Guide to Eye Care: Tips for Healthy Vision
Compiled in this article are surface information to let you have a brief read of some commonly eye-related issues, their symptoms as well as available treatment plans for some.
Introduction
The gift of sight is one of the greatest blessings that were given to us, packaged together with a bunch of other features on our body that we often took for granted. Some people do not have the fortune to enjoy the gift of sights that would allow them to see the vibrant greens of the forests, the brownish autumn that signify seasonal change, the sky blue of the vast oceans and many other of the world’s wonders. Our eyes are windows to the world, allowing us to experience its beauty, colours, and intricacies.
Maintaining the “gift” is not only our way of expressing thankfulness, it is also essential for us to enjoy life to the fullest. Just because they were gifted to us, doesn’t mean it does not require any taking care of on our end. Maintaining a healthy eye plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being. However, in today’s digital age and with changing lifestyles, the prevalence of eye-related issues (direct eye-issues or disease related) is on the rise, impacting the quality of life for millions.
The Anatomy of the Eye
Short descriptions below explain each of the eye anatomy from the above picture.(Reading sequence from top (left) to bottom, then bottom (right) to top.
Iris: The iris is the coloured part of the eye (e.g., blue, brown, green). It contains muscles that control the size of the pupil, which regulates the amount of light that enters the eye.
Anterior Chamber : The anterior chamber is a critical part of the eye located between the cornea (the transparent front surface of the eye) and the iris (the coloured part of the eye). It is filled with a clear, watery fluid called Aqueous humor that helps maintain the eye’s shape and provides nourishment to the cornea and lens.
Pupil: The pupil is the black centre of the eye. It changes in size to adjust the amount of light entering the eye. In bright light, the pupil contracts (becomes smaller), and in dim light, it dilates (becomes larger).
Cornea: The cornea is the transparent, frontmost part of the eye. It acts as a protective shield and helps focus light onto the retina. The cornea is responsible for about two-thirds of the eye’s focusing power.
Lens: Behind the pupil is the crystalline lens. The lens further focuses incoming light onto the retina. Muscles in the eye adjust the shape of the lens to enable fine-tuning of focus, a process known as accommodation.
Choroid: The choroid is a layer of blood vessels between the sclera and the retina. It supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina.
Superior Rectus Muscle: This is one of the six extraocular muscles responsible for controlling the movement of the human eye. It is located on the upper surface of the eye and is one of the muscles responsible for moving the eye upward, helping to elevate the gaze. The combined action of the superior and inferior rectus muscles allows for smooth and controlled vertical eye movements, which are essential for various visual tasks and activities
Retina: The retina is the innermost layer at the back of the eye. It contains specialized cells called photoreceptors (rods and cones) that convert light into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve.
Optic Nerve: The optic nerve is a bundle of nerve fibres that carries visual information from the retina to the brain. This is how the brain interprets the signals as images.
Vitreous Gel: The gel-like substance that fills the larger portion of the eye behind the lens. It helps maintain the eye’s shape and keeps the retina in place.
Inferior Rectus Muscle: Also one of the six extraocular muscles in the human eye. It is also located outside the eyeball but is attached to the eyeball itself. The term “inferior” indicates its position on the lower surface of the eye.
The Growing Importance of Eye Care
Our eyes are exposed to air pollutants, bacteria, dry air, wind, cosmetics and other factors continuously, putting them at the risk of Infection, Allergy reactions, Injuries and eyestrain. Adding to that, with our daily activities now involving longer screen times, digital eye strain has become a modern-day concern, affecting people of all ages. For example, among the causes that could potentially increase the prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) among children and adults these days; other than the genetically inherited traits, are identified as due to the lack of outdoor activities as well as the prolonged close-up activities and tasks. The recent pandemic; when many of us began working or attending classes from home, has also brought about researchers predicting that this dramatic online increase would cause never-before-seen eye dysfunction. This has become a clear interpretation that taking care of our eyes in these days and age is more important than ever before.
Getting regular eye check-ups is crucial as many eye conditions develop silently, often exhibiting minimal to no noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Conditions like glaucoma, characterized by increased intraocular pressure, can gradually damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss if left untreated. Similarly, cataracts, the clouding of the eye’s lens, and diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes affecting the retina, can advance without causing immediate discomfort.
