Blog

Open-angle Glaucoma: Can You Stop It From Progressing?

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Wyomissing man applies eye drops to help prevent glaucoma progression

Most people with open-angle glaucoma feel perfectly fine in the early stages. That’s what makes it dangerous. During January, Glaucoma Awareness Month, learning about the main types of glaucoma, open-angle and angle-closure, can help you understand how, when, and why the disease progresses.

Routine eye exams at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Wyomissing, paired with expert glaucoma care starting from the time of diagnosis, can make a big difference in preserving your eyesight.

Why Open-Angle Glaucoma Develops Slowly

The drainage angle is the area where fluid normally leaves the eye. In open-angle glaucoma, even though this angle remains open, the fluid doesn’t drain as efficiently as it should. This causes pressure to build gradually inside the eye. Over time, this slow increase in eye pressure may damage the optic nerve and lead to vision changes.

Glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many patients don’t recognize any changes until vision loss has already occurred.

Angle-closure glaucoma, which is a different form of the disease, can cause sudden symptoms and requires urgent medical attention. It occurs when the drainage angle gradually narrows over time (chronic angle-closure glaucoma) or suddenly closes (acute angle-closure glaucoma).

This prevents fluid from leaving the eye, causing eye pressure to rise quickly. When this happens, patients may experience symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, blurred vision, halos around lights, or nausea. Angle-closure glaucoma is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate evaluation and treatment.

Our ophthalmologists at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons emphasize routine eye exams, especially for patients with risk factors such as age, family history, or certain medical conditions. The practice has long been committed to using advanced diagnostic technology, allowing glaucoma to be detected and treated as early as possible.

Treatment Options That Help Slow Progression

While open-angle glaucoma can’t be reversed, proper management can slow or prevent further vision loss. Treatment may include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgical procedures, depending on the stage of the condition. Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons offers a range of modern glaucoma therapies tailored to each type of glaucoma, with the goal of helping prevent progression.

When diagnosed and treated early, many individuals with open-angle glaucoma are able to maintain functional vision throughout their lives. Following prescribed treatment plans and attending regular follow-up exams play an important role in protecting long-term eye health.

Glaucoma Management Experts in Wyomissing

To schedule a glaucoma evaluation or follow-up visit, call 610-372-0712 to book your appointment with the glaucoma experts at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons.

Aging Eyes: What To Expect In Your 40s And Beyond

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Man in Wyomissing holds cell phone far from his face and squints due to aging eyes

Many people begin to notice changes in their vision as they move into their 40s, even if they’ve never worn glasses before. These shifts are a natural part of aging, and understanding them can help patients know when to schedule exams and what to watch for.

For more than 70 years, Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Wyomissing has provided comprehensive care to help patients maintain healthy vision through each stage of life. Our December blog is a great time to help you prep for the year ahead by explaining some of the changes you can expect as you age.

Presbyopia

One of the most common age-related changes is presbyopia, which makes it harder to focus on close objects. It usually starts after age 40, which is why so many people need reading glasses around that time.

When presbyopia starts, patients often find themselves holding books or phones at arm’s length.

Reading glasses are sufficient for some people with milder presbyopia. For many, prescription multifocal lenses (glasses or contacts) may be the more convenient option since they don’t require constant swapping between glasses.

Dry Eyes

Tear production often decreases in the 40s and 50s, leading to dry eyes, burning, irritation, and even vision fluctuations.

Our dry eye syndrome specialists provide comprehensive care in our Wyomissing office, from advanced diagnostics to personalized treatments that address the root cause of low tear production.

Eyelid Changes

Aging eyelid skin gradually loses its elasticity, sometimes causing drooping and heaviness that may affect appearance, and in some cases, obscure vision.

Our specialists offer expert evaluation for medical and cosmetic blepharoplasty in Wyomissing.

Cataracts

As people age, cataracts become another common vision concern. A cataract develops when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, which can cause blurred vision, glare from lights, faded colors, or difficulty seeing at night.

Early cataracts may only require updated prescriptions and regular monitoring. However, as clouding progresses, daily activities such as driving or reading can become more challenging. At that point, our experts may recommend cataract removal surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with an advanced intraocular lens that corrects your vision.

