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We take ocular disease management seriously, using advanced technology to detect, monitor, and treat eye conditions before they steal your sight.
We care for patients with a full range of medical eye conditions and work closely with ophthalmology and primary care when needed—so you have a complete team protecting your vision.
Below are the eye conditions we frequently uncover during a comprehensive eye exam which we diagnose, treat, and manage:
In This Article
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Glaucoma
The “Silent Thief of Sight”
What it is
Glaucoma is a group of progressive optic nerve diseases that damage the nerve fibers that transmit vision to the brain. While elevated eye pressure is a common risk factor, glaucoma can occur at normal pressures as well.
Without treatment, glaucoma causes permanent peripheral vision loss and eventual central vision loss.
Who's at Higher Risk
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Adults over 40 (risk increases with age)
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Family history of glaucoma
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African American, Hispanic/Latino, or Asian ancestry (higher risk for certain glaucoma types)
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People with high myopia (very nearsighted)
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Patients with a history of eye trauma, steroid use, or certain systemic conditions
An estimated 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and 50% of those don't know they have it.
Signs & Symptoms
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Often none in early stages
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Gradual loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision as disease advances)
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Difficulty with night vision or noticing objects at the edge of sight
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Sudden eye pain, severe headache, or blurred vision can indicate a rare acute angle-closure emergency — seek care immediately
Treatment Approaches
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Medical therapy: topical pressure-lowering eye drops (first-line for many cases)
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Laser therapy: selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) — reduces pressure and can be primary or adjunctive therapy
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Co-management & referral: when surgery is needed (e.g., trabeculectomy, tube shunt, MIGS), we coordinate quickly with glaucoma surgeons and manage pre/post-op care
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Close monitoring: frequent OCT and visual field testing to detect changes early and adjust therapy
Glaucoma damage is irreversible, but progression can often be slowed or halted with timely detection and proper treatment. Regular exams are essential—especially if you have risk factors or a family history.
Early detection preserves sight—schedule a comprehensive exam if you’re over 40, have a family history, or notice vision changes.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What it is
AMD causes progressive damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for fine detail and color. It occurs in two broad forms:
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Dry (atrophic) AMD: gradual accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits) → slow central vision loss
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Wet (neovascular) AMD: abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina → rapid, potentially severe central vision loss if untreated
Who's at Higher Risk
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Adults over 50 (risk rises with age)
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Cigarette smokers (greatly increased risk)
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Family history of AMD
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High-fat diet, cardiovascular risk factors, light eye color (some studies), prolonged UV exposure
11 million Americans have some stage of AMD—a leading cause of central vision loss in older adults
Signs & Symptoms
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Blurred or distorted central vision (straight lines appear wavy)
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A dark or blank spot in the center of vision
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Difficulty reading fine print or recognizing faces
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In wet AMD, symptoms can progress rapidly—seek same-day care if changes occur
Treatment Approaches
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Dry AMD: lifestyle counseling (smoking cessation, diet rich in leafy greens/fish), MacuHealth supplement guidance for eligible patients to reduce progression risk, regular monitoring with OCT and Amsler grid home checks
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Wet AMD: prompt referral and coordination with retina specialists for anti-VEGF injections (highly effective at stopping and often improving vision loss)
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Low vision resources & rehabilitation: for patients with advanced damage, we help connect them to aids and therapies that maximize remaining vision
While dry AMD can progress slowly, early detection and lifestyle measures (and appropriate supplements) can slow progression. Wet AMD is treatable—rapid referral for injections is critical to preserve central vision.
If you notice distortion on an Amsler grid or sudden central vision changes, book an urgent evaluation.
If you have risk factors, ask about macular imaging at your next exam.
Cataracts
Clouding of the lens is common—and treatable. Surgery restores clarity for millions each year.
What it is
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that develops with age or due to trauma, medications (such as steroids), or certain medical conditions.
Cataracts scatter light, reduce contrast, and cause glare.
Who's at Higher Risk
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Aging (most common)
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Diabetes
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Long-term steroid use
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Prior eye surgery or trauma
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Smoking and excessive UV exposure
By age 80, more than half of Americans have had cataracts or cataract surgery—the most common reversible cause of vision loss.
