Kirk Eye Center

A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye that prevents light from clearly passing to the retina. It occurs when protein fibers in the lens of the eye are damaged. Once a cataract begins to form, it gradually grows opaque, causing faded, blurry and dim vision that worsens over time. Left untreated, cataracts can eventually lead to blindness. Fortunately, cataract eye surgery is a quick and effective procedure that removes cataracts forever. With more than two decades of cataract surgery experience, Dr. John Kirk has established a reputation as one of Northern Colorado’s most knowledgeable and trusted eye surgeons. If you have cataracts, contact Kirk Eye Center today by calling (970) 669 - 1107 or completing the form on this page. Our Loveland practice proudly welcomes patients from Windsor, Fort Collins and throughout the region. What Are The Symptoms of Cataracts? Some cataract sufferers compare their vision quality to peering through a smudged camera lens or a misty windshield. As the condition advances, your vision will continue to deteriorate and your symptoms will evolve over time. The early stages of cataract development typically offer few signs. At first, cataracts are microscopic and don’t block enough light to inhibit your vision in a significant way. The subtlety of a cataract’s initial formation also prevents you from experiencing other symptoms like needing more light to read, glare from oncoming headlights, or difficulty with fine print that could alert you to an impending problem. Over time, the clouded area over your eye’s lens increases, allowing less light to reach the retina. This gradually produces fuzziness or fogginess in your vision. Other symptoms include: Double vision Fading colors Increased sensitivity to light Difficultly seeing at night Strong glare from lamps or the sun Frequent adjustments in eyeglass prescriptions These symptoms can directly affect your ability to enjoy routine activities like reading, sewing, participating in recreational activities and driving at night. Some people temporarily overcome cataract symptoms by increasing their eyeglass prescriptions or utilizing a magnifying glass. However, these temporary solutions won’t adequately address an ever-diminishing field of vision. At some point, you may require cataract surgery to replace your eye’s failing lens with a lens implant (intraocular lens (IOL). What Are The Different Types of Cataracts? There are different classifications of cataracts that can form in your eye’s lens. The primary distinctions that classify the various manifestations of cataracts are origin and location. Cataracts Classified by Origin Classifications of cataracts based on their root cause include: Traumatic Cataract: A traumatic eye injury can cause cataracts in certain situations. Some develop almost immediately after an injury while other cases can take years. They are often caused by blunt trauma and chemical exposure. Radiation Cataract: Ultraviolet light and other forms of radiation can be responsible for cataract development in rare situations. Congenital Cataract: In rare instances, even newborns can suffer from cataracts. While mild cases may not present a significant impact on vision, serious cases could require cataract surgery. Left untreated, other problems such as amblyopia or strabismus could develop. Secondary Cataract: These cataracts emerge following eye surgery. Secondary cataracts are most common in patients who have undergone surgery to address glaucoma or various retinal issues. They can also develop after steroid use. Age-Related Cataract: This highly common form of cataract generally affects patients in their 60s or 70s. Cataracts Classified by Location Classifications of cataracts based on the location of the cloudy area on your eye’s lens include: Posterior Subcapsular Cataract: This type of cataract forms along the capsule that encases your eye’s lens, on the back of the lens. Posterior subcapsular cataracts are responsible for the appearance of halos, glare, blurry near vision and light sensitivity. Cortical Cataract: This cataract produces cloudiness on the cortex, the outer area of the eye’s lens. Cortical cataracts can be compared to spokes on a wheel that stretch toward the nucleus of the lens. Light scatters when hitting these "spokes." Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract: This common form of age-related cataract is caused by the gradual hardening and yellowing of the nucleus, the central area of your eye’s lens. These cataracts eventually lead to diminished vision.