Cataracts
Cataracts are caused by clouding of the lenses inside the eyes. The lens is made up of mostly water and proteins, which clumps together as we age. This will cause blurry vision and glare from sunlight or on-coming headlights.
Diabetes & the Eye
Diabetes can damage multiple parts of the body including the eyes. Diabetes can cause leakage in the blood vessles that supply nutrients to the eyes, which can lead to permanent blindness if diabetes is not treated. The longer a person has diabetes the higher the risk.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is due to an insuffient amount of tears to keep the eye lubricated. With dry eye, people may feel the following symptoms in the eyes: irritated, gritty, scratchy, burning, excess tearing, and blurred vision.
Floaters
Floaters are particles within the vitreous – which is the clear, jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of your eyes. They can appear as small spots, threadlike strands or cobwebs. Floaters that have been present for a long time or increase in number very slowly are harmless. However, if they appear abruptily or if there is a sudden increase in numbers, then you must be examined immediately to rule out a retinal tear.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve of the eye, which leads to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Anyone can develope glacoma, but some people are at a higher risk than others. African Americans over age 40, everyone over age 60 and anyone with a family history of glacoma are at higher risk.
Hypertension & the Eye
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels of the eye and cause vision loss or blindness.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea progressively thins, leading to a cone-shaped cornea rather than the normal dome-shaped. Vision is generally impaired and even glasses will not improve vision in moderate to advanced stages. Generally, rigid gas permeable lenses are prescribed in moderate to advanced stages to improve vision.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness among Americans age 65 and older. AMD causes a deterioration of central vision due to damage of the macula, which is the part of the retina that allows you to see details.