Eye and Vision Care
Common Eye Conditions We Care For
Cataracts
Cataracts are cloudy areas on the lens of the eye. Vision becomes increasingly poor as light passing through the cataract is decreased and scattered. Early symptoms include glare and sensitivity to bright light. Later, as the cataract continues to worsen, haloes may appear around lights. Vision often becomes blurred, hazy and foggy. Cataract129.79 KB
Detached retina
When a retinal detachment occurs, the retina is separated from the underlying tissue and stops functioning. Wherever the retina detaches, vision is lost and a shadow develops. This can lead to total blindness in the affected eye. In most cases, the cause is a retinal tear or hole. Detached Retina135.16 KB
Diabetic retinopathy
In people with diabetes, tiny blood vessels in the retina may become diseased and damaged. This process is called diabetic retinopathy. It usually affects the retina slowly, over months or years. Diabetic Retinopathy137.98 KB
Age-related macular degeneration
Macular degeneration (MD) occurs when the macula, a small area of the retina, is damaged. MD usually affects both eyes but it may produce symptoms in one eye first. If MD continues to its late stages, severe visual impairment can result. In most cases, visual loss is in the central part of vision.Mac Degen134.76 KB
Pterygium
A pterygium is a wedge-shaped growth of thickened tissue that covers the white part of the eye. It can grow to cover the pupil, become red, irritated, cause astigmatism and become uncomfortable. The pterygium may have to be surgically removed. Pterygium159.45 KB
Strabismus
Strabismus is the term for incorrect alignment of the eyes; they do not point in the same direction when looking at an object. Strabismus may be present all the time or it can come and go. It may occur in one eye only, or it may alternate from eye to eye. Strabismus Surgery149.17 KB
Some common eye diseases are listed on the RANZCO site here
Blepharitis133.4 KB Cataract129.79 KB Detached Retina135.16 KB Diabetic Retinopathy137.98 KB Dry Eye129.16 KB Epiphora129.03 KB Floaters and Flashers132.42 KB Mac Degen134.76 KB Pterygium159.45 KB Refractive Surgery132.67 KB Strabismus Surgery149.17 KB Uveitis and Iritis131.83 KB
What is the difference between an ophthalmologist, optometrist and orthoptist?
All are eye care professionals, but only an ophthalmologist is a medically trained specialist.
Ophthalmologists
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who has undertaken additional specialist training in the diagnosis and management of disorders of the eye and visual system.
Ophthalmology training equips eye specialists to provide the full spectrum of eye care, including the prescription of glasses and contact lenses, medical treatment and complex microsurgery.
Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research into causes and cures for eye diseases and vision problems.
Optometrists
Optometrists examine eyes, give advice on visual problems, and prescribe and fit glasses or contact lenses. If eye disease is detected, an optometrist will refer patients to an ophthalmologist for further management. In certain circumstances, ophthalmologists and optometrists work collaboratively in the care of patients, especially those with chronic eye diseases.
Orthoptists
Orthoptists are allied health professionals who are trained to diagnose and manage disorders of eye movements and associated vision problems. They are also trained to perform investigative testing of eye diseases. They work in a diverse range of settings, including hospitals, private practices, low vision and rehabilitation settings and research centres.