FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, sometimes called “pink eye”, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is a thin layer of tissue that covers your eyeball. This disease is caused by bacteria or viruses and is highly contagious. We recommend scheduling an eye exam with us right away if you suspect you have conjunctivitis.

What is a stye?

A stye, or hordeolum, is a localized eyelid infection that is caused by bacteria. Sometimes styes are associated with blepharitis – an inflammation of the eyelids which can cause them to become red and itchy, with dandruff like scales. Sometimes a stye may go away on its own, but occasionally it can worsen and require treatment by the eye doctor. It is best to come in for an exam to evaluate the stye.

What is Dry Eye?

This is a condition where the eye does not produce enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. This is a very common, and chronic condition in Los Angeles especially, with our drier climate. People who wear contact lenses tend to notice this issue more. Sometimes dry eye can even contribute to blurred vision and eye strain. The eye doctor can perform tests to diagnose, and then find solutions to treat this condition.

I have diabetes. Why does my primary care doctor recommend an annual eye exam?

Diabetic eye disease can occur from type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. Diabetes causes changes in small blood vessels, which can leak fluid and cause bleeding in the layers of the eye. If caught early, diabetic eye disease can be treated. This is why it is crucial to have annual eye exams, as a means of preventative health care.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is the clouding of the lens inside the eye. Cataracts prevent light from accurately reaching the retina, causing blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and glare issues. Cataracts cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, because the problem is occurring inside the eye. Once cataracts interfere with daily routines, and vision is significantly affected, they must be removed through cataract surgery.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a degenerative eye disease that is caused by damage to the optic nerve of the eye. It is the second-leading cause of blindness in the U.S. Glaucoma is a silent disease that can only be diagnosed by your eye doctor. Glaucoma is treatable when caught early by your doctor, but has no early warning signs that you would notice yourself.

Glaucoma first affects peripheral (or side) vision. You might have 20/20 vision, but a reduction in peripheral vision once glaucoma starts advancing. If left untreated, vision loss will occur, and even blindness in some cases.
Once glaucoma is diagnosed, treatment depends on type and severity of the disease. Treatment may range from daily medicated eye drops, all the way to surgery.

What is macular degeneration?

In the United States, about 2 million people have age related macular degeneration, and about 8 million people are at risk of developing it. AMD causes severe, irreversible vision impairment. In macular degeneration, damage occurs to the macula – a very small part of the retina in the back of the eye, which is responsible for central vision. Patients with early macular degeneration or a family history of macular degeneration should have annual dilated eye exams. Treatment depends on type and severity and ranges from dietary and lifestyle changes, up to medication and laser treatments.