Eye Conditions

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Eye Conditions: Top 20 Most Common in the UK

Understanding common eye conditions can help you spot changes in your vision and know when to seek help. Here are 20 of the most common in the UK, explained in plain language:

Refractive Errors – Problems with the shape of the eye affecting how light focuses, causing blurred vision. Includes short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
Presbyopia – Age-related difficulty focusing on close objects, usually starting after age 40.
Cataracts – Clouding of the eye’s lens, making vision blurry or misty.
Glaucoma – Damage to the optic nerve, often linked to raised eye pressure. Can cause sight loss if untreated.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – Damage to the macula, affecting central vision. More common in people over 55.
Diabetic Retinopathy – Damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes, which can lead to sight loss.
Dry Eye Syndrome – Eyes do not make enough tears or the tears dry up too quickly, causing discomfort and redness.
Conjunctivitis – Inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye, often causing redness and irritation.
Floaters and Flashes – Small shapes, spots, or flashes of light in your vision. Usually harmless but can signal a serious problem if sudden.
Blepharitis – Inflammation of the eyelids, causing redness, swelling, and crusty eyelashes.
Styes and Chalazia – Small lumps on the eyelid caused by blocked glands. Styes are painful, chalazia are usually painless.
Corneal Abrasions or Foreign Bodies – Scratches or objects in the clear front surface of the eye, causing pain and watering.
Retinal Detachment – The retina pulls away from the back of the eye. Needs urgent treatment to prevent sight loss.
Uveitis – Inflammation inside the eye, often causing pain, redness, and blurred vision.
Keratoconus – The cornea thins and bulges outwards, distorting vision.
Colour Vision Deficiency – Difficulty telling certain colours apart, often inherited.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) – Reduced vision in one eye because the brain and eye do not work together properly, usually starting in childhood.
Strabismus (Squint) – The eyes point in different directions, which can cause double vision.
Retinitis Pigmentosa – A rare genetic condition causing gradual loss of night and peripheral vision.
Photokeratitis – Sunburn of the cornea from intense UV light, such as sunlight reflected off snow or water.

If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, see an optician or GP immediately. Early detection and treatment can often prevent further sight loss.