Common Eye Conditions in Chesterfield, MO

Common eye conditions, such as eye infections, eye allergies, conjunctivitis, chalazions, and foreign bodies in the eyes, frequently cause symptoms like redness, irritation, tearing, and vision concerns. At West County Ophthalmology, we offer comprehensive vision care that includes treating and managing different conditions that affect your eyes. If you have a concern about your eyes in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO, then please contact one of our centers to schedule an appointment. 

There are some general risk factors for common eye conditions. You may find yourself experiencing one of these common eye conditions if you:

• Have certain skin conditions
• Have oily skin
• Are a smoker
• Have diabetes
• Experience dry eyes or dry skin

Many eye conditions have little, if any, symptoms in the beginning stages. However, as the conditions progress, you may experience:

• Eye strain
• Blurred vision
• Eye irritation
• Headaches
• Difficulty seeing in the dark

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, our team at West County Ophthalmology suggests you schedule an appointment so we can help determine the root cause of the symptom and treat it without delay.

Some of the most common eye conditions that we treat at our facility include:

• Blepharitis - Inflammation of the eyelids that leads to red, swollen, itchy eyes.
• Eyelid lesions and growths - Typically benign lesions that form on the upper or lower eyelids.
• Chalazions - Small cysts on the eyelids that can be treated with massage and warm compresses.
• Uveitis - Inflammation inside the eye, usually treated with medications like eye drops, steroids, or injections.
• Red eye - Often a symptom of an underlying condition, red eye is where blood vessels in your eye expand due to irritation or infection.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to your eyes and/or vision, such as excessive tearing, redness, itchiness, or vision problems, you may be experiencing one of the above eye conditions.

Common eye conditions are treated with a variety of methods tailored to each specific issue. Eye infections often require antibiotic or antiviral eye drops, while allergies can be managed with antihistamine drops or oral medications to alleviate symptoms. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is typically treated with topical antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the cause. Chalazions, which are blocked oil glands, may be treated with warm compresses to reduce inflammation or, in persistent cases, require minor surgical intervention. Regular eye exams are crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of these conditions.

What are some common eye conditions?
There are a variety of common eye problems. Some of the most notable include:

• Nearsightedness (myopia)
• Farsightedness (hyperopia)
• Astigmatism
• Macular degeneration
• Cataracts
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Glaucoma

How can I tell if there is something wrong with my eyes?
Typically, you'll experience a difference in your vision. You may notice things like floaters or flashes, blurred vision, and more. If you're experiencing symptoms like these, you should visit our office for a comprehensive eye exam.

What happens if an eye condition is left untreated?
Left untreated, an eye condition could lead to many things — it depends on the exact condition. However, increased difficulty seeing could result, and even partial or total blindness could occur in serious cases.

Itchy, irritated, and red eyes may be a signal of infection or another common eye condition. Our vision professionals provide you with comprehensive vision care that can help you see clearly for years to come. To schedule an exam with our West County Ophthalmology vision professionals, contact one of our centers in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO.