Eye Diseases
A quick look at some of the most common eye diseases we diagnose and often treat here at Vision Source Meadville.
Eye diseases are a lot more common than you might think, some of them more preventable or treatable than others. We’ve listed a few common eye diseases that we diagnose and treat here at Vision Source Meadville:
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva – the thin, protective membrane that covers the surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids. Caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens and other irritants like smoke and dust, pink eye is highly contagious and is usually accompanied by redness in the white of the eye and increased tearing and/or discharge.
While many minor cases improve within two weeks, some can develop into serious corneal inflammation and threaten sight. If you suspect conjunctivitis, give us a call for and let us examine and treat this irritating issue for you.
Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetic eye disease is a general term for a group of eye problems that can result from having type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Often there are no symptoms in the early stages of diabetic eye disease, so it is important that you don’t wait for symptoms to appear before having a comprehensive eye exam. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease will dramatically reduce your chances of sustaining permanent vision loss.
(Have diabetes? Click here to know what to expect from your next diabetic eye exam.)
Glaucoma
Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is an increase in the intraocular pressure of the eyes, which causes damage to the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to a decrease in peripheral vision and eventual blindness.
While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are medications and surgery available that can help halt further vision loss. Early detection and regular eye exams are vital to slowing the progress of the disease.
(Glaucoma is no joke! Read more about the disease here.)
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a chronic, progressive disease that gradually destroys central vision due to a deterioration of the macula, a tiny spot in the central portion of your retina comprised of millions of light-sensing cells. Because it is so commonly associated with aging, it is also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
In most cases, we can’t reverse the damage AMD causes, but if you take the right supplements, protect your eyes from sunlight, eat a balanced diet, and quit smoking, you can reduce the disease from progressing further.
(We’ve seen many cases of macular degeneration here at Vision Source Meadville. Click here to learn more about this destructive eye disease.)