Eye Diseases

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye

In this form of Dry Eye, the gland responsible for producing the water layer of the tear film (aqueous) does not produce enough aqueous.
Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome may vary depending on which type of Dry Eye Syndrome is present. Treatments include over the counter artificial tears, prescription eye drops such as Restasis and Xiidra, punctal plug insertion (a minor surgical procedure that decreases tear drainage), treatment of clogged eyelid glands, and several other options. At 512 Eye, we try the most conservative treatment approaches first, to more aggressive treatment options if necessary.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition, and at 512 Eye, we are dedicated to helping our patients understand and detect it early on. Often known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is often caused by increased intraocular pressure, leading to optic nerve damage and gradual vision loss if left untreated. Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, often develops without noticeable symptoms until advanced stages. This emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams for early detection. Dr. Langer specializes in advanced glaucoma screenings, using cutting-edge diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the condition in its earliest stages. Detecting glaucoma early is crucial for effective management. At 512 Eye, we are committed to providing our patients with top-quality care, ensuring they enjoy a lifetime of clear, healthy vision. During your comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Langer will measure your intraocular pressure and evaluate your optic nerve for any signs of glaucoma.

Glaucomatous changes to the optic nerve are often visible during an eye exam. Over time, damage to the optic nerve causes reduced peripheral vision, eventually leading to tunnel vision and potential blindness. The good news is that most forms of glaucoma are very treatable if they are diagnosed early. Eye drops are a crucial part of glaucoma management, offering effective intraocular pressure reduction. 

You are likely familiar with the dreaded “air puff” test. This test measures eye pressure to screen patients for glaucoma. The Icare tonometer allows Dr. Langer to check your eye pressure without the air puff. It is much more comfortable and very accurate.

At 512 Eye, we employ cutting-edge diagnostic tools like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Visual Field Testing to provide the most accurate and comprehensive assessments for glaucoma. OCT allows us to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, optic nerve, and other crucial eye structures, enabling early detection of glaucomatous changes. Visual Field Testing, on the other hand, assesses a patient’s peripheral vision, helping us identify any visual field defects indicative of glaucoma. 

Age Related Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a hereditary eye disease that causes loss of central vision. Unfortunately, there are no cures for macular degeneration, and it is a major cause of blindness for patients over the age of 70. The macula is an area in the retina responsible for sharp central vision and color vision. In macular degeneration, yellow deposits called drusen form in the macula, casing deterioration of central vision. Macular degeneration may progress rapidly, or very slowly. If the drusen are accompanied by bleeding in the macular region, this is known as wet macular degeneration. Most cases of macular degeneration are not accompanied by bleeding, and are referred to as dry macular degeneration. When wet macular degeneration is present, surgical intervention will likely be necessary to preserve vision.
During an eye exam, Dr. Langer will view the macula with a biomicroscope to look for any signs of drusen or retinal bleeding. If any signs of macular degeneration are present, you will be monitored closely. Certain vitamin formulations have been shown to slow down the progression of macular degeneration for those already diagnosed, and Dr. Langer is well versed in these treatment options. Unfortunately, there is no cure for macular degeneration. Studies have shown you can reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration by not smoking, eating green leafy vegetables, and engaging in regular aerobic activity.

Corneal dystrophies

Corneal dystrophies are genetic diseases which effect the cornea, the clear protective layer that covers the front surface of the eye. There are many types of corneal dystrophies, and they have different symptoms depending on what layer of the cornea is affected. The cornea consists of five layers. With corneal dystrophies, irregular material deposits in various layers of the cornea. Patients with corneal dystrophies may experience ocular pain, decreased vision, a foreign body sensation, glare at night, eye pain upon awakening or may have no symptoms at all. Treatment options vary depending on the type of corneal dystrophy present. Treatments range from therapy with over the counter eye drops in mild cases, to needing a corneal transplant in rare severe cases.
Two common forms of corneal dystrophy are Epithelial Basement Membrane Dystrophy and Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Corneal dystrophies are often progressive and present later in life. If you have a family history of corneal dystrophy, or are experiencing eye discomfort and/or reduced vision, call us for an appointment.

Pterygiums and Pingueculas

Pterygiums and Pingueculas are benign growths caused by sun damage. They are very common in Austin due to our beautiful sunny weather. Pingueculas are small yellow elevated bumps that appear on the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear layer that covers the white part of the eye. Pterygiums occur when pingueculas grow larger, covering both the white (sclera) and colored portion of your eye (iris). Pterygiums may cause the affected eye to appear red, feel dry, or cause a change in glasses prescription. Pingueculas and pterygiums form where the colored portion of the eye (iris) meets the white portion of the eye (sclera). Pingueculas and pterygiums grow over time. They don’t usually pose any significant issues, but if they grow very large they can cause eye irritation or decreased vision. Pingueculas and pterygiums can be surgically removed in these instances.