Eyesight Health Center

<i>Acanthamoeba</i> infection of the eye can cause <i>Acanthamoeba</i> keratitis, a serious infection that may result in permanent vision loss or blindness. Signs and symptoms include a sensation of something in the eye, pain, redness, light sensitivity, and tearing. Prescription medications treat this infection.

Amblyopia is a vision-related condition. An eye does not acquire normal visual acuity even while using prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Amblyopia, often called lazy eye, develops during infancy and early childhood. Mostly, lazy eye occurs in just one eye. However, in certain circumstances, both eyes may have decreased visual acuity.

Choosing to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses for vision correction mostly depends on personal preferences, such as lifestyle, comfort, convenience, and budget. One is not necessarily better than the other; each has its pros and cons in terms of vision, ease of use, and eye health.

Contact lenses are usually a safe and effective form of vision correction; however, they are not devoid of risks. A contact lens is a medical device that requires lots of care and personal cleanliness to decrease the chance of eye infection. It is necessary to clean and store lenses as directed to keep it safe and away from contamination for a long time. Hygiene is a critical aspect of the long-term safety of contact lenses.

Astigmatism is an eye condition in which the cornea is abnormally curved and causes out-of-focus vision. Symptoms of astigmatism may include eye strain, squinting, eye fatigue, and headaches. Most astigmatism arises within the cornea although some forms occur in the lens. Astigmatism is diagnosed via a complete eye exam. Some cases of astigmatism can be treated with corrective eyewear. Astigmatism can also be treated with LASIK surgery.

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. Acne rosacea, staphylococcal bacteria, allergies, sensitivities to makeup or contact lens solutions, head lice, or other conditions may cause blepharitis. Symptoms and signs include itchy eyelids, burning sensation in the eyes, crusting of the eyelids, light sensitivity, red, swollen eyelids, loss of eyelashes, and dandruff of the lashes and eyebrows. Proper eyelid hygiene and a regular cleaning routine controls blepharitis.

Blindness is the state of being sightless. Causes of blindness include macular degeneration, stroke, cataracts, glaucoma, infection, and trauma. Symptoms and signs may include eye pain, eye discharge, or the cornea or pupil turning white. Treatment of blindness depends upon the cause of the blindness.

Yes, an intraocular lens (IOL) can be removed and replaced, but it may not be an easy procedure and may have potential complications to vision. Such procedures are very rare because intraocular once implanted are permanent.

Some foreign bodies in the eye may be simple and go away on their own, whereas others require removal. Removal of foreign bodies from certain parts of the eye, such as the cornea, eyelid, or conjunctiva - with any appropriate instrument other than a scalpel or needle - can be performed by an optometrist as per the laws in the US.

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a condition that causes fluid accumulation in the macula. Diabetic macular edema can be cured by tackling the underlying medical cause and treating abnormal eye changes caused by the condition.

Keratoconus cannot be cured nor treated with medications. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye disorders, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Macular edema cannot be cured but can be treated effectively if diagnosed early. Vision can be better preserved with early treatment of macular edema and the underlying condition causing it. Recovery from macular edema is slow and gradual and may even take months.

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses) surgery is a procedure to restructure the cornea and correct myopia. It corrects myopia in most people who undergo the procedure. However, in a small number of people, the lens may undergo age-related changes. Such changes may cause a person to develop blurry vision after a few years of LASIK surgery.

Crystals can build up in the eyes and is usually a sign of a medical condition. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye conditions, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

A cataract is an eye disease that causes the eye's lens to become cloudy and opaque with decreased vision. Causes of cataracts include diabetes, hypothyroidism, certain genetic illnesses, hyperparathyroidism, atopic dermatitis, and certain medications. Cataract symptoms and signs include a decrease in vision and a whitish color to the affected eye. Treatment for cataracts may involve cataract surgery.

A chalazion is a lump in the upper or lower eyelid caused by inflammation of a gland of the lid. Learn the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of a chalazion.

Coats disease is a rare eye condition that typically progresses to vision loss or blindness in one eye. Gradual vision loss is usually the first symptom, followed by a cloudy white or yellow pupil due to the presence of a cataract. Treatment focuses on limiting the blood vessel progression and may involve cryotherapy or laser photocoagulation. Read about symptoms, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

The cornea is the clear outer layer of the eye. If it is damaged by disease, infection, or injury, vision problems may occur. Corneal problems can be detected by having an eye exam. Corneal problems can be prevented by protecting the eyes from injury and avoiding contact with people who have eye infections.

