Eye Conditions and Diseases

Learn about the different types of visual processing disorders and how to manage them.

Learn why opening your eyes underwater can be harmful. Pool chemicals can irritate your eyes, and an eye infection is possible from any body of water.

Commotio retinae, or cloudiness of the retina, is a condition caused by blunt trauma. Learn more about symptoms and how to prevent it.

Get details on this condition, including how it affects vision and how regular eye exams can help.

Keratopathy is damage to one of the five layers of the cornea. These 15 keratopathies can result from an eye condition or an underlying systemic condition.

Eye freckles are moles (or nevi) that form on the surface of your eye, in the iris or in the choroid. They can be harmless or indicate a bigger issue.

Learn about lattice degeneration — a retinal condition in which there are thinning areas in the periphery of the retina — and the risk of retinal detachment.

Fluctuations in vision (frequent changes in the sharpness of your eyesight) can be caused by temporary conditions, developing eye issues or serious health problems.

Macular edema is caused by fluid buildup in the center of the retina. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of macular edema.

Anisocoria (unequal pupil sizes) can be harmless, but it can also signal a serious medical issue. Learn about its causes and when to seek medical care.

Learn about papilledema (optic disc swelling), its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for preserving vision and brain health.

Eyes popping out (globe luxation) is a condition that occurs rarely — but when it does, it can cause severe vision problems.

Monovision can occur naturally or may be induced with contacts, LASIK, cataract surgery and glasses.

Best disease is a genetic eye condition that affects your central vision over time. Learn about its stages, symptoms and treatment options.

Guide to Stargardt's disease (often mistakenly called Stargate's), including causes of vision loss and what to expect.

Syringomas are sweat glands that have overgrown, creating bumps on the skin. Learn more about the types, their causes and their treatments.

A hyphema is a broken blood vessel in the eye that causes blood to collect behind the cornea. It can cause glaucoma.

Learn more about pyogenic granuloma of the eyelid. It is a fleshy growth that often appears after an eye infection, injury or surgery.

Corneal scarring is damage to the cornea, mostly caused by infection, injury or disease, that can negatively affect vision.

Learn about the different types of corneal deposits that can appear in the layers of the cornea as a result of medications or diseases.

Episcleritis causes painless inflammation, swelling and redness in the clear layer of the white of the eye (episclera).

Eye and eyelid cysts are often benign and nothing to worry about, but it’s best to see an eye doctor for a proper evaluation.

A choroidal nevus is a benign spot inside the eye that can only be seen during an eye exam. Regular eye doctor visits are key to spotting this condition early.

Larger-than-normal eyeballs in babies (buphthalmos) can indicate high intraocular pressure or glaucoma. Learn about the signs, symptoms and treatments.

A corneal ulcer requires prompt medical attention. Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatment of corneal ulcers.

A corneal erosion can be very painful and may lead to repeated episodes (called recurrent corneal erosions). Learn how they are treated and managed.

Learn about milia (tiny white or yellowish cysts) and how to safely remove them from your face, eyelids and under your eyes.

Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) is a rare inherited retinal disorder causing severe vision loss from birth. Learn its causes, diagnosis and treatments.

Exophoria is an outward turn or deviation of the eye that only occurs some of the time.

Retinoschisis is a rare vision condition in which the retina is split into two layers. It is not vision-threatening, but can lead to other vision-threatening problems.

Asthenopia is the technical name for eye strain or eye fatigue, often caused by computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include eye ache, headache and blur.

Discover the vision risks faced by people of African descent, and how they protect their eye health.

People over age 60 often get an arc or ring, called arcus senilis, around the colored part of their eyes. It’s not a vision problem but could be a clue to other health issues.

What you should know about retinitis pigmentosa, including causes, symptoms, treatments and details about Usher syndrome.

Epiphora (watery eyes) occurs due to blocked tear ducts, overproduction of tears, or eye irritation. Learn how it can be managed and treated.

A pinguecula is a benign growth that can form on the eye’s conjunctiva. Learn about its signs, symptoms and causes and when treatment may be needed.

Many people have staphyloma, especially if they’re nearsighted. Find out the signs, causes and treatments for this eye condition.

What causes a pterygium to grow on your eye and when pterygium surgery is needed.

Learn what can be done about optic neuritis and inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with multiple sclerosis.

Idiopathic juxtafoveal telangiectasia is a rare condition due to abnormal blood vessels surrounding the fovea. Learn the types, symptoms and treatments.

Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month by learning how Latinos can reduce their risk of eye disease.

Wondering what causes bad eyesight? The experts at All About Vision reveal the most common causes of bad eyesight, ways to minimize and treat bad eyesight.

Unusually small pupils may be caused by a number of factors, including drug use, injury or an underlying health issue.

Emmetropia is the medical term for 20/20 vision — perfect vision without the help of corrective lenses.

