(641) 792-7900 Appointments Home About Us Vision Care & Products Promotions Patients Blog Contact Eye Diseases A quick look at some of the most common eye diseases diagnosed and often treated at Eye Care Center of Newton in Newton “Eye diseases” is a blanket term that refers to a host of diseases relating to the function of the eye. Below we describe some of the more common types of eye diseases and how they are generally treated. For more in-depth information, please speak with your eye care provider at Eye Care Center of Newton. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva – the thin, protective membrane that covers the surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids. Caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens and other irritants like smoke and dust, pink eye is highly contagious and is usually accompanied by redness in the white of the eye and increased tearing and/or discharge. While many minor cases improve within two weeks, some can develop into serious corneal inflammation and threaten sight. If you suspect conjunctivitis, visit your eye care provider at Eye Care Center of Newton for an examination and treatment. Diabetic Eye Disease Diabetic eye disease is a general term for a group of eye problems that can result from having type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and glaucoma. Often there are no symptoms in the early stages of diabetic eye disease, so it is important that you don’t wait for symptoms to appear before having a comprehensive eye exam. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease will dramatically reduce your chances of sustaining permanent vision loss. Glaucoma Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is an increase in the intraocular pressure of the eyes, which causes damage to the optic nerve with no signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to a decrease in peripheral vision and eventually blindness. While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are medications and surgery available that can help halt further vision loss. Early detection and regular eye exams are vital to slowing the progress of the disease. Macular Degeneration Macular degeneration is a chronic, progressive disease that gradually destroys sharp central vision due to a deterioration of the macula, a tiny spot in the central portion of your retina comprised of millions of light-sensing cells. Because it is so commonly associated with aging, it is also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). There are two forms of AMD called “dry,” most common and with no known treatment, and “wet,” less common and treated with laser procedures. Genetic testing is now available to help identify those most likely to develop “wet” macular degeneration. In most cases, reversing damage caused by AMD is not possible, but supplements, protection from sunlight, eating a balanced diet and quitting smoking can reduce the risk and progression of macular degeneration. For suggestions, speak with your eye care provider at Eye Care Center of Newton. Eye Care Center of Newton has the experience and equipment necessary to diagnose and often treat the eye diseases detailed above, as well as many other eye diseases, at our office in Newton. For more information please schedule an appointment with your optometrist, and we’ll be in touch with you shortly. Vision Care & Products Lenses and Frames Contacts Vision Correction Eye Conditions Eye Diseases Vision Problems Request Appointment You can schedule your next eye exam with us online! Schedule Now (641) 792-7900 Electronic Health Records Access Secure Patient Portal From the Blog The Impacts of Smoking on Eyesight November 24, 2021 How Eye Color Works November 10, 2021 Corrective Lenses Through History October 27, 2021 The Relationship Between Eyes and Sleep October 13, 2021 Quick Links Home About Us Vision Care & Products Promotions Patients Blog Contact Contact Us Eye Care Center of Newton 100 N 4th Ave W Newton, IA 50208 Phone: (641) 792-7900 Fax: (641) 792-8663 Email Us Facebook Copyright © 2021 Eye Care Center of Newton. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy / Website by Avelient.