How can different eye diseases affect vision?

Normal Vision

Clear, focussed image with excellent colour and detail

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve—the vital neural pathway that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. It is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" because early stages rarely cause pain or noticeable symptoms.

The image here shows peripheral vision loss that can slowly creep towards the central vision. Advanced cases can results in total blindness if left untreated, but the vast majority of glaucoma is highly treatable and remains at an early stage through therapy such as eye drops and laser treatment. A small subset of glaucoma patients will need glaucoma surgery to reduce or prevent the risk of further vision loss.

Cataract

There is gradual loss of colour and detail in an eye with developing cataract. Importantly, cataract formation is generally considered a normal part of the ageing process and the prescence of cataract does not necessarily require surgery to replace the cloudy lens. However, if day to day activitites are being affected, surgical replacement of the cloudy lens can be achieved through a relatively straight forward day case procedure, with excellent results. Patients with co-existing glaucoma can undergo combined procedures where the cataract and eye pressure problems can be addressed with one combined procedure.

Age Related Macular Degeneration

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is a common eye condition affecting the macula—the central, light-sensitive area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It primarily impacts older adults, causing gradual or sudden changes in central vision that can make activities like reading, recognising faces, or driving increasingly difficult, while peripheral vision usually remains intact. 

ARMD occurs in two main forms: dry ARMD, the more common type where light-sensitive cells slowly break down over time, and wet ARMD, a less common but more rapidly progressing form caused by abnormal blood vessels growing beneath the macula. While there is currently no cure, lifestyle modifications, specialised nutritional supplements, and advanced medical therapies (such as anti-VEGF injections for wet ARMD) can effectively help manage the condition and preserve visual function.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to fluid leakage, swelling, or abnormal vessel growth. In its early stages, it often develops without noticeable symptoms, but left untreated, it can cause floaters, blurred vision, and irreversible sight loss. Regular digital eye screening alongside optimal control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol is essential to detect changes early and protect your vision. If diabetic (any type or severity), you should be having annual eye screening. In the UK, this is done via the national Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Service (DRSS).