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is an eye condition that has no noticeable symptoms but can lead to glaucoma if it goes undetected.

Miosis occurs when the pupil of your eye shrinks and becomes very small, like a pinpoint. It may be caused by medications, injury, illness and even aging.

Retinal holes explained — including types, symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatment options.

Eyelash lice are usually pubic lice that have been transferred to the eyelashes by hand contact from the genital area.

Eyelash mites are a normal part of the human microbiome, and almost everyone will eventually have them, but when there are too many, they may require treatment.

Eye epiretinal membranes cause distorted vision in 20% of people over age 75 and can only be treated by surgery and an ERM peel.

Orbital pseudotumor is a noncancerous mass located in the tissue behind the eye. While it can resolve on its own, severe cases can cause vision complications.

Lack of melanin in the iris, the colored part of the eye, can have a profound impact on vision. Find out how ocular albinism is diagnosed and treated.

Posterior vitreous detachment is a normal part of the aging process and typically is not dangerous and has no serious effects on vision.

Parasites and worms can infect the eyes, leading to pain, blurry vision and inflammation. Treatment usually includes eye drops or oral medications.

Discover the symptoms of aberrations, starburst eyes or higher-order aberrations (HOAs) and the latest in medical technology to diagnose and treat aberrations.

Xanthelasmas are small collections of fat under the skin that appear as small yellowish growths around the eyes and eyelids.

Learn about rare eye conditions microphthalmia and anophthalmia. Discover their causes and symptoms, as well as treatments to manage these disorders.

Phthisis bulbi is a condition in which eye damage causes eye shrinkage and the permanent loss of vision. Learn more about its causes and symptoms.

Macular dystrophy is an inherited eye disease that causes central vision loss. Learn about the condition's types and causes, and how it's diagnosed.

Retinal hemorrhage, or retinal bleeding, can have a range of causes, from diabetes to high blood pressure, head injuries or even rapid changes in air pressure.

For Women's History Month, explore how lifelong hormone changes can affect women's eyes and vision.

Bulging eyes, also called exophthalmos or proptosis, may point to a thyroid disorder or a more serious condition. Find out the symptoms and treatment.

An optic pit is a small hole on the optic disc. It doesn’t usually cause problems but may lead to vision impairment over time. Read to find out how.

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eyelid issue that leads to dry eyes and styes. Learn how to spot MGD symptoms and what treatments can help relieve it.

A subconjunctival hemorrhage is a harmless red spot of blood in your eye. Learn about the causes, symptoms, how long it lasts and when to see a doctor.

A conjunctival nevus is an eye freckle, a harmless accumulation of melanin-producing melanocyte cells on the conjunctiva of the eye.

Spherical aberration in eyes is normal, but severe cases can cause low-quality vision.

Learn about hooded eyelids, also known as “hooded eyes.” This common facial feature is characterized by a small amount of excess skin under each eyebrow.

Find out what causes benign growths to develop on the eyelid and what you can do about them.

7 things you need to know about Fuchs' corneal dystrophy - including causes, symptoms and treatment.

An orbital subperiosteal hematoma occurs when blood pools between the bone and periosteum. Learn how this condition can affect eye and vision health.

AAPI communities are at higher risk for myopia, diabetic retinopathy and angle-closure glaucoma, as well as complications of hepatitis B and tuberculosis.

Aniridia is a condition in which a person has a completely or partially missing iris from birth. Read about its causes and how to manage vision issues.

Corneal infiltrates are inflammatory cells in the normally clear cornea. Understand why corneal infiltrates form and how to reduce the associated risk factors.

Learn about six common causes of eye floaters and what to do if you suddenly have an increase in floaters in your vision.

Blepharitis, or eyelid inflammation, is a condition that causes the eyes to be itchy, red and swollen. Learn more about this common eyelid concern.

Esophoria is an inward turn or deviation of the eye that only occurs some of the time.

Native American and Alaska Native communities face higher risks of eye problems. See what eye conditions are common and available resources for eye health.

A corneal descemetocele is a protrusion in one of the layers of the cornea. They are usually caused by untreated corneal ulcers. Read to learn more about their diagnosis and treatment.

Have you become sensitive to light? Learn what may be causing your photophobia or light sensitivity and how you can treat it.

Corneal edema is the swelling of the cornea. Though it is not life threatening, severe cases may require surgery to preserve vision.

Cotton wool spots are small, fluffy spots on the retina. They develop when blood flow to the eye is impaired. Learn more about associated conditions.

Leukocoria is the term for a pupil that reflects white instead of black or red. Learn more about the causes and conditions associated with leukocoria.

Retinal vasculitis (RV) is characterized by inflammation of the retina’s blood vessels. Learn more about underlying conditions, diagnosis and treatments.