A Glimpse into Eye-Related Issues
Eye-related problems extend beyond digital strain and myopia (nearsightedness). Commonly discussed eye conditions such as Cataracts, Glaucoma, macular degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Detachment can slowly compromise our vision as we age. These issues not only hinder our ability to perform daily tasks but can also lead to a diminished quality of life, impacting our independence, mobility, and even emotional well-being. Most of the commonly diagnosed eye diseases share similar symptoms such as eye pain or discomfort, blurry vision, gradual loss of colour perception or dry eyes.
1. Cataracts
Cataract is characterized by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits behind the iris (coloured part of the eye) and the pupil. This clouding causes a gradual reduction in the vision’s clarity, commonly described as similar to looking through a foggy or frosted window.
Causes:
Cataracts typically develop due to the ageing process, as the proteins in the eye’s lens break down and clump together, clouding the lens. However, cataracts can also be caused or accelerated by:
- Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
- Smoking cigarettes has been linked to an increased risk of cataract development age-related macular degeneration up to 5.5 years earlier than non-smokers – according to WHO.
- Medical conditions that contribute to cataracts development, such as diabetes.
- Prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids (often prescribed to treat conditions like asthma, hives, or lupus – to provide substantial relief of symptoms or inflammation. The type of side effects developed may differ depending on usage type, whether inhaled or applied topically)
- Eye injury or trauma to the eye, especially if it involves damages to the lens.
Symptoms:
Cataracts usually progress slowly, and early stages may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. As the condition advances, common symptoms may include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision: Objects may appear hazy or less sharp than usual.
- Glare: Increased sensitivity to bright lights, causing discomfort when driving at night or in bright sunlight.
- Difficulty with night vision: Reduced ability to see clearly in low-light conditions.
- Fading of colours: Colours may appear less vibrant or may take on a yellowish or brownish tinge.
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions: As cataracts progress, your prescription may need to be adjusted more frequently.
Treatment:
While there is no proven way to prevent cataracts, treatment options are available to improve vision when cataracts start affecting daily life significantly. Treatment involves surgical removal of the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This is one of the safest and most regularly performed medical procedures. Associated risk to this procedure is very rare and usually can be resolved with additional follow up treatment.
Key points about cataract surgery:
- It’s minimally Invasive – Typically performed as an outpatient procedure and often requires no stitches.
- Quick Recovery – Most patients experience improved vision within a few days after surgery.
- Multiple options available – Various types of IOLs are available, including multifocal lenses that can reduce the need for reading glasses. Bladeless cataract surgery (Femtosecond Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery) is also available in current days as an alternative to the conventional blade cataract surgery.
2. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is probably the most difficult to detect among the many types of eye diseases. This is primarily because, in the early stages of glaucoma, there are typically no noticeable symptoms to serve as warning signs that something may be amiss.
People who fail to have routine eye exams and develop glaucoma typically become aware of it only after they’ve sustained vision loss from the disease. And by that time, controlling glaucoma to prevent additional vision loss can be very difficult. Without successful control with medical treatment and/or glaucoma surgery, the disease can lead to blindness.
Causes:
Early detection of high eye pressure and other risk factors for glaucoma is possible only with routine eye exams. Vision screenings do little to nothing to identify or prevent glaucoma.
Treatment:
Glaucoma treatment normally aims to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), as elevated pressure within the eye is a significant risk factor for its progression. Important to note that Glaucoma is a chronic condition that usually requires ongoing monitoring. Common treatments for glaucoma include the use of medications, laser therapy, surgical procedures, or a combination of each to effectively manage patients IOP. Choice of treatment also might be affected by the types of Glaucoma, its severity and individual factors such as age, overall health conditions and medications taken.
- Medications (Eye Drops or Oral Medications):
Use of prescribed eye drops (Alpha Agonist, Beta Blocker, Prostaglandin Analogs) to control the production of aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye), reducing IOP. In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to lower IOP when eye drops are insufficient; either not being effective or not tolerated by the patient. However, they are not the primary choice due to potential side effects and the fact that they affect the entire body, not just the eyes.
- Laser Therapy:
Laser treatment for glaucoma is a non-invasive procedure that aims to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by improving the drainage of aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye).
- Surgical Procedures:
Latest surgical techniques to treat glaucoma include minimally invasive procedures with micro-incisions and various devices or stents to improve aqueous humor drainage.
3. Age-Related Macular degeneration
Age-Related Macular Degeneration, often abbreviated as AMD, is a progressive eye condition that primarily affects older adults, typically those over the age of 50. It’s a leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness among older individuals.
