When most people think of an eye exam, they imagine reading letters from a chart or checking if their glasses need an update. But a complete eye examination is far more powerful than that — it can reveal early signs of both eye-related and systemic diseases long before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body.

Your eyes are an open window to your overall health. The blood vessels, nerves, and tissues visible at the back of the eye provide clues about what’s happening in your heart, brain, and body. That’s why understanding what diseases can be detected in an eye exam is critical for anyone serious about preventive healthcare.

In Lagos, where urban stress, pollution, and digital lifestyles affect millions daily, having regular eye exams at a reputable clinic like Vision Planet Eye Clinic Lagos can make the difference between early detection and late-stage complications. This clinic combines advanced diagnostic technology with medical expertise to ensure every detail of your eye health is analysed — not just your vision.

Below, we’ll explore the ten common and uncommon diseases that can be detected during an eye exam, how they show up in your results, and why early diagnosis saves sight — and sometimes lives.

1. Glaucoma

Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, usually due to elevated intraocular pressure. The early stages present no pain or obvious symptoms, making it one of the most dangerous eye diseases.

During an eye exam, glaucoma can be detected through tonometry, which measures eye pressure, and optic nerve imaging using advanced equipment. Subtle visual field defects are also assessed with perimetry tests.

At Vision Planet Clinic Lagos, digital retinal scanners and non-contact tonometers help identify glaucoma long before vision loss begins. Early detection through regular eye exams can prevent irreversible blindness — one of the clinic’s most emphasised goals.

2. Diabetic Retinopathy

For diabetic patients, eye exams are life-saving. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or even blindness.

During an exam, this condition is identified using fundus photography or fluorescein angiography, both of which reveal leaking vessels and abnormal growth. Optometrists at Vision Planet Lagos pay special attention to these early retinal changes and provide coordinated care with endocrinologists to manage diabetes and protect vision.

Even patients without known diabetes sometimes first learn about their blood sugar problems during a routine eye check — proving how the eyes can reflect systemic disease.

3. Hypertensive Retinopathy

High blood pressure doesn’t just affect the heart; it leaves visible traces inside the eyes. Hypertensive retinopathy is marked by narrowed, twisted blood vessels, small haemorrhages, or optic nerve swelling.

Through ophthalmoscopy, doctors can literally see the effects of hypertension inside your eyes. By detecting these vascular changes early, Vision Planet’s specialists often help patients discover previously undiagnosed high blood pressure, prompting timely referral to cardiologists.

4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is a degenerative condition that affects the macula — the part of your retina responsible for sharp central vision. It’s one of the leading causes of vision loss among people over 50.

Eye exams at Vision Planet include optical coherence tomography (OCT), a non-invasive imaging test that shows microscopic details of the macula’s structure. Early AMD may appear as drusen (yellow deposits) or subtle pigment changes. Detecting it early means treatment can slow or stop progression before severe sight loss occurs.

5. Retinal Detachment

A sudden shower of floaters or flashes of light can be a sign of retinal detachment, where the retina peels away from the underlying tissue. This condition can cause permanent blindness if not treated quickly.

Through dilated retinal examination and wide-field imaging, ophthalmologists at Vision Planet can spot retinal tears, thinning, or fluid buildup — often before the retina detaches completely.

Patients with high myopia or a history of eye trauma are closely monitored for these warning signs, proving again why comprehensive exams are not just optional but essential.

6. Cataracts

Cataracts, or clouding of the lens, remain one of the most common yet treatable causes of vision impairment. They typically develop with age or exposure to ultraviolet light.

An optometrist can detect cataracts by examining the lens with a slit-lamp microscope, noting any cloudiness or opacities. Vision Planet Eye Clinic provides both diagnosis and referral for advanced cataract surgery through its network of ophthalmic surgeons in Lagos, ensuring patients transition smoothly from detection to treatment.

7. Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid disorders, especially Graves’ disease, can cause swelling and inflammation around the eyes — known as thyroid eye disease (TED).

During an exam, the optometrist may observe bulging eyes, limited eye movement, or changes in color vision. Ocular motility tests and imaging help determine the extent of tissue involvement.

