Conditions & Treatment

Question: What are Refractive Errors and how are they treated?

Refractive errors include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism (distorted vision), and presbyopia (age-related difficulty in seeing close objects). These conditions occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. Treatment typically involves corrective glasses or contact lenses. Laser surgeries like LASIK can also permanently correct certain refractive errors.

Question: What are Cataracts and how are they treated?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. It is predominantly age-related but can also result from trauma, radiation exposure, or be congenital. The only effective treatment for a cataract is surgical removal of the cloudy lens, which is then usually replaced with an artificial lens. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we monitor the progression of a patient’s cataracts or refer them to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Glaucoma and how is it treated?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. Treatment can include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, or surgical procedures to lower the pressure in the eye and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with glaucoma to a glaucoma specialist.

Question: What is Macular Degeneration and how is it treated?

Macular degeneration, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a condition where part of the retina, called the macula, deteriorates. This condition is a leading cause of vision loss in people age 50 and older. While there is no cure for AMD, treatments like anti-VEGF drugs can slow its progression. Laser therapy and vitamins are also used to manage the condition. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we monitor the progression of a patient’s Macular Degeneration in our office or refer to them a Retinal Specialist when appropriate.

Question: What is Diabetic Retinopathy and how is it treated?

Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication that affects the eyes. It's caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Managing diabetes is key to treatment, but advanced cases may require laser treatment, injections of corticosteroids or anti-VEGF drugs, or a surgical procedure called vitrectomy. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Diabetic Retinopathy to their primary care doctor to work on getting their diabetes disease under control. We also may refer them to a retinal specialist if necessary.

Question: What is Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) and how is it treated?

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. Causes can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. Treatment depends on the cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis requires antibiotics, while viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with allergy medications. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) in our office.

Question: What is Dry Eye Syndrome and how is it treated?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can be due to either insufficient tear production or poor quality of tears. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter eye drops, prescription medications, or procedures to block the tear ducts and keep the natural tears in the eyes longer. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat and monitor the progression of a patient’s dry eye symptoms or refer them to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What are Corneal Diseases and how are they treated?

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Corneal diseases such as keratitis, corneal ulcers, or corneal dystrophies can affect the cornea. Treatment varies widely but may include medicated eye drops, antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal medications, or corneal transplants in severe cases. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Corneal Diseases to a corneal specialist.

Question: What is Retinal Detachment and how is it treated?

Retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position. Symptoms include a significant increase in floaters, flashes of light, and worsening of the outer part of the visual field. Retinal detachment requires surgical treatment to place the retina back into its proper position. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Retinal Detachments to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Blepharitis and how is it treated?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids, usually where the eyelashes grow. It commonly occurs when tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes become clogged. Treatment often includes good eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, and occasionally antibiotics if there is an infection. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Blepharitis in our office.

Question: What is Uveitis and how is it treated?

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveitis can be associated with autoimmune disorders. Treatment usually includes steroids to reduce inflammation, and if an infection is the cause, appropriate antimicrobials. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Uveitis in our office or refer the patient to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Keratoconus and how is it treated?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape, which causes visual impairment. In its early stages, keratoconus can be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. Later stages may require rigid gas permeable contact lenses, and in severe cases, a corneal transplant might be necessary. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Keratoconus in our office or refer them to a contact lens specialist.

Question: What is a Stye (Hordeolum) and how is it treated?

A stye (hordeolum) is a red, painful lump near the edge of the eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection of the oil glands in the eyelid. Most styes are treated at home with warm compresses to speed up the rupture and healing process. Occasionally, antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection spreads. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with a Stye (Hordeolum) in our office.

Question: What is a Chalazion and how is it treated?

A chalazion occurs when a blockage in one of the tiny oil glands at the margin of the eyelid leads to a swollen and slowly enlarging lump. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is generally not painful. Treatment includes warm compresses and gentle massage to promote drainage. If a chalazion is large, persistent, or affects vision, it might require surgical removal. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with a Chalazion in our office or refer them to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Optic Neuritis and how is it treated?

