Dry Eye

Dry eye is a very common disorder of the tear film that results from either decreased tear production or excessive evaporation. The usual signs and symptoms include:

There are many reasons for this condition, such as age (especially women after menopause), use of medications (prescription or over-the-counter) and connective tissues diseases. We can diagnose dry eyes in our office by examining your eyes. Sometimes tests that measure tear production are necessary.

Treatment of dry eyes might include:

• Adding tears by using artificial tears and lubricating ointments.

• Conserving your tears by closing the small opening (punctum) of the channel that connects the eye with the nose. These punctal plugs are made out of plastic and can be used temporarily or permanently. We place the plugs in our office, and the procedure is fast and painless.

• Prescription medication such as:

  • RESTASIS to stimulate your own tear production.

  • Mild Steroids to reduce inflammation.

• Other methods might include the use of a humidifier, wrap-around glasses, fish oil and more.

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Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that weakens the blood vessels that supply nourishment to the retina (the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye where vision is focused). These weak vessels can leak, swell or develop thin branches, causing a loss of vision. In its advanced stages, the disease can cause blurred or cloudy vision, floaters and blind spots – and, eventually, blindness. This damage is irreversible.

Fortunately, diabetic retinopathy is preventable. People with diabetes are most susceptible to developing it, but your risk is reduced if you follow your prescribed diet and medications, exercise regularly, control your blood pressure, and avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Regular eye exams are an integral part of making sure your eyes are healthy.

Although damage caused by diabetic retinopathy cannot be corrected, patients diagnosed with the condition can be treated to slow its progression and prevent further vision loss. Treatment modalities include laser and surgical procedures.

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Pterygium

A pterygium is a raised, triangular or wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva. It is most common among those who live in tropical climates or spend a lot of time in the sun. Symptoms may include irritation, redness, and tearing.

There is a strong suggestion of a relationship between ultraviolet light exposure (UV) and the development of pterygia during the early years of life and the cumulative exposure over the next 2 to 3 decades in occupations in which there is a high component of reflected ultraviolet light.

Pterygia can affect vision if left unchecked. The corneal degradation may extend beyond the leading edge of the lesion. This means that the pterygium need not cover the visual axis to inflict significant visual compromise. Surgery must be performed before vision is affected.

Peninsula Eyecare Medical Associates has had vast experience in treating pterygium since we are a consultant to the numerous cruise lines visiting Los Angeles. Many of the crew personal are from the tropical areas of the world where pterygium is common and often more complicated.

We have been utilizing a no suture technique that includes an amniotic membrane graft to the area of the pterygium. This makes recurrence much less likely and increases the patient post operative comfort level enormously.

Call our office for an appointment to have your pterygium evaluated and to discuss the possibility of having this new technology incorporated in your safe and successful removal of this unsightly growth.

For more information about Pterygium, please click here

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