Eye Problems and Symptoms

Seeing a black curtain or wall:
This could be a retinal detachment, which occurs when the gel-like substance in the eye (Vitreous) suddenly pulls away from the inner back lining of the eye (Retina).

Loss of side peripheral vision:
This vision defect can develop slowly, even over a period of years, and may indicate damage to your optic nerve from diseases such as glaucoma or optic atrophy.

Loss of straight-ahead central vision:
This condition can develop over many years from a very common and serious disease among older individuals called age-related macular degeneration. This disease occurs with abnormal growth of blood vessels on a portion of the inner back of your eye (Retina) where the macula is located. Scarring and permanent vision loss can result.

Persistent eye redness and irritation:
Many conditions can be responsible for these symptoms, ranging from allergies to far more serious infections that particularly can affect those who wear contact lenses. Untreated eye infections may result in permanent vision loss.

Abrupt onset of vision defects. Some vision symptoms, especially when they occur suddenly, may signal an emergency. Symptoms may include blurred vision, light sensitivity, unexplained loss of visual clarity, and sudden inability to perceive colours and/or contrast. Some vision disturbances may also be related to an underlying health problem not directly related to the eye.

Any changes in the appearance of your eyes or vision should be investigated further. Some examples include:

• Unusual trouble adjusting to dark rooms
• Difficulty focusing on near or distant objects
• Squinting or blinking due to unusual sensitivity to light or glare
• Change in colour of iris
• Red-rimmed, encrusted or swollen lids
• Recurrent pain in or around eyes
• Double vision
• Dark spot at the centre of viewing
• Lines and edges appear distorted or wavy
• Excess tearing or "watery eyes"
• Dry eyes with itching or burning
• Seeing spots, ghost-like/images.

The following may be indications of potentially serious problems that might require emergency medical attention:

• Sudden loss of vision in one eye
• Sudden hazy or blurred vision
• Flashes of light or black spots
• Halos or rainbows around light
• Curtain-like blotting out of vision
• Loss of peripheral (side) vision

Eye Symptoms you should never ignore!