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Winter Eye Care Tips

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As temperatures drop, you’re probably thinking more about how to keep yourself warm during the winter than about how to care for your eyes. Winter can be harsh on your eyes. Eye irritation and even eye injuries from winter sports are common.

Here are three eye care tips to help protect your eyes this winter:

  1. Prevent Dry Eyes. Dry eyes are common in the winter due to dry, cold air. The more you run your home heater, the more likely you will be to have dry eyes as using your heater reduces the moisture in the air, drying out skin and eyes. Dry winter air can also cause tears to evaporate more quickly. If you suffer from chronic dry eyes, the added irritation during the winter can be even more painful. To prevent dry eyes during the winter, drink plenty of water, use a humidifier to keep the air in your home or office moist, and use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to maintain eye moisture.
  2. Wear sunglasses with UV protection. Sunglasses aren’t meant just for the warm summer months. The sun can damage your eyes no matter the temperature. Snow on the ground reflects the sun’s UV rays. Wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, but they can also help protect your eyes from harsh, cold, winter winds.
  3. Wear goggles. Whether you’re going on an outdoor hike, or heading up to the mountains to ski, goggles are a must to protect your eyes from debris like dirt, bark, slush, and ice. Purchase a pair of goggles large enough for you to wear sunglasses underneath, or find a pair with built in UV protection.

If you are experiencing dry or irritated eyes, or you think your eyes may have been damaged by the sun or debris, contact our office today to make an appointment for an eye exam.

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Do I Need Eye Vitamins?

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As comprehensive ophthalmologists, we are commonly asked about the need for eye vitamins in maintaining ocular health.  Here are brief thoughts on the subject. 

In general, a healthy lifestyle and healthy diet are always a good thing.  We do not yet understand all the causes for eye disease, but we do know that disease of the body and poor lifestyle habits are associated with clinical eye disease.  Hence, we do recommend regular exercise and a diet rich in leafy green vegetables while avoiding lots of fatty, fried foods.  Eye Vitamins – per se – are not needed.  None of our ophthalmologists take them. 

Those with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) are a special population with regard to eye vitamins.  Several large studies have been done.  In summary, if you have enough macular degeneration on your eye examination, then taking a specific eye vitamin cocktail will lower the chance of developing significant vision loss by about 25%.  This is not a magic bullet, but it does pretty well for a vitamin!

If eye vitamins are recommended by your doctor for macular degeneration, then a common question is which one to purchase.  We recommend an eye vitamin with the “AREDS” endorsement. This stands for Age-Related Eye Disease Study.  There are several AREDS studies published, but the key is that your vitamin uses the same ingredients that have been proven to help.  Current or former smokers should use a special AREDS formula without beta-carotene; moreover, we urge you to quit smoking to lower your risk of vision loss.  Talk to your ophthalmologist for more information. 

Sadly, in 2015 we still have no good treatment for dry macular degeneration except for eye vitamins and a healthy lifestyle.  We do have options for treating the wet variety of the disease (about 10% of macular degeneration cases), but not the dry form.  We look forward to future studies on how to prevent this most common cause of blindness in our elderly population. 

Questions?  Our ophthalmologists at The Eye Center would be happy to take a look anytime.  Please call our office at 803-256-0641 and ask for an appointment to screen for medical eye disease 

References:

1)  Yong JJ, Scott IU, Greenberg PB.  Ocular nutritional supplements.  Ophthalmology 2015;122(3):595-599.

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Possible (Yet Rare) Side Effects of Cataract Surgery

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Patients who suffer from the gradually declining sight due to the development of cataracts find surgery offers them a viable way to regain vision. Modern advances in this procedure enable cataract patients to quickly see better than they may have ever before. Now performed on an outpatient basis, using minimally invasive laser procedures, cataract surgery stops the effects of cataracts permanently while also enabling doctors to correct other vision problems in the same maneuver.

Most people who undergo cataract surgery find the procedure is fast, relatively painless, and comes with an exceptionally short recovery time. In fact, most people are back at their normal routines in no time at all. That said, however, there are some side effects that are possible. They are extremely rare, but patients should be aware of them. After all, cataract removal is a surgical procedure and that, in and of itself, comes with the potential for occasional problems.

Here are some of the possible, but rare, side effects associated with cataract surgery:

  • Eye infections – These are very rare because antibiotics are given before, during and after surgery. Even so, some people may develop infections.
  • Swelling – Some people suffer swelling or fluid on their retinas. This is highly treatable.
  • Bleeding – It is possible for bleeding inside the eye to occur, but also quite rare.
  • Retinal detachment – This complication is considered highly uncommon, but it can occur. If it does, it must be treated immediately.
  • Drooping of the eyelid – This problem may also arise, but is not commonly reported. It is treatable.
  • Astigmatism – Should this issue arise it can be treated with glasses or surgery. It involves the distortion of images courtesy of a curved cornea.

