Cataracts are a naturally-occurring condition that affects the normally transparent lens in the eye. With age, the lens begins to cloud over, which interferes with how light enters the eye. Cataracts can range from a mild “haze” over the eye to a completely opaque lens that allows little to no light to pass through.

Surgery can be performed in healthy eyes to remove the clouded lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens. However, surgery isn’t always an option for some individuals with low vision; in some cases, they may be required to undergo low vision rehabilitation as well.

TOP RISK FACTORS

– AGING
Cataracts are most commonly associated with aging. As we grow older, the proteins in the lens may break down and clump together, leading to cloudiness.

– ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION
Unprotected exposure to UV damages the proteins in the lens and can accelerate the formation of cataracts. Keep in mind, up to 30% of UV penetrates the clouds, which is why sunglasses are important even on overcast days.

– EYE INJURIES
Trauma to the eye can cause scar tissue and increase the likelihood of developing cataracts.

– MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity can contribute to cataract development. Certain medications like corticosteroids can also cause cataracts.

This common eye disease is characterized by progressive damage to the ocular nerve—which is responsible for transmitting visual information from our eyes to our brains. Glaucoma results in the loss of peripheral vision, which can cause permanent damage to your sight.

While there are many different types and causes of glaucoma, the most common underlying issue with this disease is high intraocular pressure. Because glaucoma does not typically present early symptoms, early diagnosis through a comprehensive eye exam is essential. The earlier glaucoma is detected, the sooner treatment can begin, better safeguarding your vision and eye health.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in Americans over the age of 50. Early signs of AMD often go unnoticed due to their subtlety, so it’s common for this disease to progress if left untreated.

There are 2 main types of AMD: wet and dry. When comparing the two, dry AMD is much more common, but wet AMD may cause more severe and rapid vision loss.

• Dry eye syndrome is a chronic disease that occurs when the tear film is insufficient in protecting and lubricating the eye. It is a multi-factorial condition which requires a multi-factorial approach to treatment and therapies.
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) may be caused by a variety of external factors such as viruses, allergies, and bacterial infections.
• Degenerative Myopia, also known as pathological or progressive myopia, is a condition characterized by an excessive elongation of the eyeball, leading to severe nearsightedness. This condition can result in progressive vision loss, an increased risk of complications such as retinal detachment or glaucoma, and the need for high prescription eyewear or specialized treatments.
• Asthenopia (Digital Eye Strain) is a condition characterized by discomfort and fatigue in the eyes. It is often caused by extended periods of visual tasks, such as reading, using digital screens, or focusing on nearby objects, and can manifest as symptoms like eye fatigue, headaches, blurred vision, and dryness.

Optical Illusions leverages the most state-of-the-art in ocular diagnostic tools to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and in-depth treatment possible. Using imaging methods and technology such as Fundus Photography with Optical Coherence Tomography, we utilize the Optos Silverstone and Maestro OCT imaging equipment to provide our team of professionals with exceptional insight into the presence and progression of eye disease.

Optical Illusions has received multiple recognitions and awards for being the top optometric practice in anterior segment diagnostics on the west coast.