Overview of Common Ocular Diseases

Overview of Common Ocular Diseases

Protecting Your Vision with Advanced Diagnostics and Personalized Care in Elgin, IL

Your eyes are windows to your overall health and early detection of ocular disease can preserve sight for a lifetime. At Radiant Eye Care, we use advanced imaging and technology to catch eye diseases early and treat them with precision. Dr. Jay Patel delivers compassionate, expert care, with personalized management plans and collaborative support from your primary care providers when needed.

What Are Ocular Diseases?

Ocular diseases are conditions that affect the structure and function of the eye, often developing silently and gradually. Some are linked to aging, genetics, or systemic health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Our comprehensive eye exams help detect and manage:

Glaucoma: The “Silent Thief of Sight”

Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve, often due to elevated eye pressure, leading to gradual, irreversible vision loss typically starting in the periphery.

• Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic until late stages
• Risk Factors: Age 40+, family history, diabetes, high IOP
• Our Approach:
  • Visionix Solix OCT for optic nerve imaging
  • Visual field testing and pressure monitoring
  • Medical therapy or referral for laser/surgical treatment
  • Coordinated care with glaucoma specialists when needed

Cataracts: Clouding of the Natural Lens

Cataracts develop as the clear lens in your eye becomes cloudy over time, often due to aging, UV exposure, or diabetes.

• Symptoms: Blurry or hazy vision, glare at night, faded colors
• Our Approach:
  • Monitoring with vision testing and retinal imaging
  • Referral for cataract surgery at the appropriate stage
  • Pre- and post-operative care to ensure visual recovery

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the macula the central part of your retina resulting in loss of sharp, central vision necessary for reading and recognizing faces.

• Dry AMD: Slow breakdown of macular cells
• Wet AMD: Abnormal blood vessel growth that leaks fluid or blood
• Symptoms: Distorted or blurred central vision, difficulty reading
• Our Approach:
  • High-resolution OCT imaging of the macula
  • Eidon ultra-widefield photos to detect subtle changes early
  • Lifestyle counseling, supplementation, and referral for injections when indicated

Diabetic Retinopathy

This sight-threatening condition is caused by damage to the retinal blood vessels from prolonged high blood sugar.

• Symptoms: Often none until vision is impaired
• Risks: Long-term diabetes, poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure
• Our Approach:
  • Widefield retinal imaging for early detection of hemorrhages, exudates, and vessel changes
  • Ongoing monitoring and education
  • Close communication with your primary care physician or endocrinologist for blood sugar management

Dry Eye Disease & Ocular Surface Disorders

Dry eye occurs when the tear film is unstable or insufficient, leading to discomfort and inflammation.

• Symptoms: Gritty, burning, tired eyes; fluctuating vision
• Causes: Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), autoimmune disease, medications
• Our Approach:
  • Topcon Myah topographer to evaluate tear stability and meibomian gland health
  • Treatments ranging from lubricating drops and lid hygiene to prescription medications, autologous serum drops, and scleral lenses
  • Co-management with your PCP when systemic inflammation or autoimmune disease is involved

Retinal Conditions (Tears, Holes, Vascular Events)

The retina can develop tears, detachments, or vascular blockages that require urgent care.

• Symptoms: Sudden floaters, flashes of light, curtain-like vision loss
• Our Approach:
  • Immediate ultra-widefield retinal imaging for high-resolution peripheral evaluation
  • Emergency referrals to retinal specialists
  • Long-term monitoring after intervention

The Technology Behind Our Precision

We use cutting-edge diagnostics to catch disease earlier and manage it better:

• Visionix Solix OCT – High-resolution scans of the retina, optic nerve, and anterior segment
• Topcon Myah Topographer – Maps corneal shape, evaluates meibomian glands, and tracks axial length
• Eidon Ultra-Wide Retinal Imaging – Captures widefield of the retina in one detailed shot—essential for diagnosing peripheral and central retinal pathology

A Team-Based Approach to Your Health

Many ocular conditions are linked to broader health issues like hypertension, diabetes, or autoimmune diseases. At Radiant Eye Care, we:

• Share reports and findings with your PCP or specialist
• Align treatment strategies for better systemic and ocular outcomes
• Empower you with knowledge to take control of both your eye and total body health

​​​​​​​Schedule a Complete Eye Health Evaluation Today

Your vision deserves the highest standard of care. At Radiant Eye Care in Elgin, we don’t just check your prescription, we examine the full picture of your ocular and systemic health.

Located at 3091 US Highway 20, Suite 105, Elgin, IL

Call (847) 874-2020
Or schedule online