Patient Education

Healthy Vision

Photo Courtesy of National Eye Institute,
National Institutes of Health

Astigmatism

When the cornea is oval-shaped, a condition known as astigmatism occurs. The oval shape causes light to focus in more than one place making near or far images to appear blurred or distorted. Laser surgery can be used to correct this condition.

Photo Courtesy of National Eye Institute,
National Institutes of Health

A scene as it might be viewed by a person with cataract.

One of the most well-known eye diseases is cataracts. Cataracts are a "hazing" of the normally clear lens inside of the eye. The normal lens allows light to reach the retina for clear vision. Cataracts reduce vision, just as a dirty windshield diminishes a driver's view of the road. The number one cause of blindness in the world is cataracts. Although factors such as nutrition and genetics play a role in cataract formation, UV exposure is primarily responsible. The clouding of the lens is irreversible, and once the cataracts begin to impair daily activities, the only treatment available is surgical removal. The good news is that cataract surgery is relatively uncomplicated, and has a very high success rate.

Glaucoma, refers to several types
of vision loss resulting from optic nerve damage. The most common form, primary open angle, res-ponds well to medication if treated early. There are also tests to determine if you are at risk. Because this disease can strike suddenly and without symptoms, the best defense is education and screening.

Photo Courtesy of National Eye Institute,
National Institutes of Health

Nearsightedness occurs when the cornea is too curved. Light focuses before it reaches the retina, which causes distant objects to appear blurry. Nearsightedness can be treated in several ways, including the use of laser, which gently reshapes the cornea.

Photo Courtesy of National Eye Institute,
National Institutes of Health

In recent years, the public has become increasingly aware of this ocular disease that goes by many different names. Macular degeneration is a result of cell death in the central (macular) part of the retina. Like cataracts, it is thought to have nutritional, genetic, and UV exposure factors in development. It is rarely present before age 65, but increases to 20% prevalence between ages 75 to 85. It spares peripheral vision, but adversely affects central vision, similar to looking at a clock and seeing all the numbers, but not seeing the clock hands.

A scene as it might be viewed by a person with diabetic retinopathy.