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Illustration of internal eye anatomy

Some eye problems are minor and fleeting. But some lead to a permanent loss of vision. Common eye problems include

  • Cataracts - clouded lenses
  • Glaucoma - damage to the optic nerve from too much pressure in the eye
  • Retinal disorders - problems with the nerve layer at the back of the eye
  • Conjunctivitis - an infection also known as pink eye

Your best defense is to have regular checkups, because eye diseases do not always have symptoms. Early detection and treatment could prevent vision loss. See an eye care professional right away if you have a sudden change in vision or everything looks dim or if you see flashes of light. Other symptoms that need quick attention are pain, double vision, fluid coming from the eye and inflammation.

National Eye Institute

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