Common Types of Eye Diseases

Refractive Errors

Refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. These are extremely common and include: 



• Nearsightedness (Myopia) - Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. 
• Farsightedness (Hyperopia) - Trouble focusing on close objects. 
• Astigmatism - Uneven curvature of the cornea affects vision at all distances. 
• Presbyopia - Age-related difficulty focusing up close. 

Refractive errors don’t usually damage the eye but can significantly affect daily tasks if uncorrected. 

Cataracts

A cataract forms when the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, which leads to blurry or dim vision. It’s often associated with aging, but can also result from injury or other health conditions. Cataracts can gradually worsen over time and affect activities like reading or driving at night. 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated pressure inside the eye. It often develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms at first. If untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss. Regular screenings are vital since early stages may not cause obvious warning signs. 

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. It’s a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. There are two forms: dry (more common, slow progression) and wet (less common, can progress quickly). 

Diabetic Retinopathy

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or close off. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes and a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Early detection through eye exams can slow progression. 

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. Symptoms often include redness, itching, and discharge. While often mild, some forms can be contagious and/or require treatment. 

Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye happens when the eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to irritation, redness, and a gritty feeling. Chronic dry eye can affect comfort and vision clarity. 

Other Common Conditions

There are many additional disorders people might encounter, including: 

• Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) - Reduced vision in one eye due to abnormal visual development. 
• Floaters and Flashes - Often harmless, but can signal retinal issues. 
• Retinal Detachment - An urgent condition where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye. 

How East Norwich Optics Helps with Eye Disease Detection and Care

Eye exams do far more than check how well you see. They’re also a key part of identifying eye diseases early and determining what treatment or management is most effective. At East Norwich Optics, a thorough eye exam includes not just vision testing but also a close evaluation of eye health. These exams can uncover signs of glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye changes, and other conditions before noticeable symptoms appear. Some exams may include retinal imaging and other advanced tools to assess both vision and overall ocular health. 

Routine eye care at East Norwich Optics is offered to patients of all ages in the Oyster Bay and Syosset, NY areas, with customized recommendations based on individual needs. By regularly monitoring eye health, our practice supports early diagnosis and helps patients take steps to maintain clear vision and healthy eyes over time. Regular eye exams are a simple yet powerful step in protecting your vision for years to come. Contact us today to schedule an eye exam!