Routine comprehensive eye exams are the only way to early detection and prevention of further irreversible vision loss from Glaucoma and Diabetic Retinopathy. Cataracts are the leading cause of reversible vision loss. Many people with cataracts and diabetes also have glaucoma.

Glaucoma, Cataracts, and Diabetic eye disease must frequently be co-managed and it is advantageous if you have one of these conditions, to see a specialist like Dr. Tyson that is experienced and interested in managing all three, and that you be seen as regularly as needed. 

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve may become irreversibly damaged, causing vision loss and possible absolute blindness. The most common form affecting Americans is primary open-angle glaucoma (P.O.A.G.). It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. The good news is that blindness from glaucoma is highly preventable, approximating 100%! Prevention is only obtainable through routine, early, comprehensive eye examinations with subsequent lifelong, regular, timely follow up examinations and treatments. Treatment options include eye drops, laser, and incisional surgical techniques. It is very important that any question of glaucoma be addressed by an Ophthalmologist - a medical doctor, with the highest level of expertise possible in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (not an Optometrist).

If you have risk factors for developing P.O.A.G such as, a positive family history, of African descent, age 40 or older, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, high nearsightedness, or suspicion of glaucoma in the past, it is highly recommended you see an Ophthalmologist.
     

Cataracts
by Dr. Tyson

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or "fogged" with steam. They are a common cause of poor vision, particularly for the elderly.

Common Symptoms of cataract include:
• A painless blurring of vision
• Glare, or light sensitivity
• Frequent eyeglass prescription changes
• Double vision in one eye
• Needing brighter light to read
• Poor night vision
• Fading or yellowing of colors

Reasons to have cataract surgery include 1. Poor satisfaction with decreased visual functioning caused by the cataract despite spectacle correction, and the desire for improvement. 2. The cataract hampers the diagnosis and/or treatment of a problem behind the cataract inside the eye, usually in the retina or optic nerve such as Diabetic Retinopathy or glaucoma respectively. 3. Rarely, in very advanced cases the cataract ruptures and causes severe inflammation in the eye.

Cataracts are treated through micro-surgery using high-tech equipment called Phacoemulsification. The cloudy lens is removed through a small self-sealing incision and replaced with a clear lens implant to restore vision immediately.
  

Diabetic Retinopathy
by Dr. Tyson

A complication of diabetes that is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the eye. The blood vessels in the retina are damaged and they may leak fluid or blood. Abnormal new blood vessels that may grow are fragile. This places the patient at high risk for severe vision loss from hemorrhaging into the eyeball. The swelling into the center of the retina causes blurred vision and distorted images that the retina sends to the brain.

The only treatment of central retinal swelling is with the Argon Laser photocoagulation of the abnormal leaking blood vessels. The treatment is aimed at stabilizing the vision where it is, to significantly reduce the risk of further vision loss. It follows then that the best vision to stabilize is 20/20 or better, perfect vision. Treatment is therefore indicated when swelling threatens the central vision, before there is vision loss. Therefore all diabetics should have at least a yearly comprehensive eye exam, hopefully while they are still seeing normally and certainly much more often in other cases. Vision loss from Diabetic Retinopathy is preventable. Different techniques are used with the Argon Laser to stop leaking blood vessels. In any event, Diabetic Retinopathy is treatable even in severe end stages, but one cannot expect to regain vision. Certain other severe complications such as a painful blind eye can be prevented by treating severe endstage Diabetic Retinopathy. All diabetics are welcomed to seek consultation with Dr. Tyson.

If you would like further information regarding our services and to schedule an appointment, please call us today at (336) 282-3940.

For more information on eye diseases and treatments please click on the links below:
www.eyenet.org                  www.ascrs.com