AMD affects the macula, a small but highly sensitive area near the centre of the retina, responsible for sharp, central vision. This is the part of the eye that allows you to read, recognize faces, drive, and see fine details clearly. As AMD progresses, it can make these tasks more challenging.
There are two main types of AMD:
- Non-Neovascular AMD: This is the more common form of AMD, accounting for about 90% of cases. It occurs when the macula’s cells break down over time, causing gradual vision loss. This type of AMD (also called dry AMD) typically progresses slowly.
- Neovascular AMD: While less common, this type of AMD (also called wet AMD) is more severe. It results from the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. These vessels can leak blood and fluid, leading to rapid and severe central vision loss.
Symptoms:
- Blurred Central Vision: One of the most common and earliest symptoms of AMD is a gradual, painless blurring of central vision. Objects at the center of your field of vision may appear less sharp and clear than they used to be. Reading, recognizing faces, and performing tasks that require fine detail become challenging.
- Distorted Vision: AMD can cause straight lines to appear wavy or bent. This distortion is particularly noticeable when looking at objects with straight edges, such as doorframes or text on a page. This phenomenon is often described as metamorphopsia.
- Central Blind Spot: As the disease progresses, a central blind spot, known as a scotoma, may develop. This is an area of the visual field where you can’t see clearly, making it difficult to focus on objects directly in front of you. This can significantly impact everyday activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
- Reduced Colour Perception: Colours may appear less vibrant or may seem washed out. This can affect your ability to distinguish between different shades and hues.
- Difficulty Adapting to Changes in Lighting: People with AMD may find it challenging to adapt to changes in lighting conditions. Going from a well-lit area to a darker room or vice versa can be more difficult, and it may take longer for your eyes to adjust.
- Visual Hallucinations: Some individuals with advanced AMD, particularly wet AMD, may experience visual hallucinations, a phenomenon known as Charles Bonnet Syndrome. These hallucinations can range from simple shapes and patterns to more complex images.
Treatment:
The exact cause of AMD is still not fully understood, but several risk factors can contribute to its development, including ageing, genetics, and lifestyle (smoking and diet). While there is no cure for AMD, early detection and intervention can help slow its progression and preserve remaining vision.
Treatment options, particularly for wet AMD, may involve injections of medications into the eye or laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels (commonly used Anti-VEGF treatment). Dry AMD may benefit from dietary supplements containing specific antioxidants and minerals.
Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection and management of AMD. If you’re at risk or experiencing any symptoms, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional for evaluation and guidance.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially sight-threatening eye condition that occurs as a complication of diabetes. It affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. When blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes remain high for extended periods, it can damage the small blood vessels in the retina.
Causes:
The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is poorly controlled blood sugar levels over time. High blood sugar levels can weaken and damage the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. Other factors that can increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy include:
- Diabetes, and Inconsistent or poorly managed blood sugar levels
- High blood pressure and Hypertension
- High cholesterol levels
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
Symptoms:
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not manifest noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision.
- Dark or empty spots in the vision.
- Difficulty perceiving colours.
- Poor night vision.
- Sudden vision loss in advanced stages.
It’s crucial to note that diabetic retinopathy often affects both eyes, and symptoms may not appear until the condition is at an advanced stage. This underscores the importance of regular eye exams for individuals with diabetes to detect and manage the condition early.
Treatments:
Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the stage and severity of the condition.
- Control of Blood Sugar: Managing diabetes through consistent monitoring, medication, and lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
- Laser Therapy: In some cases, laser treatment (photocoagulation) can be used to seal leaking blood vessels and reduce abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Injections: Anti-VEGF medications can be injected into the eye to help reduce swelling and prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels. (Anti-VEGF treatment is a type of medication that blocks a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which stimulates the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. It is used to treat eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.
- Vitrectomy: In advanced cases with significant bleeding or retinal detachment, a surgical procedure called vitrectomy may be necessary to remove blood and scar tissue from the eye.
Early detection through regular eye exams and proactive management of diabetes are key to preventing and effectively treating diabetic retinopathy.
5. Retinal Detachment
This is a serious eye condition where the retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for capturing and transmitting visual images to the brain, pulls away from its normal position. When the retina detaches, it can cause vision loss and requires immediate medical attention. There are different types of retinal detachment, including rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative, each with its causes and risk factors.
Causes:
Retinal detachment can occur due to various causes, including:
- Rhegmatogenous Detachment
This is the most common type and often results from a tear or hole in the retina. Fluid from the vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye) can then pass through the tear and accumulate behind the retina, causing it to detach.
