YEAST INFECTION

Yeast naturally lives on the skin and in the mouth, gut, and vagina.They are part of the microbiota of “good” germs that keep people healthy. But when these microscopic, single-celled organisms run rampant, they can trigger an infection—and some very unpleasant symptoms.

A yeast infection is a treatable medical condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the body. A weakened immune system, certain health conditions, some lifestyle habits, and antibiotics may up your risk of developing a yeast infection.

The most common cause of yeast infections is a fungus called Candida albicans. This candida fungus is responsible for “candidiasis” infections of the vagina, mouth, and skin.

“Yeast infection” is the term typically used to describe vaginal candidiasis. At some point in their lives, three out of every four women will experience vaginal candidiasis. But vaginal yeast infections are not the only type of infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast. When C. albicans proliferates in the mouth or throat, it’s called thrush or oral candidiasis. This condition mostly affects young babies, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Candida overgrowth in babies can also cause diaper rash.

Signs and symptoms of yeast infections

Vaginal yeast infections are irritating and uncomfortable. Symptoms of yeast infections in women can include itching and burning. Women may notice some redness and swelling of the vulva. Sometimes women with yeast infections also experience pain with urination or while having sex.

Yeast infections typically produce a thick, white vaginal discharge that’s often described as having a curd-like consistency that resembles cottage cheese. The discharge should not have a strong odor. (A foul smell may signal the presence of a bacterial infection or sexually transmitted disease.)

Yeast infections can range in severity. Some women diagnose themselves based on symptoms, especially if they have experienced a yeast infection in the past. Over-the-counter treatments make it possible to initiate treatment without seeing a doctor. But if you’re uncertain whether or not you have a yeast infection, public health officials stress the importance of meeting with your doctor first for an accurate diagnosis. Other vaginal infections (such as bacterial vaginosis) and some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may have similar symptoms, but require different treatment. Left untreated, these infections can cause other health problems. What’s more, repeated use of antifungal medicines when you don’t have a yeast infection may make yeast resistant to treatment in the future.

Signs of yeast infections include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Thick white discharge
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva
• Soreness
• Pain during sex
• Pain with urination

RELATED: The Yeast Infection Symptoms Every Woman Should Know

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What causes yeast infections?

Yeast naturally lives on the skin and in the body of humans. But when the body produces too much yeast, leading to an overgrowth, infection can occur.

Women of all ages can get vaginal yeast infections, but this uncomfortable condition is more common during a woman’s childbearing years. Risk for infection may be greater when a woman is pregnant or using hormonal birth control with higher levels of estrogen, since hormonal changes may upset the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. Some women may also find that they are more susceptible to yeast infections around their menstrual periods.

Taking antibiotics can increase a woman’s risk of getting a yeast infection. Antibiotics kill bacteria that keep the vagina healthy and prevent an overgrowth of yeast.

Women with compromised immune systems are also more likely to develop a yeast infection. And women who have diabetes or uncontrolled blood sugar are also at higher risk, since excess sugar can fuel the growth of yeast.

Douches and vaginal sprays don’t help yeast infections. In fact, these products can make symptoms worse by removing the “good” bacteria that help prevent yeast infections and keep Candida in check.

RELATED: This Is What Causes Yeast Infections—Plus, How You Can Prevent Them

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Yeast infections pictures

How do you know if you have a yeast infection? Yeast thrives in warm, moist areas of the body, such as the mouth, throat, vagina, groin, and buttocks. Signs of infection vary by body part.

Women with vaginal yeast infections can have swelling and redness in the vaginal area accompanied by a thick, white discharge. When yeast grows in the mouth or throat, white or yellow patches, called thrush, can appear on the tongue or cheeks. A yeast diaper rash causes a bright red rash bordered by red pimples or pus-filled bumps and surrounded by smaller “satellite” patches of rash.

Men get yeast infections, too, but not nearly as frequently as women. Male yeast infections cause inflammation of the head of the penis and a red, itchy rash.

1. Vaginal yeast infection: A thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge is a common symptom of vaginal yeast infections.

2. Male yeast infection: Yeast infections in men may cause the head of the penis to become red, itchy and inflamed.

3. Thrush: White or yellow patches appear on the tongue or in the mouth, and the corners of the mouth may be cracked.

4. Yeast diaper rash: A diaper rash caused by yeast tends to be bright red. It may also have scaly patches or pus-filled pimples.

