Red Flag Eye Problems To Watch Out For

The NHS recommends that we get our eyes tested every two years, to look out for emerging problems and make sure that our vision is not deteriorating. However, there are some symptoms which should be addressed immediately to prevent any serious issues developing with your eyes. Here are some of the main signs to look out for. 

Blurred vision

If you notice problems with blurred vision that isn’t corrected by wearing glasses, you need to identify the cause. It’s not always serious, and sometimes the reason is that your eyes are dry. This is a more common problem if you are over 50 years old, wear contact lenses, or spend long hours working in front of a computer screen. 

Dry eyes can also be caused by some blood pressure medications, and some types of antidepressants. The environmental conditions you have been spending time in can have an effect too—for example, dry air caused by heating or air conditioning, or cold windy weather, can have a drying effect on the eyes. 

You can ease the symptoms of dry eyes by taking regular screen breaks, and avoiding spending long periods in heated or air-conditioned rooms, or smoky or dusty atmospheres. Clean your eyes every day, and give them a break from contact lenses, if you wear them. If your symptoms persist, a pharmacist may be able to recommend suitable treatments.

Other causes of blurred vision that is not corrected by glasses include cataracts. This when the lens inside one or both eyes become clouded over time, and it may make you more sensitive to light. The problem is more common in people over the age of 65, and is more likely to occur in people who have diabetes, or who are very short sighted. 

The only way to treat cataracts is by having them surgically removed, the RNIB explains. If blurred vision comes on suddenly, this could be a sign of a serious medical problem, such as a stroke or a detached retina, and requires urgent medical attention. 

Red eyes

If your eyes are redder than usual, this may be a sign of an allergy or an infection. Irritation caused by allergies such as hay fever is usually accompanied by itchiness and irritation. It is more common in the summer when pollen levels are high, but it can also be caused by animal dander released by pets and livestock. 

Other causes of red eyes include conjunctivitis, which is a common bacterial or viral eye infection. Symptoms include watering, itchiness, and pus. The condition can be treated by bathing the eyes with water and cotton wool. If symptoms persist, you can use an eye infection treatment from a pharmacy to help clear it up. 

Sore eyes

If you are experiencing sore or painful eyes, without accompanying symptoms such as redness or blurred vision, it’s advisable to consult an optician and have your eyes examined. It may not be serious, but it’s best to make sure that there are no foreign objects or infections which may cause problems with your sight. 

Disturbed vision

If you are noticed that your vision is disturbed by flashing lights, wavy lines, or other unusual occurrences, it may be a sign that there is a tear in the retina of the eyes, so it’s advisable to get checked out by a pharmacist. Older people who see bright halos around lights, causing a dazzling effect, may be affected by glaucoma, so it’s best to seek medical advice.

Most people will experience floaters, which are caused by changes to the jelly-like substance inside the eye. They can be a nuisance, especially when you are looking at text on a white background. However, as long as they are not seriously disrupting your vision, they do not require treatment. 

If you lose your sight completely, even for a short interval in one or both eyes, this is a serious symptom which requires urgent medical attention. 

More trouble reading

If you are finding it more difficult to read than usual, then this may be a sign that your eyesight is deteriorating. This is normal as we get older, and it is estimated that at least 60% of the UK population need corrective eyewear to help them read comfortably, without holding the page or screen closer to their face. 

Although it’s a common problem, many people have the wrong prescription for their glasses because they don’t visit the optician regularly enough. Regular check-ups are important to make sure that there are no more serious problems building up with your eyes.