Common Eye Conditions
Dry eye disease
Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the quality of the tear film is poor, leading to inadequate lubrication of the eye surface. It is an extremely common condition, particularly in older adults and those who spend long hours on screens.
Symptoms: Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision that fluctuates throughout the day, and paradoxically, excessive watering of the eyes.
Treatment: Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity, and may include lubricating eye drops, prescription anti-inflammatory drops, lid hygiene routines, heat therapy, or dietary changes. Our optometrists can assess your tear film and recommend the most appropriate management plan.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that covers the white of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens, or irritants.
Symptoms: Redness, discharge, crusting around the eyelids, itching, burning, and a gritty feeling in the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically produces a yellow or green discharge, while viral and allergic forms tend to cause watery discharge and itching.
Treatment: Treatment depends on the cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops, which our therapeutically endorsed optometrists can prescribe. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own, while allergic conjunctivitis is managed with antihistamine drops and avoidance of triggers.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins, commonly associated with bacterial overgrowth or dysfunction of the oil glands in the eyelids. It often occurs alongside dry eye disease.
Symptoms: Red, swollen, or itchy eyelids, crusty or greasy flakes at the base of the lashes, a burning or gritty sensation, and frequent styes.
Treatment: Blepharitis is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management rather than a one-time cure. Warm compresses, lid hygiene routines, and in some cases medicated drops or oral antibiotics can help keep symptoms under control.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually as a result of elevated pressure inside the eye. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in Australia and often progresses without any noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
Symptoms: Often none in the early stages. As it progresses, peripheral vision is gradually lost. Acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden eye pain, headache, nausea, and blurred vision.
Treatment: Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively with eye drops, laser treatment, or surgery to reduce eye pressure and prevent further damage. Regular monitoring is essential. Our optometrists are therapeutically qualified to prescribe and manage glaucoma treatment.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is the leading cause of severe vision loss in Australians over 50 and comes in two forms: dry and wet.
Symptoms: Blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty recognising faces, straight lines appearing wavy or bent, and a dark or empty spot in the centre of vision. Side vision is usually unaffected.
Treatment: There is currently no cure for dry AMD, but progression can be slowed with dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications. Wet AMD can be treated with regular anti-VEGF injections administered by an ophthalmologist. Early detection through regular eye exams is critical.
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Macular Degeneration
Myopia (short-sightedness) in children
Myopia is one of the most common vision conditions in children and is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. It occurs when the eye grows too long, causing distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear.
Symptoms: Squinting to see the board at school, sitting closer to screens than necessary, frequent headaches, eye rubbing, or complaints of blurry distance vision. Many children won't mention symptoms as they assume everyone sees the same way.
Treatment: Myopia cannot be reversed, but it can be effectively managed and its progression slowed. We offer a range of evidence-based myopia control treatments including MiyoSmart® spectacle lenses, MiSight® contact lenses, Ortho-K overnight lenses, and Atropine eye drops. Early intervention gives the best outcomes.
When to seek urgent care
Call triple zero (000) immediately if you experience: A sudden, severe eye injury involving a chemical splash or burn. Do not rub the eye. Flush with clean water immediately and call 000.
See an optometrist urgently: call us immediately or go to your nearest emergency department:
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Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
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An object that has struck the eye with significant force
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Chemical injury to the eye
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Sudden onset of severe light sensitivity accompanied by pain or vision changes
These symptoms can indicate a serious and potentially sight-threatening emergency. Do not wait for a routine appointment.
See an optometrist the same day: call us first thing:
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Sudden onset of flashes of light
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New or significantly increased floaters, particularly with flashes
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A foreign body in the eye that did not hit with force
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A red eye, particularly if painful or associated with vision changes
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Any changes to vision associated with contact lens wear
If you are ever unsure whether your symptoms are urgent, please call us and we will advise you. It is always better to be seen sooner rather than later when it comes to your eye health.
