Understanding Common Eye Conditions: Symptoms and Treatments

Your eyes play a crucial role in your everyday life - helping you work, learn, and experience the world around you. At Bluehouse Eyecare, our experienced eye doctors in Closter, NJ are here to help you maintain healthy eyes and clear vision through advanced technology and personalized care. Below are some of the most common eye conditions, what symptoms to look for, and how they can be treated.
 

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tear film evaporates too quickly. This condition can lead to irritation and blurred vision.

Common Symptoms:

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Light sensitivity

• Feeling like something is in your eye

• Excessive tearing

Treatments may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, and nutritional supplements depending on the severity of the condition.
 

Cataracts

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens and typically develop with age. Without treatment, cataracts can lead to significant vision loss.

Common Symptoms:

• Blurry or cloudy vision

• Trouble seeing at night

• Faded color perception

• Glare or halos around lights

Early cataracts may be managed with updated prescriptions and improved lighting. Advanced cases are treated with cataract surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens.
 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to elevated eye pressure. It is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness. Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms at first. Over time, peripheral vision loss may occur.

While glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection is key. Eye pressure-lowering eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery can help prevent further vision loss.
 

Diabetic Retinopathy

People living with diabetes are at risk of developing this condition, which affects the blood vessels in the retina. Regular diabetic-related eye exams in Closter are vital because damage may occur before vision changes are noticeable.

Common Symptoms:

• Blurred vision

• Floaters

• Poor night vision

• Sudden vision changes

Better blood sugar control, medications, laser treatments, or injectable therapies can help manage diabetic retinopathy and preserve vision.
 

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the macula - the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It mainly impacts adults over age 50.

Common Symptoms:

• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces

• Straight lines appearing wavy

• Blurred central vision

Treatment varies by type and severity. Options may include nutritional supplements, lifestyle changes, and advanced therapies such as injections.
 

The Importance of Routine Eye Care

Not all eye conditions show symptoms right away. That’s why we recommend eye exams at least once a year - especially for those with diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or changing vision needs. We utilize advanced diagnostic technology like Optomap retinal imaging to capture a wide, detailed view of the back of your eye without dilation in many cases. During an exam, our team can detect early signs of disease, customize treatment if needed, and help you stay ahead of potential issues before they affect your eyesight.
 

Protect Your Vision with Bluehouse Eyecare

Understanding common eye conditions is the first step toward protecting your vision. But early detection is what truly preserves long-term eye health. With advanced diagnostics and caring professionals, we help every patient maintain clear, comfortable sight at every stage of life.

If you have concerns about eye disease, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Bluehouse Eyecare to protect your sight before symptoms appear. Contact our office in Closter, New Jersey, by calling (201) 768-2020 to book an appointment today.