RELATED: Is My Yeast Infection Related to What I’m Eating?

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How are yeast infections diagnosed?

Vaginal yeast infections are often self-diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. A woman who gets a yeast infection every time she takes an antibiotic, for example, may suspect yeast is the culprit of her symptoms. However, women may self-diagnose themselves incorrectly; other vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis may present similar symptoms, so it’s a good idea to call your doctor before reaching for an over-the-counter treatment, especially if you’ve never had a yeast infection before.

A woman who sees her doctor about vaginal symptoms can expect to have a pelvic exam. The doctor will look for swelling and discharge. He or she may use a cotton swab to get a sample of vaginal secretions for examination under a microscope. That test can tell your doctor whether there is an overgrowth of yeast.

Oral candidiasis, or thrush, is usually diagnosed based on symptoms (like white or yellow patches on the tongue or in the mouth; cracks in the corner of the mouth; redness; and pain). Your doctor may take a sample for examination.

A diaper rash caused by a yeast infection is usually diagnosed by physical examination. If the baby also has thrush, it’s a good bet that the rash is caused by an overgrowth of yeast.

When to see a doctor

If you’ve never had a vaginal yeast infection before but believe you’re having symptoms of one, call your doctor. He or she can conduct a pelvic exam and take a sample of your vaginal discharge to determine whether or not you have an overgrowth of Candida and prescribe the right treatment.

Even if you think your vaginal infection is due to an overgrowth of yeast, it’s smart to speak with your doctor first. The discomfort you’re having could be caused by something entirely different, and starting medication for a yeast infection incorrectly could delay your treatment. If you are pregnant, see a doctor before starting any treatment. And consult your health care provider if your symptoms are not improving after treatment.

If you are experiencing chronic or recurring yeast infections, your doctor may diagnose and prescribe treatment for non-Candida albicansyeast infections.

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Yeast infection treatments

How do you treat a yeast infection? In most cases, antifungal medicines are the go-to remedy.

Yeast infection creams, ointments, and suppositories are available either over-the-counter (without a prescription) or with a prescription. These treatments are inserted into the vagina and are effective for most women with mild-to-moderate yeast infections who use them as directed. Depending on the product, treatment typically lasts one, three, or seven days. Some doctors may recommend a single dose of oral antifungal medicine, such as fluconazole (Diflucan), to treat the infection.

Women with recurrent or severe vaginal yeast infections; diabetes; compromised immune systems; infections caused by a species of yeast other than C. albicans; or women taking medications that suppress their immune systems (such as corticosteroids) are at risk of developing “complicated” vaginal yeast infections. These women may require treatment over a longer period of time, usually seven to 14 days. In addition, “maintenance” yeast infection medication may be recommended to prevent future infections. Doctors often prescribe a weekly dose of fluconazole (Diflucan) taken for six months.

Note: If you have sex while using these antifungal products, they may not provide effective contraception or protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says oils in these creams and suppositories can weaken latex in condoms and diaphragms.

Some health care providers may recommend home remedies for yeast infections. There’s some evidence suggesting that Lactobacillus acidophilus (a type of bacteria found in yogurt) and other probiotics help restore beneficial bacteria. In one small study, women who ate yogurt that contained L. acidophilus had fewer infections over time. In other small studies, vaginal use of probiotic tablets seemed to be helpful in preventing future infections. However, no large controlled trials involving yogurt or other probiotics have been conducted.

Small laboratory studies suggest that essential oils, such as tea tree oil, may have antifungal properties, but there’s a lack of evidence to support these natural remedies for yeast infections.

Medications for yeast infections:

1. Clotrimazole: Available as a one-, three-, or seven-day suppository or three- or seven-day cream.
2. Miconazole: Available as a cream administered three or seven days or suppositories used one, three, or seven days.
3. Tioconazole: A single applicator of ointment.
4. Butoconazole: A single applicator of cream.
5. Terconazole: Requires a prescription. Available as a three- or seven-day cream or three-day suppository.
6. Fluconazole (Diflucan): A prescription yeast infection medication taken by mouth.