The Importance of Regular Exams After 40

Beginning in the 40s, the risk of developing more serious eye diseases gradually increases. Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders may develop slowly and without early symptoms. 

As patients enter their 50s, 60s, and beyond, changes in contrast sensitivity, night vision, and clarity may continue to evolve. Routine exams allow for early detection, and when needed, timely treatment.

Aging Eye Care in Wyomissing and the Reading Area

If you have noticed changes in your vision or are due for an exam, call 610-372-0712 to book your appointment at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons.

Understanding Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Woman with meibomian gland dysfunction rubs her dry eyes

If your eyes frequently feel dry, irritated, or gritty, even after using artificial tears, you may be experiencing Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a condition affecting at least 30 million Americans today. This chronic condition is the most common reason for dry eye syndrome.

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, our team has provided trusted, technology-driven eye care for more than 70 years. Located in Wyomissing, just outside Reading, PA, we offer the most advanced diagnostics and treatments available to restore clear, comfortable vision. Our team specializes in innovative solutions for MGD.

What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

Each eyelid contains dozens of tiny meibomian glands that secrete oils into the tear film. These oils help prevent tears from drying too fast, so they play a central role in keeping eyes moisturized.

However, when these glands become blocked or inflamed, a condition called MGD, tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation.

Over time, MGD can cause even more serious problems, including fluctuating vision, eyelid thickening, or chronic eye surface inflammation.

Experts believe MGD is the most common cause of dry eye syndrome, contributing to a majority of cases. It may develop with age, hormonal changes, prolonged screen use, contact lens wear, or chronic blepharitis. Skin conditions like rosacea and certain medications can also increase risk.

Treatment Options for MGD and Dry Eye

Our doctors at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons may recommend one or a combination of the following customized therapies:

  • Artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops help relieve mild dryness, though their effects are temporary. Preservative-free options are best for frequent use.
  • Prescription eye drops: Medications can reduce inflammation and help your eyes produce more natural tears. Short courses of steroid drops may help ease flare-ups.
  • Lubricating gels or ointments: Longer-lasting moisture options may be ideal for moderate to severe symptoms, especially overnight.
  • Nutritional supplements: High-quality omega-3 fatty acids may improve tear quality and reduce inflammation when taken regularly.
  • Thermal therapy (warm compresses): Applying gentle heat to the eyelids softens oils and promotes healthy gland drainage.
  • Eyelid scrubs or cleansers: Specialized cleansers remove bacteria and debris, helping maintain clean, healthy eyelid margins.
  • Punctal plugs: These tiny devices, which your doctor places in the tear drainage ducts, help retain natural tears on the eye’s surface.
  • Meibomian gland expression: In-office treatment uses controlled pressure to manually squeeze the clogged glands and restore healthy oil flow.
  • LipiFlow® thermal pulsation therapy: This advanced 12-minute treatment combines gentle heat and pulsed pressure to unclog meibomian glands and restore tear balance. Many patients notice significant improvement within two weeks.
  • Autologous serum eye drops: Created from a patient’s own blood serum, these specialized drops mimic natural tears and can help in severe or chronic cases of dry eye.

Get Help With MGD and Dry Eyes in Reading

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons combines compassionate care with the latest advances in ophthalmology to improve comfort and vision clarity for patients across the Reading area. Call 610-372-0712 today to schedule an appointment.

Choosing Your Cataract Surgeon: Qualities To Look For

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Older man with a patch over his eye following cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed today, with at least 4 million Americans having the procedure annually. This number is likely to double over the next few decades as more people develop cataracts and start seeking safe, reliable vision correction.

But, how can you be sure you have the safest procedure and most satisfying results? It all starts with choosing the right surgeon. At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, conveniently located in Wyomissing, PA, and serving the greater Reading area, a highly experienced team of board-certified ophthalmologists offers the highest standard in state-of-the-art, customized cataract surgery. Read on to learn what to look for in your surgeon so you can feel confident going into your cataract removal procedure.

Board Certification in Ophthalmology

The first and most important qualification is board certification. Ophthalmologists who are board-certified have completed extensive training and testing in the medical and surgical treatment of eye conditions. This certification indicates that your surgeon has met rigorous national standards and remains up-to-date in the field. At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, our ophthalmologists all hold this credential.

Experience and Longevity

Experience matters when it comes to eye surgery. Surgeons who have treated a wide variety of patients over the years are better equipped to address unique needs and manage complex cataract surgery cases. Our surgeons are all experienced in treating a broad spectrum of cataract surgery patients, and we’re known for tailoring procedures to the patient.

A practice that has served the community for decades also reflects stability and trust. For example, patients in the Wyomissing and Reading area rely on us because we’ve been helping our community see clearly for more than 70 years, a record that speaks to consistency and expertise.

Use of Advanced Technology

Cataract surgery has advanced far beyond traditional methods. Today’s surgeons have access to technologies that make the procedure safe, more reliable, faster, and easier for the patient. When evaluating a cataract surgeon, ask about the technology used and whether patients have access to a full range of lens options to match their lifestyle needs.

Our surgeons use tiny incisions (3 mm or less) and employ advanced ultrasonic technology to break up the cloudy lens before gently vacuuming it out of the eye. Then, they place the new intraocular lens (IOL) in the eye to correct vision. Our surgeons offer advanced technology lens implants that can correct vision at multiple distances, which means many patients may not need reading glasses after surgery.

Personalized Patient Care

Technology and credentials are critical, but so is the way you’re treated as a patient. A good cataract surgeon takes time to listen, answer questions, and explain options clearly. Personalized care ensures that your surgery isn’t just technically successful but also tailored to your vision goals, whether that means reducing dependence on glasses or improving night driving.

Cataract Surgery in Wyomissing and Reading, PA

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we’re here to help you feel confident about your cataract surgery. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call 610-372-0712 today.

What Is Lifestyle Cataract Surgery?

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
An active man and woman walking to yoga class, happy to enjoy an active lifestyle after customized cataract surgery

What if cataract surgery gave you clear vision and ditched your readers? 

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Wyomissing, PA, just outside Reading, we specialize in personalizing cataract treatment with advanced intraocular lens (IOL) technology that can reduce or eliminate your need for glasses after surgery.

In our September blog, we’re discussing what Advanced Technology lenses are and how they stand out.

Standard vs. Advanced Technology Lens Cataract Surgery

Traditional cataract surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with a basic monofocal IOL. This lens offers clear vision at a single distance (usually far). That means most people who have monofocal IOLs still need reading glasses for using a computer or other near and medium-distance vision tasks.

Often cataract surgery can go a step further by using advanced IOLs designed to offer a fuller range of vision, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses. These lenses are selected based on your individual vision needs and lifestyle goals.

Types of Advanced Technology Lenses

There are several lens types that our experts at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons may recommend as part of a cataract procedure:

  • Multifocal Lenses: These lenses offer sharp, clear vision at multiple distances, including near, far, and intermediate. They cover virtually all visual tasks, so you can read, drive, and see your computer without relying on glasses. Some patients with multifocal IOLs may still need reading glasses for particularly challenging situations, like reading very tiny print.
  • Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) Lenses: EDOF lenses provide an elongated range of vision and are known for offering smoother transitions between distances, often with fewer halos and glare compared to multifocal lenses.
  • Toric Lenses: These are specially designed to correct astigmatism and can be combined with multifocal or EDOF features for those who want greater visual freedom with astigmatism correction.
  • Monofocal Lenses: Though not considered advanced technology lenses, monofocal lenses can be used for monovision procedures, where one eye is set for distance and the other for near vision.

Each IOL—whether monofocal, toric, multifocal, or EDOF—offers another important benefit beyond vision correction: they help filter harmful ultraviolet (UV) light and some high-energy visible (HEV) blue light, protecting your retina.

Is Advanced Technology Cataract Surgery Right for You?

Choosing a lens depends on many factors, including your daily activities, vision goals, and whether you have astigmatism or other eye conditions. During your comprehensive cataract evaluation, we’ll help guide you through your options and ensure you feel confident in your decision.

For over 70 years, Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons has been a trusted name in eye care. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists is committed to offering the latest advancements in cataract surgery and comprehensive vision care in one convenient place.

Call our office in Wyomissing, PA, at 610-372-0712 to book your cataract surgery consultation today.