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea. Infection is a common cause of corneal ulcer. Symptoms and signs of corneal ulcer include redness, eye pain and discharge, blurred vision, photophobia, and a gray or white spot on the cornea. Treatment depends upon the cause of the corneal ulcer.

Most eye health vitamins and supplements are meant for those suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Otherwise, they have very little effect on other eye diseases.

Strabismus or squint is a condition in which the eyes are not aligned properly with each other. Since both eyes must point in the same direction to see properly, it ends up affecting the vision.

Double vision (diplopia) is a symptom that my indicate Graves' disease, myasthenia gravis, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, diabetes, cataracts, aneurysm, brain tumor, or migraine. Symptoms and signs include eye pain, droopy eyelids, nausea, headache, and a cross-eyed appearance. Treatment of double vision depends upon the underlying cause.

Dry eyes are caused by an imbalance in the tear-flow system of the eye but also can be caused by the drying out of the tear film. This can be due to dry air created by air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions. Treatment may involve self-care measures, medications, or rarely, surgery.

Many common eye disorders resolve without treatment and some may be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) products. It's important to visit a physician or ophthalmologist is the problem involves the eyeball itself or the condition hasn't improved after 72 hours of use of an OTC eye care product.

Eye floaters are deposits or condensation that form in the eye's vitreous humor. These deposits cast shadows on the retina, and as the eye moves, the deposits shift position, making it appear as though the shadows are moving or floating.

Herpes of the eye occurs due to herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1). Symptoms of herpes of the eye include pain in and around the eye, rash or sores on the eyelids, redness, swelling, and cloudiness of the cornea.

Eye strain is a symptom caused by looking at something for a long time. Symptoms and signs include redness, light sensitivity, headaches, and blurred vision. Symptoms may be treated by closing the eyes and taking a break from the visual task.

Nonprescription eyeglasses are available over the counter (OTC) and are typically used by people who can no longer read fine print. OTC trifocals are helpful for those who require multiple distances or focal lengths for near and intermediate tasks. OTC sunglasses should offer 100% protection from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. OTC magnifying glasses are useful for viewing tiny objects or fine print.

Farsightedness is a common vision problem in which a person can see distant objects more clearly than closer ones. Check out the center below for more medical references on vision problems, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Glaucoma is a common eye condition in which the fluid pressure inside the eye rises because of slowed fluid drainage from the eye. If untreated, glaucoma may damage the optic nerve and other parts of the eye, causing the loss of vision or even blindness.

Heterochromia iridis is a rare condition that describes people with two different colored eyes. There are many potential underlying causes of heterochromia iridis including genetic and acquired diseases. Heterochromia iridis has three types: sectorial heterochromia, central heterochromia, and complete heterochromia. The condition is often recognized by a parent (in the case of an affected infant), the patient, or a family member (acquired heterochromia iridis). Treatment includes addressing the underlying condition or wearing tinted contact lenses to make the eyes look more uniform. The majority of people with heterochromia iridis have an excellent prognosis.

A blepharospasm (eye twitch) is a harmless, involuntary spasm of the muscle of the eyelids, which may resolve on its own. If the twitching isn't caused by an underlying condition, getting more rest and avoiding alcohol and caffeine may help stop it.

Eye pain (ocular pain) is also called ophthalmalgia and is a common complaint. It may be perceived as a throbbing, burning, or itching sensation. Eye pain may be unilateral or in both eyes. It may be due to something as trivial as eye strain or as serious as brain infection.

The symptoms of bacterial vs. viral conjunctivitis may be similar. But a doctor can easily distinguish between the two.

What is papilledema and what are the symptoms? Learn the signs of papilledema, what causes it, how doctors diagnose it, and what you can do to treat it.

Eyelid drooping, also called ptosis, may resolve on its own or require treatment. Learn about 6 procedures that can help fix droopy eyelids.

Keratoconus or conical cornea is a condition occurring in the eye in which the cornea (clear, dome-shaped cover over the colored part of the eye or iris) starts thinning and eventually bulges outward into a cone shape.

Your eyelids might swell due to local infection, trauma, or any other illness, where fluid builds up in the entire body. Depending on the cause, one or both eyelids may become swollen.

Most eye infections are treated with a combination of medications and home remedies, although treatment varies depending on the cause: bacterial, viral, or fungal.

Home remedies, such as a warm compress or nasal irrigation, could help relieve symptoms of a blocked tear duct. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye conditions, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Diabetes can damage the blood vessels of the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. Check out the center below for more medical references on diabetes, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Punctal plugs do not last indefinitely, although some last longer than others depending on the type and material. Learn about how punctal plugs work.

The scleral buckle is usually permanent. However, in the case of minor retinal detachment, a temporary buckle may be used, which is removed once the eye heals.

