Singapore, like many developed nations, grapples with several eye diseases that can lead to significant visual impairment or blindness if left untreated.

Understanding these conditions is crucial for early detection and management. Early detection helps to preserve vision and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Here are five common eye diseases are common in Singapore:

1. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye.

Unfortunately, glaucoma is a silent thief of sight, as it typically shows no symptoms in its early stages, making regular eye examinations critically important for early detection. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to peripheral vision loss and eventually total blindness.

Management and Treatment:
Management of glaucoma includes medications in the form of eye drops or pills, laser treatment, or surgery. These treatments aim to lower eye pressure by increasing the drainage of eye fluids. Early detection through regular eye check-ups is key to preventing the significant visual impairment associated with this diseases.

2. Diabetic Retinopathy
More than 400,000 people in Singapore live with diabetes, with the number projected to rise to 1 million by 2050. One of the complications of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication that affects the eyes. It’s caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina).

Initially, diabetic retinopathy may cause no symptoms or only mild vision problems. However, it can eventually lead to blindness. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy grows the longer one has diabetes and the less controlled one’s blood sugar is.

Management and Treatment:
Early stages of diabetic retinopathy may require no treatment other than monitoring. However, more advanced forms might need laser treatment, injections directly into the eye, or surgery to prevent vision loss. Controlling one’s diabetes is vital to preventing diabetic retinopathy.

3. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)
Age-related macular degeneration is a condition that can affect the middle part of the vision. It occurs when the small central portion of the retina, known as the macula, wears down with age.

ARMD is one of the leading causes of severe, irreversible vision impairment in people over age 60. There are two types of ARMD: dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular or exudative). The wet form is more likely to lead to significant vision loss.

Management and Treatment:
While there is no cure for ARMD, early detection and certain treatments can slow its progression and, in some cases, improve vision. Treatments include anti-VEGF injection therapy to slow the growth of new blood vessels in the retina, photodynamic therapy, and laser therapy.

4. Cataracts
Cataracts develop when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, obstructing clear vision. This condition is commonly associated with aging but can also result from injury, certain medications, or other health conditions. Symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and sensitivity to light and glare.

Management and Treatment:
Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one. It is a safe and effective treatment.

Conclusion
Preventing these eye diseases involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, protecting your eyes from excessive UV light, and avoiding smoking.

Most importantly, regular comprehensive eye exams can catch these conditions early, when they are most treatable, significantly reducing the risk of vision loss.

If you’re concerned about your eye health or it’s time for your regular eye check-up, consider booking an appointment with United Eyecare. We’re dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care to help maintain your vision and eye health.

United Optometrist @ Square 2 (Novena MRT🚇)
⏰ Mon-Sun 11.30am – 8pm
📲 WhatsApp: 98251377
📞 63976885

United Eyecare @ Boon Keng MRT🚇
⏰ Mon-Sun 10.30am – 7.30pm
📲 WhatsApp: 88070495
📞 62978298