Eye health is essential to our quality of life, and questions often arise about how to properly care for our eyes or about the different conditions that can affect them. In this section, we have compiled detailed answers to the most common questions we receive about ophthalmology . From conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts to advanced treatments such as LASIK surgery, our goal is to provide you with accurate and useful information so that you can make informed decisions about your eye health.
Always remember that an early diagnosis is key to preventing complications, and if you experience any symptoms, it is important to see a specialized ophthalmologist. We are here to help you find the right professional near you!
1. What is ophthalmology and what is its importance?
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the eye and visual system . An ophthalmologist is a doctor who specializes in eye problems and can perform eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and perform surgical procedures to treat complex conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Regular eye care is crucial to maintaining good vision and preventing serious problems that can affect quality of life.
2. What types of vision problems can an ophthalmologist diagnose?
An ophthalmologist can diagnose a variety of conditions that affect vision , including nearsightedness (difficulty seeing objects at a distance), farsightedness (difficulty seeing objects up close), astigmatism (blurred vision due to an irregular shape of the cornea), presbyopia (age-related difficulty seeing up close), and more serious conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
3. What is myopia and how is it treated?
Myopia is a condition in which nearby objects are seen clearly, but distant objects appear blurry . It is due to a refractive error, where light entering the eye is incorrectly focused before reaching the retina. Myopia can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or through refractive surgery, such as LASIK, which changes the shape of the cornea to allow light to focus properly.
4. What is hyperopia and what are its symptoms?
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is the opposite of nearsightedness. People with farsightedness see distant objects clearly, but have difficulty seeing close objects clearly . This condition occurs because light focuses behind the retina instead of on it. Symptoms may include blurred near vision, eye strain, and headaches. Farsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
5. What is astigmatism and how does it affect vision?
Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, resulting in blurred or distorted vision both near and far . People with astigmatism often experience eye strain and headaches after prolonged visual activities. Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses, special contact lenses, or surgery.
6. How does age affect eye health?
As we age, our eyes also go through natural changes that can affect vision . Presbyopia, which is difficulty focusing on nearby objects, is one of the most common conditions after age 40. Other age-related diseases include cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. That’s why it’s essential to have regular eye checkups to detect and treat any changes in your vision health early.
7. What are cataracts and how do they affect vision?
Cataracts are a clouding of the crystalline lens, the clear lens behind the pupil . This clouding causes blurred vision, dull colors, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts usually develop slowly with age and can affect one or both eyes. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, in which the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial one.
8. What is glaucoma and why is it so dangerous?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve , usually due to an increase in intraocular pressure. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the world. The dangerous thing about glaucoma is that in its early stages, it may not present any obvious symptoms, but over time it can cause peripheral vision loss and eventually complete blindness if left untreated. Treatment may include eye drops, laser, or surgery to reduce eye pressure.
9. What is age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
Age-related macular degeneration is a disease that affects the macula , the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. There are two types: dry AMD, which progresses slowly, and wet AMD, which can cause rapid vision loss. Symptoms include blurred, distorted vision or a dark spot in the center of the visual field. Treatment can range from vitamin supplements to laser therapy or injections into the eye.
10. What is diabetic retinopathy and how does it affect people with diabetes?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye complication caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood glucose levels . It often has no symptoms in the early stages, but can cause blurred vision, spots in the visual field, or even blindness in advanced cases. People with diabetes should have regular eye exams to detect this condition early. Treatment may include medications, lasers, or surgery.
11. How does diabetes affect eye health?
Uncontrolled diabetes can have a significant impact on eye health , causing diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma . These conditions can lead to severe vision loss if not treated in time. It is essential for people with diabetes to keep their glucose levels under control and to have regular eye checkups to prevent complications.
12. What is LASIK surgery and how can it improve vision?
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) surgery is a refractive procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism . This procedure can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Most patients experience significant improvement in their vision soon after surgery, although a complete ophthalmologic evaluation is important to determine if the patient is a good candidate.
13. What are progressive lenses and how do they work?
Progressive lenses are multifocal lenses that allow you to see clearly at different distances without the visible line of vision that traditional bifocals or trifocals have . The correction zones in progressive lenses gradually blend together, providing comfortable, continuous vision for near, mid-distance and distance vision, making them especially useful for people with presbyopia.
14. What is dry eye syndrome and how is it treated?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly , leading to irritation, redness, blurred vision, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Causes can include aging, medical conditions, or prolonged use of screens. Treatment can range from the use of artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medications, to more advanced procedures to improve tear production.
