Find a store
 Menu

Eye conditions and symptoms

Sight is such an important part of our lives – and something we want to help protect

Like any other medical condition, it’s good for you to be familiar with symptoms of common eye conditions so you know what to look out for, what you can do and when to seek help.

Your eyes can also indicate signs of more problematic issues to do with your general health like diabetes and high blood pressure. Symptoms of these conditions are not always obvious, so regular eye exams are an essential part of maintaining your health.

Common eye conditions

The conditions below are all common – and can affect anyone in their lifetime

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common condition in which a difference in the shape of the eye causes blurry or distorted vision.

Learn about astigmatism

Blepharitis

Blepharitis can cause the eyelids to become red and swollen.

Learn about blepharitis

Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the naturally clear lens of the eye.

Learn about cataracts

Chalazion

A chalazion is a small lump, or cyst, that develops slowly in the eyelid.

Learn about chalazion

Cloudy vision

Often confused with blurry vision, cloudy vision is when objects appear ‘milky’ as if you’re looking through a cloudy piece of glass in one or both eyes.

Learn about cloudy vision

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, occurs when the membrane that lines the inner eyelid and eyeball becomes infected or inflamed

Learn about conjunctivitis

Corneal ulcer

An eye or corneal ulcer is a painful sore that develops on the front surface of your eye.

Learn about corneal ulcer

Diabetes

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that leads to blood vessel damage at the back of the eye (the retina)

Learn about diabetic retinopathy

Digital eye strain

Focusing on a digital screen for an extended period of time can cause eye strain and exacerbate any other symptoms you are experiencing.

Learn about digital eye strain

Double vision

Double vision, formally known as diplopia, can have several causes and may present in different ways.

Learn about double vision

Dry eye syndrome

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.

Learn about dry eye syndrome

Eyelid twitching

Most people will recognize the sensation of a twitching eyelid. It’s very common and can occur to anyone at any time, usually intermittently.

Learn about eyelid twitching

Floaters

Floaters are a very common condition where one sees spots in their vision that may present as black or grey specks, cobwebs, or strings.

Learn about floaters

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the nerve that connects the eye to the brain.

Learn about glaucoma

Hyperopia

A common visual condition where you can see objects in the distance better than objects up close.

Learn about hyperopia

Presbyopia

It’s a gradual process, but you’ll start to notice change in close vision from around the age of 40.

Learn about presbyopia

Hay fever

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that can irritate and inflame the eyes.

Learn about hay fever

Macular degeneration

Age‑related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive retinal condition that affects your central vision.

Learn about macular degeneration

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition in which one can see objects up close relatively well but has difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.

Learn about myopia

Ocular hypertension

Ocular hypertension is a condition in which the pressure in the eye, intraocular pressure, is higher than normal.

Learn about ocular hypertension

Ocular migraines

Ocular migraines, more formally known as retinal migraines, can produce alarming symptoms which usually resolve on their own in less than an hour.

Learn about ocular migraines

Red eyes

Red eyes can be a result of many conditions, including irritation, inflammation, infection, or allergy.

Learn about red eyes

Retinal detachment

Although this is a more serious eye condition, it can be treated in its varying stages.

Learn about retinal detachment

Stye

Also known as a hordeolum, a stye is a small, painful lump developing on the inside or outside the eyelid.

Learn about stye

Watery eyes

Watery eyes occur if too many tears are produced or if they cannot drain away properly.

Learn about watery eyes

Discover more about vision

Do I need an eye exam

Eye exams play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.

Find out more

Your guide to eye exams

An eye exam isn’t just about getting glasses, it’s also an important health check for your eyes.

Learn about eye exams

Book an eye exam

An eye exam helps ensure your eyes are healthy and you see as clearly as possible.

Book an appointment