Eye Diseases

Amblyopia (am-blee-OH-pee-uh), "lazy eye." Decreased vision in one or both eyes without detectable anatomic damage in the eye or visual pathways. Usually uncorrectable by eyeglasses or contact lenses.
       National Eye Institute

Cataracts Opacity or cloudiness of the crystalline lens, which may prevent a clear image from forming on the retina. Surgical removal of the lens may be necessary if visual loss becomes significant, with lost optical power replaced with an intraocular lens, contact lens, or aphakic spectacles. May be congenital or caused by trauma, disease, or age.
       National Eye Institute

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) (kun-junk-tih-VI-tis), "pink eye." Inflammation of the conjunctiva. Characterized by discharge, grittiness, redness and swelling. Usually viral in origin, but may be bacterial or allergic; may be contageous.
       Kidshealth.org

Diabetic Retinopathy (ret-in-AHP-uh-thee). Spectrum of retinal changes accompanying long-standing diabetes mellitus. Early stage is background retinopathy. May advance to proliferative retinopathy, which includes the growth of abnormal new blood vessels (neovascularization) and fibrous tissue.
       National Eye Institute

Diagram of the Eye
       National Eye Institute

Dry Eye Syndrome Corneal and conjunctival dryness due to deficient tear production, predominantly in menopausal and post-menopausal women. Can cause foreign body sensation, burning eyes, filamentary keratitis, and erosion of conjunctival and corneal epithelium.
       American Optometric Association
       St. Lukes Eye

Glaucoma (glaw-KOH-muh). Group of diseases characterized by increased intraocular pressure resulting in damage to the optic nerve and retinal nerve fibers. A common cause of preventable vision loss. May be treated by prescription drugs or surgery.
       Glaucoma.org
       National Eye Institute

Macular Degeneration (MAK-yu-lur). Group of conditions that include deterioration of the macula, resulting in loss of sharp central vision. Two general types: "dry," which is more common, and "wet," in which abnormal new blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid and blood (neovascularization), further disturbing macular function. Most common cause of decreased vision after age 60.
       National Eye Institute

Retinal Detachment eparation of the retina from the underlying pigment epithelium. Disrupts visual cell structure and thus markedly disturbs vision. Almost always caused by a retinal tear; often requires immediate surgical repair.
       Hendrick Health Systems
       National Eye Institute