15. What is conjunctivitis and what are its symptoms?
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eye . It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens, or irritants. Symptoms include redness, itching, discharge, and sensitivity to light. Treatment varies depending on the cause and includes antibiotics, antihistamines, or simply supportive care such as cold compresses.
16. What are the first signs of vision problems in children?
It is important to watch out for signs such as squinting, looking too close to objects, difficulty reading, constant eye rubbing or complaining of frequent headaches . Undetected vision problems in children can affect their school performance, so it is advisable to have regular eye exams from an early age.
17. What is amblyopia (lazy eye) and how is it treated?
Amblyopia, commonly known as “lazy eye,” is a condition in which one eye fails to properly develop vision, usually because the brain favors the other eye . If left untreated during childhood, it can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. Treatment includes patching the dominant eye, glasses, or surgery to correct any underlying problems.
18. What are styes and how are they treated?
A stye is a bacterial infection of the oil glands at the edge of the eyelid, causing a red, painful bump . They usually resolve on their own within a few days, but treatment may include applying warm compresses and, in more severe cases, antibiotics or surgical drainage.
19. What is retinal detachment and how is it treated?
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the layer of tissue that supports it at the back of the eye, which can cause severe vision loss if not treated quickly . Symptoms include flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters in the visual field, and blurred vision. Treatment usually requires emergency surgery, either through procedures such as pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling, or vitrectomy, depending on the severity of the case.
20. What is keratoconus and how does it affect vision?
Keratoconus is a progressive disease in which the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, becomes thinner and takes on an irregular cone shape . This causes distorted and blurred vision. In the early stages, it can be corrected with glasses or special contact lenses. However, in advanced cases, a corneal transplant or a treatment called crosslinking may be necessary to stabilize the cornea and prevent it from getting worse.
21. What are floaters and should I be concerned?
Floaters are small spots or shadows that appear to move across your field of vision, especially when you look at a clear surface . They are caused by tiny particles in the vitreous humor (gel inside the eye) that cast shadows on the retina. Although they are common and usually harmless, if they appear suddenly or are accompanied by flashes of light, they could be signs of a more serious problem, such as a retinal detachment, and you should see an ophthalmologist.
22. What is presbyopia and how is it corrected?
Presbyopia is the gradual loss of the ability to focus on nearby objects, a natural process related to aging that affects most people from the age of 40 onwards . Symptoms include difficulty reading small print or focusing on nearby objects. It can be easily corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses or refractive surgery, such as multifocal intraocular lens implantation.
23. What are intraocular lenses and when are they used?
Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are artificial lenses that are implanted inside the eye , usually during cataract surgery, to replace the natural lens that has become cloudy. They can also be used in refractive procedures to correct problems such as nearsightedness or astigmatism. There are different types of IOLs, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses, which are chosen based on the patient’s visual needs.
24. What is retinitis pigmentosa and how does it affect vision?
Retinitis pigmentosa is a degenerative genetic disease that affects the retina, causing gradual vision loss, starting with night vision and peripheral vision . Over time, it can lead to partial or complete blindness. Currently, there is no cure for this disease, but there is ongoing research exploring treatments such as gene therapy and artificial retina implants to help improve patients’ quality of life.
25. How does blue light from screens affect my eyes?
Blue light emitted by electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and computers can cause digital eye strain, which manifests as dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches . In the long term, there is also concern about possible damage to the retina. To mitigate these effects, it is recommended to follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), wear glasses with blue light filters, and adjust the brightness of screens.
26. How does sun exposure affect eye health?
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause significant eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and growth of growths (pterygia) on the surface of the eye . To protect your eyes, it is important to wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and wide-brimmed hats when outdoors for long periods of time.
27. What are eye drops and when should they be used?
Eye drops are liquid solutions that are applied directly to the eyes to treat a variety of eye conditions, including dry eyes, infections, allergies, or inflammation . Some eye drops contain specific medications such as antibiotics, steroids, or antihistamines, while others are over-the-counter lubricants to relieve dry eyes. It is always advisable to follow the instructions of an ophthalmologist before using any type of eye drops.
28. What are the risks of wearing contact lenses for a long time?
Wearing contact lenses for long periods of time without proper hygiene or beyond the recommended time can increase the risk of serious eye infections, such as keratitis . Other problems include irritation, dry eyes, and protein buildup on the lenses, which can lead to discomfort and blurred vision. It is important to follow your eye doctor’s instructions on contact lens wear and care.
29. What are toric lenses and what are they used for?
Toric lenses are a type of contact lens or intraocular lens designed to correct astigmatism . These lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing them to correct the irregular shape of the cornea that causes astigmatism, providing clearer, sharper vision.
