Ophthalmologists are a special type of eye doctor who focuses on studies and treatments surrounding diseases and disorders that can affect the eyes. Although these doctors typically care for patients who have macular degeneration, cataracts, and farsightedness, they also handle cases where patients suffer from uncommon eye conditions and diseases.
Rare Eye Diseases Treated by Ophthalmologists
There are several rare diseases that ophthalmologists treat for patients.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS)
This is the name of a disease that involves vision loss and visual hallucinations. These hallucinations are often caused by the brain as it adjusts to the significant loss of vision. Unfortunately, around 50 to 60 percent of people with severe vision loss due to CBS experience hallucinations.
Hemolacria
This condition is also referred to as bloody tears. Individuals with this condition have tears leaking from their eyes that are tinged with blood. This condition often indicates that there is an underlying problem that the person is suffering from. This could be a result of having an object trapped under the eyelid or even as a result of a conjunctival injury.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
People with this eye condition experience significant difficulties trying to see at night. In some instances, they may be unable to see details off their sides. This condition occurs when color vision fades for patients who experience cone and rod death inside their retinas. Although there is no cure, there are some promising treatments on the rise.
Usher Syndrome
Usher syndrome often encompasses retinitis pigmentosa. However, this syndrome also impacts balance and hearing in addition to vision. Individuals with this condition can receive genetic therapies due to it typically being an inherited condition.
Stargardt Disease
Stargardt disease is an eye disorder caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the macula, the retinal area of the eye responsible for clear vision. This disease is typically inherited and affects the central vision of individuals who have it.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing problems with your eyes or would like to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, contact the team at Longwood Eye & LASIK Center today by calling 800-676-5050 or requesting an appointment online to get started.
