Your eyes are an invaluable sensory organ. Eyes are also extremely sensitive, and problems with them are common. While many ordinary ocular conditions resolve on their own, others require the help of an eye doctor to diagnose and treat. Learn the source of some common eye issues so you know how to prevent them. 

4 Common Eye Problems & Their Causes

1. Eyestrain

This condition is increasingly widespread as people spend more time looking at their devices. If you spend hours typing at your computer, poring over documents at work, or looking at the road as you drive long distances, you’re more likely to strain your eyes. Common symptoms of eyestrain include headaches, increased light sensitivity, blurred vision, or eyes that feel sore, watery, or itchy. To avoid eyestrain, limit your time with electronic devices, take frequent breaks from activities that require visual focus, and blink frequently to keep your eyes moist. 

2. Red Eyes

Red eyes occur when the blood vessels in your sclerae – the white parts of your eyes – become swollen. Other symptoms may accompany the change in color, including burning or itching sensations, dryness, or pain. There are many causes of red eyes, including allergies, tiredness, irritation from contact lenses, a foreign object in the eye, or even a serious underlying condition. Visit your eye doctor if the redness doesn’t subside in a day or so.

3. Night Blindness

Night blindness is when you’re unable to see well in the dark. People with night blindness sometimes find that their eyes adjust slowly to changes in light during the day. Frighteningly, they also often find that the brightness of headlights or streetlamps when driving at night gives them vision loss. Night blindness is a symptom of several serious underlying concerns, from cataracts to a diet deficient in vitamin A. Luckily, aside from a few rare genetic conditions, most other causes of night blindness are treatable. Talk to your eye doctor to determine the cause and receive proper treatment. 

4. Dry Eye

Dry eyes are uncomfortable, causing pain, stinging, and scratchy sensations. A lack of sufficient tear production to lubricate the eye is often to blame. Dry eye is a common side effect of certain medications. Environmental factors such as climate, dust, and allergens also play a role. If your eyes are dry, try over-the-counter artificial tears. If those don’t help, talk to your eye doctor about getting a prescription for something more effective or othe treatment methods.

If you’re seeking quality care for any eye problem, contact Tri-State Eye. Since 1993, these eye doctors have provided compassionate, safe, and professional service from their conveniently located offices in Middletown, NY and Milford, PA. Their team offers comprehensive eye care from  eye surgery to vision loss care. They have state-of-the-art technology and training to help with all your vision needs. To browse their full list of services, visit them online or call (845) 703-2020 or (570)296-9696 to speak with a trusted representative today to book an appointment.