“Eye diseases” is a blanket term that refers to a host of diseases relating to the function of the eye. Below, we describe some of the more common types of eye diseases and how they are generally treated. For more in-depth information, please speak with your eye care provider at Vienna Eyecare Center.
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. Caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens and other irritants like smoke and dust, pink eye is highly contagious and is usually accompanied by redness in the white of the eye and increased tearing and/or discharge.
While many minor cases improve within two weeks, some develop into serious corneal inflammation and threaten sight. If you suspect conjunctivitis, visit your eye care provider at Vienna Eyecare Center for an examination and treatment.
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.
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.
Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is an increase in the intraocular pressure of the eyes, which causes damage to the optic nerve 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 eventual 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 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).
Age-related macular degeneration can be a devastating condition, but Vienna Eyecare Center now has technology which helps screen for the earliest indicators of macular degeneration during an eye exam. Early diagnosis is important for the best prognosis.
Vienna Eyecare Center has the experience and equipment necessary to diagnose and often treat the eye diseases detailed above, as well as many other eye diseases, at our office in Vienna. For more information, please call (703) 938-7633 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with an experienced optometrist.