Eye Diseases

“Eye diseases” is a general term that refers to a host of diseases relating to the function of the eye. There are many eye diseases out there but we describe some of the more common types below and how they are generally treated. For more in-depth information, please contact one of our team members at Rockford Family Eyecare for more information or schedule an exam online.

Glaucoma

Often called "silent blindness," glaucoma is a degenerative disease of the optic nerve often worsened by increased pressure in the eye.  Vision loss is often gradual but sometimes can be sudden.  In both cases, glaucoma ultimately leads to permenant visual field loss and possibly complete blindness. Because there usually is no pain associated with the disease and the initial visual field loss is usually gradual, many people do not realize that they have glaucoma until permanent vision loss has occured. While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are medications and surgery available that can help halt further vision loss. Early detection through regular eye exams is vital to slowing the progress of the disease. Although not all doctors are licensed in treating glaucoma, your professional optometrists at Rockford Family Eyecare are trained and licensed in diagnosing and treating glaucoma. 

Conjunctivitis

Most people have had a case of "Pink Eye" at one time or another. Conjunctivitis is the general term for a red or pink eye and is really an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva – the thin, protective membrane that covers the surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids. Many things cause conjuctivities but the major causes are bacteria, viruses, allergens and other irritants like smoke and dust. Pink eye can be highly contagious and is usually accompanied by redness in the white of the eye and increased tearing and/or discharge. Improper care and abusing contact lenses may also cause conjuctivitis. While many minor cases improve within two weeks, if not treated quickly some can develop into serious corneal inflammation and cause permanent vision loss. 

Diabetic Eye Disease

Everyone knows someone who has either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetic eye disease is a general term for a group of eye problems that can result from having 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. With the increase in diabetes globally, yearly exams are necessary to prevent any vision loss from bleeding inside the eye that can be occurring, even if the disease is controlled and closely monitored. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease will dramatically reduce your chances of sustaining permanent vision loss. At Rockford Family Eyecare we can properly monitor eye health so permenant vision loss is prevented.  

Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness in people above the age of 50. With people living longer, Macular Degeneration has increased significantly. At Rockford Family Eyecare, we offer DNA testing to determine your chances of developing Macular Degeneration. When it comes to preventing vision loss or blindness from Macular Degeneration, not all medications/vitamins are the same. Depending upon your DNA analysis we will formulate the right supplements/medications that are specifically needed to preserve your vision for years to come. Macular Degeneration DNA testing is usually covered fully by insurances.

As the general population ages and the increase in age expectancy grows, macular degeneration is becoming more and more prevalent. Macular degeneration (also refered to as Age Related Macular Degeneration or AMD) 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 which is where fine visual details are obtained. There are two forms of AMD: “dry” is the most common and has no known treatment, and “wet,” which is less common, is treated with laser procedures or injections. Although AMD does have a slight genetic component to it, there are ways to lessen your chances of vision loss. Living a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy foods, wearing sunglasses, and not smoking are some of the things you can do to lessen your chances of developing AMD. Sadly, however, because the retinal tissue in back of the eye is so delicate, reversing damage caused by AMD is not likely which is why a yearly exam to detect early changes are necessary. For more information contact Rockford Family Eyecare or schedule an exam today. 

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