Question 1

Glaucoma

Answer

Glaucoma is a condition which can affect sight, usually due to build up of pressure within the eye. It often affects both eyes, usually to varying degrees. One eye may develop glaucoma quicker than the other. The eyeball contains a fluid called aqueous humour which is constantly produced by the eye, with any excess drained though tubes. Glaucoma develops when the fluid cannot drain properly and pressure builds up, known as the intraocular pressure. This can damage the optic nerve (which connects the eye to the brain) and the nerve fibres from the retina (the light-sensitive nerve tissue that lines the back of the eye). LivingCare have an OCT machine for patients who suffer with Glaucoma.

Question 2

Watery Eyes

the lower eyelid sagging away from the eye (ectropion) – this makes it difficult for tears to reach the drainage ducts

eyelids that roll inwards (entropion)

inflammation of the edges of the eyelids (blepharitis)

blocked or narrowed tear ducts

eye irritation (for example, from chemical fumes or grit)

an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis

an allergy

Answer

Watery eye occur if too many tears are produced or if they cannot drain away properly. The problem can affect anyone, but it's most common in young babies and people older than 60. It can cause blurred vision, sore eyelids and sticky eyes. Glands in the eyelids (Meibomian glands) normally secrete an oily substance that slows the evaporation of tears between blinks. When these glands don't function properly, known as Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), it can result in dry patches on your eyes. These become sore, and extra tears are produced as a reflex. This is the most likely cause of watering eyes. Other problems that can cause extra tears to be produced include:

Question 3

Dry Eyes

feelings of dryness, grittiness or soreness that get worse throughout the day

burning and red eyes

eyelids that stick together when you wake up

temporarily blurred vision, which usually improves when you blink

Some people may also have episodes of watering eyes, which can occur if the eye tries to relieve the irritation by producing more tears.

Answer

Dry eye syndrome, or dry eye disease, is a common condition that occurs when the eyes don't make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to the eyes drying out and becoming red, swollen and irritated. Dry eye syndrome is also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or simply "dry eyes". The symptoms of dry eye syndrome are mild for most people, although more severe cases can be painful and lead to complications. Symptoms usually affect both eyes and often include:

Question 4

Blepharitis

itchy, sore and red eyelids that stick together

crusty or greasy eyelashes

a burning, gritty sensation in your eyes

increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)

swollen eyelid margins

finding contact lenses uncomfortable to wear

abnormal eyelash growth or loss of eyelashes in severe cases

In most cases both eyes are affected, but one eye can be more affected than the other. The symptoms tend to be worse in the morning.

Answer

Blepharitis is a common condition where the edges of the eyelids (eyelid margins) become red and swollen (inflamed). Blepharitis can develop at any age, and symptoms can include:

Question 5

Dry AMD

reading becomes difficult

colours appear less vibrant

people's faces are difficult to recognise

This sight loss usually happens gradually over time, although it can sometimes be rapid. AMD doesn't affect your peripheral vision (side vision), which means it will not cause complete blindness. Dry AMD develops when the cells of the macula become damaged by a build-up of deposits called drusen. With dry AMD, the deterioration of vision can be very slow. You won't go completely blind, as your peripheral (side) vision shouldn't be affected. Help is available to make tasks such as reading and writing easier. Getting practical help may improve your quality of life and make it easier for you to carry out your daily activities. Staff can provide useful advice and practical support to help minimise the effect dry AMD has on your life.

Answer

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a painless eye condition that causes you to lose central vision, usually in both eyes. Central vision is what you see when you focus straight ahead. In AMD, this vision becomes increasingly blurred, which means: