Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management in Oshawa

A cataract forms when the lens inside your eye hardens and becomes cloudy. Cataracts can be a result of the normal aging process, although they can appear congenitally in infants.

Cataracts can also occur at an earlier age due to systemic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders. Other causes of cataracts include UV damage, trauma, and certain medications, such as corticosteroids.

We treat cataracts through ongoing monitoring, updating your prescription to improve visual clarity, and eventually cataract surgery co-management, when required.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve. This damage is often caused by a build-up of internal pressure within the eye, called intraocular pressure (IOP), although normal-tension glaucoma is also possible. Over time, the damage to the optic nerve can cause peripheral, then central vision loss.

Glaucoma can be caused by genetics, extreme refractive errors (such as high myopia), eye injuries, certain medications, and systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

We screen for glaucoma through OCT scans, retinal imaging, eye pressure checks, and visual field assessments.

AMD is a progressive disease that impacts central vision. It is characterized by damage to the macula, which is a small area of the retina responsible for your central and most colour vision.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD accounts for about 90% of cases and progresses slowly, as the central macular tissue degenerates over time. Wet AMD progresses rapidly, caused by leakage and bleeding of weak blood vessels under the macula.

Risk factors for AMD include genetics, smoking, extensive UV exposure, and cardiovascular disease. We screen for AMD through retinal imaging and OCT scans, and will refer patients to a specialist when necessary.

Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of diseases that occur as a complication of diabetes. This includes diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, along with an increased risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma.

Diabetic eye disease is caused by prolonged periods of high blood sugar, which damages the blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels can leak into the eye, causing blurry vision and damaging eyesight. If left untreated, diabetic eye disease can cause serious vision impairment.

We monitor people with diabetes carefully for signs of diabetic retinopathy. We use OCT scans and retinal imaging to keep a close watch on eye health.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, has many forms. It can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, which is contagious to others, or through an allergic reaction or chemical exposure. It is characterized by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent layer that covers the front of the eye and the eyelid.

It’s important to have your eyes assessed when you experience symptoms of conjunctivitis. This allows your optometrist to determine the cause of your symptoms and prescribe an appropriate treatment.

Floaters are translucent specks of various shapes and sizes. They are caused by small flecks of protein or other matter that are trapped in the fluid inside the eye and occasionally pass in front of your line of view. Generally, floaters are harmless.

However, if you notice new or a sudden increase in floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes of light, you may be experiencing an urgent condition, such as a retinal hole, tear, or detachment. With any significant and sudden changes to your vision, you should always call us for a comprehensive examination to determine the cause.