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that results in the loss of central vision, and it is the leading cause of vision loss among individuals over the age of 65. It causes deterioration of the center of the retina, the area that is responsible for detailed central vision. It does not affect peripheral (side) vision. At Kirk Eye Center we have extensive experience in treating age-related macular degeneration. Dr. John Kirk can recommend treatment with dietary supplements and provide injections of medicines and laser treatment to slow the progression of this disease and help preserve your vision. Dr. Kirk checks for this condition during all complete eye exams in order to catch treatable problems as early as possible. Please call (970) 669 - 1107 today to schedule an eye exam and evaluation for AMD at our Loveland ophthalmology office. macular degeneration img Find out more about Macular Degeneration: Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Symptoms of AMD AMD Treatment What is a Macular Hole What Causes a Macular Hole Symptoms of a Macular Hole Macular Hole Treatment Do I Need Surgery for a Macular Hole? What is a Macular Pucker Symptoms of a Macular Pucker Macular Pucker Causes Prevention and Diagnosis of a Macular Pucker Macular Pucker Treatment Contact Us Today Types of AMD There are two kinds of AMD, and the terminology is confusing. In a given eye, you may have either the first kind of AMD ("dry"), or both the first and second kind of AMD (both "dry" and "wet" at the same time). Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration: This first kind of AMD is more common. It begins with a slight change in the appearance of the macula. Yellow deposits called drusen begin to accumulate, and this eventually leads to dimmed or distorted vision. You may notice it most when reading. As the condition becomes more advanced, you may gradually develop blind spots near the center of your vision. Over a long period of time, dry AMD can cause loss of central vision. Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration: After dry AMD is present, a second kind of AMD may also appear (you may have either dry AMD, or BOTH dry and wet AMD at the same time). Wet AMD involves the growth of an abnormal blood vessel just beneath the retina and leads to fluid leakage, bleeding and scarring there. Wet AMD progresses rapidly over the course of weeks or months and usually causes complete loss of the center of your vision. This kind of AMD can be treated, and in many cases central vision can be preserved to a great degree Symptoms of Macular Degeneration During the earliest stages of AMD you may not notice any symptoms, or perhaps you'll have symptoms in only one of your eyes. Over time, you will likely experience a gradual worsening of your central vision. Common symptoms are: Shadowy areas in your central vision Fuzzy or distorted vision (straight edges look "warped") The need to use very bright light for reading and other close activities Blurred appearance of fine print Difficulty recognizing faces Difficulty seeing in dim light, especially after being outdoors Difficulty distinguishing between colors Macular Degeneration Treatment Dr. Kirk will evaluate your macular degeneration and decide on a treatment plan that will be of most help for you. For many people certain vitamin supplements (AREDS2 vitamins) are recommended. We may recommend that you check your vision daily, one eye at a time, using a card that has a grid printed on it. The most common treatment for wet AMD is to use injected medicines, such as Avastin, Lucentis and Eylea. Occasionally laser treatments are useful, and a few cases of wet AMD can be observed without treatment. What Is a Macular Hole? Your macula is responsible for providing crisp and clear central vision, which you use for everyday tasks such as driving and reading. The macula is located in your retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue near the center of your eye. The formation of an abnormal opening in this area of your eye, typically within weeks or months, is called a macular hole. What Causes a Macular Hole? Your eye is filled with vitreous jelly, which makes sure your eye keeps a round shape. A macular hole occurs when this gel-like substance pulls on your macula, creating a tear. Scar tissue on the surface of your retina can also lead to a macular hole. What Are the Symptoms of a Macular Hole? Macular holes develop gradually, and symptoms may start with blurred or distorted vision when you look straight ahead. Objects and lines may appear slanted or bent. Your ability to read and perform other everyday tasks could become difficult over time as well. However, symptoms vary per person. A blind spot in your central vision is another sign of a macular hole, and your side vision should remain the same.

