What Is Strabismus?

Strabismus is a condition that leads to misalignment of the eyes. In this rare form of strabismus, one eye turns in a different direction compared to the other eye. This misalignment can be constant or come and go, and can affect one or both eyes. It can have a significant impact on one’s vision and depth perception, and if left untreated, can cause long-term outcomes such as amblyopia. 

How Common Is Strabismus?

Strabismus is very common, affecting up to 2-4% of children in Canada. Doctors generally diagnose the condition in early childhood. Adults can get strabismus, as it’s commonly caused by underlying health conditions or trauma. This understanding of the importance of early diagnosis has led to the development of effective treatment. This is particularly critical in children, whose brain and visual system are under active development.

Early Signs Of Strabismus

The most noticeable sign of strabismus is one eye turning inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other stays straight. Some children may experience double vision, tilt their head, or squint to focus—often linked to accommodative esotropia. More subtle signs include avoiding activities requiring depth perception, like catching a ball.

Strabismus usually appears by age three, affecting about 4% of young children. Mild misalignment is normal in infants up to three months, but if it persists beyond four months, it’s a concern. Early detection is crucial, so if your child shows signs, schedule an eye exam promptly.

Causes Of Strabismus

Strabismus, or eye misalignment, stems from issues with eye muscles, nerves, or brain control. Weak or paralyzed eye muscles can prevent proper coordination, while nerve damage disrupts signals needed for alignment. Brain injuries, strokes, or uncorrected farsightedness can also contribute to it.

Risk factors include premature birth, low birth weight, diabetes, or eye trauma. Genetics also play a significant role, so children with a family history are more likely to develop this eye misalignment. Neurological conditions and muscle weakness further impact eye coordination, making early detection crucial for treatment.

Living With Strabismus

Strabismus can significantly impact vision, daily activities, and confidence. Tasks like reading, driving, and navigating stairs can become challenging due to issues like double vision and poor depth perception. Some people experience constant eye strain and migraines, making daily life even more difficult. Managing symptoms with frequent breaks, anti-fatigue glasses, and treatments like eye exercises, medications, or surgery can help, though ongoing care is often needed.

Beyond the physical challenges, strabismus can take a toll on mental and social well-being. The visible nature of the condition may lead to self-consciousness, affecting social interactions and career opportunities. Children with strabismus may face teasing, impacting their self-esteem, while adults may struggle with social discomfort. With the right treatments and support, individuals with this condition can navigate life with confidence.

Treatments

Strabismus can affect people of all ages, impacting both vision and confidence. Treatment aims to restore proper eye alignment and coordination, improving both function and appearance. The approach varies based on severity, patient age, and whether the condition is chronic or newly developed.

Non-surgical treatments are often the first step, especially for mild cases. Corrective lenses can help if strabismus is linked to refractive errors like farsightedness. Eye patches may strengthen weaker eyes, while targeted exercises improve coordination. In some cases, medications like Botox can temporarily relax overactive eye muscles to aid alignment.

For moderate to severe cases, or when non-surgical methods fail, surgery may be required. This outpatient procedure adjusts eye muscles to improve alignment, though follow-up treatments like glasses may still be needed. Emerging therapies, including vision therapy and digital eye-tracking, offer new hope by retraining the brain to enhance eye coordination, paving the way for future advancements in strabismus care.

Conclusion

Strabismus can have profound impacts on one’s vision and everyday life, but with appropriate treatment and compassion it can be an easily understood condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing permanent visual impairment and other complications. Whether it’s managing with glasses, pursuing therapy or a surgical intervention, there are approaches available that can help restore alignment and reduce bothersome symptoms. 

If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms or have concerns regarding strabismus, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Dr. D’Orio Eyecare today. Visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.

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What Is Eye Twitching?

Eye twitching refers to the involuntary muscle contractions in the eyelid. These contractions are typically brief and repetitive, causing the eyelid to spasm or flutter. Eye twitching can vary significantly in frequency and intensity among individuals. Some may experience occasional twitches, while others might have more persistent and pronounced spasms.

Types Of Eye Twitching

1. Eyelid Myokymia

Eyelid myokymia is a common and mild form of eye twitching that usually occurs in the lower eyelid. It is characterized by brief, involuntary spasms that may come and go for a few days or weeks. This type of twitching is typically benign and often associated with factors like stress, lack of sleep, or too much caffeine.

