Routine Eye Exams

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults undergo a comprehensive eye examination every 3-5 years before the age of 45, every 2-3 years from 45-65, and every 1-2 years thereafter. Because one eye can compensate for the other, you may be unaware of a loss of vision in one eye unless you are checked at the eye doctor’s office. It is important to know about the general health of your eyes so that we can monitor you for the progression of any early conditions. Additionally, at times during a "routine" eye exam, abnormalities may be found that you might not even be aware of. Sometimes, they may require an intervention to prevent irreversible damage.

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Conditions that can be detected with regular eye exams

  • Undetected vision problems (myopia, presbyopia, astigmatism, keratoconus)
  • Glaucoma and elevated eye pressure or abnormal (narrow) anterior chambers
  • Cataracts
  • Retinal tears or holes
  • Macular degeneration
  • Eye inflammation (uveitis)
  • Dry eyes and blepharitis

General health concerns that can affect eyesight

Many general medical conditions can affect the eyes or may manifest themselves for the first time with eye symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with or are concerned about any of the following, an expert, detailed, comprehensive eye examination on a regular basis is very important:

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Giant cell arteritis
  • Stroke
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, psoriasis, eczema, and others.
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Medications with ocular side effects

Some medications can have ocular side effects. Drugs that affect the central and peripheral nervous system (anticholinergics, antidepressants, antipsychotics) may result in blurred vision, especially for near tasks. Antihistamines taken for allergies can contribute to dry eye, as can medicines for blood pressure control. Medications for your prostate (such as FLOMAX) can affect the pupil during eye surgery. Treatments for erectile dysfunction can affect color vision and the health of the optic nerve. Specific medications that require monitoring for toxicity or particular ill effects on the eyes include:

  • Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) – taken for autoimmune diseases
  • Steroids (tablets, inhalers, topical preparations) – used for many indications
  • Tamoxifen – taken for breast cancer treatment
  • Amiodarone – taken for an irregular heartbeat
  • Topamax (topiramate) – taken for migraines and other conditions
  • Gilenya (fingolimod) – taken for MS
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Additional concerns

There are other medications that can impact the eyes that are not listed above. Always be sure to let your eye care provider know of all the medications you are taking. At times, there may be worrisome concerns for which we are happy to see patients on an urgent basis. If a referral or information from another provider is needed, our staff will do their best to help and facilitate a prompt visit.

Some of these symptoms include:

  • Decreased, distorted, or newly variable vision
  • Double vision
  • Flashing lights or floaters
  • Eye injuries like scratched eyes (corneal abrasions,) foreign bodies in the eyes, chemical exposures, etc.
  • Eye infections (conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers)
  • Eye allergies (itchy, burning, watery eyes)
  • Styes (bumps and swellings of the eyelids)

Get started with your customized care plan today

The ophthalmologists of Chicago Cornea Consultants are available and glad to provide eye care for you and your family. Our skilled, board-certified providers can get you an expertly accurate eyeglasses prescription and take care of your contact lens needs as well. To learn more about our comprehensive eye care services, contact our practice in Chicago, Crystal Lake, Highland Park, or Hoffman Estates today.

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Our services

Lasik/Laser Eye Surgery

LASIK eye surgery is a procedure designed to reduce your dependency on eyeglasses and contact lenses. Here at Chicago Cornea Consultants, our LASIK surgeons and eye doctors use the latest in laser vision correction technology to ensure each patient receives optimal results.

Advanced Cataract Surgery

As leaders in the field of ophthalmology, we were among the first in the area to offer the advanced Alcon Lensx laser platform for cataract surgery. This exciting new technology allows our skilled ophthalmologists to make incredibly precise modifications, enhancing the patient experience.

Refractive Lens Exchange/Phakic IOLs

While presbyopia has typically called for patients to wear glasses when reading in the past, today, there are more options than ever for obtaining the clear vision you seek. Refractive lens exchange is an excellent alternative to using reading glasses and relies on advanced multifocal intraocular lenses to optimize your quality of life.

Cornea/Keratoconus

Keratoconus describes a cornea that weakens as collagen fibers deteriorate, causing the cornea to adopt a cone-like shape. Keratoconus can cause blurred vision, light sensitivity, glares, and decreased night vision. In its early states, keratoconus may be treated with the use of prescription glasses or contact lenses. Keratoconus is also one of the most common reasons for corneal transplant and one of the most successful.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a prevalent eye condition in America, with an estimated million or more people unaware of their diagnosis. Unfortunately, those with glaucoma typically don't experience symptoms until they begin to lose their peripheral vision. The condition is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" due to its lack of early warning signs. Schedule an appointment today to help protect your vision before it’s too late.

BOTOX Cosmetic

At Chicago Cornea Consultants, we strive to help each patient achieve clear flawless vision and optimal ocular health. When our patients asked us to help them deal with age-related facial lines, we listened by adding BOTOX to our list of state-of-the-art services. With minimal discomfort or downtime, BOTOX can help smooth away dynamic wrinkles and creases, allowing you to face the world more confidently.

Dry Eye

Dry eye can result from a lack of sufficient production of your own natural tears, with an inability to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can cause mild to severe discomfort, including itching, stinging, and burning. Dry eye is a common concern in Chicago, and the experienced team of corneal specialists at Chicago Cornea Consultants has the latest advancements in technology to treat this bothersome condition.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are medical devices that interact directly with the ocular surface of the eye. At Chicago Cornea Consultants, we provide exceptional care to ensure that you obtain the best possible vision with contact lenses that fit appropriately and maximize health benefits.

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