Common Eye Problems & Solutions

Last Updated: February 2026 | Expert Review by EyeSelect Clinical Team

Common Eye Problems: 2026 Expert Guide to Symptoms & Treatment in Brisbane

Have you noticed your vision getting blurry when you’re working on your laptop? Or maybe you’ve been holding your phone further away to read text messages? These small changes could be telling you something important about your eye health.

At EyeSelect, we’ve been caring for Brisbane families for over 40 years. Every day, our teams in Browns Plains and Forest Lake help people just like you understand what’s happening with your vision and, more importantly, what to do about it.

Let’s dive in.

Refractive Errors: Vision Problems That Affect Focus

Blurry vision is one of the most common reasons people come to see us in Brisbane. The reassuring news is that, in most cases, it can be managed effectively with the right care.

The culprit is usually a refractive error, where the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing correctly on your retina. Think of it like a camera that’s slightly out of focus. Here’s what might be happening.

Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

What it looks like: Road signs are hard to read from a distance, but you can see your phone screen perfectly fine.

Myopia is becoming increasingly common across Queensland, especially among children and young adults who spend hours on digital devices. If you have a high degree of myopia, it’s worth knowing that regular monitoring becomes even more important. There’s a slightly elevated risk of conditions like retinal detachment later in life.

Solutions that work:

• Single-vision glasses or contact lenses for everyday use
• Specialised myopia management lenses for children (to slow progression)
• Orthokeratology: overnight contact lenses that reshape your cornea while you sleep

Real patient insight: “I didn’t realise how much I was squinting at the TV until I got my first pair of glasses. The difference was instant.” Sarah M., Browns Plains patient

Book a myopia assessment →

Hyperopia (Long-Sightedness) & Presbyopia

Hyperopia (long-sightedness) means your eyes have to work overtime to focus on nearby objects. You might notice eye strain when reading or headaches after working on your computer.

Presbyopia is different. It’s the natural ageing process of your eye’s lens, typically starting around age 40. The telltale sign? Holding your phone or menu at arm’s length to read the text clearly.

What helps:

• Progressive lenses that transition smoothly between distances
• Multifocal contact lenses tailored to your lifestyle
• Reading glasses for specific tasks

Astigmatism

If you’ve ever noticed that car headlights or streetlights appear to have rays or streaks around them, especially at night, you likely have astigmatism. This happens when your cornea (the front surface of your eye) is shaped more like a rugby ball than a basketball, causing distorted vision at all distances.

The fix: Specialised toric lenses designed to match your eye’s unique curvature. Once you’re properly fitted, those halos around the lights will disappear.

Optometrist insight: “Many patients don’t realise they have astigmatism until they mention seeing starbursts around lights. It’s one of the most correctable conditions we treat.” EyeSelect Clinical Team

Eye Irritation & Discomfort: Common Surface Problems

Not every eye problem affects your vision. Sometimes, your eyes just feel uncomfortable or irritated. Here’s how to recognise what your eyes might be telling you.

Digital Eye Strain

Nearly 70% of Australian office workers experience symptoms of digital eye strain. If you’re spending 10+ hours a day looking at screens, your eyes are probably feeling it.

Check yourself for these symptoms:

• Burning or dry sensation in your eyes
• Heavy eyelids by mid-afternoon
• Difficulty refocusing after prolonged screen time
• Headaches that start around your eyes and temples

Immediate relief strategies:

1. The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (6 metres) away for 20 seconds. Set a timer if you need to. It works.
2. Blue light filter coatings: For patients who spend a lot of time on screens, we recommend these as standard. They help reduce glare and can ease eye fatigue.
3. Optimise your workspace: Set it up so your screen is at arm’s length and just below eye level. Small adjustments like this can make a real difference.
4. Computer glasses: Consider computer glasses designed for the distance you sit from your screen. These are different from your everyday prescription and can make screen time more comfortable.

Dry Eye Syndrome, Allergies & Infections

Redness can have several causes, and it matters which one you’re dealing with:

When to book an appointment: If symptoms persist beyond 2-3 days, or if you have discharge with significant redness, don’t wait. We’ll identify the cause and get you the right treatment.

Serious Eye Conditions That Develop Quietly

What makes these conditions challenging is that they often develop quietly, without pain or obvious symptoms. It’s possible to lose vision gradually without realising it until changes become more noticeable.

That’s why regular eye exams are so important. They allow us to catch changes early and protect your vision for the long term.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages your optic nerve, typically by affecting peripheral (side) vision first. Because central vision remains sharp, many people don’t notice anything wrong until the condition is quite advanced.

You’re at higher risk if you:

• Are over 60
• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Are of African or Asian descent
• Have been using steroid medications long-term
• Have high myopia (severe short-sightedness)

How we detect it early: Every comprehensive exam at EyeSelect includes digital retinal photography and gentle intraocular pressure checks. We’re looking for subtle changes before you notice any symptoms.

Cataracts

Cataracts develop gradually as the lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. While this is often age-related, high exposure to UV light can speed up the process (something we all need to be mindful of in Queensland).

Prevention is simple: Wear quality sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. In Brisbane’s strong sunshine, this is about more than comfort. It’s about protecting your long-term eye health.

