Eye Disorders and Clinical Manifestations

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering the etiology, symptoms, treatments, and post-operative care for Cataracts, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, and Retinal Detachment.

Cataracts

A condition where the clear lens inside the eye slowly becomes cloudy.

Modifiable Risk Factors (Cataracts)

Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and Sunlight/UV light without protection.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors (Cataracts)

Aging and trauma.

Diplopia

Double vision, which is a sign of visual impairment in cataracts.

Clinical Manifestations (Cataracts)

Gradual vision loss, blurred vision, decreased color perception, decreased visual acuity, and a white/cloudy pupil.

Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Precautions

Post-cataract surgery activities to avoid: bending from the waist, lifting objects $10\,\text{lb}$ and heavier, sneezing, coughing, blowing the nose, straining with bowel movements, vomiting, sex, and tight shirts/collars.

Post-Cataract Surgery Medications

Antibiotics and steroid ointments for infection/inflammation, and acetaminophen for pain (no aspirin).

Glaucoma

A condition involving too much fluid in the eye leading to increased pressure.

Open-angle Glaucoma (Early Stage)

Develops slowly, usually affects both eyes, and typically presents with no symptoms, foggy vision, or mild aches/headaches.

Late-Stage Glaucoma Symptoms

Halos and loss of peripheral vision.

Timolol

A medication that reduces the production of aqueous humor by the ciliary body.

Pilocarpine

A medication that opens the meshwork to allow for the drainage of fluid.

Mannitol

An osmotic diuretic that decreases aqueous humor.

Glaucoma Surgical Outcomes

Patients typically achieve their best vision $4-6\text{ weeks}$ after surgery.

Macular Degeneration

A condition where central vision loses clarity.

Macular Degeneration Risk Factors

Hypertension, smoking, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and a lack of Vitamin E and carotene.

Metamorphopsia

An expected finding in macular degeneration where straight lines look wiggly.

Macular Degeneration Findings

Blurry central vision, dark spots, decreased contrast sensitivity, and difficulty reading in the dark.

Retinal Detachment

Retina detaching, leading to impaired vision.

Retinal Detachment Risk Factors

Previous laser surgery, age, family history, retinopathy, severe myopia, and trauma.

Retinal Detachment Findings

Blurred vision, flashes of light, floaters/black spots, shadow curtain, and loss of visual field.

Retinal Detachment Interventions

Laser scarring and air injection.

Retinal Detachment Post-Op Teaching

Report increased pain, vision loss, or bloodshot eyes; avoid heavy lifting; limit reading; and use dark glasses and an eye patch.