See What Matters

October 12 is World Sight Day and this year’s theme is #LoveYourEyesInTheWorkplace. The global event aims to make everyone aware of their eye health and to understand how we can protect our vision for the future. Learn how to love your eyes at work here.

In support of World Sight Day, the Eye Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi encourages everyone to learn more about eye screenings and the vital role they play in the health of our eyes. From children to the elderly, routine eye examinations can help us to protect our eyesight.

Pediatric Eye Exams

Early, regular eye exams for children are essential in preventing vision issues in the future. Any suspected eye problems should always be seen by a specialist, as many conditions can affect vision for life if not treated early.

Eye diseases in children are different to those in adults and require a specialized approach. The experienced team within our Pediatric Eye Service work together to provide the best possible care for children. Some of the conditions that pediatric screening can detect, include:

Amblyopia: Also known as a lazy eye, amblyopia is the most common reason for vision loss in children but is easy to detect through an early eye exam. If it isn’t treated in childhood, it can lead to permanent visual impairment. Learn More.

Refractive Error: This is a common problem that reduces a child’s vision. It is easily identified through regular eye exams. Types of refractive error include near sightedness (myopia), far sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. Our Myopia Clinic also offers treatment for progressive myopia, a condition associated with an increased risk of blindness later in life if not diagnosed and treated early. Learn More. 

Cataract: Cataracts in children or pediatric cataracts, are cloudiness in the lens in the eye of a baby at, or shortly after, birth. It is very important that the condition is diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible as the critical period for visual development is in the first few months of life when an infant's brain develops vision in response to a clear image. Immediate treatment can prevent long-term visual impairment.  

Glaucoma: This develops when there is an increase in eye pressure. The high pressure damages ocular structures in young children, particularly the optic nerve, and if untreated leads to permanent visual loss. 

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recommends at least one routine ophthalmologic screening by the age of 4, to help prevent vision loss later in life. This is essential for children with a family history of eye problems.

Adult Eye Exams

Regular eye exams, that go beyond vision tests and evaluation for glasses prescription, are key to finding eye diseases early. Not only can eye exams save your sight, they can also offer an insight into your overall health and should be a part of your general health routine. Our Eye Institute offers the latest in prevention, diagnostics and treatment for a range of adult eye conditions, including:

Glaucoma: One of the world’s most common causes of blindness, glaucoma is an eye disease caused by a group of conditions, that lead to progressive loss of vision if left untreated. Regular eye exams can help identify the problem early, when glaucoma is easier to treat. Learn More.

Keratoconus: Usually diagnosed in teenagers and young adults, keratoconus causes the cornea to weaken, leading to blurred vision, the appearance of ‘halos’ at night, light streaking and a sensitivity to light. Regular eye exams are key to identifying the problem early. Learn More.

Diabetic retinopathy: This is an eye disease associated with diabetes and is also a leading cause of blindness in the world. Our Diabetic Eye Disease Experts recommend regular examinations to help in the early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy and to prevent vision loss and blindness. Learn More.

Neuro-ophthalmological conditions: A wide range of vision problems related to the nervous system. Our Neuro-Ophthalmology Program specializes in caring for patients with a range of complex conditions affecting neurological control of the visual system, such as vision loss, optic nerve problems, abnormal eye movements, and more.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recommends a routine eye examination for all adults over the age of 40 years.

Patients with specific diseases such as diabetes require at least yearly comprehensive eye examination to maintain the health of the eyes and protect vision. Similarly, patients with specific eye conditions such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration need close monitoring with frequent eye exams to allow for timely treatment and slow down or prevent vision loss.

Our Eye Institute Services

The Eye Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic services, from digital imaging to laser and surgical procedures. Our experienced ophthalmologists, orthoptists, residents, nurses, and technicians work together to provide the best possible care for your eyes.