RELATED: The Best Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatments, According to a Gynecologist

Are yeast infections contagious?

Yeast already live on and in your body. These tiny organisms cause infection when their populations grow out of control.

Lots of factors make women vulnerable to these infections, including hormonal shifts or changes in the acidic balance of the vagina due to a host of factors, including pregnancy, uncontrolled blood sugar, and use of antibiotics.

There is some evidence that it might be possible to contract a yeast infection from a sexual partner, but it is uncommon.

Ask your doctor whether it’s safe to have sex while you are being treated. Most yeast infections last no more than seven days, depending on the type of medicine you use to treat your symptoms.

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Yeast infections in men

Can men get yeast infections? The answer is yes, although they do so much less frequently than women.

In men, a yeast infection may be called penile candidiasis or balanitis.Men are more likely to develop a yeast infection if they are uncircumcised.

The risk of infection is greater among men with diabetes. Poor hygiene, use of antibiotics, or a weakened immune system may also be contributing factors. Men whose female partners have a yeast infection may be at greater risk of developing an infection.

Male yeast infection symptoms involve the penis. The tip can get red, inflamed, and rashy. The infection can cause itching, pain, or burning. There may be a cottage cheese-like discharge under the foreskin.

Topical antifungal creams are used to treat this condition. Doctors may also prescribe antifungal pills.

Yeast infections during pregnancy

Talk to your doctor before using any yeast infection treatment when pregnant. Topical antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole or miconazole, are considered safe for use during pregnancy. Experts advise against taking oral antifungal medication, such as fluconazole (Diflucan), during pregnancy.

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How do you get yeast infections?

Yeast infections occur when the normal balance of yeast on the skin and in the body becomes thrown off. That’s when yeast can proliferate and cause infection.

Vaginal yeast infections may be set off by hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, during breastfeeding, or around menstrual periods, for example. Taking hormones or birth control pills with greater levels of estrogen can also upset the balance of yeast in the vagina.

Blood-sugar spikes due to diabetes or uncontrolled blood sugar can fuel an overgrowth of yeast.

You can also get a yeast infection after taking antibiotics, since these medications kill both “bad” bacteria and “good” bacteria that keep yeast in check. Taking corticosteroids poses a risk because these medications suppress the immune system, making it difficult to fight off infections.

Women with weakened immune systems (such as due to HIV) have an increased risk of developing vaginal yeast infections.

Douching is a risk factor for infection because it can strip away “good” bacteria that protect against yeast overgrowth.

Since yeast love warm, moist environments, wearing tight clothing can boost the risk for infection.

There’s evidence to suggest that a yeast infection may be able to spread between sexual partners, but it’s rare. Yeast infections are not considered a sexually transmitted disease. In men—especially uncircumcised men—yeast infections can cause a rash on the head of the penis.

Recurring and chronic yeast infections

• Defined as four or more vaginal yeast infections in a year
• Affects a small percentage of women
• Caused by Candida albicans or non-C. albicans yeast
• May require longer courses of treatment and maintenance medication

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Oral thrush

Yeast that collects in the mouth or throat is called oral candidiasis or thrush. Oral yeast infections occur when there’s a shift in the normal balance of microbes in the oral cavity, leading to an overgrowth of yeast. Taking antibiotics, for example, may kill the beneficial bacteria that prevent yeast from proliferating.

Oral yeast infections often affect babies under one year of age because their immune systems are not fully developed or may be weakened after receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection. (Babies with thrush may also develop a yeast diaper rash.)

Healthy adults don’t typically get thrush, but elderly folks and people with weakened immune systems are at risk. Chronic thrush may be a sign of an immune deficiency, such as HIV.

Taking antibiotics, wearing dentures, having a health condition such as diabetes, undergoing treatment for cancer, or having dry mouth are also associated with increased risk of thrush.

Oral thrush can cause white or yellow patches on the tongue, mouth, or throat. Underneath those patches, the skin may be red and sore. It can cause cracks to appear at the corners of the mouth.

Oral thrush is usually treated with antifungal medication. Options include prescription lozenges and liquids or antifungal pills. The type of yeast infection medicine and duration of therapy may depend on the severity of symptoms, as well as the patient’s age and health.

