We typically ask about beta-blockers (breathing problems), Plaquenil (retina toxicity) and Flomax.

You can check pressure with Goldmann applanation at the slit-lamp or a hand-held device like the Tono-Pen.

Presbyopia is when the lens hardens as we age. A stiff lens can’t change shape and most people lose the ability to focus at near.

The three “vital signs” are vision, pupil, and eye pressure. These measurements must be checked prior to dilating the eyes.

Using a pinhole, you can often improve a patient’s vision when reading the eye chart. Big improvements usually mean they need updated glasses.

Red, watery eyes. Burning and a feeling of the eyes feeling “tired.” Many patients complain of blur with prolonged reading or TV.

This test is used to check for relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD). If one pupil dilates as you swing your light back and forth, that eye may have an APD.

OD is right eye. OS means left eye. OU means both eyes. Dumb, I know … that’s Latin for you!

Applanation is a method for checking eye pressure by pushing on the eye. The Goldmann applanation tonometer is built into the slitlamp and is the gold standard for checking eye pressure.

Technically, the “direct ophthalmoscope” gives the most magnified view. Eye doctors, however, prefer small hand-held lenses (the 90-diopter) at the slitlamp.

“Cell” are individual cells floating in the anterior chamber. “Flare” is protein floating in the anterior chamber from inflamed blood vessels.

EXT (external exam) LL (lids & lacrimation) CS (conjunctiva & sclera) K (cornea) AC (anterior chamber) I (iris) L (lens) V (vitreous)

Flashing lights and floaters are the primary symptoms. Patients may also describe decreased vision and a “curtain” or “veil” over their vision.

Some of the glaucoma drops we use are sulfa-based. Older antibiotics are also sulfa-based, but aren’t used often these days.

With documenting retinal findings, the four main structures checked are: Macula, Vessels, Periphery, and Disk (optic nerve).