30. What are the symptoms of eye infections?
Symptoms of an eye infection may include redness, itching, discharge, pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and swelling . Common infections include bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, keratitis, and blepharitis. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to avoid complications.
31. What is keratitis and how is it treated?
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea that can be caused by an infection (bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic), injury or prolonged contact lens wear . Symptoms include redness, pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Treatment depends on the cause, and includes antibiotic or antiviral eye drops, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
32. What is macular edema and how does it affect vision?
Macular edema is a buildup of fluid in the macula, the central part of the retina, which is responsible for detailed, central vision . It can be caused by diabetes, eye inflammation, or cataract surgery. Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision. Treatment may include medications, intraocular injections, or laser therapies to reduce fluid and improve vision.
33. What is pterygium and how is it treated?
A pterygium is an abnormal growth of tissue on the conjunctiva that extends over the cornea . Although it is usually benign, it can cause irritation, dryness, and in severe cases, affect vision if it grows large enough to cover the cornea. Treatment may include eye lubricants, topical steroids, or in more severe cases, surgical removal of the pterygium.
34. What is uveitis and what are its causes?
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid . It can be caused by infections, ocular or systemic autoimmune diseases, or ocular trauma. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Treatment varies depending on the cause and includes steroids and immunosuppressive medications.
35. What is color blindness and how is it diagnosed?
Color blindness is a vision disorder that affects a person’s ability to see certain colors, primarily red and green . It is an inherited condition that is more common in men. Color blindness is diagnosed using color vision tests, such as the Ishihara test, which uses a series of colored dots to identify difficulties in perceiving certain shades.
36. What are vitreous floaters and when should I be concerned?
Vitreous floaters are small dots, spots, or threads that appear to move across your field of vision and are most visible when you look at a clear surface . They are common and usually harmless, but if they appear suddenly in large numbers, or if they are accompanied by flashes of light, they could be signs of a serious eye problem, such as a retinal tear or detachment, and should be evaluated immediately by an ophthalmologist.
37. What is strabismus and how is it treated?
Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes are not aligned correctly and do not look in the same direction . This can occur constantly or intermittently, and is often seen in childhood. Treatment depends on the cause and may include wearing glasses, eye exercises, patching, or surgery to realign the eye muscles. If not treated promptly, it can lead to vision loss in the deviated eye (amblyopia).
38. How can you prevent eye strain from prolonged screen use?
To prevent digital eye strain, it’s a good idea to follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away (about 6 meters) for at least 20 seconds . Additionally, adjusting your screen brightness, wearing blue light filtering glasses, and maintaining proper posture can help reduce eye strain. It’s also important to blink frequently to keep your eyes hydrated.
39. What is juvenile macular degeneration (Stargardt disease)?
Juvenile macular degeneration, also known as Stargardt disease, is a genetic condition that affects children and young people, causing a progressive loss of central vision . It occurs due to the buildup of a substance called lipofuscin in the retina. There is no cure for Stargardt disease, but wearing UV-protective sunglasses and avoiding blue light can help slow progression. There is ongoing research into genetic therapies and other treatment options.
40. How does pregnancy affect vision?
During pregnancy, some women experience temporary vision changes, such as blurred vision or dry eyes , due to hormonal changes. In rare cases, pregnancy can aggravate pre-existing eye conditions, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. It is important for pregnant women to inform their ophthalmologist about any vision changes and to continue their eye checks during pregnancy.
41. What is photophobia and what causes it?
Photophobia is an abnormal sensitivity to light, causing discomfort or pain in the eyes when exposed to bright light . It can be caused by eye conditions such as uveitis, infections, corneal abrasions, or migraines, but can also be a symptom of systemic diseases such as meningitis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and includes wearing sunglasses or avoiding exposure to bright lights.
42. What is a keratoplasty (corneal transplant) and when is it performed?
Keratoplasty, or corneal transplant, is a surgery to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea . It is performed when the cornea is damaged by scarring, infection, advanced keratoconus, or inherited diseases. This procedure can restore vision, reduce pain, and improve the appearance of an injured cornea.
43. What is lazy eye (amblyopia) and how does it affect vision?
Amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” is a decrease in vision in one eye that occurs when the brain and eye do not work together properly . It usually develops during childhood and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. Treatment includes patching the dominant eye, corrective glasses, and in some cases, surgery.
44. What is Marfan syndrome and how does it affect the eyes?
Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects connective tissue throughout the body, including the eyes . People with Marfan syndrome may develop eye problems such as lens subluxation (displacement of the lens), severe nearsightedness, glaucoma, or retinal detachment. Regular eye checks are essential to prevent complications and maintain good eye health.
