Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management in Belgrade, MT

A common age-related eye condition that the eye doctor will be looking for—especially in patients over 40—is cataracts. The eye’s naturally clear lens grows cloudy over time. Most people with cataracts don’t notice any vision changes at first. 

Additionally, a cataract doesn’t typically pose an immediate threat to your vision. And cataract surgery isn’t necessary until the condition affects your daily life. This surgery is the only permanent fix for a cataract.

Typically, glaucoma is another age-related condition. However, an eye injury could cause glaucoma, and in rare cases, a baby can be born with it. There are several types of glaucoma, and most of them are the result of abnormal pressure in the eye. This pressure causes damage to the optic nerve, and can result in vision loss.

Like other diseases, AMD can develop with little to no symptoms usually, and can lead to eventual vision loss.

The more common form of AMD is dry AMD. This form of the disease typically develops slowly over time as the macula grows thinner with age. Vision therapy or other steps to protect your vision may be necessary as there is no cure for AMD.

There is also a less common form of AMD called wet AMD. If you develop this disease, it’s an emergency situation in many cases. If you suddenly see a large amount of new floaters, have sudden eye pain, or reduced central vision, you should contact your eye doctor or go to the emergency department immediately.

Dry eye disease doesn’t typically result in vision loss or permanent damage. However, it can be extremely uncomfortable. Sometimes climate is the cause, but other times it could be an underlying reason, such as a side effect from medication or a medical condition.