- Tractional Detachment
Scar tissue or fibrous bands on the retina can pull it away from its normal position.
- Exudative Detachment
Buildup of fluids under the retina, often due to conditions like age-related macular degeneration, can lead to detachment.
Risk factors for retinal detachment include aging, previous eye surgery, family history of retinal detachment, severe nearsightedness (myopia), and eye injuries.
Symptoms:
- Sudden onset of floaters (spots or specks that appear in your field of vision).
- Flashes of light in your peripheral (side) vision.
- A shadow or curtain-like effect moving across your field of vision.
- Gradual or sudden blurring of vision.
- Loss of central vision in severe cases.
It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as prompt treatment is critical to preventing permanent vision loss.
Treatment:
The primary treatment for retinal detachment is surgical repair. The choice of surgery depends on the type and severity of the detachment. Common procedures include:
- Scleral Buckling: A silicone band is placed around the eye to push the sclera (the white part of the eye) inward, helping to reattach the retina.
- Pneumatic Retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected into the vitreous cavity to push the retina back into place.
- Vitrectomy: The vitreous gel is removed, and the retina is reattached using laser or cryotherapy (freezing) techniques.
After surgery, patients may need to maintain a face-down position or limit physical activity for a period to facilitate healing. Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the retina remains attached.
Tips for Eye-Health
1. Clean eating habits: You may have heard that eating carrots is good for the eyes; but other foods like spinach, kale, salmon, and tuna may be even better in terms of the vitamins they contain needed by your eyes. So, clean eating is not only for a lifestyle or preferences, the well-balanced diet keeps your eyes healthy.
2. No to smoking: This is yet another reason to raise your hand and say NO to smoking. People who smoke cigarettes are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts and up to four times more likely to develop Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) than people who don’t smoke.
3. The 20-20-20 Rule: This rule suggests that for every 20 minutes screen activities, you should try to look away at something that is 20 feet away from you for a total of 20 seconds. Some studies have found that the 20-20-20 rule does help in alleviating eye-strain.
4. Protective Eye-wear: Equipped yourself with the suitable eye protection if your daily activities and job requirement demands for it. If you have close or frequent contact with hazardous or airborne materials on the job or at home, wear safety glasses or protective goggles.
5. Keep hydrated: Our eyes contain a substantial amount of fluid, and they rely on this fluid to function properly. Any disruptions in this balance can be detrimental to your vision.
6. Get regular Eye Check-Up: once in 6 months for your teeth, once a year for comprehensive body check-up, but how often is recommended for eye check-up?
The recommended frequency of eye exams varies based on age, existing eye health, and risk factors. As a general guideline:
- Children
Recommended to undergo the first comprehensive eye exam between the ages of 6 and 12 months, followed by additional exams before starting school and throughout their school years.
- Young adults (age 20 to 39)
Have a comprehensive eye examination if you have a family history of eye disease or if you are suffering from an eye injury.
- Adults and seniors (age 40 to 64)
As you get older, age-related eye conditions are more likely to occur. To monitor vision changes, you should get a baseline eye disease screening when you are 40 and ask your Ophthalmologist to assess how often you need to return for follow-up screenings.
- Anyone with risk factors
If you have a risk factor for eye disease (suffering from diabetic, have high blood pressure, have a family history of eye disease, or are taking prescription medications which may affect the eyes) you should see your ophthalmologist more frequently. Consult your eye doctor for the ideal interval between check-ups.
Conclusion
The gift of sight is a profound blessing that allows us to experience the beauty and complexity of the world. Yet, many of us often take it for granted. In today’s digital and fast-paced lifestyle, the risk of eye-related issues has increased significantly, making proper eye care more important than ever. From common conditions like cataracts and myopia to more serious diseases such as glaucoma, AMD, and diabetic retinopathy, eye health problems can gradually impair vision and reduce quality of life.
Maintaining eye health through regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and early detection is essential not only for preserving our vision but also for ensuring our overall well-being. Let us not wait until symptoms arise—caring for our eyes should be a lifelong commitment and a reflection of our gratitude for the gift of sight.
References
https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/nei-for-kids/healthy-vision-tips, Accessed date 20/04/2025
20-20-20 Rule: Does It Help Prevent Digital Eye Strain? (healthline.com), Accessed date 20/04/2025
https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/20-20-20-rule#research, Accessed date 20/04/2025
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371611, Accessed date 20/04/2025
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/good-eyesight, Accessed date 20/04/2025