Common Eyes Diseases
Dry eyes
Did you know that our tears are key to good vision and eye health? If working properly, the tears are coating and protecting your eye surface. However, you may not produce quality tears, or they are evaporating too quickly. We continue to learn about the complex tears and their importance. Many risk factors contribute to dry eyes: age, gender (women more than men), medications, autoimmune diseases, environment, LASIK, prolonged computer work and more.
Symptoms of dry eye disease● Stinging and burning● gritty or sandy feeling● blur in vision that comes and goes● red, irritated eyes (even in morning)● loss of comfort in contact lenses
If you are having any of these symptoms, please schedule a consultation.
Macular degeneration
The macula is the area responsible for our central vision. In macular degeneration (AMD), the center of the retina deteriorates causing changes in central vision. There are 2 main types of AMD. Dry AMD is the most common type, with the formation of drusen-bits of fat and protein collecting on the retina. The more aggressive type is wet AMD, where leaky blood vessels grow under the retina. New medications are used to stop the leaking vessels. Wavy or distorted vision is the most common symptom. AMD is more common in older age and risk factors include genetics, smoking, poor diet, and high blood pressure. Improving nutrition with diet, quitting smoking and protection from UV light are all beneficial lifestyle changes.
Cataracts
A cataract is an opacity of clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. Most common causes include UV rays, heredity and smoking. If the cataract continues to develop, it interferes with your vision. This may feel like your glasses are never clean or that you are looking through a dirty window. If and when the cataract affects your lifestyle, we can recommend a skilled surgeon. Our doctors can explain the procedure and guide you through the pre- and post-operative care. The technology in cataract surgery is precise and safe.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a silent eye disease, which is one of the many reasons to have your eyes examined. The damage in glaucoma can be caused by increased pressure, which damages the nerves. This can result in loss of side vision. Unfortunately, there are rarely symptoms to give warning of the damage being done. The eye examination reveals any risk factors of glaucoma and early detection preserves vision. There are advanced testing options available should any risk factors be found in the examination.
Diabetic retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common eye disease in American adults. Retinopathy occurs when blood vessels in the eyes swell or leak and cause bleeding. Did you know that the eye provides the only direct view of blood vessels? For that reason, annual eye examinations are essential to your diabetes care.