Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago

Introducing ProKera!

Introducing ProKera: one of the most frequently performed treatments in our office. ProKera is a medical device consisting of thin amniotic membrane tissue that acts like a bandage to protect, heal, and relieve the symptoms of many injuries and conditions such as chemical burns or corneal scarring.

Dr. Robert Mack, a pioneer in amniotic membrane treatments, has been treating patients with this technology since its inception – many of whom experience significant relief from their corneal symptoms after the treatment period is complete.

To learn more about ProKera, visit the Bio-Tissue website or call Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago today at (847) 388-0309 to set up a consultation or for a brochure that further describes how ProKera may be able to help your eye condition.

How UV Rays Affect Your Eyes

Although many people diligently apply sunscreen to their skin and try to avoid excessive sun exposure, protection for the eyes is often neglected. Unfortunately, exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration later in life.

To learn more about the effects of the sun on your eyes, as well as steps you can take to protect your eyes, watch this video. Understanding how to care for your eyes and your children’s eyes can help your family maintain healthy eyesight for life.

Regular check-ups and effective eye protection are key components of caring for your eyes. See the ophthalmologists of Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago for all of your eye care needs. If you have questions, we have answers—call us at (847) 388-0309.

Common Causes of Itchy Eyes

Itchy eyes can be more than just an annoyance—they can also be distracting, irritating, and take their toll on day-to-day living. There are many possible causes of itchy eyes, so be sure to meet with your ophthalmologist to determine the cause of your itchy eyes and choose the best treatment.

Allergic Reactions

Seasonal allergies, such as hay fever or an allergy to ragweed, are a common cause of itchy eyes. Allergic reactions to things other than seasonal pollen, such as insect stings, mold, strong household cleaners, dust, cosmetics, medication, pets, and secondhand smoke, can also cause itchy eyes.

Dry Eye Syndrome

During your lifetime, you may begin to produce fewer tears to lubricate your eyes, resulting in dry eye syndrome. Some medications and health conditions can lead to dry eye syndrome. Eyes with less lubrication from tears may become irritated, resulting in an itchy sensation.

Eye Conditions

Itchiness is a symptom for several different eye conditions. For example, conjunctivitis, an irritation of the conjunctiva, causes blood vessels to dilate and become red or pink and may cause itchy eyes. Blepharitis is a condition in which the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes don’t function properly, causing inflammation of the eyelid and itchy eyes.

Corneal Infection

Contact wearers may develop a corneal infection, especially if they don’t care for their contacts properly. An injury to the eye can also result in a corneal infection. Regardless of the cause, a common symptom of corneal infection is itchy eyes.

Scratched Cornea

Corneal scratches may be mild, causing irritation and itching. However, some scratches may be deeper and cause more severe symptoms like pain, sensitivity to light, watery eyes, and blurred vision, in addition to irritation and itching.

When itchy eyes with an unknown cause last longer than a couple of days, you should seek the professional care of an ophthalmologist to pinpoint the cause of the itchiness and get proper treatment. At Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago, our optometrists and ophthalmologists specialize in dry eye and LASIK eye surgery. Learn more about our practice by visiting our website or by calling (847) 388-0309.

Who Is at Risk for Getting Cataracts?

Cataracts are a condition that affects the clear lens of the eye. When a cataract develops, the lens becomes hazy and clouded. Oftentimes, cataracts can affect a person’s ability to see clearly, particularly at night. If you are concerned about your risk for cataracts, visit your ophthalmologist and take a look at the information below to learn more about common risk factors.

Seniors

The most common cause of cataracts is aging. Although some individuals develop cataracts as young adults or during middle age, the most common time to get cataracts is after the age of 60. Most seniors will develop cataracts to some extent.

Diabetics

Individuals with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing cataracts and are more likely to develop cataracts earlier in life. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels are associated with cataract development.

Those Who Have Had Excessive Sun Exposure

Exposure to the sun’s UV rays is a contributing factor in the development of cataracts. Excessive exposure in childhood, as well as regular exposure over a long period of time, will increase a person’s risk for cataracts.

Those with a Family History of Cataracts

Cataracts seem to run in families. If you have several close relatives who have developed cataracts, you are at an increased risk for developing cataracts during your lifetime.

Tobacco Users

Smoking can significantly increase your risk of developing cataracts. In fact, smoking a pack of cigarettes each day can actually double your risk for cataracts. In addition to lowering your risk for several diseases, quitting smoking can help protect your eyesight from cataracts.

If you find yourself experiencing cloudy vision, difficulty seeing in low-light situations, a need to change glasses frequently, or double vision, you may have cataracts. Call the ophthalmologists at Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago at (847) 388-0309 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your eye health.

Learn More About Eye Health!

Your eye health is essential to your everyday life, so it’s important to care for your eyes just as you care for the rest of your body. Learn more about the benefits of eye exams and how to manage dry eye syndrome with the following resources:

• Find out what your eye health says about your body’s health and how your ophthalmologist can catch some conditions early during your eye exam in this article on WebMD.com.
• Do you want to know what to expect from your next eye exam? Find out on the Mayo Clinic website.
• Get more information about artificial tears and how to use them to combat dry eye symptoms in this article from EyeWorld.org.
• Learn all you need to know about dry eye syndrome on MedicalNewsToday.com.
• For some people with dry eyes, omega-3 fatty acids can help. Learn more about this dry eye treatment on Livestrong.com.

Don’t let dry or irritated eyes interfere with your life—visit Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago for dry eye relief today. Our ophthalmologists specialize in dry eye treatment, LASIK eye surgery, and more to promote healthy eyes and clear vision. Learn more on our website or call (847) 388-0309 today.