Yeast infections in babies

Diaper dermatitis, or diaper rash, is extremely common in babies. Some diaper rashes are due to skin irritations caused by tight, wet, or dirty diapers. However, a rash that persists may be due to an overgrowth of Candida yeast.

Candida thrives in moist, warm areas of the body. Babies whose diaper area is not kept clean and dry or who have more frequent stools are at greater risk of developing a yeast infection diaper rash, as are babies taking antibiotics or whose breastfeeding mothers are taking these medicines.

When yeast is the culprit of a diaper rash, it will have a distinctive appearance. It usually appears on baby’s bottom, genital area, or both, particularly in the folds of the skin. The rash itself is bright red, raised, and bordered by small red bumps. Usually there are smaller red patches of skin surrounding the main rash.

Yeast diaper rash must be treated with a prescription antifungal cream, such as nystatin, miconazole, ketoconazole, or a steroid ointment, such as hydrocortisone.

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GOUT

What Is gout?

Nicknamed “the disease of kings” or “rich man’s disease,” gout tends to conjure up images of Henry VIII–bacchanalian-esque rulers who indulged in too much wine and rich meals that most people couldn’t afford. However, gout is a fairly common (and very painful) form of arthritis that has been on the rise for decades and may now affect more than three million Americans–men and women.

Gout definition

Also known as gouty arthritis, gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream (hyperuricemia) triggering joint pain and inflammation. When too much uric acid accumulates in the body, it collects into needle-shaped crystal deposits that settle into the joints (often in the feet, particularly in the big toe), causing bursts of pain, redness, and swelling. Attacks tend to occur at night and subside after three to 10 days, even without medication. Flare-ups can also reoccur a few months or years later, and, left untreated, gout can cause permanent damage to the joints and the kidneys, which remove uric acid from the body.

Although gout can almost always be controlled with certain medications and by avoiding alcohol and foods that contain chemicals called purines, it may be hard for doctors to initially diagnose the disease, especially because other forms of arthritis cause similar symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of gout

When uric acid crystals settle into the joint, they trigger swelling and an intense bout of pain. About half of all people with gout will first experience these symptoms in their big toe, although any joint–including the ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows–can be affected. In some cases, the affected joint will be red and sore and radiate heat.

In the early stages of gout, these attacks tend to flare up at night and are painful enough to rouse you from your sleep. The symptoms usually subside after three to 10 days and can lie dormant after that for months or even years. Over time, however, the attacks can become more frequent and last for longer periods of time. And although gout is almost always treatable, it’s possible for gout to cause long-term damage–including severe attacks, chronic arthritis, and kidney stones–if you don’t seek medical care.

RELATED: 9 Surprising Triggers of Gout Pain

Because the symptoms of gout tend to mimic those of other forms of arthritis, doctors may have trouble finding a diagnosis right away. To test for gout, physicians use a needle to draw out joint fluid from the affected area, then they look for uric acid crystals under the microscope. (Complicating matters, however, is the fact that some people have normal or even lower levels of uric acid during a gout attack.) Doctors can also use CT scans and, for more chronic forms of gout, X-rays to check for signs of joint damage.

Experts also note that gout tends to be linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and medications that increase the body’s level of uric acid.

Symptoms of gout:

• Intense pain in the affected joints (usually those of the foot, and specifically the big toe)
• Swelling
• Redness
• Warmth
• Joint stiffness

What causes gout?

Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid, which is formed after the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are part of human tissue, but they’re also found in foods like anchovies and venison.

After the body breaks down purines, the resulting uric acid travels into the bloodstream. Usually, it passes through the kidneys and is shuttled out of the body through urine. But when too much uric acid builds up–or the kidneys can’t metabolize it quickly enough–it collects into crystals and settles into the joints.

Although gout was once associated with medieval rulers–who were the only people wealthy enough to drink alcohol and eat meat regularly–anyone can develop gout. Eating high-purine foods (see below for a list) can increase your risk of the disease, but other culprits play a role too. For example, people who are overweight have more body tissue; more body tissue means more purines that need to be broken down, producing more uric acid in the process. If you have high blood pressureor an underactive thyroid gland, you may be more likely to have higher levels of uric acid. Or, if someone in your family developed gout in the past, your genetics may be partly to blame.