2. Benign Essential Blepharospasm

On the other hand, benign essential blepharospasm is a more severe form of eye twitching that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Unlike eyelid myokymia, this condition involves repetitive and uncontrollable contractions of the muscles around the eyes, leading to forceful closure of the eyelids. Individuals with benign essential blepharospasm may experience increased sensitivity to light and have difficulty keeping their eyes open.

In some cases, benign essential blepharospasm may require medical intervention such as botulinum toxin injections to help relax the eye muscles and reduce the severity of the spasms. These injections are administered by healthcare professionals and can provide temporary relief from the symptoms. It’s important for individuals experiencing persistent or severe eye twitching to consult with an eye care specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Common Causes Of Twitching Eyes

Stress

Stress plays a significant role in triggering frequent eye twitching episodes. When individuals experience high levels of stress, it can lead to involuntary contractions of the eye muscles, causing the eyelid to twitch. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help reduce the occurrence of twitching.

Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time, whether from computers, smartphones, or other digital devices, can result in eye strain. This condition can contribute to twitching as the muscles in the eyes become fatigued from prolonged exposure to screens. Taking regular breaks and practicing eye exercises can alleviate this issue.

Lack Of Sleep

A lack of sufficient sleep can exacerbate the frequency of twitching in the eyes. When the body does not get an adequate amount of rest, it can impact the muscles around the eyes, leading to increased involuntary contractions. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help improve sleep quality and reduce eye twitching.

Treatment Options For Eye Twitching

Self-Care Measures

Twitching in the eyes often resolves spontaneously in many cases without the need for treatment. For those experiencing mild symptoms, lifestyle modifications can be the initial step towards alleviating eye twitching. Reducing caffeine consumption, getting adequate sleep, and minimizing stress levels are simple yet effective self-care strategies that can help manage and potentially eliminate eye twitching.

Medications

In persistent cases where lifestyle changes do not provide relief, medical intervention may be necessary. Physicians may recommend medications such as anticonvulsants to address chronic eye twitching. Anticonvulsants can help regulate nerve impulses and reduce muscle spasms, ultimately easing the frequency and intensity of eye twitches.

Botulinum Toxin Injections

For patients with severe and unresponsive eye twitching, botulinum toxin injections represent a viable therapeutic option. Administered by a trained healthcare professional, these injections work by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions. By targeting the specific muscles causing the involuntary movements, these injections can effectively reduce the frequency and severity of eye twitches. Although this treatment is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is essential for patients to discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before proceeding with this intervention.

Closing Thoughts

By understanding twitching in the eyes, you’ve delved into its types, causes, and treatments. Armed with this newfound knowledge, make proactive choices to care for your eyes. Whether it’s reducing stress, adjusting your screen time habits, or seeking medical advice when needed, prioritize your eye health.

Are you experiencing frequent eye twitching? Book an appointment with Dr D’Orio Eyecare today! Visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.

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What Is Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) occurs when the posterior vitreous body separates from the retina. This separation leads to floaters in the field of vision.

PVD is a common age-related change in the eye, typically affecting individuals over 50 years old. The vitreous gel within the eye liquefies and shrinks as we age, causing it to pull away from the retina.

PVD can cause symptoms like floaters, flashes of light, and decreased vision clarity. While floaters are usually harmless, they can be bothersome. However, sudden onset of floaters or flashes of light may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, requiring immediate medical attention.

Stages Of Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Liquefaction Stage

During the liquefaction stage of PVD, the vitreous gel within the eye begins to liquefy and shrink. This process causes the gel to pull away from the retina, leading to the initial separation. As this separation occurs, it can cause symptomatic vitreous floaters, which are perceived as small specks or strands floating in one’s field of vision.

Complete Detachment Stage

In the complete detachment stage, the vitreous gel is fully separated from the retina. At this point, individuals may experience a sudden onset of floaters or flashes of light as the gel detaches completely. This stage marks a critical point in posterior vitreous detachment as it indicates that the gel has detached entirely from its normal position against the retina.

