Conditions Treated
Medical and Surgical Ophthalmology in Laurel, MD & Washington, D.C.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye conditions, with a strong focus on retinal diseases, including macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, as well as glaucoma, cataracts, and other chronic eye conditions. Our experienced team of ophthalmologists and highly trained staff provide personalized, patient-centered care designed to stabilize conditions, preserve vision, and improve long-term eye health.
Explore the common conditions we treat below to learn more about how we can help protect and maintain your vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a common eye condition that affects individuals with diabetes and is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults and can progress without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we provide advanced diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy to help prevent vision loss and preserve long-term eye health. Early detection through regular eye exams is critical, especially for patients with long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes.
What we focus on:
- Early detection through comprehensive eye exams
- Monitoring disease progression
- Treatment to prevent or slow vision loss
- Education on managing diabetes-related eye risks
FAQs
What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, patients may experience blurred vision, floaters, dark spots, or vision loss. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection.
How often should diabetic patients have an eye exam?
Patients with diabetes should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year, or more frequently if recommended. Regular monitoring helps detect changes early and allows for timely treatment.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a progressive retinal condition and a leading cause of vision loss in adults over the age of 65. It affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we specialize in the diagnosis and management of macular degeneration, helping patients preserve vision and maintain quality of life through early detection and advanced treatment options.
There are two main types of macular degeneration:
- Dry AMD – caused by thinning of the macula over time
- Wet AMD – caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina
Common symptoms may include:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Decreased color perception
- Dark or blank spots in central vision
How we help:
- Comprehensive eye exams and advanced diagnostic testing
- Monitoring disease progression
- Treatment options including intravitreal injections for wet AMD
- Guidance on lifestyle changes and specialized vitamins for dry AMD
- Supportive care for advanced stages to improve quality of life
FAQs
What is the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration?
Dry macular degeneration develops gradually and is more common, while wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe and can lead to rapid vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth.
Can macular degeneration be cured?
There is currently no cure for macular degeneration, but early detection and proper management can slow progression and help preserve vision. Treatments are especially effective in managing wet AMD.
Flashes & Floaters
Flashes and floaters are common visual symptoms that may be related to changes in the vitreous (the gel inside the eye), but they can also be early warning signs of serious retinal conditions such as retinal tears or retinal detachment.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we provide prompt evaluation and treatment to help protect your vision. If you notice new or sudden flashes or floaters, it is important to seek care as soon as possible.
Flashes
Flashes are often described as brief streaks of light or lightning in your field of vision. They occur when the vitreous pulls on the retina and can be a sign of retinal traction, tears, or detachment.
Floaters
Floaters may appear as small dots, lines, circles, or cobweb-like shapes drifting in your vision. While they can be a normal part of aging, a sudden increase in floaters may indicate a retinal tear or detachment and should be evaluated promptly.
When to seek immediate care:
- Sudden onset of flashes or floaters
- Increase in the number of floaters
- A shadow or curtain in your vision
- Sudden changes in vision
Early detection and treatment are critical to preventing permanent vision loss.
FAQs
Are flashes and floaters always serious?
Not always—many floaters are age-related and harmless. However, new or sudden symptoms can indicate a retinal tear or detachment and should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist right away.
When should I see a doctor for flashes or floaters?
You should seek immediate evaluation if you notice new flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, or any changes in your vision. Prompt care can help prevent serious complications.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). It is one of the leading causes of vision loss, and because it often develops slowly without noticeable symptoms, early detection is critical.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we provide comprehensive diagnosis and management of glaucoma to help prevent vision loss and protect long-term eye health through personalized treatment plans and ongoing monitoring.
Common symptoms may include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain or pressure
- Headaches
- Halos around lights
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
How we treat glaucoma:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
- Laser treatments such as laser trabeculoplasty
- Surgical procedures when necessary
- Ongoing monitoring and management to prevent progression
Glaucoma requires consistent follow-up and adherence to treatment to effectively protect vision.
FAQs
Can glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. Early detection and treatment are key to slowing progression and preventing vision loss.
How often should I be screened for glaucoma?
Regular eye exams are essential, especially for patients over 40 or those with a family history of glaucoma. Your doctor will recommend a screening schedule based on your individual risk factors.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition that cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred or impaired vision. They typically develop gradually with age but can also be influenced by factors such as diabetes, eye injury, certain medications, and lifestyle habits.
At Eye Care and Surgery, P.A., we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment of cataracts, helping patients restore clear vision and improve their quality of life through advanced surgical care.
Common symptoms may include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Sensitivity to light or glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in one eye
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
How we treat cataracts:
- Comprehensive preoperative cataract evaluations
- Advanced cataract surgery to restore vision
- Personalized care plans based on each patient’s needs
- Post-operative monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes
If cataracts are affecting your daily activities, we recommend scheduling a consultation to determine the best treatment options.
FAQs
When should cataracts be removed?
Cataracts should be treated when they begin to interfere with your daily activities such as reading, driving, or seeing clearly. A comprehensive evaluation will determine the right timing for surgery.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures performed today. It is highly effective in restoring vision, with most patients experiencing significant improvement.
Other Retinal & Eye Conditions Treated
In addition to common conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, Eye Care and Surgery, P.A. provides advanced evaluation and management of a wide range of complex retinal and ophthalmologic conditions.
Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating both common and rare eye diseases, helping patients preserve vision and manage long-term eye health.
Conditions we evaluate and treat include:
- Unexplained blurred vision
- Macular puckers (epiretinal membranes)
- Retinal tears and detachments
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
- Myopic (nearsighted) degenerative retinal changes
- Ischemic retinopathies, including sickle cell eye disease
- Retinal toxicities (such as Plaquenil / Hydroxychloroquine screening)
- Vision loss related to stroke or cerebrovascular disease
- Retinal vascular occlusions (retinal vein and artery occlusions)
- Hereditary retinal conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa
- Complications from intraocular infections (endophthalmitis)
Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive eye exams and advanced retinal imaging
- Early detection and accurate diagnosis
- Ongoing monitoring of complex conditions
- Coordination of care for systemic or rare diseases affecting vision
FAQs
When should I see a specialist for unexplained vision changes?
You should seek evaluation as soon as possible if you experience sudden or unexplained changes in vision, including blurriness, distortion, or vision loss. Early diagnosis is critical for preventing permanent damage.
Do you treat rare or complex eye conditions?
Yes, our practice has experience managing a wide range of complex and less common retinal and eye conditions. We provide specialized care and monitoring to help protect vision and improve long-term outcomes.
