Eye services at Mulago Did you know Mulago runs an eye clinic at the Surgical Outpatient Clinics. The General Eye clinic runs from Monday and Friday. From 8:00 A.M TO 4:00 P.M. At Block G Level 5, All services are Free Of Charge. Common eye diseases—including cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy—are leading causes of vision loss, often developing without early symptoms. Common Eye Diseases and Conditions * Refractive Errors: Myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia are common vision defects requiring correction. * Age-Related Diseases: Cataracts (cloudy lens), glaucoma (optic nerve damage), and AMD (central vision loss) are common in older adults. * Retinal Disorders: Diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration are serious conditions that can cause permanent vision impairment. * Infections and Inflammation: Conjunctivitis (pink eye), blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), and dry eye syndrome are common, often caused by infection, bacteria, or allergies. * Childhood Conditions: Amblyopia ("lazy eye") and strabismus (crossed eyes). Symptoms of Eye Disease Many diseases show no early signs, but common indicators include: * Blurred, wavy, or distorted vision. * Gradual or sudden vision loss. * Eye pain, redness, or itching. * Floaters or flashes of light. * Difficulty seeing in dim light. Causes and Risk Factors * Aging: Significantly increases the risk of cataracts, AMD, and glaucoma. * Chronic Health Conditions: Diabetes and high blood pressure can damage retinal blood vessels. * Environmental Factors: UV light exposure, smoking, and poor diet. * Infectious Agents: Viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Treatment Options * Medication: Eye drops are common for glaucoma, infections, and dry eye. * Surgery: Cataract surgery or laser treatments for retinal issues. * Corrective Lenses: Glasses or contact lenses for refractive errors. * Regular, comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting these conditions early. - @mulagoreferral