Signs of eye health problems
Common visible signs of an eye health problem
Instruction
Read through the list of common visible signs of an eye health problem and look at the corresponding images.
Red colour on the conjunctiva (white part of the eye)
Watery or sticky discharge from the eye
Crust or pus on the eyelids and eyelashes
Swelling on or around the eye
Growths, lumps or bumps on or around the eye
Photo credit: LV Prasad Eye Institute, India
The pupil looks cloudy
Eyes that do not open or close properly
Eyes that do not look in the same direction as each other (one or both eyes turn inwards or outwards)
Image pending
Other signs of an eye health problem can include:
- Pain
- Dry, gritty or itchy eyes
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Flashes of light – brief sparks or lightening streaks in a person’s vision
- Floaters – small, dark shapes that appear to drift across a person’s vision. They may look like spots, threads or squiggly lines.
Warning
Occasional floaters are a normal part of ageing. However, a sudden increase in floaters, especially together with flashes of light can indicate a serious eye condition refer the person to an eye health professional urgently.
Instruction
Whenever you see this icon, it means that the person may need referral.
Warning
Detecting eye health problems early is important. If untreated, eye health problems can cause permanent damage to the eyes and can lead to vision loss.
Question
What signs of an eye health problem can you see?
Select two.
If you answered b and c, you are correct!
Both eyes are red and there is watery discharge from the left eye.
a and d are incorrect.
Both eyes are looking in the same direction, and they are not milky coloured.