Unlike laser surgery, trabeculectomy takes about 4-6 weeks to heal completely. Vision may be blurry for about 6 weeks. About 50% of patients undergoing this surgery most probably don’t require medications to lower intraocular pressure.

Without treatment, allergic conjunctivitis symptoms could last the entire time that your critical allergen is present — which can vary greatly.

Inherited retinal diseases are rare genetic disorders that can cause blindness. There are over 260 genes known to cause IRDs, and over 20 known IRDs.

Taking contact lenses out is one of the most important aspects of wearing contacts. The sliding down method is preferable.

Iritis is inflammation of the iris, the colored portion of the eye. Symptoms include a red, painful eye, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. Treatment usually involves cortisone eyedrops.

Allergic conjunctivitis may occur along with sneezing, runny nose, or sinus headache. Many people also find that they are tired and feel agitated.

Pinkeye (conjunctivitis) is inflammation of the conjunctiva. Whether pinkeye is contagious depends upon what is causing the irritation. With pinkeye, people may experience swollen eyelids, a pinkish color in the whites of the eyes, eye discharge, photophobia, increased tear production, and itching.

LASIK and SMILE eye surgeries are the most commonly performed laser refractive surgeries to correct vision problems. LASIK improves vision and eliminates the need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea. Symptoms and signs include pain, tearing, blurred vision, eye redness, watery eyes, or the cornea may appear gray or white. Treatment of keratitis depends upon the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually destroys the central vision. In people over 60, AMD is a leading cause of vision loss. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina start to grow under the macula, leaking blood and fluid and causing rapid vision loss. In dry AMD, light-sensitive cells slowly break down in the macula, resulting in gradual vision loss. Pain is not associated with either form of AMD.

Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, the structure that connects the eye to the brain. The precise cause of optic neuritis is unknown, but it is thought to be a type of autoimmune disorder. Optic neuritis most commonly develops due to an autoimmune disorder that may be triggered by a viral infection.

Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids, and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes. These membranes react to a wide range of bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents.

Presbyopia is the age-related loss of the ability to focus on objects that are close up. The condition generally affects people over 45 years of age and causes blurred vision, headaches, and the need to hold reading material at arm's length. Presbyopia cannot be cured. Prescription contact lenses and glasses can help those who have presbyopia to see more clearly.

Retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from its attachments to the underlying eye tissue. Symptoms of retinal detachment include flashing lights and floaters. Highly nearsighted young adults and those who've had cataract surgery are at higher risk for retinal detachment.

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a genetic condition that causes retinal degeneration and eventual vision loss. Symptoms include night blindness and tunnel vision. Visual field testing and electrophysiological testing are essential in diagnosing RP. Though there is no cure for RP, vitamin A therapy and an omega-3-rich diet may be recommended for patients to slow disease progression.

Scleritis is inflammation of the white part of the eye. It may be caused by a serious underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease. Symptoms include redness, pain, tearing, sensitivity to light, and decreased visual acuity. Treatment may include eyedrops as well as treatment for any underlying disease process. Scleritis cannot be prevented.

Silent sinus syndrome is a rare condition characterized by a spontaneous collapse of the air sinus. Learn the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SSS.

Sj&ouml;gren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes symptoms that include dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, and joint and muscle pain. Read about Sjogren's syndrome diet, complications, treatment, diagnosis, medications, and symptoms.

A sty is a bump that forms on the eyelid as a result of a blocked gland. Styes may be caused by infections, burns, or trauma to the eyelid. Most styes resolve on their own. The application of warm compresses can speed healing. In some cases, steroid injection or incision and drainage may be necessary. Keeping the area clean and consuming a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent the formation of styes.

A subconjunctival hemorrhage is bleeding under the eye's conjunctiva. There is usually no obvious cause for a subconjunctival hemorrhage, but it may be caused by sneezing, vomiting, infections on the outside of the eye, coughing, and clotting disorders. Symptoms and signs include blood in the white of the eye and a sense of fullness under the lid. No treatment is needed.

Trachoma is an infectious disease caused by the <i>Chlamydia trachomatis</i> bacteria. Symptoms and signs include redness and irritation of the eyes with tearing. Trachoma is diagnosed by examining the eyes and eyelids. Treatment involves a single dose of azithromycin (Zithromax) or the use of topical tetracycline (Achromycin) ointment. Infected individuals should be counseled about sanitation and taught simple cleanliness.

Uveitis is inflammation of the eye. Symptoms include blurred vision, eye pain, eye redness, photophobia, and floaters. Treatment may involve prescription eyedrops, antibiotics, and wearing dark glasses.

