Disorders & diseases: F-M

Floaters

These are specks that people commonly  detect in front of their eyes. They are tiny specs of debris floating through the vitreous fluid of the eyeball. If new and especially if associated with flashing lights, urgent review by an eye specialist is recommended as these may be a sign of retinal detachment.

Genetic eye diseases

Many eye diseases are caused by genetic factors that have been inherited. If a family history of a vision problem or disease is known, this will aid diagnosis and allow risk assessment for family members.

These can include a higher risk of glaucoma, corneal dystrophies congenital cataract, retinal degenerations, as well as retinitis pigmentosa. If there is a history of blindness in the family, even if the cause is unknown, it’s valuable to have an eye examination as some conditions are preventable and new treatments are being developed.

Glaucoma

Known as the ‘sneak thief of sight’, glaucoma is an eye disorder in which the optic nerve suffers damage, which can cause blindness if not treated. It’s often caused by increased pressure of the fluid in the eye. Click here to read more.

Herpes simplex of the eye

An infection of the cornea caused by the herpes simplex virus. Usually, the infection is just in the top layer of the cornea. When deeper layers are involved, there is a possibility of scarring. Treatment usually involves eye drops or medicine, but if scarring occurs, a cornea transplant may be required.

Often called cold sores, these can have a devastating effect on the eye and, if suspected, treatment needs to be commenced as soon as possible.If there’s a history of herpes simplex, care must be taken with the use of steroid containing eye drops and ointments – the use of these must be supervised by your ophthalmologist.

Hyperopia

See long-sightedness.

Hypertensive retinopathy

A rare condition only seen with uncontrolled hypertension. Associated with a greater risk of retinal vein occlusion. Blurred vision will occur but should be resolved with treatment of the underlying blood pressure.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disorder in which the shape of the cornea is distorted and a cone-like bulge develops, causing visual impairment. Essentially, it’s the result of a thinning of the central zone of the cornea.

Lacrimal eye diseases

The lacrimal system produces tears and provides the drainage systems of the eye. Problems with this system include dry eyes, inflammation and infection of the glands in the eyelid, eyelid laxity and partial or total blockage of the tear drainage system.

Lagophthalmos

This is the inability to close the eyelids completely. It prevents blinking – crucial to cleaning the eye. In serious cases, the eye can suffer abrasions or infections. Treatment ranges from lubricating drops to ointments to surgery.

Long sightedness

Also known as hyperopia, this is the condition in which it’s easier to see objects in the far distance than close up. A typical example is when it’s hard to read a menu in a restaurant or when trying to focus on the print in a newspaper. Hyperopia can be caused by a flat cornea, a short eyeball or a combination of both. Click here to read more.

Macular degeneration

This is the condition that results from the degeneration of the central part of the retina. There are two principle types: wet and dry. Wet macular degeneration affects vision due to bleeding from abnormal blood vessels and a subsequent scar in the retina. Dry macular degeneration is caused by the aging process, which thins the macular lens causing gradual vision loss. Click here to read more

Macular hole

A macular hole is small break in the macula, located in the centre of the retina. Usually caused in later years, when the aging process causes the vitreous (the gel inside the eyeball) to thicken, which subsequently starts to pull at the retina. If the vitreous is firmly attached to the retina, a hole can result. Symptoms include blurring and the loss of central vision. A vitrectomy is the most common treatment.

Macular pucker

See Epiretinal Membrane.

Macular oedema

This occurs when fluid and protein deposits collect on or under the macula. This causes it to thicken and swell, distorting central vision. The condition sometimes occurs shortly after cataract surgery or in diabetes and can often be treated with cortisone eye drops. Intravitreal injections of steroids may also be required on occasions.

Myopia

See Short-Sightedness.

Myopic macular schisis

An uncommon condition where the back of the eye develops a backwards bulge, causing the macula to stretch and split. Symptoms include blurred central vision and distortion. Treatment is usually a vitrectomy.