Common eye conditions patients ask about
Educational information from RarePlus pharmacists — not a diagnosis. Contact the pharmacy for personalised advice about medicines.
Most people who walk into Balija are not looking for a medical textbook. They want to know why things look soft, why eyes itch in harmattan, or whether a child’s squinting is urgent. Here is a short map of conditions we discuss often.
Refractive errors
Myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism blur vision because light does not focus cleanly on the retina. Glasses, contact lenses, or sometimes specialty lenses correct them. A proper refraction matches how you work, drive, and use screens.
Dry eyes and allergies
Dust, air conditioning, and seasonal allergens can leave eyes gritty, red, or watery. Lubricating drops, lid care, and treating the cause usually help. Persistent redness deserves an exam so we do not miss infection or other disease.
Cataracts and aging changes
Cataracts cloud the lens over time and can cause glare, faded colours, and trouble with night driving. Many people manage early changes with updated lenses until surgery becomes the right step with an ophthalmologist.
Diabetic eye disease
Diabetes can damage retinal blood vessels without early warning. If you live with diabetes, schedule regular dilated exams even when vision feels fine.
This overview is not a diagnosis. If something about your sight has changed, book an appointment and we will examine the full picture.