Education

There are over 1500 different tumors that can affect the orbit. The majority of these tumors are benign. These tumors cause problems because of their location and proximity to vital structures and organs.

Pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva (lining of the white part of the eye) that grows into the cornea, which covers the iris (colored part of the eye). A pterygium usually begins at the nasal side of the eye. It can be different colors, including red, pink, white, yellow, or gray.

Several factors such as aging, sun damage, smoking, stretching and obesity can cause the eyelids to droop and sag as the supporting tissues weaken. Eyelids that droop or bulge can reduce peripheral vision, making certain normal daily activities, such as driving, more difficult.

A cataract is a common condition that causes a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, and affects millions of people each year, including more than half of all Americans over the age of 65. Cloudiness develops as a result of a buildup of protein in the lens.

Patients with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing eye diseases that can lead to vision loss and blindness, such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. In fact, diabetes is actually one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States.

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes are insufficiently moisturized, leading to itching, redness and pain from dry spots on the surface of the eye. The eyes may become dry and irritated because the tear ducts don’t produce enough tears, or because the tears themselves have a chemical imbalance.