Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
If you or a loved one experiences any of the following symptoms, please call your eye doctor immediately.
1) A sudden decrease in vision in one eye….
Any sudden loss of vision could signal a number of eye conditions. A problem with the retina is the most common cause, including a macular hole, a retinal detachment, and an abnormality in the optic nerve. The chance of any of these happening increases as we age, and women are at higher risk than men.
2) A gradual loss of central vision and distortions when looking at
straight lines….
Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans, with central vision loss a common symptom. Dry Macular Degeneration can turn into Wet Macular Degeneration overnight, when blood vessels in the eye leak fluid or blood under the retina. That is why seniors should test their eyes daily with an Amsler Grid. You can pick up FREE Amsler Grids at any of the 5 offices of The Eye Associates.
3) Flashes, a flood of floaters or debris in the eye, or a dark curtain
across your field of vision….
Most floaters are benign but if you experience a sudden onset, it could indicate a retinal problem such as a retinal tear or retinal detachment. If it is a retinal detachment, it needs to be treated immediately. Left untreated, vision loss can be permanent.
4) Loss of peripheral vision….
Loss of peripheral vision is hard to notice because it happens so slowly, but it could indicate that you have glaucoma. It is estimated that more than 2 million Americans have glaucoma and only half know it. With Open Angle Glaucoma, there are usually no glaring symptoms, so you may have glaucoma and not even realize it. The only way to determine if you have glaucoma is to have a yearly comprehensive eye exam that includes dilation and a glaucoma test. It is important that you catch glaucoma in the early stages, because even though it’s not curable, the disease can be managed. Vision loss that has already occurred cannot be regained, but with medication and/
or surgery, it is possible to halt further loss of vision.
5) A sudden onset of eye pain, nausea,
vomiting, and redness….
These are common symptoms that could indicate an attack of Narrow Angle Glaucoma. If you do not receive immediate treatment, this condition can permanently damage your optic nerve, causing loss of vision. Many times a preventive laser treatment is recommended for patients with ‘narrow’ angles to prevent a painful attack.
6) Double vision or ‘ghost like’ images….
Double vision can be related to many eye problems, and even other health conditions such as strokes. We recommend that you take immediate action and see a doctor.
7) Scratchy, irritated, watery eyes….
Frequently these symptoms indicate Dry Eye Disease (DED). There is no cure for DED, but there are many treatments that can help you find relief. Many new innovative treatments have been made available to your eye doctor in the last few years that can make a real difference in your comfort. One of the latest is the use of amniotic membrane tissue, such as PROKERA. If your DED is left untreated, loss of vision could occur in extreme cases.
8) If you are diabetic and have blind spots, accompanied by floaters and blurred vision….
This could indicate the onset of diabetic retinopathy. All people with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, are at risk for this sight threatening disease. That is why it is so important for diabetics to have a comprehensive dilated eye examination at least once a year. We also recommend daily use of an Amsler Grid as well, so that you can monitor your own vision. You can pick up FREE Amsler Grids at any of the 5 offices of The Eye Associates.
Another common condition that is not an
emergency…..
‘Halos’ around lights and cloudy, blurry vision…. Cataracts could be the cause. People with cataracts often report being fearful of driving at night because of the debilitating glare that they experience from oncoming headlights. Luckily cataract surgery is quite commonplace these days and can quickly return good vision to you.
The following are some tips for keeping your eyes healthy….
– Have yearly comprehensive eye exams. Remember ‘prevention’ is the best way to maintain good vision.
– Have regular health check-ups to make sure that your blood pressure is under control.
– Monitor your diabetes and check your vision daily with an Amsler Grid.
– Don’t ignore the warning signs above.
-Maintain a healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables.
– Protect your eyes with good quality sunglasses.
– Exercise regularly.
– DON’T SMOKE!
Saving sight is our most important mission at The Eye Associates! Should you or someone you know experience one of the serious symptoms above, call 1-866-865-2020. Even after business hours, our answering service will contact the doctor-on-call for any emergencies.
The Eye Associates
Toll Free: 1-866-865-2020
www.Sight4Life.com
WEST BRADENTON
6002 Pointe West Blvd
EAST BRADENTON
7230 55th Avenue East
SARASOTA
2111 Bee Ridge Rd
ELLENTON
7915 US Hwy 301 North
SUN CITY CENTER
3894 Sun City Center Blvd.
