Eye Disease Treatment

The surprising truth about eye disease is that there are often no symptoms early on.

Only your eye doctor can detect eye diseases at an early stage when there is a better chance to develop an effective disease management plan.

Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in men and women over age 50. There is no known cure, but there are treatments that help slow the progression of the disease, which is why early detection is very important. Age is the biggest risk factor for AMD, followed by having a family history of AMD. You’re also at greater risk of developing AMD if you are a smoker or past smoker, prolonged sun exposure, or have any history of AMD in your family. Tell your doctor if you are concerned about AMD at your comprehensive eye exam. We recommend an annual dilated retinal exam as well as annual retinal photos for anyone at an increased risk or with early signs of AMD.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is known as the “Silent Thief of Sight” because most people experience no symptoms at all until irreversible damage has been done. Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes damage to your optic nerve, the nerve that connects your eye to your brain. It typically results from high pressure inside the eye, and usually affects side vision first, making it hard to notice. We screen every patient for glaucoma by checking your eye pressure, running a digitalized visual field screening, evaluating your optic nerve health, and discussing your personal risk level. If glaucoma runs in your family, be sure to tell your doctor. Glaucoma has many treatment options including medication and surgery, and is more effective the earlier it is diagnosed.

Cataracts

By the age of 80, more than half of all people living in the US either have a cataract or have undergone cataract surgery. Inside your eye, there is a natural lens that is normally clear. Over the years, changes in the eyes lead to the breakdown of the lens’ proteins, causing them to become cloudy. When viewing things through a cataract, your vision may appear hazy, blurry or less colorful. Many things can cause blurry vision, and your eye doctor is the only one who can provide a definitive diagnosis of cataracts. During the early stages of the disease, the changes in vision associated with cataracts can often be addressed by using prescription glasses. When this strategy to clear your vision is no longer working, an outpatient surgery is often the next step. The doctors at Oregon Optometry will work together with your surgeon to guide you through the process – and many people end up glasses-free after cataract surgery with modern lens implants!

Diabetic Eye Disease

Did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults? It is estimated that nearly 1/3 of those with diabetes over age 40 also has Diabetic Eye Disease. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina). This causes bleeding, swelling, and abnormal blood vessel growth. The longer you have diabetes and the less controlled your blood sugar is, the more likely you are to develop this eye condition. Management of your diabetes under the care of a medical professional — with a treatment plan that includes regular visits to the eye doctor — is the best way to prevent loss of vision. Even if you are seeing your eye doctor on a yearly basis as recommended, if you notice the sudden appearance of the symptoms noted above, make an appointment right away.