Common Mistakes New Contact Lens Wearers Make

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Two blue-tinted contact lenses on a white table

Switching to contact lenses can be exciting, especially if you’re ready to swap your eyeglasses for a more flexible and active lifestyle. But like any change, there’s a learning curve.

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Wyomissing, PA, just outside Reading, our contact lens team, led by experienced optometrists, helps patients transition to contact lenses safely and comfortably. We offer detailed guidance, expert fittings, and ongoing support.

Today’s blog discusses the most common mistakes that new contact lens wearers face and how to avoid them. 

Not Washing Hands Before Handling Lenses

It might seem simple, but failing to wash your hands thoroughly before inserting or removing your lenses can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of eye infections. Always wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them with a lint-free towel before touching your eyes or lenses.

Sleeping in Your Lenses

Unless your eye doctor prescribes extended-wear lenses specifically designed for overnight use, never sleep in your contacts. It reduces oxygen to the eye, which increases the risk of corneal infections and serious complications.

Using Water or Saliva to Clean Lenses

Contact lenses require recommended solutions. Tap water, bottled water, and saliva all contain microorganisms that can damage your lenses and put your eyes at risk. Always follow your doctor’s care instructions and never reuse or top off old solution.

Overwearing Your Lenses

Many first-time wearers stretch their lenses longer than recommended to save money or out of convenience. Overwearing can dry out your eyes, cause discomfort, and even lead to corneal irritation. Our experts guide you through the ideal wearing schedule tailored to your lifestyle and prescription needs.

Skipping Annual Eye Exams

Even if your contacts feel fine, your prescription or eye health can change. Annual exams ensure your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains sharp. Our comprehensive contact lens exams check for fit, visual clarity, and signs of dryness or irritation.

Contact Lens Exams Near Reading, PA

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we provide more than just lenses. For over 70 years, we’ve been trusted by generations of families in Berks County for cutting-edge diagnostic testing, medical and surgical eye care, and personalized optical solutions. Whether you need your first pair of contact lenses or a more advanced option, we’re here to help. After you get your new prescription, we also make it easy to order contact lenses online. Schedule your contact lens evaluation in our Wyomissing, PA, office now by calling 610-372-0712.

Let’s Talk Keratoconus: There Are More Treatments Than You May Think

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Side profile of man with bulging corneas, caused by keratoconus

With keratoconus, your corneas start bulging into a cone shape, which can blur and warp your vision. At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, our board‑certified surgeons and experienced eye care professionals combine expertise with friendly, personalized attention for Reading, PA, patients. 

From the moment you walk in, we’ll guide you through keratoconus diagnosis, explain the treatment options, and closely track your progress as your vision improves.

In this blog, our team discusses keratoconus treatments. You might be surprised at how many options you have!

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are often the first step in improving vision for keratoconus patients. While soft contact lenses bend to the shape of your eye, RGP lenses retain their shape on the eye’s surface. This helps stop keratoconus bulging and can improve blurry or distorted vision.

Many patients need scleral RGP lenses, which are larger than most contacts and cover the whole cornea.

Piggybacking Lenses 

Some people find traditional RGP lenses uncomfortable, especially when the cornea is very steep or sensitive. “Piggybacking” lenses may help. First, a soft lens is placed directly on the eye; then, the RGP lens goes above it.

The soft lens provides the shield of comfort you need to wear vision-sharpening RCP lenses successfully.

Hybrid Lenses 

Hybrid lenses are another way to get the best of both worlds: Comfort with RGP lens clarity. These premium contacts feature an RGP center with a soft outer ring that helps them feel more natural. 

Intacs: A Minimally Invasive Surgical Option

Keratoconus typically progresses gradually until around age 40. As it worsens, contact lenses may become less effective. That’s where Intacs can come in. These small, curved plastic inserts are placed just under the cornea’s surface. 

They help flatten the bulging area and reshape the cornea to improve vision. The procedure is outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day. Intacs don’t replace the need for glasses or contacts, but they often make it easier to wear them again.

Corneal Crosslinking: A Stabilizing Procedure

Though not usually the first step in keratoconus treatment, corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) might be recommended to help slow or stop the condition from getting worse. 

