Medical Conditions

Regular eye examinations can help with early diagnosis of several medical conditions, or help monitor an existing problem.

Glaucoma

This is a condition where the pressure in the eye builds up and can cause damage to the nerve at the back of the eye. It has no symptoms in the early stages. It affects only 2% of the over 40's population but rises to 10% of those over 75. There is also increased risk if you are of Afro-Caribbean origin, or have a close relative with glaucoma.

Although Glaucoma cannot be cured , early diagnosis and treatment can usually prevent or delay any loss of vision.

Diabetes

Diabetes causes the tiny blood vessels in the eye to be more fragile. Regular examinations are essential to monitor for signs of leaking or burst blood vessels.

If you live in North Tyneside you can be seen here as part of the local screening service. This screening is specifically to look for diabetic changes in the eye and does not replace the need for a regular full eye examination.

Cataracts

Cataracts are more common as we get older. This is a clouding of the lens of the eye.

The vision becomes blurred because the cataract is like a frosted glass interfering with your sight. It is not a layer of skin that grows over your eye despite what you may have heard. Most cataracts are treatable. As soon as you feel the cataract is affecting your quality of life you can be referred for surgery. You no longer have to wait until it is "ripe" or "mature" before removal.

Macular degeneration

Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is often described as "wear and tear" and is more common as we get older.

The most common form is Dry ARMD which usually progresses slowly. The central part of your vision is affected making it more difficult to read and to recognise faces. Peripheral (all round) vision is not affected and the condition does not lead to total blindness. There is no treatment available but certain lifestyle changes may help. Ask at the practice for details.

Wet ARMD is less common but can occur suddenly. Usually one eye is affected first and if you notice a sudden deterioration of vision or if straight lines such as door frames or pictures look distorted, seek advice as soon as possible with either your Optometrist or by presenting yourself at eye casualty. Treatment is now available for this condition but needs to be administered in the first few weeks of development. If you have had wet ARMD in the past it is unlikely that the modern treatments will be suitable for you.

Dry eye

Dry eyes are caused either by not producing enough tears or by tears being of poor quality. This can often be associated with arthritis or rheumatism. It can be treated with artificial tears or by using a hot compress. Ask at the practice for more details.

As treatment for this condition we stock Systane and Refresh Ophthalmic and Eyebags - www.eyebagcompany.com

Retinal photographs

We are now offering a retinal camera photo to all our patients at the special price of £10.

This gives the opportunity to have a picture taken of the back of the eye and saved for future comparison - Very helpful in spotting high blood pressure, macular degeneration, diabetic changes, optic disc observation and glaucoma etc.