Eye Disease
Information About Common Eye Diseases

AN ANNUAL EYE EXAM IS IMPORTANT FOR PREVENTION, EARLY DETECTION AND TREATMENT OF EYE DISEASE AND IN A LOT OF CASES MAY SAVE YOUR SIGHT

Cataracts

Cataracts are changes to the lens inside your eye that result in the loss of its transparency. Symptoms usually are gradual loss of clear vision that are not remedied by a change in your glasses prescription. For example, difficulty seeing details in road signs, needing lots of light to read clearly and more noticeable problems with glare from sun, headlights and indoor light. We use a binocular microscope to evaluate cataracts, usually best done through a dilated pupil, and will determine when it is time for cataract surgery or just simple monitoring.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that destroys the optic nerve causing eventual blindness. While there are different types of glaucoma (chronic, acute, syndromatic) we are particularly concerned with the chronic type as it is very asymptomatic in its early stages. Now, more than ever, we have the ability to detect glaucoma at an earlier stage with the use of FDT visual field technology to test peripheral vision changes. We also use GDX nerve fiber layer scanner which can detect optic nerve changes. We can determine based on the results of an eye exam if these tests are necessary for you to undertake. If gone unchecked glaucoma will lead to loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision) and eventual blindness.

Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is typically seen in older individuals whereby the central part of the retina is affected. Symptoms include subtle central vision changes with loss of detail, distorted or wavy vision, or in its worst form loss of central vision where it is difficult to recognize faces. Using a high powered biomicroscope, often through dilated pupils, we can directly look at the macular region and determine weather it is normal, at risk, or if you have dry or wet ARMD.

Floaters/Flashes and Floaters

Often in the fifth or sixth decade of life (although it can happen anytime) individuals have the sudden appearance of black spots floating around in their vision which is sometimes accompanied by short bursts of peripheral flashes of light. Most often this is the result of the vitreous gel in the eye separating itself from the retina. But these are also the symptoms of a possible retinal detachment. If you are experiencing these symptoms we recommend you come see us as soon as possible so we can evaluate your condition. We will dilate your pupils and via biomicroscopy and binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy (bring a driver) diagnose the problem. If we determine a retinal problem exists we will refer immediately to the retinal specialist on call for treatment.

Red Eye

Depending on whether it is an acute or chronic problem we can evaluate to determine the cause. The usual suspects are dry eye, infection, allergy, inflammation or contact lens wear. We can usually see you right away for these types of problems and if necessary prescribe appropriate medication. These visits are considered medical in nature and will be billed to MB Health.

Prescription Medication

Optometrists in Manitoba now prescribe medication for eye infections, red eyes secondary to inflammation and allergies, and eye diseases such as glaucoma.