This in-office procedure uses vitamin B2 eye drops and ultraviolet (UV-A) light to strengthen the collagen fibers in the cornea. It may help preserve the cornea’s shape and may prevent further bulging. While CXL does not restore lost vision, it can protect against future changes.

Corneal Transplant Surgery

For people with severe keratoconus who can’t get clear vision, even with specialty lenses or minor procedures, a corneal transplant may be necessary. 

The preferred method is called Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK), which replaces the cornea’s outer layers while keeping the healthy inner layers intact. If DALK isn’t an option, a full-thickness transplant, known as penetrating keratoplasty, may be done. 

Keratoconus support in Wyomissing, PA

Call Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons at 610-372‑0712 to schedule an appointment and learn more about your keratoconus treatment options today.

Self Test For Cataracts: What Signs Should You Worry About?

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Senior man's eye, showing a cataract

Have you noticed the world looking slightly foggy lately? Are you growing more sensitive to light, or are colors looking a bit faded? You might shrug it off as a sleepy morning or needing to update your eyeglasses prescription—but sometimes, these subtle shifts hint at something more serious.

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we’ve been serving the Greater Reading area for more than 70 years, providing all-encompassing eye care to ensure our patients enjoy crisp, clear vision for a lifetime.

With cataracts, that care starts at home. It’s important to be aware of the signs of cataract progression and to take swift action when you notice them. Here’s what to look for.

Why Early Detection Matters

Cataracts develop very slowly, usually over decades. You might not notice the gradual clouding of your natural lens until normal things like reading, driving, or recognizing the faces of your loved ones become a frustrating challenge.

Catching cataracts in the mild stages can let you plan cataract surgery at your convenience instead of waiting for severe vision loss. It also helps protect your overall eye health, as untreated cataracts can complicate conditions like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

Quick Self‑Tests You Can Try at Home

Nothing replaces a comprehensive eye exam, but you can do some simple checks at home to see if it’s time to schedule an exam:

  • Reading under dim light: Choose a small-print book or restaurant menu. You could have cataracts if you squint, tilt the material, or hold it closer than normal.
  • Glare sensitivity: When you drive at dusk or dawn, pay close attention to oncoming headlights, streetlights, or even sunlight streaming through the window. It could indicate lens clouding if you frequently see halos, starbursts, or streaks.
  • Color fading: Pay close attention to color vibrancy. Does it seem like bright colors look less colorful? Or, compare a crisp white sheet of printer paper with an object that appears pure white (like a dinner plate.) If you view them together and the paper looks dingy or yellowish, a developing cataract could be the problem.
  • Blurry patches: Stand in front of a clear glass window. Move your eyes slowly and deliberately across the surface. If you see cloud-like smudges or blurry areas, it could point to cataracts.
  • Double vision: Cover one eye at a time and focus on a well-lit object. Do you see “ghost” images or overlapping outlines? This can happen when the lens grows cloudy and scatters light, both major signs of cataracts.

If you notice any of these issues, or have other concerning eye problems, visit our cataract self-test page and provide a few details so we can help. 

We use the latest diagnostic technology to pinpoint the stage of your cataract and map out a treatment plan. Personalized attention means you’ll get answers to every question—from anesthesia options to post‑operative care.

Cataract Evaluations in Wyomissing, PA

Schedule your cataract evaluation in our Wyomissing, PA, office (just outside of Reading) by calling 610-372‑0712 today.

How Oct Is Making Earlier Glaucoma Diagnosis Possible

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
OCT glaucoma diagnosis and management in Reading, PA

Glaucoma is irreversible and therefore early diagnosis is crucial. Unfortunately, about 50% of people with glaucoma are still undiagnosed and completely unaware of their disease.

This often happens because the disease rarely causes notable symptoms until the optic nerve sustains serious damage — and also, because many people don’t have the regular comprehensive eye exams they need.

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we provide complete eye care in our conveniently-located Wyomissing, PA, facility. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including optical coherence tomography (OCT,) to provide comprehensive glaucoma assessments.

It’s one of the most advanced tools for diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma because it allows for detailed imaging of the eye’s internal structures.

