Exams for Ocular problems

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva (the outer-most layer of the eye that covers the white of the eye and lines the inside of the upper and lower eyelid). The three most common types of conjunctivitis are: viral, allergic, and bacterial. Each requires a different treatment, which can be easily differentiated by clinical signs and symptoms and the use of a bio-microscope. A colored dye and a colored filter attached to the (slit-lamp) allow the trained eye to make the appropriate diagnosis and then prescribe the correct treatment for rapid resolution of the condition.

A general practitioner such as a family medical doctor is not the best option for treatment when seeking a consult for red eyes. Although they may have the necessary knowledge, they most likely would not have the proper equipment to treat and diagnose these conditions.

3 MOST COMMON TYPES OF CONJUNCTIVITIS AND SYMPTOMS

1. Viral Conjunctivitis

Pink to Red Eyes
Irritation
Clear watery Discharge
Infection usually begins with one eye, but may spread easily to the other eye

2. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Redness and itching
Tearing
Swollen eyelids
Usually affects both eyes

3. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Red to meat red presentation
Tearing
Stringy to whitish or green mucous discharge that may cause the lids to stick together, especially after sleeping. Eyelids can become mattered and crusty at the base of the eyelashes
Swelling of the conjuctiva
Irritation
Usually affects only one eye, but may spread easily to the other eye

Contagious or not?

Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious, however, bacterial and viral forms of conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, traveling through entire schools or daycare centers in a matter of a few days. It is important to have yourself or your child evaluated as soon as symptoms arise so that the proper treatment can be initiated promptly. Untreated ocular infections can lead to permanent corneal scarring and are potentially sight threatening if not dealt with expediently.

Corneal Ulceration

Sharp sudden onset of excruciating eye pain with extreme light sensitivity.

Common with contact lens over wear and poor contact lens hygiene.

This is an emergent condition and needs immediate antimicrobial treatment. Ulcers can be sight threatening without urgent intervention.

Chalazion vs Hordeolum

A chalazion is a blocked or obstructed meibomian gland, whereas a hordeolum (commonly known as a state) is a blocked or obstructed gland that is also infected.

Dry Eye Syndrome

The meibomian glands produce the outermost oily layer of the tear layer, which prevents the bulk of the tear from evaporating prematurely. Obstruction or blockage of these glands can result in severe dry eye disease, which can in turn result in infections of the cornea (keratitis) and chronic dry eye disease. Dr. Battani uses all available modalities available, including low level light therapy red treatment masks to facilitate clearance of obstructed meibomian glands, via the cell specific non-heat light energy delivered to the mitochondria of each cell. This unique therapy allows a much more efficient way to clear and reclaim the natural, normal function of individual glands, which help you make more of your own efficient natural tears.