SEEING DISEASE DIFFERENTLY

It can be confusing when asked on our check-in questions if you have a family history of cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. Did Grandma have cataracts or glaucoma? Are they the same? Heard of a retinal detachment but not quite sure what you would see if it happened to you? These diseases are actually all very unique and different in the ways our doctors diagnose and treat them. They also vary dramatically on how someone with each disease sees, but it is often hard to notice when the outward appearance of their eye looks completely normal. We made it easier for you by putting together this handy chart that shows just that! As you’ll notice, the only condition where the outward appearance is not normal, is with cataracts. If cataracts have progressed significantly, you may notice a whitening or yellowing in the center of their eye, where typically a dark pupil is seen. Make sure to pay attention to how each patient with these conditions sees the world. It is crazy to see the differences!

We hope this helped you to differentiate some of those complicated diseases and get an understanding of how they can affect vision. Our doctors love to explain different diseases, answer any questions, and help you to learn more about the eye, so don’t hesitate to ask at your next exam!