At Pham Eye in Yorktown Heights, the focus is on more than just vision — it’s on eye and overall health.
Yearly eye exams at Pham Eye go beyond correcting vision. Dr. Lan V. Pham brings an impressive educational and clinical background to her patients, evaluating the eyes for signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can affect both ocular and general health. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors specially trained in diagnosing and treating eye diseases, both medically and surgically. Their extensive training enables them not only to preserve vision but also to coordinate with primary care physicians when systemic health conditions are involved.
“During our exams, we don’t just assess vision — we also monitor overall health. Many common eye conditions can impact both sight and well-being,” says Dr. Pham.
Here are some common eye conditions monitored during exams
Clouding of the eye’s lens, the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide.
Some types of cataracts can be linked to other health conditions and identifying them can sometimes help detect these issues before the patient even develops symptoms.
Symptoms include glare, difficulty with night driving, and trouble reading.
Cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to restore vision when daily activities such as driving or reading are impacted.
A disease of the central retina that, if left untreated, can result in central vision loss. There is also a genetic predisposition associated with the condition.
A major cause of central vision loss, especially in people over age 50.
Early detection allows for monitoring and preventive care to slow progression. In advanced cases, referral to a retina specialist may be recommended.
A disease of the optic nerve with progressive damage and can result in visual field loss, usually in the periphery.
Early management: When detected early, glaucoma can be managed to prevent vision loss. The first line therapy is SLT laser in office and can be managed with glaucoma eye drops. Surgical procedures can be used in more advanced cases.
A disease of the retina due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels where it damages the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss if untreated.
Early detection is crucial: Routine eye exams can identify retinal changes caused by diabetes and hypertension.
Coordinated care: Communication between the eye doctor, primary care physician, and endocrinologist helps protect both ocular and overall health.
Dry eyes occur when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort, irritation, and sometimes blurred vision.
It can result from underlying health conditions, such as auto-immune diseases making thorough eye exams important to catch issues that might otherwise be overlooked.
Common with aging and influenced by medications or health conditions that affect tear production.
Artificial tears are often a starting point, but addressing the underlying cause with a full eye exam can guide tailored treatment options.
Regular yearly eye exams are crucial for spotting conditions before symptoms appear and for maintaining long-term visual and systemic health. Comprehensive assessments by an ophthalmologist help patients see better and stay healthier overall — truly aligning eye care with whole-body care.
Dr. Lan V. Pham earned her B.S. in Biology from Tufts University, completed medical school at Tufts Medical School, and finished her ophthalmology residency at New York Medical College, where she was named Chief Resident. A board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Pham has also been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor awarded to the top 7% of physicians nationwide based on peer nominations, professional achievement, and excellence in patient care.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here