Dr. Alec Chaleff, MD

Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Alec Chaleff provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:

• Ectropion of Eyelid: An outward-turning eyelid, called ectropion, can cause dryness, irritation, and even infection; however, a simple procedure can usually reposition the eyelid, relieving discomfort and protecting your eye.
• Optic Neuritis: Characterized by blurry or reduced vision, sometimes accompanied by pain, optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve that, when treated, often leads to better vision outcomes and improved independence.
• Retinoschisis: Depending on the severity and symptoms, treatment for retinoschisis might include observation, laser surgery to seal retinal tears, or in severe cases, surgery to reattach the retina.
• Conjunctival Hemorrhage: Experiencing a red area in the white of your eye? This is often a conjunctival hemorrhage, a relatively common and self-resolving condition that usually doesn't require treatment and won't affect your vision or daily life.
• Iridocyclitis: Iridocyclitis is an eye condition involving inflammation of the iris and ciliary body, potentially affecting your vision. Early diagnosis and treatment with medication, often eye drops, can help control the inflammation and improve your eye health and quality of life.
• Drooping Eyelids (Ptosis): If you're experiencing a drooping eyelid, know that you're not alone and there are effective solutions. Treatment may improve your vision, making everyday tasks easier and safer.
• Congenital Nystagmus: While congenital nystagmus, present from birth, involves involuntary eye movements that affect vision, several management options, such as vision therapy and corrective lenses, are available to ensure your best possible sight.
• Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP): Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic eye condition that causes progressive vision loss, starting with difficulty seeing at night and eventually impacting daytime vision, but strategies for adapting to low vision can greatly help.
• Paralytic Strabismus: Paralytic strabismus means a problem with the nerves or muscles controlling eye movement, often resulting in misaligned eyes and double vision. Treatment focuses on improving eye coordination and vision through techniques like surgery or vision therapy.
• Corneal Diseases: Experiencing blurry vision, pain, or sensitivity to light might be a sign of corneal disease. Modern treatments provide effective management, often restoring vision and enabling continued enjoyment of your favorite activities.
• Dry Eyes: Dry eye disease is a common condition among seniors, causing discomfort and blurry vision due to insufficient lubrication of the eyes, but thankfully, there are effective treatments like artificial tears and lifestyle changes to relieve symptoms and improve vision.
• Diplopia: Double vision can be frightening, but it's often caused by underlying conditions that respond well to treatment. Your ophthalmologist can work with you to identify the cause and develop a plan for clearer, safer vision.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.