How is gout diagnosed?

Because the symptoms of gout–namely, inflammation and joint pain–are similar to those of other forms of arthritis, doctors might have trouble diagnosing the condition right away. Still, there are some signs: Unlike, for example, rheumatoid arthritis–in which multiple joints are affected–gout tends to target just one or two joints, and usually the big toe. (There is also a disease called pseudogout, which triggers symptoms that are similar to gout, but is caused by a buildup of calcium phosphate, not uric acid.)

Doctors can test for gout by ordering a uric acid test. The physician will insert a needle into the affected joint to extract joint fluid, then study the sample under a microscope to look for uric acid crystals. If uric acid crystals are present, the doctor can confirm the diagnosis. (That said, these test results can occasionally be misleading. Some people have lower or normal levels of uric acid in their joint fluid during a gout attack; likewise, people with higher levels of uric acid don’t always have gout.) The symptoms of gout are also similar to those of a joint infection, and your doctor may test the joint fluid sample for bacteria. 

For people with more advanced stages of gout, doctors may order a CT scan or an X-ray to check for joint damage.

Gout treatment

Corticosteroids like prednisone, which are hormones that target inflammation, can help ease the pain from a gout flare-up, as can non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin. Although these medications can relieve short-term joint pain, they don’t reduce the levels of uric acid in the body.

In the early stages of an attack, doctors may prescribe an anti-gout medication called colchicine, which relieves swelling and other symptoms of gout. This type of medication not only helps ease an immediate attack, but can also prevent an attack before it starts. For severe attacks, doctors can prescribe a medication called anakinra; although it’s approved for people with rheumatoid arthritis, it is sometimes used off-label to ease the symptoms of gout.

If your gout flares up repeatedly, your doctor may want you to start taking a medication that can lower the levels of uric acid in the blood. These drugs include allopurinol (which blocks uric acid production), probenecid and lesinurad (which help the kidneys remove uric acid), and an injection called pegloticase (which breaks down the uric acid itself). You may also want to avoid alcohol and foods like anchovies and mackerel, which are high in purines.

RELATED: 8 Famous People With Gout

Gout medications

• NSAIDs: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help to ease pain and swelling
• Colchicine: an anti-gout attack medication that helps relieves swelling and other gout symptoms
• Corticosteroids: medications like prednisone, which help reduce inflammation in the body, much like the naturally occurring hormone called cortisol
• Anakinra: a rheumatoid arthritis medication that blocks a specific protein called interleukin, which causes joint damage
• Allopurinol: available in tablet-form and taken once or twice a day, this medication decreases the production of uric acid in the bloodstream
• Probenecid: used to treat chronic gout, this medication prevents painful attacks by helping the kidneys remove uric acid from the body
• Lesinurad: available in tablet-form and taken once daily, this medication helps the kidneys remove uric acid from the body
• Pegloticase: an injection that decreases the amount of uric acid in the body, thereby preventing gout attacks

Home remedies for gout

• Cherry products: A 2012 study found that people with gout were 35% less likely to have an attack if they also ate cherries or consumed cherry extract. The researchers suspect that the fruit can lower the levels of uric acid in the blood.
• Ice: Holding an ice pack or a cold compress over the painful joint might help ease gout pain.
• Water: Staying hydrated has been linked to fewer gout attacks, possibly because extra water helps flush out uric acid through urine.

Is gout curable?

Gout is treatable–meaning, that with the right medications or dietary adjustments, it’s possible to prevent future flare-ups from occurring and to decrease the severity of the ones that you do experience. But because there’s a risk for another attack–even years down the road–it’s hard to say whether gout is “cured.” Luckily, there are medications available that can treat both the short-term joint pain during a gout attack and lower the levels of uric acid in the body to help prevent future symptoms of gout. Adjusting your diet to avoid foods that are high in purines can also help reduce your risk of another gout attack.

