Eye Conditions
Learn About the Eye Conditions We Treat
Below are brief descriptions of the various eye conditions we commonly see and treat at Blumenstock Family Eyecare in Lincoln.
There are many different types of eye conditions that could be affecting your eyesight or could have long-term consequences if not treated properly or promptly. We list some of the more common conditions below. If you think you or someone in your family has one of these conditions, please contact Blumenstock Family Eyecare in Lincoln for an exam and recommendations.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Lazy eye, medically known as amblyopia, is a loss or lack of development of vision, usually in one eye. This degenerative process usually begins with an inherited condition and appears during infancy or early childhood. Lazy eye needs to be diagnosed between birth and early school age since it is during this period that the brain “chooses” its visual pathway and may ignore the weaker eye permanently.
Lazy eye is not always easy to recognize since a child with worse vision in one eye does not necessarily have lazy eye. Because of this, it is recommended that all children, including those with no symptoms, have a comprehensive eye examination by the age of three and sooner if there is a family history of any eye condition or disease. If you suspect a problem, or need to set up your child’s first eye examination, contact Blumenstock Family Eyecare to set up an appointment.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a general term for an inflammation of the eyelid and eyelashes. It is among the most common and stubborn eye conditions usually resulting from poor eyelid hygiene, a low-grade bacterial infection (usually staphylococcal), an allergic reaction and/or abnormalities in oil gland function.
Like some other skin conditions, blepharitis can be controlled but not cured. The main goals in treating it are to reduce the amount of bacteria along the lid margin and open plugged glands. Contact Blumenstock Family Eyecare to assess the severity of your problem and the best treatment method.
Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s normally clear lens, which leads to a progressive blurring or dimming of vision. It is the world’s leading cause of blindness and among the most common conditions related to aging – by age 65, you have a 50 percent chance of developing a cataract, and, by age 75, it jumps to 70 percent.
A cataract starts out small and initially has little or no effect on vision. As the cataract progresses, it becomes harder to read and perform other normal tasks. In the early stages, your doctor may recommend stronger eyeglasses and adjusting your lighting to reduce glare. When cataracts disrupt your daily life, your doctor may recommend cataract-removal surgery, which is one of the most frequent and successful procedures done in the U.S.
Computer Vision Syndrome
Computer Vision Syndrome is characterized by neck pain, blurry vision, stiff shoulders, headache and watery eyes when working in front of a computer screen. The symptoms are typically due to posture, dry eyes, eye muscle coordination and poorly corrected vision.
Since computer monitors are typically 20 to 26 inches from your eyes, your regular glasses may not be the best option for computer work. This distance range is considered intermediate – closer than what you use to drive a car but farther away than what you use to read. Special lens designs for computer work provide you with a larger intermediate area for viewing the computer and your immediate work area like the top of your desk. Blumenstock Family Eyecare can help you determine if these special lenses are appropriate for you.
Dry Eye Syndrome
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. In extreme cases, vision can be blurred.
If you suspect that you have dry eye, see your eye doctor. Proper care will not only increase your comfort – it will protect your eyes. Your eye care provider can perform a series of tests to determine if you have dry eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the common eye conditions treated at Blumenstock Eye Care?
We treat a variety of eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and refractive errors such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. Our experts will provide tailored evaluations and treatment plans based on your specific condition.
How often should I have my eyes examined for early detection of eye conditions?
Regular eye examinations are vital for early detection and management of eye conditions. We recommend adults have a comprehensive eye exam at least every one to two years, while individuals with existing conditions or risk factors may need more frequent visits.
Can lifestyle changes help prevent eye conditions?
Yes, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing eye conditions. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, protecting your eyes from UV rays, quitting smoking, and managing overall health conditions such as diabetes can contribute to better eye health.
What should I do if I experience sudden changes in my vision?
If you notice sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness, flashes of light, or loss of vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Delaying treatment can lead to severe complications, so c without hesitation for a prompt consultation and evaluation.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Blumenstock Family Eyecare has the experience and equipment necessary to diagnose and often treat the eye conditions detailed above at our office in Lincoln. For more information please request an appointment with your eye care provider, and we will be in touch with you shortly.