Signs & Symptoms
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Blurry or cloudy vision that slowly worsens
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Increased glare from headlights at night or sunlight
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Needing brighter light to read
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Colors appearing faded or yellowed
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Frequent changes in glasses prescription
Treatment Approaches
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Non-surgical management: updated glasses, anti-glare coatings, brighter task lighting—helpful at earlier stages
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Surgical co-management: when cataracts significantly impair daily function, we refer to trusted cataract surgeons and co-manage pre-op and post-op care
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IOL counseling: we educate patients about intraocular lens (IOL) options—standard monofocal, toric for astigmatism, and premium lenses (multifocal/extended-depth-of-focus) if appropriate—so patients make informed choices
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective operations: most patients experience marked improvement in clarity and quality of life. Proper pre-operative measurements and co-management maximize outcomes.
If glare, decreased night driving ability, or reading difficulty are interfering with daily life, schedule a cataract evaluation.
Hypertensive Retinopathy
What Your Retina Says About Your Blood Pressure
What it is. High blood pressure damages retinal blood vessels, which can be seen on an eye exam.
Why it matters. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure; retinal changes often mirror cardiovascular risk and can signal uncontrolled disease.
How we help. We screen with retinal imaging and OCT, monitor progression, provide lifestyle and supplement counseling, and coordinate prompt referral for injections or surgical care when appropriate.
Routine retinal exams help catch vascular damage early—bring your blood pressure history and meds to your visit.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Early Action Preserves Vision
What it is. Amblyopia is decreased vision in one eye because the brain favors the other—usually develops in early childhood.
Why it matters. Amblyopia affects about 2–3% of children and is the leading cause of preventable vision loss in kids. If untreated before age 7–9, the vision loss can become permanent.
How we help. We screen children, prescribe corrective lenses, patching, or vision therapy, and coordinate with parents and schools for follow-up.
Early screening and treatment are critical—book an eye check at the ages recommended by pediatric guidelines.
Strabismus (Eye Turn)
Aligning Vision and Function
What it is. Strabismus is misalignment of the eyes that can cause double vision, depth perception problems, or amblyopia.
Why it matters. Strabismus affects children and adults and can impact learning, social confidence, and binocular vision if not treated.
How we help. We offer non-surgical options (glasses, prisms, vision therapy) and coordinate surgical referrals when needed to restore alignment and visual function.
Those with sudden onset double vision should always call to book an emergent exam: (402) 493-8266
Computer Vision Syndrome
Also Known as Digital Eye Strain
What it is. A collection of symptoms—headache, dry eyes, blurred vision—that arise from prolonged screen use.
Why it matters. Studies show up to 70% of regular computer users report digital eye strain at some point. Symptoms cause discomfort and reduced productivity.
How we help. We assess your visual needs, recommend specialty lenses such as the Neurolens, ergonomic strategies, and treatment for associated dry eye to restore comfort.
If screen time causes consistent discomfort, a targeted exam can provide fast, practical relief.
Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
Lid health equals eye health
What it is. Chronic eyelid inflammation and blocked oil glands that destabilize the tear film and cause dry, irritated eyes.
Why it matters. Blepharitis and MGD are common causes of chronic eye irritation—many adults experience recurring symptoms that reduce quality of life.
How we help. We teach effective lid hygiene routines, offer in-office lid treatments (thermal/mechanical therapies), and prescribe targeted medications for inflammation and gland health.
Learn more about our Dry Eye Therapies
Simple daily care plus in-clinic therapy can dramatically improve comfort—book an exam and ask about our lid hygiene program.
Ocular Allergies
Allergens, Eye Itching, and Relief
What it is. Allergic conjunctivitis causes itchy, red, watery eyes from pollen, dust mites, or other triggers.
Why it matters. Around 1/3rd Americans have seasonal allergies. That number may be more in the Midwest due to an abundance of trees, grasses, and weeds.
Allergic eye disease affects up to 25% of the population and can be seasonal or year-round—untreated symptoms impair daily comfort and sleep.
How we help. We identify triggers, prescribe antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer drops, and design avoidance and environmental control plans.
If itching and redness recur every spring or indoors, book an evaluation—we'll help you find the relief you need.
Ocular Conditions from Autoimmune Disease
Eyes as a Window to Systemic Health
What it is. Autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögren’s, and Thyroid Eye Disease) often involve the eyes—causing dryness, inflammation, or more serious complications.
Why it matters. For example, up to 90% of people with Sjögren’s report dry eye symptoms; ocular findings can precede or mirror systemic disease activity.
How we help. We provide careful monitoring, targeted ocular therapies, and coordinate closely with your rheumatologist or PCP to manage flares and preserve vision.
If you have an autoimmune diagnosis, make eye exams part of your routine—early detection prevents complications.