Types of Common Eye Disorders

Some common eye disorders are minor and only require eyeglasses to correct the person's vision. Others are a lot more serious and may cause partial or complete loss of sight. Vision problems do not discriminate. They can affect people of all ages.

Macular Degeneration

This disorder occurs in older people. It affects how they see things by damaging their central and sharp vision. Two types of macular degeneration affect the elderly population: wet and dry. Leaking blood vessels behind the eye causes wet degeneration. Dry degeneration causes blurred vision. A person experiencing either type can have decreased central vision, which affects how they read, drive or perform any other task.

Retinopathy

A damaged retina may influence retinopathy. Diabetic disorders cause this condition. Untreated retinopathy can lead to blindness. People often see floaters in the air when they have the problem. Some may experience blurred vision, inability to see color and empty spaces. 

Cataract

Cataracts are common disorders in the elderly but can occur in anyone of any age. They form over the eyes' lens and present a cloudy appearance. The growth eventually spreads over the entire lens causing the loss of sight.

Lazy Eye

Lazy eye forms in children at an early age and continues into adulthood. It is caused by a lack of communication between the brain and the affected eye. Lazy eye is usually permanent if not treated in the beginning stage or at an early age. Two to three percent of children and adults have lazy eye.