Diagnosis, treatment and management of eye diseases

Here at Blinkers Eye Care, our optometry team takes diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases very seriously. We can help you protect your vision against such common and worrying threats as:
Learn more on common threats to the eyes

• Glaucoma – Glaucoma is caused by excessive fluid pressure inside the eye, usually associated with inadequate fluid drainage through the eye’s various ducts. High blood pressure can also be a contributing factor. We use a technique called tonometry to check your eye pressure. Glaucoma can often be successfully controlled with eye drops and/or oral medications.
• Cataracts – Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye thickens and discolors, causing poor color perception, loss of night vision, blurred daytime vision and the presence of “halos” around bright lights. We can detect cataracts during vision testing with the aid of a slit-lamp device. Fortunately, a cataract can be surgically removed as a painless outpatient procedure. We can advise you on this surgery and then perform the necessary follow-up exams afterward.
• Macular degeneration – Macular degeneration is another age-related eye disease, typically affecting people aged 55 or older. Progressive deterioration of the macula (part of the retina) causes sufferers to lose their central vision. Retinal examinations can reveal its presence. We can prescribe antioxidants and nutrients to support retinal health, as well as referring to an ophthalmologist.
• Diabetic retinopathy – This condition causes damage and leakage in the tiny blood vessels that serve the retina, which we can see by dilating your pupils and evaluating your retinas. Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend  lifestyle changes to help you get your diabetes under control.
• Dry eye – Dry eye may be caused by too much computer use (which slows your blinking rate), chronic eye strain, medications, underlying medical problems or tear film imbalances. After evaluating your tear film and tear duct function, our optometrists may recommend prescription or over-the-counter eye drops or suggested lifestyle adjustments.
• Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) – This inflammation of the conjunctiva causes redness, itching, oozing and crusting of the eye — and if left untreated, it can cause permanent corneal scarring. Depending on whether your conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, a virus or an allergic reaction, we may prescribe antibiotic eyedrops, antiviral medications, decongestants or steroids.