Patient Education

Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus. It can cause eye problems with symptoms such as a rash on the eyelids, “pink eye”, cornea problems, blurry vision, pain and swelling inside the eye. Treatment is focused on relieving the rash, swelling and pain. Placing cool, moist compresses over your

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects your eyes, mouth, and your joints. Symptoms include dry eyes, blurry vision, light sensitivity, dry mouth, and pain in your joints. To diagnose Sjögren’s syndrome, your ophthalmologist may examine your tears, your eyelids, and order blood

Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is a newer type of refractive surgery. With this outpatient procedure, a laser is used to create a disc of corneal tissue. The disc is removed to reshape your cornea and improve how light rays are focused in the eye. SMILE is FDA-approved to treat mild nearsightedness

Smoking tobacco (cigarettes, cigars or pipes) can make eye problems worse. Glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and dry eye are some of these problems. Also, a baby’s eyes can be affected if the mother smokes during pregnancy. Quitting smoking can help save your vision.

Stargardt disease is an inherited eye disease. It is a form of juvenile macular dystrophy that develops in children, teenagers and young adults. The disease causes blurry central vision, and makes colors appear less bright. While Stargardt disease cannot be treated and cured currently, there are several

Corticosteroid medicines are often known as steroids. They treat inflammation affecting the eye. They reduce swelling, pain, and redness. Your ophthalmologist uses corticosteroid tablets to treat conditions like uveitis, Graves’ disease, and giant cell arteritis. Drug interactions with steroids can