Eye Problems & Diseases
As family eye doctors, we see a lot of patients with various eye disorders and diseases. Thus, we put together this small guide to help you better understand certain symptoms and disorders and whether they are serious or not.
Obviously this guide is only a general overview you should make an eye appointment for any concerns you may have.
At Eye Associates, we recognize your health is vital. We utilize the latest technology in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your eyes.
Learn more about our treatment of eye diseases.
Children's Vision Problems
Identifying and treating children's eye problems early on can prevent them from worsening or even turning into a lifetime of struggles.
Children do not have to be afraid to visit the doctor's office to be tested for common vision problems. We help both you and your children relax by giving them the best pediatric eye care available and treating them like family.
Amblyopia
Commonly referred to as lazy eye, amblyopia affects about two percent of babies and preschoolers. This pediatric eye problem involves the decrease of vision in one eye, leaving the side vision unaffected. It can be associated with another pediatric eye problem called strabismus, or cross-eyes. With these conditions, the brain ignores visual information from one eye in favor of the other eye. School screenings are not a substitute for a thorough professional eye exam. Every child should have a comprehensive eye exam by the age of three. The sooner amblyopia is diagnosed and treated, the better the results will be.
Myopia
Known as nearsightedness, myopia usually presents itself between the ages of 10 and 20. This is a progressive condition that blurs distance vision, but will usually stabilize by the time the patient is in his or her mid-20s. Annual eye examinations are important, as periodic lens changes may be needed.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularity in the shape of the cornea. This can blur and distort vision at all distances. This condition can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Hyperopia
Known as farsightedness, hyperopia is the result of an eye that is too short. This shorter eye length results in blurred near vision or increased near vision effort.
If your child loses or breaks their glasses, we've got you covered.
Our Kid's Promise Warranty gives parents peace of mind.
Over 40 Vision Problems
Those who have never had vision issues are often surprised to find their near vision deteriorating as they reach their 40s. It is common for eye problems to begin or to worsen in the over 40 year old population.
Presbyopia
Sometimes confused with farsightedness, presbyopia blurs the vision for reading and other close work. It is related to the aging process and causes a loss of flexibility in the lens inside the eye. This typically begins around age 40 and will progress into one’s early 60s
Dry eye syndrome
Occurs when the quantity or quality of the tear film is diminished, resulting in scratchy eyes, irritation, and blurred vision. This typically occurs in those over age 40. It can also be a result of hormonal changes associated with menopause. Treatment for this condition includes the use of artificial tears, occlusion of the lacrimal duct and Restasis.
No Insurance? No worries!
Are you self-employed, retired, or have you recently lost your job? Do you not have vision coverage at work? Don't worry. Eye Associates can help you!
Contact us now for more information!
Over 60 Vision Problems
With proper eye care, you can keep your eyes healthy and your vision strong well past the age of 60. It is important to not only care for your eyes on a daily basis, but to visit your optometrist before small problems turn into something worse.
Cataracts
A cataract forms when the clear lens within the eyes becomes cloudy. They can be very small or very large. The frequency with which cataracts occur increases with age. With early cataracts, only prescription lenses are needed to maintain good vision.
Cataracts that interfere with daily living are surgically removed. Vision is then restored with an intraocular lens implant. This can be done on an out-patient basis and the patient can resume daily activities within a few days. Our doctors are available for consultation, pre and post-operative cataract care.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. This disease involves an increase in the fluid pressure inside the eye that results in damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma typically strikes after age 40 and has no early symptoms. It may be diagnosed early with a thorough eye examination greatly reducing related vision loss. Treatment usually consists of eye drops. In some cases, surgery may be required.
Macular degeneration
Macular degeneration typically occurs after age 60. This results in blurring or loss of central vision. It most likely involves changes in the blood vessels that nourish the retina. Recent treatment advancements include the use of Lucentis or Avastin directly injected into the eye. These new treatments have shown great promise in reducing or stopping vision loss. When loss of vision does occur, optical aids such as magnifiers, telescopes, and high-powered reading lenses are prescribed to improve the remaining vision. Regular eye examinations and awareness of any symptoms can assist with early diagnosis. Some common symptoms: straight lines that appear to be bent; letter and numbers appearing in multiple images; or letters appearing jumbled in size or distorted.
One Minute Eye Exam
Feeling brave?
Take our One Minute Eye Exam and see what shape your eyes are really in.
