The Eye

The eye functions similarly to a camera, transmitting light rays into focus, which we may see clearly. Light initially encounters the cornea, which begins the process of bending and focusing. The light is transmitted through the pupil into the lens that lies directly behind the pupil. The lens further focuses the light onto the retina, which is analogous to the film in a camera. the retina transmits this focused picture through the optic nerve where it is interpreted by the brain. Light entering the eye and focusing on the retina results in a crisp clear image which allows excellent vision without glasses or contact lenses.

• Myopia or Nearsightedness is present when objects are blurred in the distance and corrective    lenses are needed to visualize them clearly. Light rays entering the eye are focused in front of the retina producing a blurred image at distance. However, images may be visualized clearly at near. 

• Hyperopia or Farsightedness is present when objects are blurred up close or while you are reading. Light rays entering the eye are focused behind the retina producing a blurred image of things immediately in front of you. However, images may be visualized clearly in the distance.

• Astigmatism  occurs when the cornea has an irregular shape, more like a football than a basketball. Many patients with nearsightedness have some degree of astigmatism in the cornea. 

• Your Cornea is the clear outer part of your eye.  This is the "window" that allows light to pass into your eye.  Since your corneal is the most constantly exposed part of your eye, it is very important to protect it when playing sports, doing yard work, or any other activity where your eyes may be at risk.  

•  Floaters occur when you have "spots" in your vision.  These seem like gnats flying around your head, but they are not there.  You have a jelly in your eye and these little spots are in that jelly and you see them when they move across your optic nerve.  Generally these are a harmless part of life, but sometimes they can lead to a larger problems.  If you have questions or if you are seeing floaters for the first time, please contact your ophthalmologist.

•  Dry Eyes occur when your eyes cannot produce enough tears to keep the eye lubricated.  If you feel you have dry eyes, the use of any preservative free artificial tears should help you until you are able to come into the office for an evaluation. 

•  Macular Degeneration (MD) refers to  eye conditions  which reduce central vision, as illustrated by the image below.  Some exciting new treatments for some forms of MD have become available recently.  

  Photodynamic Laser Therapy (PDT) is now available for treatment of some forms of "wet" MD. 

  In October 2001, an important long term study  showed the effectiveness of vitamins and antioxidants in the prevention of progression of the illness. Samples are available to get you started. 

  Macular Translocation Surgery is a bold new surgical method that may be suitable for advanced cases. 

  Research is on going and many modalities of treatment are on the horizon.