What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is the optical term for more than one point of focus. It occurs when the surface of the cornea or crystalline lens is not spherical. Light from an object does not focus exactly on the retina but at two separate points. An astigmatic eye has curves that are steeper in one direction than the […]
What are cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye and can develop in one or both eyes. The lens is normally clear and sits behind the iris – the coloured part of the eye. The lens helps focus light to produce a sharp image on to the retina at the back of the […]
How can diabetes affect my eyesight?
Diabetes can lead to a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy as well as other eye conditions. Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina) is caused by complications of diabetes mellitus, which can eventually lead to blindness. It is especially important that patients suffering from diabetes have their eyes checked regularly.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye conditions where the optic nerve is damaged at the point where it leaves the eye. The optic nerve carries images from the retina, the light sensitive membrane attached to the inner surface of the eye, to the brain. There are four main types: Chronic glaucoma […]
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin layer that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can affect one or both eyes, causing discomfort. The causes of conjunctivitis can be bacterial, viral, allergic or from another source. If you have mild symptoms of discomfort, […]
What is macular degeneration?
The retina is the light sensitive membrane attached to the inner surface of the eye. Light enters the eye and falls on the retina allowing us to see images, these are transmitted along the optic nerve to the brain where they are processed so we can see. The macula is a small area in the […]
What is myopia?
A person with myopia or short sight can see clearly objects close to them, but not far away. Myopia is caused by the shape of the eye; either the eyeball is slightly too long or the cornea (the clear covering of the front of the eye) is too steeply curved. Myopia is corrected by spectacles […]
What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia describes the condition where the eye exhibits a progressively diminished ability to focus on near objects. It is a perfectly natural condition that eventually affects everyone but because the effects are gradual, you may not notice that anything is wrong with your eyesight initially. However, as the condition progresses, you may find yourself struggling […]
What is dry eye?
Dry eye is a common medical condition and is caused by a problem with the drainage, evaporation or production of tears. Tears are moved across the eye when you blink to lubricate the front surface of your eye, wash away debris, protect against infection and to help stabilise vision.