Symptoms Of PVD

Floaters in the eye are the most common symptom and are often described as cobwebs, appearing as small specks or strands floating in the field of vision. These floaters are caused by collagen fibers clumping together in the vitreous humor. Sudden onset of flashes of light, a significant increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow across the visual field could signal a retinal tear or detachment.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious consequences, including sudden vision loss. Individuals experiencing such changes should not delay in contacting an eye care professional for evaluation and appropriate management.

Causes Of Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Natural Aging Process

PVD primarily occurs due to the natural aging process of the vitreous gel within the eye. As individuals age, the vitreous gel undergoes changes, becoming more liquid-like over time.

Factors Contributing To Detachment

• Vitreoretinal Adhesion: The weakening of the adhesion between the vitreous gel and the retina can predispose individuals to PVD.
• Vitreoretinal Traction: Excessive traction or pulling on the retina by the vitreous gel can accelerate the detachment process.
• Vitreomacular Adhesion: When the vitreous gel adheres abnormally to the macula, it can increase the risk of PVD development.
• Vitreoretinal Pathology: Underlying retinal disorders or diseases can also play a role in triggering PVD.
• Retinal Tears: Pre-existing retinal tears can serve as starting points for the detachment of the vitreous gel from the retina.

The presence of conditions such as vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment may also exacerbate the detachment of the vitreous gel. These factors can further destabilize the vitreoretinal interface, increasing the likelihood of PVD occurrence.

Diagnostic Testing For PVD

During a dilated eye examination for diagnosing posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), the optometrist will use eye drops to widen the pupils. This allows a better view of the back of the eye, including the vitreous humor and retina. The doctor will examine the vitreous gel for any signs of detachment from the retina, such as floaters or flashes of light.

In addition to a dilated eye exam, an OCT and Optomap are other valuable tools for diagnosing PVD. The non-invasive imaging test by the OCT provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing the optometrist to visualize any abnormalities in the vitreous and retina layers. The Optomap is an ultra wide field camera that helps the optometrist see any floaters along with ruling out any peripheral tears and detachments. An ocular ultrasound can also be used in severe cases to assess the retina by producing sound waves that create an image of the eye’s internal structure. The ultrasound is usually done when the PVD or floater is too dense or if there is blood present in the vitreous.

Treatment for Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Many cases of PVD do not necessitate treatment as the condition typically resolves naturally over time. Patients often experience improvement in symptoms without medical intervention.

In situations where complications like retinal tears occur, prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent further damage. Surgery may be recommended by doctors to address severe complications effectively.

Regular eye check-ups are essential for individuals with PVD to monitor their eye health and detect any potential issues early. These routine visits help eye doctors assess the progression of the condition and intervene promptly if needed.

Final Remarks

You’ve now gained a comprehensive understanding of posterior vitreous detachment, from its stages and symptoms to causes, and treatment options. Remember, early detection plays a crucial role in managing PVD effectively. If you experience any of the common symptoms discussed earlier, contact Dr D’Orio Eyecare to make an appointment. Visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416 656 2020 for our Toronto location, or 416 661 5555 for our North York location.

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Understanding Ptosis

Ptosis, commonly known as eyelid drooping, is a condition where the upper eyelid sags, leading to a partially closed eyelid. This drooping can vary from mild ptosis to severe ptosis and may impact one or both eyes. It can occur at birth (congenital ptosis) or develop later in life (acquired ptosis).

Ptosis not only affects the aesthetics of the eyes but can also have significant implications for vision. In severe cases, where the drooping eyelid obstructs the pupil, it can lead to persistent droopy eyelid that interferes with normal vision. Individuals with involutional ptosis may experience difficulties in keeping their eyes open, resulting in compromised visual field.

Moreover, ptosis can cause eye strain and fatigue as individuals may unconsciously raise their eyebrows or tilt their head back to see more clearly. This constant effort to compensate for the drooping eyelid can result in discomfort and reduced visual acuity over time.

Beyond its physical effects, ptosis can also have a profound impact on an individual’s self-esteem and quality of life. Persistent droopy eyelids can make individuals feel self-conscious about their appearance, leading to decreased confidence in social interactions. The visible asymmetry caused by ptosis may draw unwanted attention, further affecting one’s self-image.

Causes In Children And Adults

Ptosis in children can often be attributed to birth defects, where the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid don’t develop properly. This can lead to a drooping eyelid that obstructs vision and may require surgical intervention.