Optic neuritis is inflammation that damages the optic nerve, a crucial part of the eye for transmitting visual information to the brain. It's often associated with multiple sclerosis. Treatment typically involves corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and hasten recovery, with close monitoring for underlying causes like multiple sclerosis. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Optic Neuritis to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Strabismus (Crossed Eyes) and how is it treated?

Strabismus (crossed eyes) is a condition in which the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. This condition can lead to amblyopia or "lazy eye" if not treated early in children. Treatment can include eyeglasses, vision therapy, and sometimes surgery to correct the alignment of the eye muscles. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Strabismus (Crossed Eyes) to a strabismus surgeon.

Question: What is Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) and how is it treated?

Amblyopia (lazy eye) occurs when the vision in one of the eyes is reduced because the eye and the brain are not working together properly. The eye itself appears normal, but it is not being used normally because the brain is favoring the other eye. Treatment involves correcting the underlying cause and then forcing the brain to use the weak eye, such as by patching the stronger eye or using atropine drops. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) to a vision therapist.

Question: What are Pinguecula and Pterygium and how are they treated?

A pinguecula is a yellowish, slightly raised thickening of the conjunctiva on the white of the eye near the cornea. A pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue that can eventually extend over the cornea, potentially impairing vision. Treatment includes lubricating eye drops or ointment to soothe irritation. If a pterygium becomes large enough to threaten sight or causes significant discomfort, it might need to be surgically removed. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Strabismus (Crossed Eyes) to a strabismus surgeon. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with a Pinguecula or Pterygium in our office and then refer them to a corneal surgeon.

Question: What is Color Blindness and how is it treated?

Color blindness, mostly genetic, is the inability to distinguish certain shades of color. The most common form is red-green color blindness. There is no cure for genetic color blindness, but special glasses and contact lenses that enhance color perception are available. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Color Blindness in our office.

Question: What is Night Blindness (Nyctalopia) and how is it treated?

Night blindness (Nyctalopia) is the difficulty in seeing in low light or darkness, often caused by underlying conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa or vitamin A deficiency. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause, such as vitamin supplementation for deficiency and appropriate management for retinal conditions. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Night Blindness (Nyctalopia) in our office.

Question: What is a Corneal Abrasion and how is it treated?

A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the eye's cornea. It can cause significant discomfort, red eyes, and hypersensitivity to light. Treatment generally involves antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection and sometimes a patch to allow the cornea to heal. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with a Corneal Abrasion in our office or refer them to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is an Ocular Migraine and how is it treated?

Ocular migraines cause temporary vision disturbances or blindness in one eye, usually accompanied or followed by a migraine headache. Treatment focuses on relieving migraine symptoms and preventing further attacks with medication and lifestyle changes. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Ocular Migraines in our office or refer them to an ophthalmologist depending on the severity and frequency.

Question: What is Retinitis Pigmentosa and how is it treated?

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of genetic disorders that affect the retina's ability to respond to light, leading to a gradual loss of vision and night blindness. Treatment options are limited but include vitamin A supplementation, use of retinal implants, and gene therapy in experimental stages. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa to a retinal specialist.

Question: What are Floaters and how are they treated?

Floaters are tiny spots, specks, lines, or shapes that drift aimlessly in your field of vision. They are usually caused by age-related changes that occur as the jelly-like substance (vitreous) inside your eyes becomes more liquid. Floaters are typically harmless and require no treatment. However, if they are accompanied by flashes of light or a sudden increase in floaters, it may indicate a retinal detachment, requiring immediate medical attention. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Floaters by monitoring their progression or refer to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What are Flashes and how are they treated?

Flashes can look like flashing lights or lightning streaks in your vision. They occur when the vitreous gel inside your eye rubs or pulls on the retina. Like floaters, flashes are often harmless but can sometimes indicate retinal detachment, requiring urgent treatment. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Flashes by monitoring their progression and refer to a retinal specialist if needed.

Question: What is Keratitis and how is it treated?

Keratitis is an inflammation or infection of the cornea. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, especially in contact lens wearers. Treatment depends on the cause of the infection and may include antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, or amoebicidal eye drops. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Keratitis in our office or refer them to a corneal specialist in extreme cases.

