Common Eye Problems

Refractive Error

This is probably the most common form of eye problem. Refractive error occurs when the optical system of the eye does not focus light properly onto the retina, or back surface of the eye. Refractive error can be corrected by changing the way that light interacts with the eye through the use of glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery. Refractive surgery involves using laser techniques to reshape the cornea, or front surface, of the eye. You may hear the terms LASIK or PRK, which are common refractive surgery techniques.

Dry Eye

Dry eye is also an extremely common condition that affects close to 10% of the population. It is broken down into two general categories: problems with too much evaporation of tears and problems with inadequate production of tears. Certain inflammatory conditions can contribute to dry eye signs and symptoms.

Cataract

Each person is born with a natural lens in the eye, known as the crystalline lens. Over time, this lens may become yellow, brown, and eventually turn white or black. As this process progresses, less and less light is allowed to pass through the lens to reach the back surface of the eye (the retina). The light that does pass through becomes increasingly distorted. This condition causes deterioration in vision, usually progressively over time. Cataract surgery involves removing this cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear, new lens to restore sharp vision. Modern techniques allow us to perform this procedure using tiny incisions, and laser energy to soften and break up the cloudy lens. Certain lens implants allow sharp vision at distance, intermediate, and near with minimal or no dependence on glasses.

Glaucoma

This condition generally refers to abnormal damage to the nerve connecting the eye to the brain, known as the optic nerve. It is associated with higher than normal eye pressures. Glaucoma, if left untreated, causes progressive damage to the optic nerve and in severe cases can cause blindness. However, if eye pressures are adequately controlled and the condition is followed appropriately, this progression can be slowed or even stopped altogether. Glaucoma commonly runs in families, so it is especially important to be screened for this condition if you have a family history.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration in its most common form refers to an age-related process that occurs on the back surface of the eye, or retina. It is most prevalent at older ages, although it may begin as early as the 50’s. Macular degeneration is generally broken down into two forms: dry and wet. This difference is characterized by whether or not a patient develops leaking fluid or sometimes blood in the retina due to the macular degeneration process. In recent years a number of very effective medications have become commonly used to slow or halt this disease.

Diabetic Retinopathy

All patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes should undergo regular eye examinations at least yearly. Diabetic patients are at risk of common eye problems including swelling of the retina, formation of new abnormal blood vessels in the eye, and cataract. Patients with established diabetic retinopathy, or whose diabetes is poorly controlled may require more frequent followup. Uncontrolled diabetic eye changes can cause severe problems, including bleeding, retinal detachment, and blindness. It is very important to catch these problems early on so that they can be treated adequately.

Located at the southeast corner of SH 130 and Gattis School Road. Our office is located in the same building as 5-Star ER, Pflugerville/Hutto.

Longhorn Eye Care
21315 SH 130 #B
Pflugerville, TX 78660
P: 512.763.0869
F: 844.823.8677
E: info@longhorneyecare.com

MON 8A – 5P

TUE 10A – 7P

WED 8A – 5P

THU 8A – 5P

FRI 8A – 5P

SAT by appointment

We are closed on major holidays. For after hours emergencies, please call the main office number above to page the doctor on call.