Many individuals struggle with tired or sore eyes, which are often referred to as eyestrain. This typically arises at the end of the day or after completing a detailed, time-consuming task. Eyestrain develops most in people who work with computers or read a lot. Our eye doctors in Loveland can help you find relief from your symptoms and can identify if your tired eyes are due to stress or if an underlying eye condition such as glaucoma or dry eye syndrome is at fault. Schedule your eye exam at Kirk Eye Center in Loveland today by calling (970) 669 - 1107 or complete the form located on this page. Our Loveland office serves patients in Loveland, Windsor, Fort Collins and surrounding areas of Northern Colorado. Some of the most common questions we hear about eyestrain include: What is Eye Strain? Eye strain occurs when your eyes are fatigued from intense use. It’s a common condition and usually isn’t serious. Simple modifications, updated prescriptions, and other interventions may help relieve your eye fatigue. Is Eye Strain Common? Yes, eye strain is quite common. Many of us use computers as part of our daily lives, and just about everybody uses some kind of digital screen throughout the day. This tendency toward digital device use is often the culprit behind eye strain, but so too are eye problems and unaddressed nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. How Does Eyestrain Occur? A number of factors can cause eyestrain including: A vision problem such as farsightedness or eyes that don’t properly align and make it difficult for the eyes to work together. Working on a task for a long time without taking any breaks (for example, a long drive, computer work or reading). This causes the muscles responsible for moving and focusing the eyes to tire of staying in one place. Eyestrain could be caused by an improper workstation set up. Computer screen glare or glare from a window, as well as low lighting, can become an issue for eyestrain. What are the Signs of Eye Strain? You may have strained, tired eyes if you experience one or more of the following: Difficulty concentrating because your eyes are bothering you The sensation of dry, irritated eyes Sore or achy eyes The recurring temptation to rub your eyes Eye twitching Headaches Sensitivity to light Feeling like you need to squint in order to see These symptoms, especially if they occur daily, can interfere with your comfort and quality of life. Our experienced eye doctors are personally committed to helping our patients care for their eyes and alleviate these bothersome symptoms. What are the Risk Factors for Someone with Eye Strain? You may experience the symptoms of eye strain as a result of: Use of digital devices Computer-based professions Long distance driving Looking at something you are working on for extended periods of time Reading up-close for an extended period of time Dim lighting when you are reading or working Exposure to brightness and glare Vision disorders Strabismus Presbyopia Lack of sleep There may be other contributing factors. If your eyes continue to bother you, contact our experienced eye doctors to learn more about eye strain. What is the Prognosis of Eye Strain? The likely course of your eye strain depends on the cause. If your eyes are tired because of screen use, reading, bad lighting, poor posture while working, or other easy-to-manage behaviors, then the strain will likely go away once you have rested your eyes. Take steps to rest your eyes regularly to prevent future episodes of strain. If your eye strain is caused by an underlying health condition or vision problem, then you will probably continue to experience the symptoms until those issues are addressed. If your attempts at alleviating eye strain on your own are fruitless and the symptoms begin to interfere with your daily tasks, then you should contact our eye doctors. A new prescription or other vision services may be the right way to address your symptoms. How Is Eyestrain Diagnosed? Eyestrain is usually diagnosed during an eye exam. Our eye doctor will ask you to share any difficulties you’ve had with your vision including any eyestrain symptoms. Dr. Kirk will ask how long your eyes have been hurting, what you are doing when your eyes hurt and how often it happens. They will then carefully test your distance and near vision. Tests of your eyes’ ability to focus and work together will also be done. Our eye doctors will check the health of your eyes to make sure that the symptoms are not caused by a more serious medical condition as well.

