---
title: "Eye conditions, explained simply. | Eye Health Guide"
description: "Plain-language explainers for common eye conditions, from cataracts and glaucoma to dry eye, designed for clarity and clinical review."
url: https://eyehealthguide.org/conditions/
source: Eye Health Guide
licence: "General information only. Cite the URL and the named medical reviewer."
---

Condition library

# Eye conditions, explained simply.

Browse common eye conditions with quick answers first, then clear detail on causes, tests, treatment, and when to seek care.

Medical reviewer [Mr Mohamed Mohyudin](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/mohamed-mohyudin/)· Last recorded site review July 6, 2026

### About this review

This page inherits the site’s previous review record. A separate, current article sign-off has not yet been recorded.

[How review works](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/) · [Official biography & credentials](https://mohamedmohyudin.co.uk/author/mohamed-mohyudin/)

Quick answer

Most eye conditions are easier to treat when found early. Use this library to understand what a condition is, how it is diagnosed, and which symptoms should not wait.

### On this page ⌄

1. Common conditions
2. How each guide is structured
3. When to seek care
4. Browse by area of the eye
5. All conditions A–Z
6. Frequently asked questions

## Browse by area of the eye

## All conditions A–Z

No matches. Try a different search or browse by category above.

## Common conditions

Start with the conditions people search for most often.

- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Dry eye disease
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Diabetic eye disease

## How each guide is structured

Every condition page opens with a quick answer and red flags, then covers causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and follow-up in plain language.

## When to seek care

Each guide clearly separates routine concerns from symptoms that need same-day or emergency attention.

## Frequently asked questions

### What are the most common eye conditions?

Cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye disease, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease are among the most common, and most are manageable when found early.

### Can eye conditions be prevented?

Many cannot be fully prevented, but regular eye exams, managing conditions like diabetes, eye protection, and not ignoring new symptoms can reduce risk and slow progression.

### When should I see an eye specialist?

Book a routine exam if you notice gradual changes, and seek same-day care for sudden vision loss, severe pain, eye injury, or new flashes and floaters.

### What is the difference between an optician, optometrist and ophthalmologist?

An optician fits glasses and contact lenses. An optometrist examines eyes, prescribes glasses, and can manage many common conditions. An ophthalmologist is a medical eye doctor who treats disease and performs surgery.

### Can children have serious eye conditions?

Yes. Amblyopia, squint, and retinopathy of prematurity are examples where early childhood checks matter. Never ignore a white pupil reflex or a turned eye in a child.

### Does diabetes affect the eyes?

Yes. Diabetic retinopathy can damage sight without early symptoms. People with diabetes should attend retinal screening as advised and keep blood sugar and blood pressure well controlled.

### Are eye drops from the pharmacy always safe?

Over-the-counter lubricating drops are usually safe for short-term dryness, but redness-relief drops can mask serious problems. Do not use steroid or antibiotic drops without professional advice.

### What are red-flag eye symptoms?

Sudden vision loss, severe pain, injury, chemical splash, new flashes with floaters, a curtain over vision, painful red eye with light sensitivity, and double vision with neurological symptoms.

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