Neurological conditions like Horner syndrome or third cranial nerve palsy can also result in ptosis in children. These conditions affect the nerves controlling the eyelid muscles, causing them to weaken and droop.

In adults, trauma to the eye or eyelid can cause ptosis. This can occur due to accidents, injuries, or surgeries around the eye area, leading to a drooping eyelid. Aging is another common cause of ptosis in adults. As these muscles lose their strength, the eyelids may start to droop, impacting not just aesthetics but also vision.

Genetics play a crucial role in predisposing individuals to ptosis. Certain genetic factors can contribute to the development of weak eyelid muscles or abnormal nerve signals, increasing the likelihood of experiencing ptosis at any age.

Recognizing Symptoms

Ptosis symptoms are often noticeable, with one or both eyelids drooping, leading to a tired appearance. This drooping can vary in severity, affecting the vision if it covers the pupil partially or entirely.

Eye fatigue is a common consequence of ptosis due to the extra effort required to lift the eyelids and maintain clear vision. Individuals may experience double vision, especially when trying to focus on objects at different distances.

Persistent symptoms of ptosis, such as eye discomfort or vision issues, should not be ignored. Consulting an optometrist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Delaying medical evaluation can lead to worsening symptoms and potential complications.

Surgical Solutions

Ptosis repair involves various surgical techniques aimed at correcting drooping eyelids. One common method is levator resection, where the levator muscle is shortened to elevate the eyelid. Another approach is the frontalis sling, which uses a sling made of synthetic material or the patient’s tissue to lift the eyelid.

After undergoing ptosis surgery, patients may experience risks such as infection, bleeding, or asymmetry in eyelid height. The recovery process typically involves wearing an eye patch for a few days and avoiding strenuous activities to ensure proper healing.

Surgical solutions for ptosis have shown promising success rates in restoring normal eyelid function. Many individuals who undergo certain eye surgery procedures, performed by a skilled eye doctor, achieve improved eyelid positioning and symmetry post-surgery.

Non-Surgical Approaches

Eyelid Exercises

Eyelid exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the eyes, potentially improving the appearance of ptosis. These exercises typically involve repetitive movements such as blinking, raising and lowering the eyebrows, or focusing on near and far objects. While these exercises may not provide drastic results, they can contribute to maintaining muscle tone in the eyelids.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy for ptosis involves gentle pressure applied to the eyelids to stimulate circulation and muscle activity. This technique aims to enhance blood flow and muscle tone, potentially lifting droopy eyelids. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting massage therapy to ensure it is safe and appropriate for individual needs.

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin injections, commonly known as Botox, are sometimes used to address ptosis temporarily. By injecting this neurotoxin into specific muscles around the eyes, it can cause temporary paralysis, leading to a lifted appearance of the eyelids. While this method offers quick results without surgery, the effects are not permanent and require regular injections for maintenance.

The effectiveness of non-surgical approaches can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of ptosis in each individual. What works well for one person may not yield the same results for another.

You’ve now got a good grasp of ptosis – its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Whether surgical or non-surgical, there are ways to address this condition and improve your quality of life. Understanding the nuances of ptosis can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.

Take charge of your eye health by staying informed and seeking professional help if you notice any symptoms of ptosis. Remember, early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition effectively. Booking an appointment with an optometrist is the first step to diagnosing and treating ptosis. To book an appointment at Dr D’Orio Eyecare, visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.

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1. What Is Strabismus?

Strabismus, or more commonly known as a crossed eye or an out-turned eye, is a misalignment of an individual’s eye. Due to strabismus, the individual cannot focus on the same object. The misalignment of eyes can cause double vision, sudden loss of vision in one eye, and other vision problems.

2. What Causes Strabismus?

As with many eye conditions, the exact cause of strabismus is unknown. However, most cases of strabismus are generally due to the inability of the brain to coordinate with the eyes properly. Additionally, throughout the first 8 years of your life, your eyes are supposed to learn how to work together. If, for some reason, your eye muscles fail to work together, this could cause strabismus. Last, strabismus can be caused by conditions that affect the brain, like down syndrome, cerebral palsy, brain tumours, besides others.

