PROTECTING YOUR EYES
We all want to protect our eyesight and overall health for ourselves and our family - that is why annual eye exams by Dr. Steinman are important. Regular eye care and exams can protect and prevent many eye diseases, if detected early. Today, a whole range of eye problems can be treated successfully without total vision loss. In addition, many vision problems begin at an early age, so it's important for children to recieve proper eye care from the time they are infants.
Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding or darkening that develops in the normally clear lens of the eye. This prevents the lens from properly focusing on the retina, at the back of the eye, resulting in a loss of vision. It is not a film that grows over the surface of the eye.
No one is exactly sure what causes a cataract, but it is known that chemical changes within the lens cause it to become cloudy. This is often throught of as part of the natural aging process, but it may also result from heredity, an injury or disease.
Cataracts are most often found in persons over age 55 but are also occasionally found in younger persons, even newborns. Cataracts usually develop in both eyes, but often at different rates. Some cataracts develop slowly over a period of years and others form rapidly within a few months.
In a comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Steinman can determine whether or not your have cataracts and can help you decide on the best treatment options.
Diabetic Retinopathy
The Optomap Retinal Exam is used by Dr. Steinman to get an ultra-widefield view of the retina (the back of the eye). While eye exams generally include a look at the front of the eye to evaluate health and perscription changes, a thorough screening of the retina is critical to verify that your eye is healthy. This can lead to early detection of common diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration, and even cancer. The exam is quick, painless, and may not require dilation drops.
Diabetic retinopathy can seriously affect vision and, if left untreated, cause blindness.
Since this disease can cause blindness, early diagnosis and treatment is essential. That's one reason why it is important to have your eyes examined periodically by Dr. Steinman, especially if you are a diabetic or if you have a family history of diabetes.
Dry Eye
Possible Causes of Dry Eye:
- Age
- Menopause
- Post-LASIK
- Sjogren's Syndrome
- Wearing Contact Lenses
- Computer Use
- Hot, dry climates
- Air Conditioning
Symptoms of Dry Eye:
- A gritty sensation
- Blurred vision
- Itching
- Light sensitivity
- Pain
- Redness
- Stinging or burning
- Watery eyes
Treatment: Dr. Steinman is certified in treatment of dry eye syndrome. If you are experiencing dry eye please call the office to make an appointment with Dr. Steinman.
Glaucoma
Our new Retinal Thickness Analyzer, the RTA, is a significant instrument for Dr. Steinman in diagnosing and following difficult retinal diseases. It takes less than 30 seconds to take an image of each eye. With the RTA, Dr. Steinman can detect structural changes that may precede vision loss. More important, the RTA can help with early detection of Glaucoma.