Detectable Eye Conditions

Learn about the four categories of eye diseases that OculusAI can detect from retinal fundus images. Understanding these conditions helps in early detection and timely intervention.

Note: OculusAI also provides colour vision testing using AI-powered Ishihara-style tests to detect Protan and Deutan type colour blindness. Visit the Colour Blindness Test page to learn more.

Cataract

A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, leading to decreased vision.

Overview

Cataracts develop when proteins in the eye lens break down and clump together, creating cloudy areas. This is a natural part of aging but can also result from injury, medications, or other health conditions.

Common Symptoms

Cloudy or blurry vision
Faded colors
Glare and halos around lights
Poor night vision
Double vision in one eye
Frequent prescription changes

Causes & Risk Factors

Aging (most common)
Diabetes
Prolonged UV exposure
Smoking
Eye injury or surgery
Long-term corticosteroid use
Excessive alcohol consumption

Treatment Options

Early stage: Updated eyeglass prescription, better lighting
Advanced stage: Cataract surgery (phacoemulsification)
Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation
Surgery is safe, effective, and commonly performed
Success rate: >95% with modern techniques

Prevention & Management

Wear UV-protective sunglasses
Quit smoking
Limit alcohol consumption
Manage diabetes and blood pressure
Eat antioxidant-rich foods
Regular eye examinations

Diabetic Retinopathy

A diabetes complication that damages blood vessels in the retina.

Overview

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina. It can progress from mild vision problems to blindness if left untreated. It's the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults.

Common Symptoms

Floaters or dark spots in vision
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Dark or empty areas in vision
Difficulty seeing colors
Vision loss (in advanced stages)
Often asymptomatic in early stages

Causes & Risk Factors

Poorly controlled blood sugar levels
Long duration of diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
Smoking

Treatment Options

Strict blood sugar control (HbA1c <7%)
Anti-VEGF injections (Lucentis, Eylea, Avastin)
Laser photocoagulation therapy
Vitrectomy surgery for severe cases
Regular monitoring and early intervention
Control blood pressure and cholesterol

Prevention & Management

Maintain optimal blood glucose levels
Monitor HbA1c regularly (every 3 months)
Annual dilated eye exams
Control blood pressure (<140/90)
Manage cholesterol levels
Quit smoking
Healthy diet and regular exercise

Glaucoma

A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure.

Overview

Glaucoma is called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically has no early symptoms. It progressively damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure. Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be recovered.

Common Symptoms

Gradual loss of peripheral vision
Tunnel vision (advanced stages)
Severe eye pain (acute angle-closure)
Headache
Nausea and vomiting (acute type)
Blurred vision
Halos around lights

Causes & Risk Factors

Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
Poor drainage of aqueous humor
Reduced blood flow to optic nerve
Genetic factors
Thin corneas
Optic nerve sensitivity

Treatment Options

Prescription eye drops (prostaglandins, beta-blockers)
Oral medications to reduce IOP
Laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
Trabeculectomy (filtering surgery)
Drainage implants for advanced cases
Lifelong monitoring required

Prevention & Management

Regular comprehensive eye exams (every 1-2 years)
Early detection through screening
Know your family history
Exercise regularly (can lower IOP)
Protect eyes from injury
Limit caffeine intake
Take prescribed eye drops consistently

Normal Eye

Healthy eye with no detectable signs of disease.

Overview

A normal, healthy eye has clear optics, well-perfused retinal blood vessels, a healthy optic nerve, and proper intraocular pressure. Regular maintenance and preventive care help preserve eye health throughout life.

Common Symptoms

Clear, sharp vision
No pain or discomfort
No floaters or flashes
Normal color perception
Good peripheral vision
Comfortable in various lighting

Causes & Risk Factors

Genetic factors supporting good eye health
Healthy lifestyle choices
Adequate nutrition
Protection from UV exposure
Regular eye care
Absence of systemic diseases affecting eyes

Treatment Options

No treatment needed
Continue routine eye examinations
Maintain healthy lifestyle
Use corrective lenses if needed for refractive errors
Protect eyes from injury and UV light

Prevention & Management

Annual comprehensive eye exams
Wear UV-protective sunglasses
Maintain healthy diet (leafy greens, omega-3s)
Exercise regularly
Don't smoke
Manage systemic health conditions
Give eyes regular breaks from screens (20-20-20 rule)
Stay hydrated

Important Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. OculusAI is an academic demonstration project and should not be used for actual medical diagnosis. If you experience any vision problems or symptoms, please consult a qualified ophthalmologist or eye care professional immediately. Early detection and proper medical care are crucial for preserving vision and preventing complications.