Learn how Marcus Gunn pupil affects how your pupils respond to light, what it means for your eye health, and what treatment options are available.

Dacryoadenitis is inflammation of the lacrimal glands, the glands that produce tears. It causes pain and swelling in the upper, outer corner of the eyelid.

Symblepharon is a condition that affects the conjunctiva of the eye. Learn more about the signs, symptoms and causes, as well as prevention and treatment.

Dr. Dubow defines macular holes, including causes and treatments such as vitrectomy.

Cat eye syndrome is caused by a chromosomal defect, which results in a notch on the pupil, giving the eye a cat-like appearance.

Chorioretinitis, inflammation in the middle layer of the eye, can affect your vision. It’s vital to see your eye doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Hemianopia (hemianopsia) occurs when damage to the brain or optic nerve causes a person to lose sight in part of their visual field.

Learn about mydriasis, a dilated pupil that is unresponsive to light. Discover medications, injuries and conditions that cause it and learn how to treat it.

Trichiasis causes eyelashes to grow inward toward the eye, causing irritation. Ingrown eyelashes can be managed with home remedies, electrolysis and surgery.

Cases of shingles in the eye are on the rise. What are shingles around the eye and in the eye, what are symptom and what are treatments.

Bitot spots are small, gray deposits of dried conjunctiva on the eye. They are a sign of Vitamin A deficiency (VAD). Learn more about their diagnosis and treatment.

Learn about this fascinating condition in which those affected have bloody tears.

Anisometropia means one eye has more refractive error than the other so it needs a significantly different lens correction than the other to see clearly.

A vitreous hemorrhage, in which blood leaks into the eye from ruptured vessels, can cause decreased vision or blindness.

Clinical hypotony occurs when eye pressure falls too low and affects an individual's vision. Read here to learn the risks and possible complications of hypotony.

In pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS), contact and friction between the iris and lens can dislodge iris pigment. Learn how PDS can lead to pigmentary glaucoma.

What is distichiasis, and why is it known as double eyelashes? It’s uncommon, though famous actress Elizabeth Taylor was known to have the condition.

Learn how to identify and treat a hypopyon, along with how to reduce the risk factors associated with its formation.

Temporary vision loss, or amaurosis fugax, can be a warning sign of strokes and other health risks. Learn about symptoms, treatments and prevention options.

Learn about coloboma, a condition that causes missing tissue in different eye structures. Find out how it affects vision and how to manage its effects.

Eyelid skin tags are bothersome, but not dangerous. Skin tag on eyelid removal should be performed by a dermatologist. Learn why.

Decreased oxygen, inflammation, infection or trauma may lead to vascularization of the cornea and may result in vision loss.

Maculopathy is damage to the macula. It can result in blurry central vision and can be due to a variety of underlying conditions.

Corneal ectasia is when the cornea, the clear membrane in the front of the eye, becomes thin and develops a bulge.

Optic nerve drusen are deposits in the optic nerve that often don’t cause vision problems. Learn why your eye doctor will still want to monitor them.

A migraine aura is a warning sign that a migraine headache is about to begin. Learn the signs and symptoms of migraine aura and migraines without aura.

Ametropia is the presence of refractive error. It occurs when the eye is not able to focus light rays directly onto the retina to provide a clear image.

Metamorphopsia is a visual problem that makes objects look distorted or bent. Learn more about this symptom of problems within the eye or brain.

Ocular melanosis is a condition that causes spots of hyperpigmentation on the eye. Learn more about its diagnosis and potential risks.

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the choroid. Learn what causes CNV, its symptoms and treatments.

Glaucoma and macular degeneration are eye conditions that can impact vision. Learn about the differences between them and how they cause vision loss.

Corneal disease covers many conditions, from infections to dystrophies. Learn the causes, symptoms and treatment options that may help preserve sight.

An eye stroke is a loss of blood flow to the retina or optic nerve, often causing vision loss. Learn about its symptoms, causes, types and treatments.

Learn about ocular synechiae. Discover why these abnormal adhesions form; what the signs, complications and treatment options are; and how to prevent them.

Drusen are yellow deposits of lipids and protein that develop under the retina of the eye. They can be a sign of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Are your eyes opening while sleeping? Find out how you can tell, the effects of sleeping with eyelids open and what you can do about it.

Learn how von Hippel-Lindau syndrome affects the eyes, what symptoms to watch for, and how doctors diagnose and treat this condition.

Understand scleritis, including how it affects the eyes and when to see a doctor.

Lagophthalmos is when your eyelids do not close all the way. Read about what causes it, how to stop it and how to help your symptoms.

Conjunctivochalasis (CCh) is a condition in which the conjunctiva loosens and folds. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment for CCh.

Dermatochalasis — excess upper and lower eyelid skin from loss of elasticity — can typically be treated with surgery to improve vision and appearance.