Dr Patel is happy to answer any questions you may have, here are a few FAQs from her patients;
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are an area of clouding or opacity within the normally clear lens of the eye.
Symptoms of cataracts can include blurry or hazy vision, decrease contrast and saturation of colors, increased sensitivity to glare, especially from lights or night-driving.
Although most cataracts are age-related changes, certain medications, Diabetes, UV exposure, Family History, and other lifestyle factors can contribute to cataract development.
This can cause a significant impact on daily life if not addressed. Many treatment options are available today and patients are able to go back to enjoying their independence once removed.
Patients in our office are grateful for routine comprehensive examinations to detect cataracts, and manage their post-operative care to get them back to clear vision.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, which results in vision loss.
With Glaucoma, many patients do not have symptoms in early disease. However, in some cases of Acute glaucoma, patients will experience blurred vision, appearance of haloes/colored rings around lights, pain and redness in the eyes.
Glaucoma is a blinding disease that requires careful monitoring and appropriate screening.
Visual field testing can detect if the field of vision has been affected by glaucoma. Imaging of the optic nerve can monitor for tissue loss and changes over time. Both tests are vital for early detection.
Our patients appreciate the array technology available in office to detect these conditions before they impact vision.
Glaucoma treatment is aimed at managing the eye pressure, certain medications, laser procedures, and surgery are options to preserve eyesight.
While there is no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis and treatment can be sight-saving.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetes can cause progressive damage to the retina, which is known as Diabetic Retinopathy. This sight-threatening condition can affect one or both eyes.
Over time, Diabetes can cause damage to small blood vessels all over the body, including the retina. This results in swelling which can cause blurred or cloudy vision. Other symptoms include seeing spots or floaters, difficulty seeing at night, and experiencing a dark or empty spot in the center of your vision.
To help prevent and slow down the development of retinopathy, it is important to monitor your diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and use prescribed medication as directed by your Primary care doctor or Endocrinologist.
Early detection and treatment can limit the potential for vision loss from Diabetic Retinopathy.
Our office provides comprehensive care and examinations to all patients, this enables us to use both technology and experience to detect early disease and improve the quality of life of many.