Understanding Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

OCT is a noninvasive imaging scan that provides high-resolution, cross-sectional retina and optic nerve images. It works similarly to ultrasound but uses light waves instead of sound waves.

For the OCT process, a focused beam of light scans the retina. It calculates the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). Thinning within this layer of the retina is one of the earliest indicators of glaucoma.

Advantages of OCT in Glaucoma Diagnosis

Traditional glaucoma screening methods, such as measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) and visual field testing, are useful but may not detect the disease early enough.

OCT provides a more precise and proactive approach. This scan can identify early structural damage before noticeable vision loss occurs. The vision scan is quick and painless.

How OCT Improves Glaucoma Treatment

Once glaucoma is diagnosed, the main goal is lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) and preventing further optic nerve damage.

OCT helps guide treatment decisions by providing valuable information on disease progression.

Our doctors use OCT to establish baseline measurements and then refer to these measurements at each subsequent OCT scan. We can use precise, real-time data to guide your treatment plans.

This information is crucial in creating and adapting treatment plans ranging from glaucoma eye drops to laser treatment. In addition, OCT scans help our doctors determine whether you need minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to preserve your vision.

OCT Glaucoma Diagnosis and Monitoring in Reading

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons offers the latest advanced glaucoma diagnostics, including OCT, to ensure our patients get the highest standard of comprehensive eye care. Our Wyomissing, PA, office serves the entire Reading area and meets all your eye care needs. Call 610-372-0712 to schedule your glaucoma evaluation.

Lattice Degeneration: What It Is And Why You Need To Know

Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Ltd.
Lattice Degeneration Treatment in Reading, PA

Lattice degeneration is a common condition affecting the outer edges of the retina, the thin light-sensing tissue lining the back of your eye. It occurs when areas of your retina become thinner and weaker, resembling a delicate, lattice-like pattern.

Although usually harmless itself, lattice degeneration can increase your risk of serious complications like retinal tears or detachment.

At Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we offer Reading, PA, patients the best in comprehensive eye care. Our practice has provided the highest standard of ophthalmology and optometry for over 70 years, and we’re the trusted leaders for routine and complex eye health and vision needs. 

Our team diagnoses and treats lattice degeneration using the most proven advanced techniques. Understanding this condition and what it could mean for your eyes can help protect your vision.

Understanding Lattice Degeneration

Your retina is a delicate layer at the back of your eye responsible for translating light into images.

Lattice degeneration happens when the edges of your retina thin abnormally. On imaging, lattice degeneration appears as dark areas with thin white streaks running across them, creating a lattice-like pattern.

Lattice degeneration affects around 10% of Americans and is more common in nearsighted people. While it can occur in anyone, it’s more common in people with relatives who also have the condition, suggesting a genetic link. Most people with lattice degeneration don’t experience symptoms until complications arise, such as retinal detachment.

Risk Factors and Symptoms to Watch For

Factors that increase your risk of lattice degeneration include:

  • Nearsightedness (myopia), especially if severe
  • Family history of retinal problems or lattice degeneration
  • Age, as it’s more common in adults over 40

While lattice degeneration often has no noticeable symptoms, complications like retinal tears or detachments can cause sudden symptoms.

These may include light flashes, seeing floating spots or shapes, or a curtain-like shadow across your vision. If you have these symptoms, reach out to our office immediately.

Protecting Your Vision with Lattice Degeneration

Even though lattice degeneration isn’t reversible, you can protect your eyes and reduce the risk of complications. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially if you’re nearsighted or have a family history of retinal issues.

Depending on your situation, you could need preventative treatments, like laser therapy, to strengthen weak areas and reduce the risk of complications. Or, if you experience a retinal tear or detachment, you need immediate treatment, such as a vitrectomy or laser therapy.

Lattice Degeneration Help in Reading  

Early diagnosis and proper management of lattice degeneration can make all the difference for your long-term eye health and vision. Be proactive about protecting your eyes with regular eye exams at Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons, and don’t hesitate to call our Wyomissing, PA, office at 610-372-0712 to schedule a visit if you have symptoms that concern you.

ADDRESS:
1802 Paper Mill Road Wyomissing, PA 19610
PHONE:
FAX:
(610) 376-6968
OFFICE HOURS
Monday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm