Ophthalmology
Dr. Hugh Wright, MD is a comprehensive ophthalmologist specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of eye disease, including cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Dr. Wright is accepting new patients and cares for patients school-aged and older.
Dr. Wright is a trusted and established provider in the Gallatin Valley. Bozeman Health Ophthalmology is located at Bozeman Health Wellness Way Clinic at 3905 Wellness Way, Suite 3B in Bozeman.
Dr. Hugh Wright, MD
What do you enjoy most about being an Ophthalmologist?
“Ophthalmology is an extremely exciting area of medicine due to the continued innovation in the field with surgical and clinical management of eye disease. Having the ability to improve and restore vision is an amazing experience to share with my patients and their families.” ~ Dr. Hugh Wright
Areas of Focus:
- Routine eye care
- Diabetic eye exams
- Cataract surgery with standard and premium lens implants
- Medical and surgical management of glaucoma
- Medical and procedural management of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy
- Eye trauma/acute eye issues
- Lid biopsies
- Dry eyes
- Uveitis
Ophthalmology Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Glaucoma?
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. This damage can lead to vision loss or blindness if not treated promptly.
What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma often has no early symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may notice blind spots in your peripheral vision or a gradual loss of vision.
How is Glaucoma treated?
Treatment options include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, or surgery. The goal is to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage.
Can Glaucoma be prevented?
While Glaucoma cannot be prevented, early detection through regular eye exams can help manage the condition and slow its progression.
What is Cataracts?
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which leads to decreased vision. They are most common in older adults.
What causes Cataracts?
Aging is the most common cause of cataracts, but they can also result from trauma, radiation exposure, certain medications, and other medical conditions.
What are the symptoms of Cataracts?
Common symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, and seeing halos around lights.
How are Cataracts treated?
The primary treatment for cataracts is surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. This procedure is generally safe and highly effective.
What is Lid Biopsies?
What is a Lid Biopsy?
A lid biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the eyelid to diagnose or rule out certain conditions, such as skin cancer or chronic infections.
When is a Lid Biopsy needed?
A lid biopsy is typically recommended if there is an abnormal growth, persistent inflammation, or unexplained lesions on the eyelid.
What should I expect during a Lid Biopsy?
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. A small piece of tissue is removed and sent to a lab for examination. You may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising after the procedure.
Are there any risks associated with Lid Biopsies?
Complications are rare but can include infection, scarring, or bleeding. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for the biopsy site.
Uveitis:
What is Uveitis?
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It can cause eye redness, pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
What causes Uveitis?
Uveitis can be caused by autoimmune disorders, infections, eye injuries, or exposure to toxins. In some cases, the exact cause is unknown.
How is Uveitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam, including a review of your medical history, and may require blood tests or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause.
What are the treatment options for Uveitis?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the inflammation and may include corticosteroid eye drops, oral medications, or immunosuppressive drugs. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications like glaucoma or cataracts.
How does Diabetes affect the eyes?
How does Diabetes affect the eyes?
Diabetes can lead to various eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma, increasing the risk of vision loss.
What symptoms should diabetics watch for in eye health?
Diabetics should be alert to any changes in vision, such as blurriness, floaters, or vision loss, and report these to their doctor immediately.
What is a Diabetic Eye Exam?
What is a Diabetic Eye Exam?
A diabetic eye exam is a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilating the pupils to thoroughly examine the retina and other parts of the eye for diabetic complications.
How often should a diabetic eye exam be done?
Diabetics should have an eye exam at least once a year, or more frequently if their doctor recommends it.
What can I expect during a Diabetic Eye Exam?
The exam includes vision tests, intraocular pressure measurements, and a dilated eye exam to check for any diabetic-related changes.
Why is it important for diabetics to have regular eye exams?
Regular eye exams can detect early signs of diabetic eye disease, allowing for timely treatment to prevent vision loss.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related complication that affects the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss.
What are the symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?
Symptoms might include floaters, blurred vision, dark areas of vision, and eventual vision loss.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy treated?
Treatment options include controlling blood sugar levels, laser treatment, or surgery to prevent further damage.
Can Diabetic Retinopathy be prevented?
Keeping diabetes well-controlled with regular eye exams can prevent or slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Macular Degeneration:
What is Macular Degeneration?
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, leading to vision loss.
What are the symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
Symptoms include blurred central vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and dark or empty areas in the center of vision.
How is Macular Degeneration treated?
While there is no cure, treatment options like lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and injections can slow progression and help manage symptoms.
Can Macular Degeneration be prevented?
Risk factors include age, smoking, and genetics, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular eye exams can help manage the risk.
