Ravi M Menghani, MD Quantum Eye Group

A cortical cataract is one of the more common types of cataracts. It may be associated with diabetes. Changes in the lens begin at the outer periphery and gradually move toward the center. This type of cataract may cause halos or glare around objects, and may make nighttime driving difficult.

One of the dangers of contact lens overuse, abuse, or misuse is the development of corneal ulcers or abrasions. Pictured here, is a cobalt blue light illumination of a fluroscein stain showing a corneal abrasion, and just above it and to the right -- a corneal ulcer! Contact lens users should observe good hygienic practices, taking care not to sleep in their lenses overnight.

Here's a cartoon picture of an intraoperative still image during cataract surgery. Ultrasonic waves with frequencies of greater than 20,000 Hz are used to emulsify a cataract, a clouding of your eye's natural lens. A brand new lens may then be placed into the eye, improving vision.

Coffee may help prevent macular degeneration! A joint study out of South Korea and the US, which concluded that powerful antioxidants found in coffee can play a role in preventing age-related eye diseases and the degeneration of eyesight. Chlorogenic Acid (CLA) is a strong anti-oxidant shown to prevent macular degeneration in mice. So, here's to your next cup of joe!

Pictured here is a "Christmas Tree" cataract. This eye finding is often associated with a medical condition called myotonic dystrophy.

Drusen, yellow deposits in the macula, could be a sign of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). If you've been diagnosed with ARMD, you should wear UV-protecting sunglasses, take multivitamins containing lutein and zeaxanthin, use an Amsler Grid to check your vision, and avoid smoking.

Ever heard of surfer's eye? A pterygium is an overgrowth of conjunctiva often caused by excessive exposure to the sun's UV rays, which is why they are common in surfers. A good way to prevent them is to use UV-protecting sunglasses, a wide brim hat, and the keep the eye lubricated with preservative-free tears. See your Eye MD if you have significant irritation from a pterygium.

Pictured here is an image of fluorescein uptake in one's cornea, indicating dry eye. This patient's cornea also has a LASIK scar. Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, and even a history of LASIK are just a few of the many causes of dry eye. Lubricating drops, ointments, fish oil supplements, and flax seed are just some treatments for dry eye.

Thinning of the optic nerve (right picture) could be a sign of glaucoma. Glaucoma occurs from damage to the optic nerve due to high eye pressure and can result in decreased peripheral vision over time. See your ophthalmologist if there is a history of glaucoma in your family.

A floater often takes the form of a piece of vitreous called a "Weiss ring," pictured here. Your ophthalmologist will also use a slit lamp bio-microscope and a special lens to scan the periphery of your retina to ensure there are no associated retinal holes, tears, or detachments. See your Eye MD if you have persistent flashes, floaters, or a curtain coming over your vision.

Floaters are a natural part of 'growing wiser.' As we age, the vitreous (the gel-like substance in the back of the eye) often thins and falls off the retina, forming little strands or chips. These strands cast a shadow on the retina when light passes through your eye creating floaters. If you have a sudden onset of flashes, lots of floaters, or a change in vision, see your ophthalmologist, as it could be a retinal tear or detachment.

Wintertime in the office