In last week’s blog we talked about the conditions and diseases a comprehensive eye exam can detect. Often, the eye is the first place signs show up. It is typically surprising to most people just how many conditions can be detected during a comprehensive eye exam, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. 

Lupus 

Lupus is an inflammatory disease that is associated with dry eyes,  as well as swelling in the tissue in the back of the eye, the middle layer, and the white part of the eye. 

Stroke 

Clots or blockages found in the blood vessels in the retina, which can cause side vision loss or blind spots in vision. 

Thyroid Disease 

When the thyroid gland produces too little hormone or too much, can cause refractive eyelids or protruding eyeballs. It can also coincide with vision loss, blurry vision, and dry eyes. 

Lyme Disease 

An infection spread by ticks, Lyme disease leads to inflammation in the body. At the onset of the disease, floaters in the eye can increase, as well as inflammation of the optic nerve. 

Multiple Sclerosis 

Optic nerve inflammation is a sign of this degenerative disease. Other indications include double vision, painful eye movement, and blurred vision.

Vascular Disease 

Bleeding or clotting disorders can lead to bleeding around or in the eye, known as subconjuctival hemorrhages. Vision threatening retinal hemorrhages can also be caused by these disorders. 

Vitamin A Deficiency 

Signs of vitamin A deficiency include night blindness and dry eyes. Unfortunately, in children worldwide, vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable blindness. 

“A lack of vitamin A causes the cornea to become very dry, leading to clouding of the front of the eye, corneal ulcers and vision loss. Vitamin A deficiency also causes damage to the retina, which also contributes to blindness.” All About Vision.

Age and health don’t matter when it comes to your eyesight. Everyone should have an eye exam. Though it may sound extreme, a comprehensive eye exam can save your vision and even your life!

Catching issues early is an important key to everyone’s long-term vision health. The Vision Team at Lake Nona Eye Care provides a comprehensive eye examination in a positive, relaxed environment for children and adults.

Contact Lake Nona Eye Care for an appointment, we have offices located in Moss Park and Eagle Creek.