If you suffer from diabetes, your body struggles to both store and process sugars. Even if your sugar levels are adequately managed, the blood vessels in your eye are still susceptible to damage and at risk of developing a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. Statistically, individuals with diabetes are up to 25 times more likely to develop severe and permanent vision loss than those without the disease. If you suffer from diabetes, please contact Kirk Eye Center today by completing the form on this page or calling (970) 669 - 1107 to schedule a consultation with Dr. John Kirk. We welcome patients from Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor and throughout Northern Colorado. active senior caucasian couple hiking in mountains with backpacks enjoying their adventure 4k What Is Diabetic Retinopathy? Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in which high blood sugar levels damage retinal blood vessels, harming the retina and causing loss of vision. Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the early stage of the condition and can occur at any time following the onset of diabetes. In this stage, the tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye expand, forming pockets that damage the retina. Although visual symptoms are seldom present, an examination can identify small hemorrhages known as microaneurysms. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) occurs when weakened retinal blood vessels close off and new blood vessels are created. The new blood vessels scar the retina. Compared to other diabetic eye diseases, PDR holds the greatest risk of vision loss and is the primary cause of blindness in working-age adults. Our Fort Collins diabetic retinopathy eye doctor can diagnose and treat this condition. Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy Your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy increases the longer you have had diabetes and the less you manage your blood sugar levels. You can also be at higher risk for the condition if you: Have high cholesterol Use tobacco Have high blood pressure Are pregnant While long-term diabetes and fluctuating blood sugar levels increase the risk for diabetic retinopathy, not all diabetics will develop the disease. In addition to attentively managing your diabetes, it is important to visit with an experienced ophthalmologist and establish an examination schedule appropriate to your unique situation. Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy The early stages of diabetic retinopathy can be nearly undetectable. Symptoms can include: Double vision Difficulty reading or performing close-up tasks Eye floaters and spots Eye pain or discomfort Distorted or blurry vision Involuntary eye movement Development of a shadow effect in your field of view During your eye exam at Kirk Eye Center, Dr. Kirk will look for other retinal damage, such as retinal swelling or leakage from blood vessels. How Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes? When you have diabetes, you have too much glucose in your blood. Consistently elevated glucose levels damage blood vessels throughout your body. In the eyes, where the blood vessels are tiny, sugar can cause blockages in the vessels that feed the retina and delicate macular tissue at its center. These blockages can cause the blood vessels to leak fluid into the eye. The body may also grow new blood vessels in the eye to counter those that have been damaged. However, these new blood vessels are unhealthy and usually leak even more blood, causing damage to surrounding tissues. How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed? Diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed via a dilated eye exam. In fact, this painless exam may be the first time you learn about this condition. To check your eyes, the doctor inserts special drops that cause your pupil to dilate (widen). This allows them to observe the back of your eye very easily using a special lens. The examination of your blood vessels, retina, and optic nerve provides the doctor with indications regarding your overall eye health and risk for diabetic retinopathy. If, during your exam, the doctor notices abnormalities in the blood vessels near your retina, they may order an additional test that takes pictures of these vessels. When Should a Diabetic Have a Complete Eye Exam? If you have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, you should schedule an eye exam right away. Tell your ophthalmologist that you have diabetes and how long ago you were diagnosed. This initial comprehensive eye exam will look at all parts of your eye for signs of blood vessel swelling or leaking, as well as the development of new blood vessels. It will observe your retina for signs of early detachment or blood accumulation. If you have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, you should have a comprehensive eye exam within five years of receiving your diagnosis.