45. How does tobacco consumption affect eye health?
Smoking increases your risk of developing serious eye diseases, such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage . In addition, tobacco can worsen conditions such as dry eye syndrome and delay recovery from eye surgery. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce these risks and protect your long-term eye health.
46. What are hybrid contact lenses and when are they recommended?
Hybrid contact lenses combine a rigid central zone with a soft edge, providing the benefits of a rigid lens (clear, sharp vision) with the comfort of a soft lens . They are especially recommended for people with keratoconus or high astigmatism who do not adapt well to traditional lenses. These lenses provide greater stability and comfort, improving visual quality in complex conditions.
47. What is diplopia (double vision) and what causes it?
Diplopia, or double vision, is a condition in which a person sees two images of the same object . It can be caused by problems with the muscles that control eye movement, damage to the nerves that control these muscles, or disorders of the central nervous system. Common causes include strabismus, trauma, tumors, neurological diseases, or post-surgical complications. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include the use of prisms in eyeglasses, eye exercises, or surgery.
48. What are the most common complications of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is generally very safe, but like any surgical procedure, it can have complications . The most common ones include infection, inflammation, bleeding, elevated eye pressure, and posterior capsule opacification (a type of clouding of the artificial lens that can develop months or years after surgery). In most cases, these problems can be treated with medications or additional procedures.
49. What is Charles Bonnet syndrome?
Charles Bonnet syndrome occurs in people with significant vision loss, such as those with advanced macular degeneration, and is characterized by the occurrence of visual hallucinations . These hallucinations are not related to mental problems, but rather to a lack of visual input to the brain. Although hallucinations often disappear over time, it is important for patients to consult with their doctor to ensure there are no other underlying causes.
50. What is nystagmus and how does it affect vision?
Nystagmus is an involuntary and repetitive movement of the eyes, which can cause balance problems and blurred vision . It can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired, and is usually related to problems with the central nervous system, the inner ear or the eye muscles. Although there is not always a curative treatment, visual therapy, medication or surgery can help improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
51. What is Sjögren’s syndrome and how does it affect the eyes?
Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the glands that produce tears and saliva , causing dryness in the eyes and mouth. Chronic dry eyes can lead to irritation, sensitivity to light, infections, and corneal damage. Treatment includes the use of artificial tears, medications that stimulate tear production, and in more severe cases, procedures such as tear duct occlusion.
52. What is gene therapy for inherited eye diseases?
Gene therapy is an innovative treatment that involves introducing genetic material into cells to correct disease-causing mutations . In the field of ophthalmology, gene therapy is being developed to treat inherited diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis. Although it is still an area in development, some treatments have already proven effective in restoring some vision in patients with these diseases.
53. What is laser photocoagulation and when is it used?
Laser photocoagulation is a treatment that uses a laser to seal or destroy abnormal blood vessels in the retina . It is commonly used in patients with diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, or retinal tears. This procedure helps prevent the growth of new blood vessels and stabilizes the retina, which may prevent further vision loss.
54. What is blepharitis and how is it treated?
Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelids, usually caused by bacterial infections or sebaceous gland dysfunction . Symptoms include redness, itching, crusting of the eyelashes, and a burning sensation. Treatment includes regular cleaning of the eyelids, the use of warm compresses, and in some cases, the use of topical antibiotics or steroids.
55. What is the color vision test and what is it used for?
Color vision testing is a test used to detect abnormalities in color perception, such as color blindness . It is based on the use of plates with colored patterns containing numbers or shapes. People with normal color vision can identify the figures easily, while those with color vision deficiencies cannot distinguish them correctly.
56. What is carpal tunnel syndrome and how does it affect the eyes?
Although carpal tunnel syndrome primarily affects the nerves in the hand and wrist, it can also affect eye health indirectly . People with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience difficulty performing tasks that require visual precision, such as reading or using screens. Eye fatigue and muscle tension may increase due to improper positions adopted to avoid pain in the hands and wrists.
57. What is evaporative dry eye and how is it different from aqueous-deficient dry eye?
Evaporative dry eye occurs when tears evaporate too quickly due to a malfunction of the meibomian glands, which produce the lipid layer of tears that prevents evaporation . On the other hand, aqueous-deficient dry eye occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough tears. Both types can cause irritation, redness, and blurred vision, and treatments may include artificial tears, warm compresses, and medications to improve tear production.
