Eye conditions can range from mild and easily treatable to progressive issues that require long-term management. Some affect vision directly, while others may signal a more serious health concern.
The good news? Many eye conditions can be spotted early during routine eye tests. That’s why regular check-ups with an optometrist are essential—especially as you get older or if you’re part of a higher-risk group.
Here’s an overview of common eye conditions in the UK, what symptoms to watch out for, and what treatments may be available.
Myopia and Hyperopia (Short- and Long-sightedness)
- Myopia (short-sightedness): Distant objects appear blurry.
- Hyperopia (long-sightedness): Close-up objects are difficult to see clearly.
Both conditions vary in severity—from mild cases that may go unnoticed to more serious levels that affect daily life.
Myopia is thought to affect up to 1 in 3 people in the UK. It’s especially common among teenagers and young adults. Hyperopia is more common in younger children and often improves with age.
Most cases can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or laser eye surgery.
Learn more at the NHS page on short-sightedness
Cataracts
Cataracts cause cloudy or blurred patches in the lens of the eye. While often age-related, they can also affect babies and younger people.
Symptoms include:
- Blurry or misty vision
- Difficulty with glare or low light
- Faded colours or halos around lights
Over time, cataracts can interfere with daily activities. Surgery is available and highly effective—usually involving removal of the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial one.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of inherited disorders that cause gradual damage to the retina. Symptoms vary but often begin with difficulty seeing in low light and progressive loss of peripheral vision.
There’s no known cure, but some treatments can help slow the condition in certain cases. If RP runs in your family, you may wish to consult a genetic counsellor.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Night blindness
- Tunnel vision
- Trouble with reading or facial recognition
Glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve due to increased pressure inside the eye. It often develops slowly without noticeable symptoms until vision loss begins.
Key facts:
- Can affect one or both eyes
- Often treated with drops or surgery
- Damage is irreversible, but early detection helps prevent it
Routine eye tests include a pressure check to screen for glaucoma.
Learn more from the NHS guide to glaucoma
Diabetic Retinopathy
High blood sugar levels linked to diabetes can damage blood vessels in the retina. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy and is a leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults.
Signs may include:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Vision loss if untreated
Diabetics should have annual eye exams to monitor for early signs.
Learn more about Diabetic eye screening – NHS
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the central part of the retina (macula) responsible for detailed vision.
Types:
- Dry AMD: Tissue in the retina gradually thins and breaks down.
- Wet AMD: Abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid.
Early signs:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Difficulty reading or recognising faces
- Faded colours
Lifestyle changes—like a healthy diet and not smoking—can help reduce risk.
Learn more here – NHS AMD information
Amblyopia
(Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia is a condition where the brain starts to ignore input from one eye, leading to poor development of vision in that eye.
Usually noticed when:
- One eye appears to drift or squint
- A child struggles with depth perception
If caught early, it’s often treatable with eye patches, glasses or vision therapy. Early intervention is key.
Floaters
Floaters are small specks or shapes that drift across your vision, often most noticeable when looking at a bright background like a clear sky or a plain white wall.
They’re very common and usually harmless, especially as we age. However, certain changes may indicate a more serious problem, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
Seek urgent help if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light in your vision
- A dark shadow or curtain moving across your sight
These can be signs of retinal detachment, which requires immediate medical attention to help prevent permanent vision loss.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly.
Symptoms:
- Stinging, burning or gritty sensations
- Redness or watery eyes
- Blurred vision that improves after blinking
Mild cases respond well to eye drops and lifestyle changes, while severe cases might need prescription treatment or surgery.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin membrane covering the eye.
Causes:
- Bacterial or viral infections (can be contagious)
- Allergies
- Irritants like smoke or dust
Symptoms usually include:
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- A gritty feeling
- Discharge (especially with bacterial forms)
Treatment depends on the cause but often resolves on its own or with drops.
Strabismus (Squint)
Strabismus occurs when the eyes don’t align properly, often due to muscle imbalance. It can appear in childhood or be caused by stroke, injury, or other health conditions.
Treatment may include:
- Glasses
- Eye exercises
- Surgery for muscle correction
Conclusion
Maintaining regular eye exams is one of the best ways to protect your vision. Many conditions can be treated or managed if caught early. If you notice any changes in your eyesight, discomfort, or symptoms that concern you, don’t wait—speak to your optometrist or GP.