3. What Are The Types Of Strabismus?

While you might think that there is only one type of strabismus, there are actually several types! The different types of strabismus are described by the direction of misalignment of the eyes. There are 4 possible types of strabismus that one can be diagnosed with after an eye examination. An eye that is turned in is known as esotropia; and an eye that is turned out is known as exotropia. If the abnormal eye is higher than a normal eye, it is known as hypertropia; and if the abnormal eye is lower than the normal eye, it is known as hypotropia. Treatment may differ depending on the type of strabismus that the individual is diagnosed with.

4. What Are The Symptoms Of Strabismus?

The easiest way of identifying strabismus is to check if the eyes are misaligned, either up, down, turning in, or turning out. Other symptoms of strabismus are double vision, head tilting, eye strain, and squinting. Additionally, if the person covers one eye to improve their vision, it is likely because their eyes are aligned incorrectly. Last, from an observer standpoint, if the individual has poor coordination, bumps into things, or is clumsy, this could indicate strabismus, as this eye condition limits depth perception.

5. How Do You Treat Strabismus?

To develop good vision with strabismus, it’s important to stimulate the eye. These include visual exercises like focusing on objects and stopping when the objects appear blurry. Exercises like this help train the brain and the eyes to work together properly. Other treatments include eyeglasses and contact lenses for mild cases. On the other hand, individuals with worse strabismus might need surgery to help align the eyes correctly.

After reading these facts about strabismus, you might suspect that your child has it. It is important to get them diagnosed as soon as you identify symptoms, such as double vision, squinting, or head tilting. To book an appointment at Dr D’Orio Eyecare, visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.

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1. Related To Genetics

Macular degeneration is not a disease that will affect everyone. In fact, it often develops because of one’s genetics being passed down from a previous generation. There have been over 30 genes identified as being risk factors for this eye disorder. While having a family history of macular degeneration does not guarantee that you will develop the condition, you should keep an eye out for its warning signs… if your parents or grandparents suffer from it, you are three to four times more likely to develop the condition.

2. Early Warning Signs

As macular degeneration can become quite serious, it is important to be aware of its early warning signs to seek timely treatment. You may notice, for example, that you need more light while reading, especially in low-light conditions. Or it may present as your central vision appearing dark or “whited out” in a specific location. You may also notice that your vision has become blurrier in general. If you notice that you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it is important to visit your optometrist immediately. While some symptoms may be related to a less serious eye condition, only your eye doctor will be able to fully diagnose your eye disorder and set you on a proper course of treatment.

3. Often Age-Related

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that generally affects those over 50 years of age. This is because sometimes as the eyes age, tissues in the macula start to thin. This thinning causes a loss of cells that are essential for vision, leading to a decreased vision in the affected part of the eye. However, just because you are under 50 does not mean you shouldn’t be wary of early symptoms! Macular degeneration has been known to affect those under 50, and can even affect children, known as Juvenile Macular Degeneration, or Stargardt Disease.

4. Two Types of Macular Degeneration

There are two different types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.

Dry macular degeneration appears first and begins to slowly progress over time. It is characterized by the presence of small deposits within the retina, known as drusen. As the drusen grow and multiply, they can begin to affect the vision, causing a dimming or distortion. In advanced dry macular degeneration, the light-sensitive layer of cells in the macula can atrophy, causing the development of blind spots. In some cases, it may not be noticeable without an eye examination… until it becomes more advanced.

When dry macular degeneration is left undetected, it will likely progress into wet macular degeneration, a serious condition that can escalate rapidly. Wet macular degeneration causes the growth of small, abnormal blood vessels to grow within the eye, which leak blood or fluid into the macula, leading to hemorrhage or swelling. The onset of it can be sudden, causing severe damage to vision within days, and being accompanied by sudden loss of vision.

5. Detection And Prevention Is Key

Macular degeneration is not curable, and so it is important that it is detected early to prevent further vision deterioration. Unfortunately, symptoms such as blurry vision or trouble with close work can be confused with other, less serious, conditions. It is important to visit your eye doctor regularly to ensure early detection of this disease.

Currently, there is no course of treatment for early onset dry macular degeneration, but preventative measures can be used to slow the disease. Adapting the lifestyle to include exercising, avoiding smoking, and eating a nutritious diet like leafy greens and fish can help to slow the disease’s progression.

