GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, resulting in permanent vision loss. The vision loss begins in the periphery and eventually can result in blindness if left untreated. Damage to the optic nerve is slow, occurring without any signs or symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Although there is no cure, regular eye exams allow early detection and management, with eye drops and in some cases, surgical intervention.

AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

The macula is a small but essential part of the retina, responsible for detailed central vision. Macular degeneration causes irreversible damage to the macula, resulting in blur and distortion. It is associated most often with increased age, smoking, family history, extensive UV exposure and obesity. Early detection and prompt intervention is key to treating this ocular disease.

• Dry AMD – It begins with the formation of yellow deposits under the retina. It is more common (90% of cases) and typically progresses slowly.
• Wet AMD – Abnormal blood vessels form under the retina and leak blood and fluid under the macula. It is rare (10% of cases), but affects vision more quickly and dramatically.

Any sudden changes in your vision should be assessed right away. We’d be happy to discuss ways to protect your eyes from AMD at your next eye exam.

DIABETIC EYE DISEASE

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in Canada as it affects the vision and the health of the eyes. Patients with diabetes have a higher risk of developing vision-threatening eye conditions.

• Diabetic Retinopathy – High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina. These damaged blood vessels will leak blood into the retina, causing blurred vision.
• Diabetic Macular Edema – When diabetic retinopathy is left untreated, it causes fluid to leak into the macula. The macula will swell and cause blurred, distorted central vision.

Changes can be detected by regular eye exams, hence it is recommended that all diabetic patients should have an eye exam once a year.

CATARACTS

Cataracts are the clouding or yellowing of the lens inside the eyes that are responsible for helping us focus and see clearly. Cataracts cause blurred vision, haze and increased glare. Some contributing factors in the development of cataract are age, smoking, trauma, UV exposure and even prolonged use of certain medications. A comprehensive eye examination can determine if you have a cataract forming.
When glasses and/or contact lenses can no longer correct vision loss from cataracts, you may need to be referred for cataract surgery.