Set Text Size: A A A

Other Eye Conditions

Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is an age related deterioration of the macula, the area of the retina responsible for central vision. This disease is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in patients over the age of 65. As the eye ages, deposits called drusen can accumulate in the macula, and the retina can become thinned in this area. This is the dry form of AMD and is by far the most common type. Typically there is very gradual blurring or distortion of the central vision, sometimes leading to difficulty with reading and other tasks. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or bleed, causing damage to the overlying macula. Only about 10% of AMD patients develop the wet form. Wet AMD can cause much more sudden symptoms with a significant and often severe drop in central vision. In both dry and wet AMD, only central vision is affected, with peripheral vision remaining intact.

Risk factors for AMD include age, genetics/family history, Caucasian race, cigarette smoking, obesity, high fat diet, high blood pressure, and sun exposure. Early diagnosis is critical, as many of the risk factors can be modified. In addition, specific combinations of antioxidants and Zinc have been shown to slow the progression of dry AMD (though this regimen must be modified for smokers). Wet AMD, when diagnosed early, can be treated with laser or intraocular injections of drugs such as Lucentis and Avastin . Regular eye exams are important for early diagnosis to allow for treatment and prevent irreversible damage to the macula.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common condition that can cause irritation, burning, grittiness, redness, tearing, and blurred vision. It is more common as we age, especially in women, diabetics, contact lens wearers, and those with underlying rheumatologic diseases or who take certain medications. Dry eye is not only uncomfortable, it can cause permanent damage to the eye and affect vision. Fortunately there are many effective treatments available such as artificial tears, nutritional supplements, prescription eye drops including Restasis® and topical steroids, punctal plugs, and lifestyle modifications.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Dry Eye Zone

WebMD®

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness in the US. Fortunately, it is largely preventable and treatable if addressed early. Diabetes causes damage to the tiny vessels of the retina, affecting the blood supply that nourishes the retina. Abnormal blood vessels grow in response to the lack of nourishment, and these vessels can leak, bleed, or distort the retina. Treatment includes laser, injections, and surgery. All diabetics should be screened at least annually. This is essential because significant damage can occur without noticeable symptoms, and is irreversible. The risk of diabetic retinopathy can be dramatically reduced by proper diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and avoiding alcohol and cigarettes.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Flashes and Floaters

Floaters are common and often become more prevalent with age. If, however, one experiences a significant CHANGE in floaters or a NEW floater, a dilated eye exam is required to rule out a retinal tear, hole, or detachment. A new floater most commonly represents the vitreous gel of the eye settling with age to form condensations we see as floaters. As the vitreous gel settles away from the retina (the inner lining of the eye), this can cause traction or tugging on the retina and lead to a retinal tear or hole. If a tear or hole is detected, it can be treated with laser or freezing treatment to prevent a detachment. If a detachment occurs, this generally requires surgical repair to preserve/restore vision. Early diagnosis is very important, so symptoms should be reported immediately.

Flashes of light can have various causes and are not uncommon. They can be related to migraine headaches, changes in blood flow to the eye, or traction on the retina. If one experiences flashes of light, these should be reported immediately to rule out a significant problem requiring treatment.

For more information, visit the following websites:

National Eye Institute

All About Vision

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a very common inflammation of the eyelid rim involving the lash line and the row of oil glands behind the lashes. This is a chronic condition that is controlled rather than cured. Symptoms include lid/eye redness, burning, irritation, flaking of the lid rims, and styes or chalazia (red bumps on the lid rim). Usually the main concerns are eye irritation, worsening of dry eye symptoms, and the cosmetic effects of red eyes and red lid rims. In more serious cases of blepharitis, however, permanent scarring of the lid rims and cornea can occur, which can lead to vision loss. Blepharitis is treated with warm compresses, lid scrubs (a specific lid cleansing method to remove irritating oils from the lid rims), warm compresses, topical medications, nutritional supplements, and oral medications.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Contact Lenses

Over 30 million Americans wear contact lenses, according to the American Optometric Association. Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with your eyes so you can enjoy a larger field of vision with fewer distortions. You also don't have to deal with frames hovering in your peripheral vision or external lenses that fog up on cold days or get wet in the rain.

There are many different kinds of contacts, including rigid and flexible, extended wear, disposable and planned replacement lenses. Some can be made as bifocals or in different colors. After a thorough eye exam and consultation with an experienced physician, patients who qualify for contact lenses can discuss which type is right for them. All contact lenses require special care and cleaning. You'll need to make regular follow-up visits to ensure your eyes remain healthy.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Allergic Eye Disease

Allergic eye disease, or allergic conjunctivitis, makes the eyes feel itchy, red, watery and light-sensitive and can cause swelling of the eyelids. The allergy may be seasonal, often occurring alongside hay fever, or it may occur throughout the year, known as perennial, as a result of exposure to allergens such as dust mites, mold or animal dander. Both are very common conditions, especially for patients with family histories of asthma, eczema or rhinitis. Less frequently, people can develop allergic eye disease from wearing hard or soft contact lenses, as a complication of atopic eczema, or for other reasons. Patients with this condition may also suffer from dry eyes and blepharitis.

Allergic eye disease is uncomfortable but it rarely causes injury. Treatment varies depending on the cause, history and symptoms, and may include topical or oral antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers or topical corticosteroids. Cold compresses may also relieve discomfort.