Dry eye syndrome, or more accurately described as dysfunctional tear syndrome, affects more than 30 million Americans. It occurs when your tear glands produce either an inadequate amount or an insufficient quality of tear film. These complications can cause tear evaporation and considerable discomfort. Dr. John Kirk understands the impact dry eye syndrome can have on your life and is committed to providing the safest and most advanced methods for examining, diagnosing and treating the condition. If you are suffering from dry eyes and you are ready to find relief, Kirk Eye Center can help. Please call (970) 669 - 1107 to schedule an appointment with our doctors. We proudly serve patients in Loveland, Windsor, Fort Collins and throughout Northern Colorado. What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome? A healthy tear film is necessary to keep the surface of your eyes moist, smooth and clear. Your tear film is made up of three main layers: A sticky inner mucous layer that helps the tear film adhere to the surface of your eye A watery middle (aqueous) layer that cleans the eye An oily outer layer that minimizes tear evaporation The oils secreted on the outer layer of your tear film come from the Meibomian gland. This oily layer is responsible for providing the protective coating that keeps the aqueous layer functioning properly. When the Meibomian gland becomes blocked, your eye doesn’t produce a sufficient amount of oil to protect the aqueous layer of your tear film. It can result in excessive evaporation of the water contained in the aqueous layer, causing an uncomfortable friction between your cornea and eyelid. This condition is called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Approximately 86% of dry eye cases are caused by MGD. If this condition isn’t treated properly, the obstructed Meibomian glands will gradually produce less oil over time until the gland fully atrophies and stops producing oil entirely. At this point, you may be at risk of chronic discomfort and damage to the surface of your eye which may have a long-term impact on your vision. Other factors which may potentially increase your risk of dry eye syndrome include: Pollution Dry climate Allergies Certain medications Age Auto-immune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome Some of the most common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include: Blurry or double vision, particularly in the morning or evening Increased irritation from allergens and smoke Difficulty with contact lenses Eye fatigue Light sensitivity Feeling as though something is in your eye Burning sensation in the eyes Soreness in the eyes Scratchy, gritty feeling eyes Excessive tearing Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome Dry Eye Treatment The first step in treating dry eye syndrome is to determine the precise cause of your condition. We use LipiScan as a diagnostic tool to identify whether your dry eye symptoms are being caused by MGD. LipiScan provides our doctors with a high definition image of your Meibomian glands, allowing him to evaluate whether these glands are functioning properly. We use TearLab to determine your tear osmolarity. An elevated osmolarity is highly indicative of dry eye syndrome. After thoroughly examining your eyes, our doctors will recommend the best treatment for your unique situation and specific needs. At Kirk Eye Center, we offer a full range of solutions for dry eye syndrome, including: Artificial Tears – For mild cases of dry eyes, artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops are often the first step toward relief. Eye drops come in a variety of ingredients and viscosity (thickness). Our doctors will explain which option is best for you. Gels and Ointments – Similar to artificial tears, gels and ointments are recommended by Dr. Kirk to help lubricate and soothe your uncomfortable eyes. LipiFlow – This electronic device treats MGD by utilizing Vectored Thermal Pulsation technology that applies heat to your inner eyelids in conjunction with gentle massaging. It is highly effective at removing any obstructions from the Meibomian glands in order to restore proper oil flow to the outer layer of your tear film. BlephEx – This treatment cleans your eyelids to main proper hygiene in the region. It can be used in conjunction with other treatments to significantly reduce the risk that dry eye symptoms will return. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy – IPL therapy corrects the underlying cause of dry eye syndrome by liquefying and releasing the hardened oils blocking the Meibomian glands responsible for producing the oily outer layer of your tear film. Restasis/Xiidra – This prescription eye drop lubricates the eye’s surface while also reducing inflammation. It helps your body produce natural tears, keeping your eyes healthy, moist and comfortable

