Eye Conditions and Treatments
At Prana Eye Hospital, we are proud to offer a comprehensive suite of advanced ophthalmic diagnostic and treatment technologies, covering both medical and surgical eye care.
We are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation by integrating the latest breakthroughs in eye care technology.
Our use of state-of-the-art equipment underscores our dedication to providing exceptional care and ensuring the best possible outcomes for every patient we serve.
Common eye symptoms
- Red Eyes
- Blurred vision
- Watering eyes
- Sore eyes
- Droopy/sagging eyelids
- Double vision
- Floaters and flashes
- Dry eyes
- Foreign body in the eye
Most common eye Conditions
We offer specialist treatment for many conditions including:
Cataracts
A cataract develops when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred or impaired vision. In advanced cases, the pupil may turn white. Cataracts remain one of the leading causes of treatable blindness worldwide. Thankfully, with timely medical or surgical care, vision can be effectively restored and quality of life improved.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can affect the eyes in multiple ways, including increasing the risk of cataracts. More critically, it can lead to diabetic retinopathy—a condition where high blood sugar damages the retinal blood vessels, possibly resulting in serious vision loss if left untreated. Early detection and proper care are key to protecting your sight.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause irreversible blindness if left untreated. It is the second leading cause of blindness in New Zealand and globally. The condition usually results from damage to the optic nerve, often linked to high eye pressure. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential to prevent serious vision loss.
Growth Over Eye
There are two common growths on the eye: pterygium and pinguecula. Both are benign growths that affect the cornea and conjunctiva. While they are typically harmless, they should be monitored by an eye care professional, especially if they cause discomfort, impact vision, or show signs of progression. Early evaluation can help prevent complications.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina, which is responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This condition can make tasks like reading, driving, recognizing faces, and other activities requiring clear central vision difficult. Early diagnosis and management can help slow progression.
Eye Trauma
Eye trauma can occur due to various accidents, including sports injuries, workplace incidents, car accidents, or household mishaps. The eyes are delicate, and even minor injuries can lead to significant complications. It’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention if you or someone else experiences an eye injury to prevent long-term damage.
Retinal Detachment
The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and retina, helping to maintain the eye’s shape and support the retina. The retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, contains light-sensitive cells that capture and process visual information. Damage or disease affecting the retina can lead to vision loss or other visual issues.
Squints and Lazy-eyes
Strabismus, also known as squint or crossed eyes, is a condition where one or both eyes are misaligned, either constantly or occasionally. It commonly appears in children but can also affect adults. If left untreated, it may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye). Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent vision problems.
Blepharitis
The eyelids have sebaceous glands that produce oils essential for a healthy tear film. In blepharitis, these glands become overactive, producing thick, turbid secretions that lower tear quality and irritate the eyes. Scaly deposits may form along the eyelid margins, sometimes allowing bacteria to grow, which can worsen inflammation and discomfort.
Chalazion or Meibomian Cyst
Meibomian glands release oils to lubricate the eyelids. When blocked, they can swell and form a painless lump, often resembling a stye at first. Over time, it becomes firm and stays within the eyelid. Though usually harmless, it may take weeks or months to resolve without treatment unless complications arise.
Detached Retina
Think of the eye as a camera, with the retina acting like the film. Light is focused onto the retina by the lens to form a visual image, which is sent to the brain via the optic nerve. Normally, the retina stays attached to the eye’s inner wall. If a tear allows fluid underneath, it can detach—distorting vision. Without treatment, this may lead to permanent vision loss.
Ectropion
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid margin turns outward, often due to skin tightening, exposing the inner eyelid. This causes redness and narrowing of the tear duct, leading to a persistently watery eye. Initial treatment includes lubricating eye drops and artificial tears to ease irritation, but surgery is
typically needed for long-term correction.
Entropion
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid margin turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This leads to significant irritation, redness, and inflammation. Left untreated, it can damage the cornea. While lubricating drops may offer temporary relief, surgery is usually required to correct the eyelid position and prevent complications.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea becomes thin and cone-shaped, leading to blurred vision and discomfort. It usually starts in the teens and may stabilize by age 30. The exact cause is unknown, but factors may include genetics, collagen issues, UV exposure, and frequent eye rubbing. It is more commonly seen in Māori and Pacific Island communities.
Eye surgery and Treatment information
Cataract Surgery
If you are referred to us for cataract surgery, rest assured you’ll receive expert care. This procedure plays a crucial role in restoring clear vision and enhancing your overall quality of life when cataracts significantly impair sight. When cataracts interfere with daily activities, surgery can offer a life-changing improvement in vision and independence.
Glaucoma Management
Glaucoma can be managed through eye drops, laser treatments, or surgery, depending on what your ophthalmologist recommends as the most effective option. If needed, your optometrist can refer you to one of our specialists for personalised treatment and long-term management to help protect your vision.
Oculoplastic and Lacrimal Surgery
Oculoplastic and lacrimal surgery is a specialised area of ophthalmology that deals with conditions affecting the eyelids, tear drainage system, and the orbital bones around the eye. This sub-specialty also includes cosmetic procedures aimed at enhancing the appearance and function of the eyes.
Medical and Surgical Retina
Medical and surgical retina are two closely related fields within ophthalmology that specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases—the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye.
Strabismus (Squint) Treatment
Strabismus, or squint, is a condition where the eyes are misaligned, causing one eye to turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other eye remains focused straight ahead. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may affect one or both eyes. Strabismus can impair depth perception and, if untreated, may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) or long-term vision issues.
Paediatric Ophthalmology
Children rely heavily on their vision for learning and development, with up to 80% of learning depending on visual input. Timely treatment of eye problems is essential to prevent long-term complications and reduce the need for future interventions. Conditions like focusing issues, amblyopia (lazy eye), and eye muscle problems can affect vision and learning. If your child or infant experiences these, they may need glasses or other treatments to support their visual health.