Eye Diseases

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, also 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. There are many different causes of conjunctivitis, including bacterial or viral infections, allergens and Dry Eye Syndrome.  Some forms of pink eye are highly contagious and may be accompanied by redness in the white of the eye and increased tearing and/or discharge.

Our doctors have the expertise and equipment to differentiate the different types of conjunctivitis to make sure you receive proper treatment.  While many minor cases improve within two weeks, some can develop into serious corneal inflammation and threaten sight. If you suspect conjunctivitis, visit your eye care provider at Center Vision Clinic for an examination and treatment.

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.  Diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness in the United States and anyone with Diabetes should be closely monitored by their eye doctor.

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.

Dry Eye Syndrome / Ocular Surface Disease

Dry Eye Syndrome refers to a breakdown in the quantity or quality of tears to moisten, cleanse and protect the eyes. This is significant because, with each blink, tears protect the surface of the eye, washing away dust and microorganisms. When this protective coating dries up, the eyes may feel “gritty” or burn and can be more sensitive to light. Often, your vision can be blurred and your ability to comfortably wear contact lenses may be reduced.

If you suspect that you have dry eye, schedule an appointment for a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. Center Vision Clinic utilizes cutting edge diagnostic methods and equipment to tailor therapies to your specific needs.  Proper care will not only increase your comfort – it will protect your eyes.  Visit our Specialty Dry Eye Center page for more information.

 Glaucoma

Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a disease in which damage to the optic nerve occurs with no signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to a decrease in peripheral vision and eventually 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.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a chronic, progressive disease that gradually destroys sharp 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). There are two forms of AMD called “dry,” most common and with no known treatment, and “wet,” less common and treated with laser procedures. Genetic testing is now available to help identify those most likely to develop “wet” macular degeneration and to determine which types of nutritional supplements may lower your risk of progressive disease.

In most cases, reversing damage caused by AMD is not possible, but supplements, protection from sunlight, eating a balanced diet and quitting smoking can reduce the risk and progression of macular degeneration. For suggestions, speak with your eye care provider at Center Vision Clinic.