Gout diet and foods to avoid

Because alcohol can thwart the kidneys’ ability to remove uric acid from the body, experts say to limit intake to one drink per 24 hours. In a 2014 study, having one to two drinks a day increased a person’s risk of a gout attack by 36%; having two to four drinks a day increased a person’s risk by 51%. Foods that are high in purines–a compound that, when broken down in the body, produces uric acid–can also trigger a gout attack. Some offenders include shellfish, red meats, and sugary drinks. According to a 2012 study, people with gout who ate the most purine-rich foods were almost five times as likely to have an attack than those who ate the lowest amount of purine-rich foods. The Boston University researchers also found that the impact from animal products were much larger than that of plant products. While doctors previously recommended avoiding plant-based foods that are rich in purines, some now believe they are safe to eat for people with gout.

Some doctors suspect that eating dairy might help prevent gout attacks. Older research found a link between eating more low-fat dairy productsand having lower uric acid levels, but experts don’t entirely understand why that might be.

Foods to avoid or limit if you have gout:

• Alcohol
• Anchovies
• Asparagus
• Dried beans
• Dried peas
• Fruit juice
• Game meats (i.e., quail, duck, deer, etc.)
• Gravy
• Herring
• Lobster
• Mackerel
• Mushrooms
• Sardines
• Scallops
• Shrimp
• Sugar-sweetened drinks
• Sweetbreads

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EYE HEALTH

They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. We don't know if that's true, but what we do know is that having perfectly healthy eyes—excellent vision and clear eyes, free of pain or other symptoms—are crucial to your health and wellbeing. The good news is that it's easy to learn more about eye problems, symptoms, and the treatments that will keep you in tip-top shape.

About 21 million Americans have some type of vision problem,according to a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While many of these problems are relatively benign, such as mild nearsightedness, other eye conditions like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration can trigger vision loss and even blindness.

Although many people start developing eye diseases in middle age, their symptoms may not appear until later on, when the condition is more advanced and harder to treat. In fact, some people may not realize they have a vision problem at all until their eye doctor detects it during a routine screening or a comprehensive dilated eye exam, which checks your retina, optic nerve, eye pressure, and more.

The risk for developing an eye condition increases with age. But other factors can also up your odds of experiencing vision problems in the future. For example, African Americans and people with a family history of glaucoma may have a higher risk of developing the disease. And people who have diabetes can develop a condition called diabetic retinopathy, which can damage their retinas. By detecting eye diseases such as these and treating them as soon as possible, experts estimate that nearly half of all vision loss and blindness could be prevented.

RELATED: The 9 Worst Eye Care Mistakes You're Making

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Symptoms of eye disease

In some cases, the symptoms of certain eye diseases can overlap with others. For example, watery eyes could be a sign of pink eye (conjunctivitis), allergies, or a sty; likewise, light sensitivity could indicate a cataract, migraine, or chalazion (a bump on the eyelid).Resting your eyes might help ease symptoms, but in general, if you’re experiencing severe or lasting pain, you should call a doctor right away.

Below, some of the most common symptoms of eye diseases:

• Blurriness
• Discharge
• Flashes of light
• Irritation
• Light sensitivity
• Pain
• Tearing
• Vision loss

Treatment for eye disease

Eye doctors will usually treat refractive errors like nearsightedness and farsightedness with glasses or contacts. But more serious eye diseases may be treated with a combination of medications or surgery. In many cases, the best way to protect your vision is to have regular screenings, including comprehensive dilated eye exams. By detecting eye conditions in their early stages, it’s possible to prevent vision loss from becoming worse with age.

Here, a few common eye disease treatments:

• Refractive surgery, a procedure that can help correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism (LASIK is a type of refractive surgery).
• Corneal transplantation to replace either part or all of a damaged cornea.
• Oral steroids, medications that can treat inflammatory eye conditions such as uveitis, a serious, potentially vision-damaging inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

Most common eye issues and problems

The most common eye issues in the United States are classified as refractive errors, which include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatisms (blurry vision), and presbyopia (an inability to focus on objects up close). While many of these vision problems can be corrected with the help of eyeglasses, contacts, or surgery, millions of Americans have more serious eye conditions that can eventually lead to vision loss or blindness. This includes diseases like age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.

Here are some eye issues you can develop:

• Refractive errors
• Cataracts
• Optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve
• Retinal diseases, such as a retinal tear or detachment
• Macular degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Conjunctivitis
• Diabetic eye problems, such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema

Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure increases in the eye, damaging the optic nerve. People with glaucoma can lose their vision and eventually become blind, and the disease is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. Early treatment—through eye drops or surgery—may help slow the disease’s progression and prevent vision loss. People can develop glaucoma at any age, but it usually affects older adults.

