Overview

Many people have minor eye problems, such as eye strain, irritated eyes, or itchy, scaly eyelids (blepharitis). These problems may be ongoing (chronic), but they usually aren't serious. Home treatment can relieve the symptoms of many minor eye problems.

Common eye problems

Common types of eye problems include:

• Drainage from the eyes or too much tearing.
• Watery eyes from hay fever or other seasonal allergies.
• Eye strain or vision changes. Vision changes may happen gradually or suddenly. They include blurred vision and double vision.
• Misaligned eyes or strabismus (sometimes called cross-eyes).
• Blood in the white of the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage).
• Eyelid problems. These may be caused by irritation or infection. A stye is an example.
• Contact lens problems. To avoid eye problems, be sure to follow the directions for cleaning and wearing contact lenses.
• Colour blindness.
• Night blindness.
• Glaucoma.
• Cataracts.
• Retinal problems, such as diabetic retinopathy.
• Red eyes that may be caused by infection, inflammation, or tumours.
• Uveitis.
• Macular degeneration.
• Papilledema.

It's fairly common for the eyes to be irritated or have a scratchy feeling. Pain isn't a common eye problem unless there has been an injury. It's not unusual for the eyes to be slightly sensitive to light. But sudden, painful sensitivity to light is a serious problem. It may be a sign of glaucoma or inflammation of the muscles that control the pupil (iritis). Have it checked by your doctor.

People often live with minor eye irritation and problems for a long time, until the irritation or problems become bothersome enough to seek care. People who have skin problems and allergies often have ongoing minor problems with the skin of their eyelids and allergic irritation of the eyes.

Vision changes

Sudden problems such as new vision changes, pain in the eye, or increased drainage are often more serious. They should be checked by a doctor. Eye symptoms that are new or that occur suddenly may be checked by an emergency medicine specialist.

Ongoing (chronic) eye problems that may be getting worse are usually checked by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist). A gradual change in your vision or chronic eye problems may include:

• Vision changes, such as:
  • Trouble adjusting your vision when you enter a dark room.
  • Trouble focusing on close or faraway objects.
  • Dark spots in the centre of your vision field.
  • Lines or edges that look wavy.
• Eyelid problems, such as a stye or chalazion (a small, hard lump).
• Discharge from or irritation of the eyeball or eyelids. Examples include an infection of the inner edge of the lower eyelid (dacryocystitis) and pink eye (conjunctivitis).
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
• Not being able to see well at night (night blindness). A decrease in night vision may be caused by nearsightedness, cataracts, macular degeneration, or conditions that affect the retina.

Vision and age

As you reach your 40s and 50s, it's common to have some vision changes and maybe to need glasses. Some of the changes may also cause other symptoms, like headaches and nausea. These symptoms can affect your ability to function.

Some children may have special risks for eye problems. Vision screening is advised for infants who were either born at or before 30 weeks, whose birth weight was 1250 g (2.8 lb) or less, or who are at high risk for vision problems. Most vision problems are noticed first by the parents. The first screening is recommended about 4 to 9 weeks after birth.^{footnote 1}

Self-Care

Home treatment may give some relief from eye symptoms. If you are caring for a child who can't hold still, ask another adult for help if needed.

• Rest your eyes.

  This includes taking out your contacts if you use them.

• Don't rub your eyes.
• Try cold or warm compresses.

  Use whichever feels the best.

• Gently flush your eyes with water.

  Take out your contacts, if you use them. Put your face in a pan of water, or use a low pressure kitchen sink sprayer. Keep your eyes open.

• Protect your eyes.

  Avoid bright lights and use dark glasses.

• Moisten your eyes.

  If needed, use over-the-counter eyedrops, such as artificial tear solutions.

• Use eyedrops or ointment if needed.

  Follow the directions on how to use them.

When to call for help during self-care

Call a doctor if any of the following occur during self-care at home:

• Vision changes, such as blurred vision, loss of vision, or double vision.
• Pain or drainage that does not get better.
• New blood in the eye.
• New sensitivity to light.
• New signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or a fever.
• Symptoms occur more often or are more severe.

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