Common Eye Diseases

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear and transparent lens of the eye. When a cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy like a frosted window and may cause a blurring of vision.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight by damaging the optic nerve. Elevated pressure is a high risk factor, but is not the only contributor.

Doctors believe that over half of people suffering from glaucoma don't even know they have it. Early detection is key in prevention of damage from glaucoma. Annual eye exams will aid in early detection by monitoring pressure and the overall health of the eye. For more information, visit www.glaucoma.org.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is caused by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, the inside back layer of the eye that records the images we see and sends them via the optic nerve from the eye to the brain. The retina's central portion, known as the macula, is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye, and it controls our ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces or colors, and see objects in fine detail.

For more information on macular degeneration, visit www.macular.org.

What is Diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina. When blood vessels in the retina are damaged, they may leak blood and grow fragile, brush-like branches and scar tissue. This can blur or distort the vision images that the retina sends to the brain. It is important that diabetics have an examination once a year to evaluate for possible diabetic retinopathy.