Ask the Doctor Curious to know things that many others may also be experiencing or concerned about? Click below to learn more about some Frequently Encountered Symptoms and Questions. Astigmatism Cataracts Dry Eye Syndrome Floaters Lid Scrubs/Warm Compress Near Vision Problems Night Driving Problems Q: "What is Astigmatism?" A: Astigmatism is a type of refractive error that describes the shape of the front surface of your eye (the cornea) or the shape of your lens. Instead of being a perfect sphere or a "basketball", an astigmatic eye is shaped more oval, like a "football". These changes cause light to bend uniquely and come into focus at different points on the retina. Astigmatism is just like being far-sighted or near-sighted, except that it usually accompanies one of the two. Astigmatism can be corrected by glasses or special contact lenses called "Toric Lenses". See Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider to be fit with the latest in Toric Contact Lenses. Q: "Am I going to get cataracts?" A: Cataracts are normal aging changes that occur to the lens of an eye. Throughout the course of one's life, their lens absorbs a tremendous amount of U.V. light. That absorption causes the lens to turn from clear to a yellow, brunescent color. The color change, when dense enough, can cause contrast problems, difficulty with glare and halos at night, and a decrease in visual acuity. Unfortunately, everyone gets some form of cataracts as they age. In some people, cataracts form sooner and in some, they form later. Either way, everyone gets some form of cataracts. Nothing is usually done for cataracts unless they affect the quality of one's life. Fortunately, there are effective surgical treatments for the removal of cataracts and replacing the lens. However, since everyone's situation is unique, come in and see Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider for the best and most personalized options for your life. Q: "What is Dry Eye Syndrome?" A: Dry Eye Syndrome occurs due to a decrease in the production of tears by the eye's tear glands. A common symptom in dry eye syndrome is excessive tearing, which is a response triggered when the eye senses that it is dry. Other symptoms include burning, which worsens as the day progresses, and/or a gritty, irritated sensation. Treatment for dry eye syndrome after a proper diagnosis includes either use of an artificial tear substitute, which replaces the tears that your eyes are not producing, or a prescription medication, such as Restasis, that aids in increasing tear production.  In addition to artificial tears, punctal plugs and lid scrubs can also be very beneficial in treating dry eye syndrome. Also, recent research suggests that fish oil supplements can also aid in the treatment of dry eye syndrome. For accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, see Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider.   Q: "Why do I sometimes see floating spots?" A: Floaters are usually a normal change in ocular anatomy. However, if you notice a sudden increase in floating spots that may resemble a "rain shower" of tiny floaters, or a "curtain" coming over your vision, it is recommended that you immediately see Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider, as they can sometimes be associated with retinal detachments.   Q: "What is the best way to treat eye irritations at home?" A: Lid scrubs and warm compresses can be good for treating dry eye syndrome, a bump on or around the eyelid, and inflamed meibomian glands (which are glands that help in refreshing your tear film). Cleaning your eyelids everyday is a great form of personal hygiene that aids in the removal of the natural dirt and debris that can build up around the glands on your eyelids and prevent dryness and other forms of irritation. To clean your eyelids, use a small amount of baby shampoo in the palm of your hand and mix with warm water. Use a clean finger or a clean washcloth to apply and massage the solution gently into your eyelids. Finally, make sure to wash your eyes with warm water when finished. To apply a warm compress, use a clean washcloth and soak it in hot water (not too hot; if its too hot for your skin, then its too hot for your eye). Use the warm washcloth to gently massage the eyelid or certain area on the eyelid for 10-15 minutes and it may be necessary to re-heat the washcloth a couple of times during the process. Warm compresses are indicated differently for different situations; to make sure that an eye infection or irritation is not more serious, first see Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider for a better management plan. Q: "Why can't I see up-close anymore?" A: If you are over 40 and experiencing difficulty reading print that never seemed to be a problem, you may be experiencing symptoms of Presbyopia. Fortunately (and unfortunately), presbyopia is a natural aging change that everyone will face at some point in their life. Like many other aging changes that occur in the body, the ocular lens loses its elasticity over time and causes problems with focusing. This problem is usually solved with multi-focal glasses or contact lenses. Since each individual is unique and may require a more extensive examination, see Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider to find the best option for you. Q: "Why has night driving become more difficult?" A: There are usually various problems that can cause a decrease in vision at night. Most commonly, uncorrected refractive error and/or cataracts are the problem. In dim illumination, the pupil is more dilated and in turn allows more stray light to enter the eye. This diffracted light, in conjunction with uncorrected refractive error and/or cataracts can cause blurring, halos, and visual discomfort. To be sure that this problem is due to one of these typical reasons and not because of more serious retinal conditions, visit Dr. Mostaghimi or your eye care provider.

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