Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. The disease causes central vision loss, making it difficult to read, recognize faces, or see details clearly. The risk of AMD increases with age and is common in people over 45. Signs of AMD include straight lines or distortions in the field of vision, blurred or dark spots in the central vision, and difficulty seeing small details.

Anemia and other blood disorders

Some eye symptoms can also be a sign of anemia. Pale inner eyelids or unusual blood vessels in the retina can signal low red blood cell count or other problems. A doctor can detect unusual blood vessel changes during an eye exam.

Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy

Diabetes is a condition in which the body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use it effectively, resulting in high blood sugar. The disease can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This condition, called diabetic retinopathy, can cause blindness over time. Characteristic symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include blurred or fluctuating vision, dark spots or gaps in the field of vision, and difficulty seeing colors clearly.

People with diabetes should have regular eye exams. Doctors can use an ophthalmoscope to examine the inside of the eye, and retinal photographs can help detect damage early.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can cause changes in the blood vessels of the eye, called hypertensive retinopathy. This can lead to vision problems and is also a warning sign of damage to other organs like the heart and kidneys. Some symptoms include blurred vision, headaches or eye pain, and red or swollen eyes.

Brain tumors

Tumors pressing on the optic nerve or optic chiasm can cause temporary or permanent blindness. Symptoms can start gradually with blurred or double vision and progress to vision loss over time as the tumor grows.

Not all brain tumors cause these problems. Tumors affecting the frontal or temporal lobes can cause symptoms unrelated to vision, such as loss of smell, weakness on one side of the body, or seizures.

Bao Bao (According to WebMD, Cleveland Clinic)