Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management
in Ladera Ranch

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50. The macula is a small but essential part of the retina. As we age, the macula can slowly begin to break down.

AMD can result in:

• The loss of ability to see objects clearly
• Cause straight lines to appear blurry
• Present as an empty area in the center of your vision

Glaucoma can strike at any age but is more prevalent in older age groups. It’s a group of diseases that progressively damage the optic nerve. The effects of glaucoma are gradual, and you may not notice a change in vision until the advanced stages.

Regular eye exams are vital for protecting your eyes from glaucoma, as eye damage caused by this disease is irreversible. If caught early, vision loss can be slowed and prevented. Glaucoma testing is available to you as part of your eye exam at Ladera Ranch Optometry.

Conjunctivitis is an infection of the transparent membrane that lines your eyes and inner eyelids. Yes, the dreaded “pink eye.” Conjunctivitis gets its famous nickname because the inflamed blood vessels cause the eye to appear red. Bacterial or viral infections generally cause conjunctivitis, and it can spread quickly (ask any preschool teacher!).

Treatments for conjunctivitis vary depending on the type, so if you or your family develop any symptoms like red, irritated, or itchy eyes, contact us immediately.

Keratoconus generally begins to affect people between the ages of 10 and 25. It’s a condition that progresses slowly and can take many years to develop. It occurs when the cornea thins and gradually takes on a cone shape. Symptoms of keratoconus can include distorted vision, sensitivity to bright light, and sudden clouding.

In the early stages, vision can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Optometrists can treat patients in later stages with specialty contact lenses. In more advanced stages, the patient may require a cornea transplant.