Question: What is Photokeratitis and how is it treated?

Photokeratitis is essentially a sunburn of the eye, caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays, commonly from the sun or artificial sources like welding machines. Treatment includes staying in a dark room, applying cold compresses, and using antibiotic eye drops if a bacterial infection is a risk. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Photokeratitis in our office or refer them to a corneal specialist.

Question: What is a Corneal Ulcer and how is it treated?

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, often caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, particularly in contact lens wearers. Treatment is urgent and typically involves intensive antibiotic or antifungal eye drops, and sometimes antiviral drugs depending on the cause. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with a Corneal Ulcer to a corneal specialist.

Question: What is a Vitreous Hemorrhage and how is it treated?

A vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous humor, which can obscure vision, appearing as dark or red patches moving through the field of vision. The underlying cause of the bleeding must be addressed. In many cases, the body reabsorbs the blood over weeks to months, but severe cases may require surgical intervention. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with a Vitreous Hemorrhage to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Ocular Herpes and how is it treated?

Ocular herpes is a viral infection of the eye caused by the herpes simplex virus, which can recur and lead to serious eye damage. Treatment usually involves antiviral medications to reduce the severity and frequency of episodes. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Ocular Herpes to a corneal specialist.

Question: What is Scleritis and how is it treated?

Scleritis is a severe inflammation of the sclera, the white outer wall of the eye, which can be painful and linked to autoimmune disorders. Treatment often involves oral or injectable corticosteroids and sometimes immunosuppressive medications. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Scleritis to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Iritis (Anterior Uveitis) and how is it treated?

Iritis (Anterior Uveitis) is inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye. It can be associated with autoimmune disorders or infections. Treatment includes corticosteroid and dilating eye drops to reduce inflammation and pain. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Iritis (Anterior Uveitis) in our office or refer them to a general ophthalmologist in severe cases.

Question: What is Central Serous Retinopathy and how is it treated?

Central Serous Retinopathy involves fluid buildup under the retina, which can distort vision. It is often stress-related or linked to steroid use. Many cases resolve on their own without treatment, but sometimes laser treatments or photodynamic therapy is used. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Central Serous Retinopathy to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Retinoblastoma and how is it treated?

Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that typically develops in early childhood and affects the retina. Treatment depends on the size and location of the tumor and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Retinoblastoma to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Ocular Rosacea and how is it treated?

Ocular rosacea is an inflammation that causes redness, burning and itching of the eyes, often associated with the skin condition rosacea. Treatment includes good eyelid hygiene, oral antibiotics, and sometimes steroid eye drops. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Ocular Rosacea in our office.

Question: What is Allergic Conjunctivitis and how is it treated?

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by eye irritants such as pollen, dust, and animal dander among those who are allergic to these substances. Treatment involves avoiding allergens, using antihistamine eye drops, and sometimes oral antihistamines. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Allergic Conjunctivitis in our office.

Question: What is Anisocoria and how is it treated?

Anisocoria is a condition where the pupils of the eyes are unequal in size. This can be harmless or a sign of a more serious medical condition. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include medications or surgery if necessary. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Anisocoria to a neuropathologist.

Question: What is Astigmatism and how is it treated?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens that leads to distorted or blurred vision. Corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, and refractive surgery are common treatments.

Question: What is Blepharospasm and how is it treated?

Blepharospasm is an involuntary twitching of the eyelids causing the eye to "blink" uncontrollably. Treatment options include Botox injections to temporarily disable the eyelid muscles, medication, and in severe cases, surgery. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Blepharospasm in our office or refer them to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Cellulitis and how is it treated?

Orbital cellulitis is a deep infection of the eyelid and tissues around the eye, while preseptal cellulitis is an infection of the eyelid and skin around the eye. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection. Hospitalization may be necessary for severe cases. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Cellulitis to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Dacryocystitis and how is it treated?

Dacryocystitis is an infection of the tear drainage system. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and sometimes surgical intervention to clear the blockage in the tear ducts. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Dacryocystitis to a general ophthalmologist.

Question: What is a Detached Retina and how is it treated?

