Eye care is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health and quality of life. Proper eye care can help prevent common conditions and ensure that vision remains sharp and healthy. In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of eye care in Singapore, including common conditions, symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options.
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Eye Health Statistics In Singapore
- Cataracts affect approximately 78.6% of elderly patients in Singapore, with prevalence increasing with age. About 63.6% of individuals aged 60 to 64 years and 94.6% of those aged 75 years and older are affected, according to the National University Hospital (NUH).
- Myopia is highly prevalent in Singapore. According to the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), one in two children develops myopia by the age of 12, and by the age of 18, 83% will be myopic.
- Diabetic retinopathy is also the leading cause of vision loss among working-age adults in Singapore, according to SNEC.
Common Eye Conditions
- Myopia (Nearsightedness) – Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness) – Hyperopia is the opposite of myopia, where the eyeball is too short or the cornea is not curved enough. This condition makes it difficult to focus on close objects.
- Cataracts – Cataracts involve the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in Singapore, especially among individuals aged 60 and above.
- Glaucoma – Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. It can lead to irreversible vision loss if untreated.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – AMD affects the central part of the retina, leading to a loss of central vision. It is a significant cause of vision impairment in older adults.
Common Symptoms Of Eye Conditions
- Blurred or double vision.
- Difficulty focusing.
- Eye pain or discomfort.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Frequent headaches.
- Redness or swelling in the eyes.
- Sudden vision loss (a medical emergency).
Causes Of Common Eye Conditions
- Genetic predisposition.
- Prolonged exposure to screens and digital devices.
- Ageing.
- Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes.
- Environmental factors, including UV light exposure.
Risk Factors
- Family history of eye conditions.
- Ageing population.
- Excessive use of digital screens.
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking.
- Prolonged exposure to UV rays without protective eyewear.
Certain medical conditions can elevate the risk of developing eye-related problems:
- Diabetes – Increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
- Hypertension – Can lead to hypertensive retinopathy.
- Autoimmune Disorders – Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may cause inflammation in the eyes.
Eye Screening
Eye screenings involve a series of tests to evaluate your vision and check for eye diseases. These may include:
- Visual Acuity Test – Measures how well you see at various distances.
- Refraction Assessment – Determines your prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
- Eye Muscle Test – Evaluates the muscles that control eye movement.
- Pupil Dilation – Involves using drops to widen your pupils, allowing a detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve.
- Tonometry – Measures the pressure inside your eyes, crucial for glaucoma detection.
- Visual Field Test – Checks for gaps in your peripheral vision.
Eye Treatments
Treatment options depend on the specific condition and its severity:
- Corrective Lenses – Glasses or contact lenses for refractive errors.
- Medications – Eye drops for glaucoma or antibiotics for infections.
- Surgical Interventions – Procedures such as cataract surgery or LASIK for vision correction.
- Lifestyle Changes – Adopting healthier habits, including reducing screen time and wearing UV-protective eyewear.
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FAQs
How often should I have an eye examination?
It is recommended to have an eye examination at least once every two years. However, individuals with existing eye conditions or risk factors may require more frequent check-ups.
Is LASIK surgery suitable for everyone?
LASIK surgery is not suitable for individuals with thin corneas, severe dry eye syndrome, or certain medical conditions. A thorough consultation with an eye specialist is necessary to determine eligibility.
What can I do to prevent cataracts?
Wearing UV-protective sunglasses, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.