The different types of color blindness include red-green color blindness, blue-yellow color blindness, and complete color blindness.

The retina is the innermost layer in the back of the eye and is the portion of the eye that receives light. The function of the retina is to receive light that passes through the lens and converts the light into neural signals, which are transmitted to the brain for visual recognition. The retina is crucial for vision. Damage to the retina is called retinopathy. Retinopathy has many causes and leads to visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help stop the progression of the disease as well as loss of vision, and aid in vision restoration.

In some cases, eye twitches may indicate that you are lacking nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium, iron, and electrolytes.

Patients generally present with a swollen eyelid due to allergy, infection, fluid accumulation, or sometimes severe eye injuries. Below are a few important conditions, which can usually cause a swollen eyelid.

White spots on your eye may result from corneal ulcers, onchocerciasis, retinoblastoma, and uveitis. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye health, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Redness around the eyes may be caused by a variety of factors, such as aging, eyelid inflammation, allergens, and styes. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye conditions, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Vestibular ocular reflex (VOR) is caused by multiple sclerosis, brain stem ischemia, Whipple’s disease, sickness, viral infections, antibiotics, and head injuries.

What is yellow discharge from your eye? Learn what causes it, how to recognize it, and how it is treated.

Most color-blind people can clearly see things like others, but they are unable to fully “appreciate or see” red, green, or blue light. There are extremely rare cases where people are unable to see any color at all, but the most common color blindness is the red-green color blindness.

Contact lenses are thin discs made of a transparent material that fits over the cornea (clear front layer of the eye). These are used to correct the refractive error. Doctor will select the best types of lenses after a proper eye examination.

People with Anton’s syndrome strongly believe they can see things they cannot and behave as if they can really see them. Check out the center below for more medical references on vision loss, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

A 3-snip procedure is one of the techniques to treat watery eyes or excessive tears in the eye. This procedure is performed to widen the tear duct and improve the drainage of tears in the patient suffering from an abnormal narrowing of the tear duct.

A blepharospasm (eye twitch) is a harmless tic of the eyelid muscle, which may resolve on its own. Conditions that may cause eye twitch include blepharitis, dry eyes, light sensitivity or conjunctivitis. Nerve disorders can also cause eye twitching.

Argon Laser prevents an eye condition from getting worse and sometimes helps to cure it. This procedure is aimed toward the preservation of central and color vision.

Marcus Gunn jaw-winking ptosis is a congenital disorder associated with synkinetic movements of the upper eyelid involuntarily contracting while the jaw is chewing.

Phacoemulsification with an intraocular lens (IOL) is a procedure done for patients having cataract. The cataract-affected lens inside the eye is removed, and an artificial lens is inserted in its place. The procedure takes anywhere between 15 minutes and 1 hour. It is done under local anesthesia. If you are very anxious, you may be given medicines to put you to sleep.

Macular edema is a type of swelling inside the retina of the eye. The best approach to treatment requires addressing the underlying cause of macular edema, and it may include injections, steroids, eye drops, laser treatment and vitrectomy surgery.

Stye is painful inflammation and swelling on the eyelid with the accumulation of pus. It is an infection commonly caused by the bacterium, Staphylococcus. It is usually not possible to get rid of a chalazion completely overnight or “fast” because there are no shortcuts to the treatment. You can use warm compresses, gentle cleansers and painkillers to treat a chalazion or see your doctor for medical intervention or surgery.

The most common inherited retinal disease (IRD) is retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which develops once the rods and cones in the eyes begin to deteriorate.

Fundus photography is the process of taking serial photographs of the interior of your eye through the pupil. A fundus camera is a specialized low-power microscope attached to a camera used to examine structures such as the optic disc, retina, and lens.

Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy is a relatively noninvasive procedure that is used in the treatment of posterior capsular opacification in the eye. The procedure is performed by an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon). It is a short procedure, performed under local anesthesia, and on an out-patient basis.

Telecanthus is commonly caused by birth defects and genetic disorders. Check out the center below for more medical references on eye conditions, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Conjunctivitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. However, it can also be caused by allergies or irritants. Learn more about different types of pink eye and how to treat the condition. Check out the center below for more medical references on pink eye, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related diseases, treatment, diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Neuro-ophthalmologists are doctors who treat visual problems that are usually related to the nervous system. These doctors or physicians are specialists with expertise in problems of the eye, brain, nerves, and muscles.

Seeing rainbows in your eyes often occurs as a response to bright lights at night, but it can also indicate a problem with your eyes or vision. Learn about what causes rainbow vision.