While not curable, wet macular degeneration can be treated. It can be treated with an anti-VEGF injection, which prevents the growth of additional abnormal blood vessels, and could allow a patient to regain some of their vision. The second course of treatment is Photodynamic therapy, which involves a precise laser treatment on the abnormal blood vessels. Laser surgery is another method that is sometimes used for treatment of wet macular degeneration and is more commonly used when blood vessel growth is limited to a compact area that can be targeted, as well as when it is not located near the centre of the macula. This course of treatment will leave a scar, resulting in a blind spot on one’s field of vision.

If you suspect a Macular Degeneration diagnosis or have any other eye or vision concerns, it is important to see your optometrist. Many people do not visit the optometrist until the condition has progressed, and they may have already permanently lost some of their vision. If you feel you may have experienced a deterioration in your vision, contact the experts at Dr D’Orio eyecare. To book an appointment at Dr D’Orio Eyecare, visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416 656 2020 for our Toronto location, or 416 661 5555 for our North York location.

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What is Myopia?

Myopia is a vision problem that allows people to see things up close, but not at a distance. It is also commonly referred to as nearsightedness.

What Causes Myopia?

There are many causes of Myopia including:

• Hereditary factors: most cases of myopia are genetic. In fact, a child is three times more likely to be myopic if one parent has myopia and seven times more likely if both parents have it.
• Blue Light: the significant increase of time spent in front of screens, computers, tablets, and smartphones that give off blue light can be a factor in the increase of myopia. This is especially relevant in the cases of young children as children are often given technology that emits blue light in order to be entertained.
• Lack of outdoor activity: being outdoors allows vision to adjust to see far distances. It is important to have this sort of visual stimuli in order to develop this part of your visual capability. If children spend most of their time in front of a screen, they are not given this opportunity.

Preventative Measures You Can Take

• Limit time spent in front of a digital screen
• Practice the 20/20/20 rule with your child (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
• Invest in blue light glasses
• Increase time spent outdoors. Practice looking at far distances to develop sight
• Get your eyes checked regularly by your optometrist

Although myopia cases are rising in children, there is always something you can do to help treat it and/or protect your children from developing this condition. Visit Dr. D’Orio to get expert advice about myopia in children. Call us today at 416.656.2020 (Toronto location) or 416.661.5555 (North York location) to book an appointment.

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Retinal Detachment occurs when a thin layer of tissue (the retina) detaches from the back of the eye. This is an emergency situation and should be treated as soon as possible.

Retinal Detachment is painless, so it may be difficult to determine if you have it without paying attention to the warning signs. Symptoms that you should watch out for include:
1. Sudden appearance of many floaters (tiny specks that seem to drift through your field of vision)
2. Flashes of light in one or both eyes (photopsia)
3. Blurred vision
4. Gradually reduced side/ peripheral vision
5. A curtain-like shadow over your vision field

You may be at risk for retinal detachment if you:
1. Have previously experienced retinal detachment
2.Have a family history of retinal detachment
3. Are extremely nearsighted/ suffer with myopia
4. Have had eye surgery
5. Have had a severe eye injury
6. Suffer with other eye diseases/ disorders such as retinoschisis, uveitis, or thinning of peripheral retina

When retinal detachment goes untreated, the risk of permanent vision loss increases. This is why it is absolutely essential to seek medical attention once you begin experiencing the signs and/or symptoms of retinal detachment.

If you suspect that you may have retinal detachment, seek out professional advice at Dr. D’Orio Eye Care. Book an appointment with us today by calling us at 416.656.2020 or 416.661.5555

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Although glaucoma is usually seen in mature eyes– it is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 60 — it can occur at any age. Unfortunately, patients are often asymptomatic in the early stages and treatment is delayed until diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the stage. Symptoms can include, but are not limited to:

• Patchy blind spots in your peripheral or central vision. This can happen in one or both eyes
• Tunnel vision (mostly found in advanced stages)
• Severe headaches
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights
• Eye redness

If left untreated, these symptoms can cause blindness.

There is no cure for glaucoma because vision loss cannot be recovered once it has been lost. This is why it is essential to get regular eye exams so that if you have early stage glaucoma, a diagnosis can be made, and you can begin treatment to slow its progression.

Book an appointment for an eye exam at Dr. D’Orio Eye Care today by calling 416.656.2020 or 416.661.5555 to ensure professional treatment.

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