General Eye Examination

Looking for help

If you recognise any of the following disorders or conditions, please book an eye test and our optometrists will help explain what’s going on and what needs to be done.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia is a condition where you can see close objects clearly, but objects at a distance appear blurry. This occurs when the eye focuses images in front of the retina rather than directly on it. People with myopia often struggle to read road signs, watch television clearly, or recognise faces from afar. Myopia typically develops in childhood and can progress with age, but it can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Myopia control involves strategies to slow the progression of myopia in children and young adults. These include specialised contact lenses, orthokeratology (overnight corneal reshaping), and certain eye drops. Early intervention can help reduce the risk of developing high myopia and related eye complications later in life.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Hyperopia causes difficulty focusing on objects that are close, while distance vision usually remains sharp. This happens when the eye’s shape causes light to focus behind the retina. Symptoms often include eye fatigue, headaches, and discomfort, especially after prolonged close-up activities like reading or working on a computer. Difficulty seeing small text on smartphones or other devices is also common. Hyperopia can be corrected with prescription lenses or other treatments.

Astigmatism (Irregular Corneal Shape)
Astigmatism results from an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, causing distorted or blurred vision at all distances. Unlike a perfectly round cornea, an astigmatic eye’s surface is shaped more like a football, which prevents light from focusing evenly on the retina. Astigmatism is a very common condition and is not considered a disease. It can be easily corrected with specially designed glasses or contact lenses.

Presbyopia (Age-Related Farsightedness)
Presbyopia typically begins after age 40 and is a natural part of the aging process. It occurs when the eye’s lens loses flexibility, making it harder to focus on close objects. This is why many people notice difficulty reading small print, menus in low light, or needing to hold books or phones farther away. Presbyopia can be managed with reading glasses, multifocal lenses, or other vision correction options.

Diatebes and Eye Health

Diabetes can significantly impact your eyes by damaging the blood vessels in the retina, a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. This is a leading cause of vision loss and often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. High blood sugar levels cause the retinal vessels to leak or close off, impairing vision and potentially leading to blindness if untreated. Additionally, people with diabetes have an increased risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Regular, thorough eye examinations and advanced retinal imaging are critical for early detection and timely treatment to protect your vision and overall eye health.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a progressive eye condition that primarily affects central vision and becomes more common with age, especially after 40. It is the leading cause of vision loss in Australia. There are two forms: dry AMD, which causes gradual degeneration of the central retina, and wet AMD, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth that can rapidly damage vision. Early diagnosis and treatment—particularly for wet AMD—are crucial to preserving vision and slowing progression.

Cataracts
Cataracts develop when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, reducing vision clarity. This process generally occurs gradually with age and is a leading cause of vision impairment worldwide. Symptoms include hazy or blurred vision, colours appearing faded or yellowed, increased sensitivity to glare, and difficulty seeing in low light. Cataracts can be treated effectively with surgery to replace the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one.

Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly due to an imbalance in their composition. This leads to dryness, irritation, and inflammation of the surface of the eye. Symptoms include burning, itching, redness, a gritty sensation, and occasional blurred vision. Interestingly, eyes may sometimes produce excess tears as a reflex to dryness. Treatment options include artificial tears, lifestyle adjustments, and specialized therapies.

Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. It usually affects peripheral (side) vision first and can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. If untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection, allowing treatment to slow or prevent further damage.

Spots and Floaters
Floaters appear as small shapes—such as dots, cobwebs, or thread-like strands—that drift across your field of vision. They are caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear gel filling the eye. While common and generally harmless, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires urgent medical attention. If you notice such changes, please contact your nearest HC EYECARE clinic immediately.