At Kirk Eye Center, we understand how important clear, crisp vision is to you. Even if you’re lucky enough to have enjoyed perfect eyesight throughout your life, sight deterioration is a natural aspect of growing older. Our laser eye surgery procedures are designed to treat degenerative vision loss and help you see the world in its full clarity. Dr. John Kirk has been helping Coloradans improve their eyesight for more than two decades. His individualized, client-focused care centers on finding the right solution to your unique situation. To learn how he can help you, please contact us today online by going to our contact page or at (970) 669 - 1107 to schedule an appointment. Our committed and compassionate staff proudly serves Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor and neighboring communities throughout Northern Colorado. What Are the Benefits of Fort Collins Laser Eye Surgery? Laser eye surgery can treat several vision problems, including: Myopia (Nearsightedness): This condition makes your vision blurry when looking at far away objects. Hyperopia (Farsightedness): This is the opposite of myopia. It results in your vision being blurry when looking at objects that are close. Astigmatism: When the shape of the front of your eye is imperfect, it can cause focusing problems for both near and far objects. Glaucoma: Laser eye surgery can help relieve built up pressure in the eye by draining excess intraocular fluid. Diabetic Retinopathy: Anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can experience diabetic retinopathy, which causes dark, discolored, or spotty vision. Many patients find that they no longer need to wear contacts or prescription glasses after laser eye surgery. No matter what vision problems you may have, Dr. Kirk can create a custom treatment plan that addresses your needs. Glaucoma Laser Eye Surgery Common to older patients, glaucoma is an eye disease that affects millions of Americans. If left untreated, the condition can eventually lead to blindness. Some instances of glaucoma can be effectively addressed with medications. In other cases, traditional or laser surgery is needed to relieve pressure in the eye. Common laser procedures include: Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT): Effective in approximately 75% of cases, ALT is used for individuals with primary open angle glaucoma. In this procedure, fluid drainage is increased by opening the trabecular passages. Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Performed on those with narrow-angle glaucoma, this procedure promotes fluid drainage and increase the angle between the cornea and iris. This is done by using the laser to make a miniscule hole in the iris. YAG Laser Cyclophotocoagulation (YAG CP): This treatment is used for patients with significant glaucoma damage. The procedure reduces intraocular fluid by eliminating the ciliary body that produces it. Retinal Laser Eye Surgery Lasers can be used to treat a number of medical retinal problems, from tears to diabetic retinopathy. Pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP), also known as scatter laser photocoagulation, applies tiny spots of laser energy to the edges of the retina without affecting the retina itself. Focal laser photocoagulation uses a laser to target specific blood vessels, remove damaged eye tissue and eliminate scar tissue. Dr. Kirk will evaluate your condition to ensure you receive the laser eye surgery that is right for your specific needs. You can rest assured that every procedure performed at Kirk Eye Center will be handled with the highest standards of professionalism and skill. If you are considering laser eye surgery in the Loveland area, please contact us today at (970) 669 - 1107 or complete the form on this page to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from Fort Collins, Windsor and throughout Northern Colorado. Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery? The ideal candidate for laser eye surgery is those who are at least 18 years of age and haven’t had a stable prescription for at least one year. Consulting with Dr. John D. Kirk will help us determine whether the health of your eye and medical history are eligible for laser eye surgery. However, in general, most patients in overall good health who are looking to free themselves from wearing glasses or contacts can undergo laser eye surgery. If you have an autoimmune disease or diabetes, are on medication, or are breastfeeding or pregnant, laser treatment may not be recommended for you. What Does Laser Eye Surgery Feel Like? Before the procedure, Dr. Kirk will administer eye drops that numb your eyes. Afterwards, he will use a suction tool to create a flap. You may feel mild pressure during this process. Once the laser hits your eye, you won’t feel anything.

What Are Thyroid Eye Disorders? The thyroid gland, which is located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. Metabolism is the rate at which the body’s cells do their work. Your heart rate and the rate at which you burn calories reflect your metabolism. When your metabolism is not normal, eye problems may develop. Not all thyroid disorders cause eye problems. How Do Thyroid Problems Occur? The exact cause of thyroid problems is not known. Possible causes include: A problem with the body’s immune system A growth on the thyroid gland A substance in your blood that causes the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone. The problem usually affects people who are middle-aged and older. It is uncommon in people younger than 20. What Causes Thyroid Eye Disorders? Thyroid eye problems are usually caused by hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone). Rarely hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone) can affect your eyes. What Are the Symptoms? At first, thyroid problems may not produce many eye symptoms. Later, symptoms of thyroid eye disorders may include: Bulging eyes. The eyes are pushed forward, and you appear to stare. Bulging may occur in one or both eyes and in different amounts. A scratchy or gritty feeling in your eyes, especially when you wake up. Eyelids that do not close completely or cover less of the eye than normal when you are awake. Dry eye, which can occur when eyelids do not close normally. Constant dry eye can damage the cornea (the clear dome on the front of the eye). Tearing, which is your body’s response to dry eye. Lid lag (for example, the eyelid does not move down correctly when you look down). Swelling, which can occur in many places, including: Upper and lower eyelids Tissues around your eyes The conjunctiva (the clear tissue that lines the eyelids and covers part of the eye) Blood vessels and other tissues inside the eye socket The optic nerve, which carries images to the brain The muscles that control the movement of the eye. Increased sensitivity to light. Blurred vision, sometimes with reduced color vision. Double vision, which may occur occasionally at first and then becomes more constant. Limited eye movement because of swelling in the muscles around the eye. One eye may be more limited than the other. The direction of movement may be different for each eye. How Are These Disorders Diagnosed? Your doctor will look at how much your eye bulges out. He or she may press gently on your eye through the eyelid to see how firm it is. (A very firm eye may have a tumor behind it.) Your doctor will look at the inside of your eye through an ophthalmoscope to see if there is any swelling or inflammation. Your doctor will ask you to look in all directions to check your eye muscles. He or she will check your color vision and pupils to see if your optic nerve has been damaged by the swelling of your eye muscles. Various lab tests may be needed, including tests for: An infection caused by bacteria Hormone levels Thyroid function. A test showing normal thyroid levels does not rule out thyroid disorders. You may still have eye problems that need treatment. If needed, your doctor may order an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI, which provide images of the inside of your eyes and eye sockets. These tests may show what is causing your symptoms. Who Is Most At Risk for Thyroid Eye Disorders? The most at-risk demographic for thyroid eye disorders is typically women. However, several other lifestyle habits may increase your risk of developing thyroid eye disorders, such as smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke, constant stress, and untreated thyroid disorders. People between the ages of 40 and 60 years old may also be at higher risk for thyroid eye disorders. What Happens If I Leave My Thyroid Eye Disorder Untreated? In its active phase, thyroid eye disease may last between one to three years. If left untreated, the progressing disorder, which involves inflammation on the nerve at the back of the eye and the formation of ulcers on the cornea, may cause damage to your vision, leading to double vision, blurred vision, dull color, and in severe cases, blindness. Because thyroid eye disorders may permanently damage your vision, it’s important you see your eye doctor if you feel you are experiencing any symptoms of this condition. What Are the Treatment Options? Thyroid eye disorders can be treated in a variety of ways. Some thyroid problems get better in time with no treatment. Your doctor may decide to do nothing at first and have you schedule regular follow-up visits. Medicines that may help include: Drugs to regulate the production of thyroid hormones Steroids to reduce inflammation and swelling

Before the emergence of intraocular lenses (IOLs), patients needed to wear thick glasses or special contact lenses in order to see following cataract surgery. Today, several types of IOLs are available for natural lens replacement, helping millions of people enjoy crisp, clear vision after cataract surgery. IOLs have been approved by the FDA since the early 1980s, and modern advances in IOL technology have significantly improved the clarity of vision they can provide. To learn more about your premium lens options and candidacy, contact Kirk Eye Center today by calling (970) 669 - 1107 or completing the form on this page to schedule an appointment. Our experienced ophthalmologist, Dr. John Kirk, welcomes patients from the Loveland, Windsor and Fort Collins areas of Northern Colorado. What Are Premium IOLs? Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are artificial lenses implanted in your eye to replace your eye’s natural lens. Although IOLs were initially used primarily to correct vision as part of cataract surgery, recent technological advances enable modern IOLs to address a wider range of vision issues. Traditional IOLs were monofocal, and only helped you achieve clear vision at one distance. This meant that you could see distant objects clearly, but you’d still need glasses to read and perform other near-vision tasks. Premium IOLs are much more advanced. Multifocal lenses allow you to see clearly at multiple distances without the need for glasses following your procedure. Premium IOLs provide several advantages compared to traditional IOLs, including: The ability to read easily and quickly Better vision in a variety of lighting conditions Better range of vision How Do IOLs Work? An IOL works like your eye’s natural lens. It focuses light that enters your eye through the cornea and pupil onto the retina. Most IOLs are about one-third of the size of a dime and made of a very flexible material. Similar to prescription eyeglasses, an IOL has the specific prescription that will provide you with the clearest vision possible. Most commonly, lens implants are used in cataract surgery, dramatically improving certain refractive disorders in the process, such as astigmatism, presbyopia and severe hyperopia. Types of IOLs Kirk Eye Center offers a variety of IOL options, all designed to effectively meet your unique visual needs. Monofocal IOLs A monofocal (standard) IOL provides excellent vision, but at only one distance. The focal point can be set to one of the following: Near – for activities such as reading or sewing Distance – for activities like driving or watching TV For decades, monofocal lens implants were the only option for insertion during cataract surgery. Patients would commonly choose monofocal implants that focused well on distant objects and rely on reading glasses to assist with close-up tasks. Some patients opt for a "monovision" strategy, which involves one eye being set for near vision and the other set for distance vision. Using this technique, the brain synthesizes the information received from both eyes to provide vision at intermediate distances. The monovision technique is not exclusive to monofocal lenses; any combination of premium IOLs can be used for cataract surgery. Multifocal IOLs Multifocal (premium) intraocular lenses contain additional magnification in different parts of the lens to expand the range of vision to see objects clearly at all distances without the need for eyeglasses or contacts. Presbyopia is a common condition that causes near vision to fade with age. It is the most prevalent eye condition in America and affects most people over the age of 40 and everyone by their early 50s. Multifocal lenses are specially designed to combat the effects of presbyopia, reducing the need for corrective lenses. Dr. Kirk offers the following premium IOL options: ReSTOR: These multifocal lens implants use a patented design that distributes light optimally to near, intermediate and distance focal points, based on the available amount of ambient light. This helps optimize vision quality in a variety of lighting conditions. Tecnis: The fully diffractive surface of this lens provides improved image quality under multiple lighting conditions and varying pupil sizes. Individual success with multifocal IOLs can depend on the size of the pupil and other health factors. Patients with astigmatism can ask Dr. Kirk about viable alternatives to these lenses, such as toric IOLs. Toric IOLs Toric IOLs are an ideal option if you need to correct astigmatism as part of your cataract surgery. Astigmatism is a condition that occurs when the cornea and/or the lens of your eye have an oval shape instead of a circular shape. This causes light to pass through your cornea and lens at different locations, creating different focal points which lead to blurry vision at all distances.

Welcome to Kirk Eye Center. Our dynamic team of optometrists, ophthalmologists & eye care professionals provides a wide range of services to help you achieve and maintain clear vision and optimal ocular health. To learn more about how we can help you and your family, contact us today by completing the form on this page or calling (970) 669 - 1107 . Our comprehensive ophthalmology practice serves patients throughout Colorado’s northern region, including Loveland, Fort Collins and Windsor. Optical Services Our full-service optical department can help you with all of your eyeglass and contact lens needs. Our extensive selection of products provides comfortable, attractive solutions for every style and every budget. Kirk Optical offers: On-site lab services Extensive lens and frame selection Prescription updates for glasses and contacts Eyeglass repairs Frame adjustments Comprehensive Eye Care Our reputation is built on the full range of eye care services and compassionate, individualized attention we provide for patients of all ages. Dr. John Kirk addresses the diagnosis and treatment of all types of vision-related issues, including: Cataracts Glaucoma Medical retinal problems Age-related macular degeneration Diabetic retinopathy Dysfunctional tear syndrome (dry eye) Patient-Focused Care Our goal is to provide professional, compassionate and customized ophthalmology services & eye care to every patient, every time. We strive to understand your unique needs and exceed your expectations. We value the trust you place in us. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kirk, please contact us today online or at (970) 669 - 1107 . Our Loveland ophthalmology office welcomes patients from Windsor, Fort Collins and throughout Northern Colorado.