Signs you might have cataracts:

• Colours seem faded or yellowed
• Increased glare from headlights or sunlight
• Frequent prescription changes
• Difficulty seeing at night

Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of vision loss in older Australians. It affects the macula, which is responsible for the sharp, central vision you use for reading, driving and recognising faces.

Early warning sign: Straight lines start to look wavy or distorted. Think door frames, window blinds or tiles. If you notice this, book an appointment immediately.

Two types you should know about:

1. Dry AMD: The more common form, progressing gradually over years
2. Wet AMD: More aggressive, where abnormal blood vessels leak fluid, causing rapid vision loss

What you can do today:

• Eat leafy greens and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Don’t smoke (or quit if you do)
• Get regular OCT scans at your eye exams
• Ask us about appropriate eye health supplements

At EyeSelect, we use advanced OCT imaging to spot changes in your eyes before you notice any symptoms. Early action can make a real difference in slowing the progression of these conditions.

Emergency Eye Warning Signs: When to Act Immediately

Some symptoms demand urgent attention. If you experience any of the following, contact EyeSelect immediately or visit your nearest emergency department:

Seek emergency care if you have:

• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes (even if it returns)
• A “curtain” or shadow moving across your field of vision (possible retinal detachment)
• New floaters and flashes appearing suddenly (especially multiple dark spots or streaks of light)
• Severe eye pain with nausea/vomiting (could indicate an acute glaucoma attack)
• Physical trauma or chemical exposure to the eye

EyeSelect Emergency Protocol

We prioritise urgent cases and offer same-day emergency appointments during business hours. If you’re unsure whether your situation requires emergency care, call us. Our clinical team will guide you immediately.

Browns Plains: 07 3800 8700

Forest Lake: 07 3278 7341

How Often Do You Actually Need an Eye Test?

How often you need an eye test depends on your age, risk factors and any existing conditions. Here’s what we recommend based on our clinical experience:

Special circumstances: If you notice any vision changes, don’t wait for your scheduled appointment. Book immediately.

What Actually Happens During Your EyeSelect Eye Exam?

Your eye exam at EyeSelect is much more than reading letters on a chart. We take a thorough look at both your vision and the overall health of your eyes.

Your exam includes:

1. Visual acuity testing & refraction: Measuring how clearly you see and determining if your prescription needs updating
2. Intraocular pressure check: Essential for early glaucoma detection (completely painless)
3. Retinal health assessment: Using digital imaging to examine the back of your eye for subtle changes over time
4. Binocular vision evaluation: Checking how well your eyes work together as a team, including eye muscle coordination

Most appointments last 30 to 45 minutes, giving us plenty of time to answer your questions and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Why Brisbane Families Choose EyeSelect

Bulk-Billed Eye Exams

If you have a valid Medicare card, your comprehensive eye examination is bulk-billed in full. That’s $0 out of pocket for standard clinical exams.

Advanced Diagnostic Technology

• Digital retinal photography for precise tracking of your eye health over time
• OCT scanning for early detection of macular degeneration and glaucoma
• Latest refraction equipment for accurate prescriptions

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1999

As a Queensland-owned practice, we’re proud of our long-standing connection to the Brisbane community. We know our patients by name and are dedicated to providing your family with trusted eye care for years ahead.

Complete Eyewear Solutions On-Site

After your exam, you can explore our collection of over 1,000 frames. Whether you’re after something practical or a designer look, we’ll help you choose eyewear that feels right for your style and your everyday needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does an eye test cost at EyeSelect?

A: If you’re eligible for Medicare, our comprehensive eye exams are completely bulk-billed. $0 out of pocket for the clinical examination.

Q: Do I need a referral to see an optometrist?

A: No referral required. You can book directly with us anytime.

Q: Can you detect diabetes during an eye exam?

A: Yes. Changes in the retina caused by diabetes are often visible during an eye exam, sometimes before other symptoms appear. This is why we recommend annual exams for all diabetic patients.

Q: What’s the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?

A: Optometrists provide primary eye care (comprehensive exams, prescriptions and disease detection). Ophthalmologists are medical doctors specialising in eye surgery. At EyeSelect, we work collaboratively with ophthalmologists to co-manage complex cases.

Q: Do you offer children’s eye tests?

A: Absolutely. We provide specialised paediatric eye exams, including screenings for learning-related vision problems. Many learning difficulties are actually undiagnosed vision issues.

Q: I’m seeing some floaters. Should I be worried?

A: A few small floaters that have been there for a while are usually normal. However, a sudden increase in floaters, especially with flashes of light, requires immediate attention. Call us straight away.

Take the Next Step in Your Eye Health Journey

Whether you’ve noticed changes in your vision, it’s been a while since your last eye test, or you simply want peace of mind about your eye health, we’re here to help.

Our experienced optometrists use the latest technology and take the time to provide care that’s tailored to you, so you can enjoy clear and comfortable vision every day.

Ready to book? Call us today or book online in under 2 minutes.

Browns Plains: 07 3800 8700 | Forest Lake: 07 3278 7341

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always book an appointment for a personalised assessment of your eye health.