Eye problems: when to seek help

If you had to choose, which of the five senses would you most fear losing? In surveys, 90 per cent of people say sight. Eye problems frequently start with few or minimal symptoms and it is important to spot them early so that you can get prompt and effective treatment.

• It is also true that your vision can deteriorate so gradually that you are barely aware of it.
• As a general rule, you should consult your optometrist about any changes in visual acuity (the medical term for how clearly you can see), difficulties with glasses, or symptoms related to wearing contact lenses; see your doctor for other eye symptoms or infections.
• If an eye exam has revealed problems that need to be investigated by a specialist, you may need to see an ophthalmologist.
• You'll also be advised to see your doctor if your optometrist detects changes in your retina that could indicate general health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes.
• If your eyes are sore for any reason, it will affect your general well-being. For instance, you'll find it harder to read or enjoy watching TV; and you'll probably feel more fatigued than usual (when your eyes are hurting, all you want to do is close them). So don't suffer in silence.

Common eye problems, including eye infections, blepharitis and conjunctivitis or dry eyes can be treated swiftly and easily by your doctor, who will also be able to prescribe medication and treat superficial eye injuries.

If you experience any of these conditions, seek emergency medical attention. If you can't get a doctor's appointment, don't wait; go to a nearby hospital emergency room.

• Sudden loss or impairment of vision in one or both eyes.
• Any eye injury.
• A chemical substance in your eye (wash out thoroughly with water first).
• Sudden persistent or severe pain in or around your eye.
• Extreme sensitivity to light.
• Odd visual effects — double vision, halos or rainbows around lights, flashes, black spots or large batches of "floaters".
• Your pupil is an irregular shape, or fails to respond, dilate or contract.
• Severe redness, itching, burning or watering.
• Profuse greenish or white discharge.