Cataracts

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to blurry vision and eventual vision loss. They often develop as people age, when the proteins in the eye begin to clump together and cause cloudiness, making it difficult to see properly. More than half of Americans have had cataracts by their 80th birthday, and those who smoke, are obese, have high blood pressure, take certain medications, or have diabetes have a greater risk of developing them.

Other symptoms can include double vision, difficulty seeing at night, a“halo” that appears around lights, and seeing colors become faded or yellowed. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnose cataracts with a comprehensive eye exam. Prescription eyeglasses can help some people with cataracts, but others may have to undergo surgery to remove them.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Thanks to its hallmark symptom, conjunctivitis is most commonly known by its nickname, pink eye. Although it can be hard to pinpoint the cause of conjunctivitis, this eye condition can be triggered by viruses, bacteria, allergens, chemicals, and even a loose eyelash or dirty contact lens.

Besides the classic pink or red color that develops in the eye, conjunctivitis can also cause a swelling of the eyelids, watery eyes, itching, burning, crusting, or discharge. Pink eye caused by a virus or bacteria can also be contagious. In some cases, the eye infection will clear up on its own (using a cool compress and artificial tears can help ease irritation), but if you’re experiencing pain, worsening symptoms, a sensitivity to light, and blurry vision, you should see a doctor.

Macular degeneration

An estimated 10 million people in the United States are affected by macular degeneration, an eye disease that damages the central vision. Macular degeneration usually refers to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). There are two subgroups of AMD: wet AMD, which occurs when blood vessels grow under the retina; and dry AMD, which affects about 80% of all macular degeneration cases and occurs whenthe retina thins over time.

Although early treatment such as “eye vitamins” may help slow the progression macular degeneration, there is no cure for the disease.

Sty

Sties are red, pimple-like bumps caused by a blockage in one of the eyelid’s oil glands. They usually appear on the edge of a person’s eyelid.The most common symptoms include a sensitivity to light, a sensation of grittiness, and watery eyes. To treat the eye condition at home, try applying a warm washcloth to the bump. While many sties heal on their own, your doctor may recommend an antibiotic for a lingering sty, or try draining it in the office.

Red eye

When the blood vessels in the eye become swollen due to dryness, allergies, or infections like conjunctivitis, the eyes can appear red and bloodshot. Oftentimes, red eyes don’t signal an emergency, but on some occasions—for example, if it’s accompanied by eye pain or vision changes—you should call your doctor.

Other eye conditions:

• Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, myopia is one of the most common vision problems in the United States. Along with hyperopia (farsightedness), this eye condition can be treated with eyeglasses, contacts, and surgery such as LASIK.

• Chalazion: Sometimes mistaken for a sty, a chalazion is a red, swollen bump that can spring up on the eyelid when the eyelid’s oil glands become clogged.

• Color blindness: Although less common in women, as many as 8% of men have color blindness, difficulty distinguishing between shades of similar colors.

• Eye floaters: Often appearing as squiggly spots in front of your field of vision, eye floaters are caused by changes in the eye’s vitreous humor, a jelly-like substance. Sounds scary, but these floaters are usually harmless. An exception: If they are accompanied by flashes of light, you may be experiencing posterior vitreous detachment, which could lead to a retinal tear or detachment. In that case, seek medical attention immediately.

• Dry eye: A difficulty making enough tears to keep the eye moist, dry eye can cause blurry vision, burning, or itchiness. Using artificial tears or a prescription medication can help alleviate the discomfort.

• Diabetic retinopathy: An eye disease that affects people with diabetes, diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in a person’s retina, which can eventually lead to vision loss.

• Eye strain: Wearing the wrong prescription glasses or contact lenses can cause your eyes to feel tired or uncomfortable. Another culprit: staring at electronic screens such as tablets, e-readers, and computers.

• Acanthamoeba keratitis: This rare, drug-resistant infection of the cornea is caused by the Acanthamoeba organism, a microscopic amoeba found in lakes, oceans, and soil. Symptoms can include eye pain, redness, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light. The infection can result in permanent vision loss and blindness.

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