Eyes
Latest articles on Eyes
Glaucoma occurs when fluid in the eye drains too slowly or not at all. As the fluid builds up, the pressure inside the eye rises. This can damage the optic nerve and disrupt the visual signals to the brain.
"The good news is that we can usually treat diabetic retinopathy with lasers and other treatments," says Dr. Kimberly Stepien. "We can potentially help prevent the retinopathy from progressing or actually cause it to regress."
Symptoms of Bell's palsy usually begin suddenly. They range in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis, and often cause significant facial distortion. Dr. John Rhee discusses its diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
Two of the world's leading color vision researchers, Drs. Jay and Maureen Neitz, practice at the Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Eye Institute, where they are currently studying the potential effects of gene therapy.
About 30% of Americans are myopic, notes Dr. Julie Mitchell. Although it is generally hereditary, some specialists are now describing a different origin for nearsightedness: "school myopia."
Cataract surgery has become simply a day surgery procedure, according to Dr. Bhavna Sheth. "We most often use just a topical or local anesthetic, and are usually done in less than 20 minutes," she notes.
Multiple sclerosis "is unique for each patient," says Cheryl Blaschuk, RN, MSN, FNP. Patients have a variety of symptoms, there is no single, specific test that identifies it, and no way to predict its course.
"Fluctuating levels of glucose harm the cells that line the capillaries of the eye. Over time, these vessels close off or become incompetent in playing their proper role in clear vision," says Dr. Dennis Han. The result? Diabetic retinopathy.
"Sjogren's syndrome is a systemic disease that has many manifestations," says E. Lee Stock, MD. While some of the symptoms are most obvious in the eyes, the autoimmune disorder has been linked to a host of serious medical problems.
Using a newly developed procedure with refined technology and tools, Steven B. Koenig, MD, regularly accomplishes corneal transplants that replace only the back layer of the cornea while leaving the remainder essentially untouched.
In addition to nearsightedness, the LASIK procedure is now approved for use in farsightedness and astigmatism, and advances in technology and technique have made the treatment available to a much broader range of patients.
By transplanting stem cells directly onto the cornea, Dr. E. Lee Stock is breaking new ground in treating eyes damaged by injury or disease. Only select candidates can benefit at this point, but the difference the procedure can make in their lives can be profound.
Dr. Jay Neitz and his colleagues have identified the types of gene mutations that underlie colorblindness. By inserting normal genes into the retina, they hope one day to be able to give color vision to people who've lost it -- or never had it.
Early cataract symptoms may be improved with new glasses, better lighting or magnifying lenses. If these aren't helpful, surgery - brief and almost painless - is the only effective treatment.
A Medical College of Wisconsin research team, collaborating with colleagues in Finland to study Type 1 diabetes, is producing a complex set of genetic maps that could tell us a great deal about the disease.
Vitamin A may help slow the progression of macular degeneration, but could also increase the risk of fractures. Dr. Julie Mitchell discusses how to balance competing risks in preventive care.
Scientists and practitioners at the Eye Institute are taking a good look at the causes, progression and treatment of the leading cause of blindness among older people.
Amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” is the most common cause of visual impairment in children. In a recent study, researchers found that atropine eye drops, given once a day, worked as well as wearing an eye patch.
After more than 25 years of operation, the Eye Institute has become a regional hub for patient care, research and professional training.
This Independence Day, many Americans will permanently lose their vision due to injury caused by fireworks. Precautions are a necessary part of any July 4 celebration.
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