Vision Planet’s specialists coordinate with endocrinologists for proper management, emphasizing the interconnectedness of eye and systemic health.

8. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

While MS is a neurological condition, one of its earliest signs can appear in the eyes — specifically optic neuritis, which is inflammation of the optic nerve.

During an eye exam, this manifests as decreased color perception, pain on eye movement, or blurry vision. The optic nerve may appear swollen or pale. Using visual field testing and OCT imaging, Vision Planet’s optometrists can detect these nerve changes early and refer patients for neurological evaluation — potentially catching MS in its first stages.

9. Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases

Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or sarcoidosis often produce ocular symptoms. These may include inflammation of the uvea (uveitis), dry eye, or retinal vasculitis.

An experienced eye doctor can identify these signs through slit-lamp biomicroscopy and fluorescein angiography, noting abnormal patterns of inflammation or bleeding. Vision Planet’s team is known for its careful evaluation and prompt referral to rheumatologists when ocular signs suggest systemic autoimmune disease.

10. Brain Tumours and Neurological Disorders

Perhaps one of the most surprising answers to “what diseases can be detected in an eye exam” involves brain health. Increased pressure inside the skull can cause papilledema, a swelling of the optic disc visible during an eye exam.

By examining the optic nerve head using ophthalmoscopy or OCT imaging, optometrists can spot papilledema, which may be linked to a brain tumour, aneurysm, or intracranial hypertension. Early referral in such cases can literally save lives.

Uncommon but Insightful Discoveries

Apart from these ten major conditions, eye exams occasionally reveal other unexpected issues — such as anaemia (seen through pale retinal vessels), jaundice (yellowing of the sclera), or even early Alzheimer’s signs through retinal nerve changes.

This reinforces the incredible diagnostic value of a comprehensive eye exam, something Vision Planet Eye Clinic Lagos provides with a blend of modern imaging tools, clinical expertise, and compassionate care.

Why Vision Planet Clinic Lagos Excels in Disease Detection

Eye care has evolved, and so has the way leading clinics in Lagos perform diagnostics. Vision Planet Clinic is among the few facilities equipped with digital fundus cameras, OCT scanners, autorefractors, and computerised perimetry systems — tools that allow detailed detection of both common and uncommon diseases during routine exams.

Here’s why Vision Planet stands out:

• Precision technology that captures high-resolution images of the retina, cornea, and optic nerve for accurate evaluation.
• Integrated health screening, where eye changes prompt full-body assessments and medical referrals.
• Experienced optometrists and ophthalmologists who interpret subtle clues invisible to the untrained eye.
• Affordable screening packages, making world-class diagnostics accessible to both individuals and families in Lagos.
• Patient-centric care, ensuring every test result is clearly explained, and treatment plans are customised.

These attributes make Vision Planet not just a place for glasses, but a true diagnostic centre for ocular and systemic health.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

The answer depends on your age, health, and vision history, but professionals generally recommend:

• Every year, for adults over 40 or anyone with diabetes or hypertension.
• Every two years for healthy adults under 40.
• Immediately, if you notice vision changes, headaches, or eye pain.

Skipping exams allows silent diseases to progress undetected. Remember, conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can be painless until damage is irreversible.

That’s why regular appointments with Vision Planet Eye Clinic Lagos are more than a formality — they’re a safeguard for lifelong

Final Note

Your eyes tell stories your body can’t always speak — and the only way to hear them early is through a detailed, professional eye exam. Knowing what diseases can be detected in an eye exam helps you see that these appointments aren’t just about vision correction; they’re vital for total health.

At Vision Planet Eye Clinic Lagos, every test is performed with meticulous care using advanced diagnostic tools. Whether it’s detecting diabetes before symptoms appear or identifying subtle nerve inflammation linked to neurological issues, their experts turn each examination into a preventive health experience.

If you value your vision and well-being, don’t wait until symptoms show. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Vision Planet Clinic today — where every look into your eyes is a step toward clearer sight and a healthier life.