
). These problems may be
ongoing (chronic) but usually are not serious. Home treatment can relieve the
symptoms of many minor eye problems.
See a picture of the
eye .
Common eye problems
Common types of eye problems include:
- Drainage from the eyes or excessive tearing.
- Eyestrain or vision changes.
- Misaligned eyes or strabismus.
- Blood in the white of the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage).
- Eyelid problems.
- Contact lens problems.
- Color blindness.
- Night blindness.
- Glaucoma.
- Cataracts.
- Retinal problems, such as diabetic retinopathy.
- Red eyes that may be caused by infection, inflammation, or tumors.
- Uveitis.
- Macular degeneration.
It is common for the eyes to be irritated or have a
scratchy feeling. Pain is not a common eye problem unless there has been an
injury. It is not unusual for the eyes to be slightly sensitive to light.
But sudden, painful sensitivity to light is a serious problem that may
mean glaucoma or inflammation of the muscles that control the
pupil (iritis) and
should be evaluated by your doctor.
Sudden problems such as new vision changes, pain in the eye, or increased drainage are often more serious and need to be evaluated by a doctor. Eye symptoms that are new or that occur suddenly may be evaluated by an emergency medicine specialist. Ongoing (chronic) eye problems that may be worsening are usually evaluated by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist).
Some children may have special risks for eye problems. Vision screening is recommended for infants who were either born at or before 30 weeks, whose birth weight was below 3.3 lb (1500 g), or who have serious medical conditions. Most vision problems are noticed first by the parents. See tips for spotting eye problems in your child. The first screening is recommended between 4 and 7 weeks after birth.1
Use the Check Your Symptoms section to decide if and when you should see a doctor.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: December 17, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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