Ocular Disease
Diagnosing and treating ocular disease as early as possible is vital for preventing vision loss.
All eye exams with ACO Eye Health include comprehensive testing for ocular diseases.
Ocular disease
Approximately 90% of vision impairment in Australia is preventable or treatable if detected early. Testing for ocular disease, and not just the need for glasses, is important to protect your vision.
ACO Eye Health operates a number of advanced clinics staffed by optometrists with expertise and interest in the detection and management of different ocular diseases.
Most common ocular disease in australia include:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
- Cataract
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease affecting the optic nerve. It has often been referred to as the “sneak thief of sight” as it can present with little or no symptoms until the late stages.
Peripheral vision is lost first and it can progress to complete blindness. Once damage has occurred it cannot be reversed, but it is possible to prevent further damage.
The risk of glaucoma increases with age and those with a close relative with glaucoma have a higher likelihood of developing the condition.
A glaucoma assessment will usually involve:
- Comprehensive history
- Vision assessment
- Measurement of eye pressure
- Visual fields test
- Assessment of the optic nerve including OCT
Our dedicated glaucoma clinic cares for people with identified risk factors for the development of glaucoma as well as ongoing monitoring of those with stable glaucoma.
Learn about our advanced glaucoma clinicDiabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can cause damage to the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye and this is known as diabetic retinopathy. The risk of developing retinopathy increases with the length of time you have had diabetes, as well as with poor blood sugar level control.
98% of vision loss from diabetes can be avoided if caught early. Early detection and treatment is vital to reduce the chance of permanent vision loss.
All people with diabetes (either Type 1 or Type 2) should have a comprehensive eye examination with pupil dilation every one to two years. Indigenous Australians are 14 times more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy than non-Indigenous people.
ACO Eye Health optometrists will thoroughly assess your eyes and your other risk factors to recommend the most appropriate review schedule for you.
Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Vision can become blurry or hazy
- Objects or patches may seem to float in front of eyes
- Straight lines may appear distorted
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Book nowMacular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration (also known as age-related macular degeneration or AMD) is the name given to a group of eye diseases that can cause progressive loss of central vision. It is the leading cause of legal blindness in Australia.
Macular Degeneration involves the damage or breakdown of the macula, which is the small part of the retina and responsible for central vision. Once the central vision is affected, fine details are difficult to see, including reading and seeing faces.
At ACO Eye Health, we utilise advanced imaging including OCT and fundus autofluorescence in the diagnosis and monitoring of Macular Degeneration.
Cataract
Cataract is the term used for describing the clouding of the lens inside the eye. Most often, this is due to ageing and occurs slowly over time. People with cataracts may notice their vision becoming gradually blurry and becoming more sensitive to glare. Cataracts can be treated with surgery performed by an ophthalmologist (eye specialist).
As part of your general eye care ACO Eye Health optometrists will assess for cataract and can discuss with you the most appropriate referral pathway if surgery is necessary.
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease is a condition that affects millions of people world-wide and is one of the most common reasons for contacting an eye care practitioner. Symptoms of dry eye can include:
- dry, gritty or foreign body sensation on your eyes
- sore, stingy or burning eyes
- light sensitivity;
- intermittent blurring of the vision
- excessive tearing
- eye fatigue
The underlying features of the disease causes ocular surface inflammation, damage and changes to the way the nerves function. Early instances of mild dry eye disease can develop into a chronic condition that can cause significant pain, impact daily visual function, reduced vitality, poor general health and in some instances, depression. Early intervention is important in avoiding more severe disease.
Risk factors for developing dry eye are many; increasing age, female gender, Asian heritage, connective tissue disease, auto-immune conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome are consistently related. Environmental conditions such as pollution and low humidity can also contribute to disease severity as do lifestyle factors such as continuous screen time. Certain health conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disease, as well as medications such as antihistamines and antidepressants can also contribute to the underlying disease process.
In 2022, we launched a dedicated Dry Eye Disease Clinic, staffed by optometrists with a special interest in this area. The clinic, located within the Carlton site, is equipped with a comprehensive suite of diagnostic and therapeutic devices.
Learn more about our Dry Eye Disease Clinic