58. What is wet macular degeneration and how is it treated?
Wet macular degeneration is a more severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) , characterized by abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina. These vessels can leak fluid or blood, causing rapid loss of central vision. Treatment includes injections of anti-VEGF drugs directly into the eye to reduce the formation of abnormal blood vessels, and in some cases, the use of lasers to seal damaged vessels may be necessary.
59. How can the progression of diabetic retinopathy be prevented?
To prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy, it is essential to control blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol . Regular dilated eye exams are key to detecting changes in the retina before symptoms occur. In more advanced stages, treatment may include laser (photocoagulation), intraocular injections, or even surgery to prevent vision loss.
60. What is keratoglobus and how does it affect vision?
Keratoglobus is a rare corneal disease in which the front part of the eye becomes extremely spherical and thin , causing distorted vision and the risk of corneal perforation. People with keratoglobus may need special contact lenses or a corneal transplant if the disease progresses. Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist is essential to prevent serious complications.
61. What is vitrectomy and when is it recommended?
Vitrectomy is a surgery performed to remove the vitreous humor (the clear gel that fills the eye) when it is damaged or affected by blood or scarring . It is recommended in cases of retinal detachment, severe vitreous hemorrhages, epiretinal membranes, and complications of diabetes such as proliferative retinopathy. This procedure helps restore vision or prevent more serious visual damage.
62. What is retinoblastoma and how does it affect children?
Retinoblastoma is an eye cancer that develops in the retina and primarily affects children under the age of five . Early signs may include the appearance of a white reflection in the pupil (leukocoria) or strabismus. Early diagnosis is crucial for treatment, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, cryotherapy, or surgery to remove the tumor and preserve vision as much as possible.
63. What is ocular coloboma?
Ocular coloboma is a congenital malformation that causes a “cleft” or lack of tissue in one or more structures of the eye, such as the iris, retina, optic nerve, or eyelid . It can affect vision depending on the extent and location of the coloboma. Although there is no curative treatment, patients may benefit from corrective devices such as glasses or contact lenses, and some cases may require surgery to improve eye function.
64. What is Horner’s syndrome and how does it affect the eyes?
Horner’s syndrome is a neurological condition caused by damage to the sympathetic nerves affecting one side of the face and the corresponding eye . Symptoms include ptosis (drooping of the eyelid), miosis (constricted pupil) and anhidrosis (lack of sweating on the affected face). Although Horner’s syndrome is not in itself a serious eye disease, it may be a sign of an underlying problem, such as trauma, tumor or injury to the nervous system, which needs to be investigated by a doctor.
65. How do workplace accidents affect vision?
Workplace accidents can result in a variety of eye injuries, from corneal abrasions to serious eye perforations . Industries involving heavy machinery, chemicals, or flying particles pose higher risks. Proper use of safety glasses and eye protection equipment is critical to preventing these injuries. In the event of an eye accident, immediate medical attention should be sought to minimize damage and preserve vision.
66. What are intravitreal injections and what are they used for?
Intravitreal injections involve the administration of medications directly into the vitreous humor of the eye . They are used to treat a variety of retinal diseases, such as wet macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and macular edema. These injections help reduce inflammation, stop abnormal blood vessel growth, and improve vision in patients who do not respond to other treatments.
67. What is Stevens-Johnson syndrome and how does it affect the eyes?
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, severe reaction to certain medications or infections that causes blisters to form on the skin and mucous membranes, including the eyes . Eye symptoms include redness, pain, and blurred vision, and in severe cases, it can lead to permanent scarring of the cornea and vision loss. Treatment includes management of the underlying cause and intensive eye care to prevent long-term damage.
68. What are ocular prostheses and when are they used?
Ocular prostheses, also known as artificial eyes, are used in people who have lost an eye due to injury, infection, or disease such as cancer . Prostheses do not restore vision, but they improve cosmetic appearance and, in some cases, help maintain orbital structure. These prostheses are customized for each patient and may require replacement or adjustment over time.
69. How are autoimmune diseases related to eye problems?
Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma, can affect the eyes by causing inflammation in various parts of the eye, such as the sclera, cornea, or retina . People with these conditions may develop uveitis, severe dry eye, or even damage to the optic nerve. It is important for patients with autoimmune diseases to have regular eye exams to detect and treat potential eye complications.
70. What are orbital tumors and how are they treated?
Orbital tumors are abnormal growths that develop within the eye socket (the space where the eye sits), and may be benign or malignant . Symptoms may include exophthalmos (bulging of the eye), double vision, pain, or vision loss. Treatment depends on the type of tumor and may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. In some cases, benign tumors can be controlled without aggressive intervention.