Defintions and Explanation of Eye Conditions

Commonly called “lazy eye,” amblyopia can be treated successfully if detected early enough in childhood.

Often mistakenly called “stigmatism,” this common vision problem can easily be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or orthokeratology.

Red, swollen eyelids and crusty debris at the base of your eyelashes are signs you may have blepharitis.

Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss after age 55. People often make the mistake of thinking that it is some sort of veil covering  the eye, that has to then be "peeled off".  When surgical intervention is needed, it is a safe, quick, and effective procedure and often results in better vision.

People with serious vision problems from an eye injury or disease affecting the front surface of the eye can often regain vision with a cornea transplant.

If undetected or uncontrolled with medication, diabetes can cause serious vision loss, even blindness.

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a common condition, especially in women over age 40. Many treatment options are available.

Are you bothered by red, itchy eyes? You may have allergies.

“Floaters” are usually normal and harmless, but if you notice a sudden increase in floaters or floaters accompanied by flashes of light, it is very important to see your eye doctor immediately.  It may be something that is very serious. 

Glaucoma is actually a number of eye diseases that can lead to loss of vision and even blindness.
It has been called the "sneak thief of sight" because it occurs gradually with little to no symptoms.  
Some people think that it is simply high eye pressure.  Actually it is a lot more complex than that. 

Also called farsightedness, hyperopia is a common vision problem that can cause headaches, eyestrain and trouble reading.

Keratoconus is an eye disease where the cornea thins and bulges forward creating an irregular cone-shape.
Treatment options range from gas permeable contact lenses, Scleral and Semi-Scleral lenses, and for some people, may require a cornea transplant.

Macular Degeneration is often an age-related problem is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans age 65 and older.
At times, even children and young adults can have problems with their macula and this causes poor central (straight ahead) seeing.

Myopia is also called nearsightedness.  It is a very common vision problem, affecting up to one-third of the U.S. population.

You’ve heard of high blood pressure, but what about high eye pressure?

Pingueculae and pterygia are funny-looking words for growths on the surface of your eye.

There are many types of pink eye.  Some are contagious and can be passed from one person to another.

Are you over age 40 and starting to hold reading material at arm’s length to see it clearly?
It's likely that you have presbyopia.  We affectionally call this "40-itis".

Ptosis is a drooping eyelid.  There can be a number or reasons for this. 

A detached retina is a medical emergency. Learn the warning signs of a retinal detachment and what you can do to avoid permanent vision loss.

A Stye, Hordeolum, and Chalazion are a relatively common problem of the lid.  In simple terms, a stye is an infected lid gland. Learn how to prevent and treat them.

Uveitis is a serious problem that can signal a more serious body problem.  This inflammatory eye disease can cause permanent vision loss if not promptly treated.