A detached retina is a serious and sight-threatening event where the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue. Immediate surgical repair is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with a Detached Retina to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Ectropion and how is it treated?

Ectropion is where the lower eyelid droops away from the eye and turns outward. Surgery is often required to correct this condition. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Ectropion to an ocular plastics ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Entropion and how is it treated?

Entropion is when the eyelid folds inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea and irritate it. Surgery is typically necessary to correct entropion. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Entropion to an ocular plastics ophthalmologist.

Question: What is Episcleritis and how is it treated?

Episcleritis is inflammation of the episclera, a thin layer of tissue covering the white part of the eye, which usually appears as a red or purple spot. It often resolves on its own, but topical anti-inflammatory medications can be used. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Episcleritis in our office or refer them to a general ophthalmologist depending on the severity.

Question: What is Fuchs' Dystrophy and how is it treated?

Fuchs' dystrophy is a degenerative disease of the cornea that can lead to cloudy vision and eye discomfort. Early stages are treated with saline drops or ointments. In more severe cases, corneal transplants may be necessary. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Fuchs' Dystrophy to a corneal specialist.

Question: What is Hyperopia (Farsightedness) and how is it treated?

Hyperopia is a common vision condition where distant objects may be seen more clearly than objects that are near. Corrective glasses or contact lenses, or refractive surgery are the usual treatments.

Question: What is Keratoconus and how is it treated?

Keratoconus (farsightedness) causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward into a cone shape, leading to visual impairment. Treatment can include wearing special hard contact lenses, and in severe cases, corneal transplantation may be necessary. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Keratoconus in our office or refer them to a corneal specialist depending on the severity.

Question: What is Low Vision and how is it treated?

Low vision is a significant visual impairment that cannot be corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. Management includes the use of visual aids, such as specialized glasses, magnifiers, and electronic devices. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Low Vision to a low vision specialist.

Question: What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and how is it treated?

This condition affects the meibomian glands in the eyelids which produce the oily part of tears. Dysfunction can lead to dry eye symptoms. Treatments include warm compresses, eyelid massages, and sometimes antibiotics or other medications. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) in our office.

Question: What is Myopia (Nearsightedness) and how is it treated?

Myopia (nearsightedness) is a common vision condition in which close objects appear clearly, but distant ones do not. Corrective lenses or refractive surgery are standard treatments. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Myopia (Nearsightedness) in our office or refer them to a refractive surgeon.

Question: What is Ocular Hypertension and how is it treated?

Ocular hypertension occurs when the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) is higher than normal. May be monitored without treatment to see if it develops into glaucoma, or treated with eye drops to lower pressure. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Ocular Hypertension to a glaucoma specialist.

Question: What is Papilledema and how is it treated?

Papilledema is swelling of the optic nerve due to increased intracranial pressure. The underlying cause of the increased pressure must be treated to resolve papilledema. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Papilledema to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Presbyopia and how is it treated?

Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the ability to focus up close becomes more difficult. Reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals, or contact lenses.

Question: What is Ptosis and how is it treated?

Ptosis refers to drooping of one or both eyelids and can affect one or both eyes. Surgical options are available to correct the lid's position. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Ptosis we monitor the progression and refer to an ocular plastic surgeon if necessary.

Question: What is Retinal Vein Occlusion and how is it treated?

Retinal vein occlusion occurs when one of the tiny retinal veins becomes blocked by a blood clot. Treatment may involve managing underlying conditions, laser surgery, or injections into the eye. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Sjögren's Syndrome and how is it treated?

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that often features dry eyes as a primary symptom. Dry eye treatments, immune system modulating medications. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we treat patients with Sjögren's Syndrome for dry eye in our office or refer them to their primary care doctor.

Question: What is Trachoma and how is it treated?

Trachoma is an infectious disease caused by bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The infection causes roughening of the inner surface of the eyelids. Antibiotics can treat the infection, and surgery may be needed to correct eyelid deformities. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Trachoma to a retinal specialist.

Question: What is Uveitis and how is it treated?

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which can cause redness, pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs are typically used to treat uveitis. At Urban Optiks Optometry, we refer patients with Uveitis to a general ophthalmologist.