Cataract surgery is a vision-saver. While complications may occur, they are not likely. Total loss of vision — and therefore quality of life — due to cataracts is very probable, should cataracts be left untreated.

To find out more about the benefits of cataract surgery, contact us today. Our experienced eye surgeons will discuss all possible complications at the time of your consult. But, rest assured, the majority of patients who undergo cataract surgery find themselves seeing better and feeling great in no time at all, with little to no side effects from the surgery. 

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4 Things To Know About Laser Eye Surgery

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Making the decision to have any type of surgery is a big one. After all, surgery generally involves the permanent alteration of the body. While it’s often needed and for the best, it is okay to tread lightly and gather the facts when surgery is considered “optional.”

For those considering laser eye surgery, the benefits of this type of procedure often far outweigh any potential negative outcomes or side effects. Performed on an outpatient basis with little recovery time involved, laser eye surgery can transform vision from terrible to near perfect in a matter of moments.

Are you considering laser eye surgery? Here are a few facts and tips to help guide your decision:

Laser eye surgery is safer than long-term contact use.

Statistics show that people who use contact lenses for long periods of time are more likely to develop eye problems than those who undergo laser surgery. This is partly due to the fact that contacts can cause dry, itchy eyes and may increase risk of infection.

Consult with an eye surgeon before making your decision.

When trying to determine if laser eye surgery is right for you, consult with an eye surgeon directly. Many people are told by other eye professionals they are not likely candidates. Surgeons, however, have more experience in the realm and are better poised to make the recommendation. To get all the facts, visit a licensed, skilled eye surgeon for a consultation.

Laser eye surgery offers long-term benefits.

Some people believe the results “wear off” over time. This is simply not true. While eyes can change over time and require new interventions, the results of laser eye surgery do not wear off.

Laser eye surgery is not painful.

Fears about pain during and after surgery are big reasons why some people avoid this type of procedure. The reality is that laser eye surgery does not hurt. The procedure takes less than 10 minutes for both eyes and typically only involves very minor discomfort. Recovery time is short and most patients only experience minimal discomfort.

Laser eye surgery can transform your life from being dependent on corrective lenses to having near perfect vision in a matter of moments. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, schedule a consultation with us today to get all the facts as they related to your individual case.

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Laser Eye Surgery Myths Busted

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While hundreds of thousands of people have successfully undergone laser eye surgery to correct near or far sightedness, a lot of mystery still surrounds this highly successful procedure. To help clear up some misconceptions, here are a few of the common myths that shroud this vision correction option and the facts to debunk them:

Laser procedures, such as a LASIK, are right for everyone.

Laser eye surgery can prove to be highly successful for many people, but it’s not right for all patients. Reputable surgeons will generally advise against the procedure if underlying medical conditions, for example, might hamper the potential outcome. It’s best for a qualified surgeon to make the decision whether a person is clinically suitable for the procedure.

It takes time for the results to appear.

This isn’t generally true. For some people, the results are immediate and rather pleasing. While surgeons cannot guarantee 20/20 vision, many people find that is exactly what they end up with.

The results don’t last.

The surgical procedures involved are permanent and the results are, too. Some patients, however, do experience regression. When that occurs, a secondary procedure may be advised. Regression occurs as a result of the healing process. Getting laser eye surgery doesn’t mean you won’t need reading glasses with age, either. It is common for adults to need reading glasses as they age, whether or not they’ve had laser eye surgery.

The surgery is painful.

During the procedure itself, patients feel nothing at all since the eye is numbed with drops. Even so, it is possible for some discomfort to appear in the first few days after the procedure. Most patients, however, do not experience this.

Laser eye surgery can help people leave a lifelong dependency on eye glasses or contacts behind. To find out more about the procedure, it’s best to consult with a qualified eye surgeon. Not every person is a good candidate for this type of intervention. A doctor is best positioned to offer advice in individual cases.

If you would like to know more about laser eye surgery options and find out which option is best for you, schedule an appointment with us today.

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Are Glasses Necessary After Cataract Surgery?

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Being able to see through eyes that are no longer clouded from cataracts is a big deal for patients who undergo cataract surgery. Being able to see clearly without glasses is a bonus that many also realize. While it’s not always feasible for surgeons to completely correct nearsightedness and farsightedness when cataracts are removed, new procedures are making it more and more possible.

So will you need glasses after your cataract surgery? In most cases, no.

Cataract surgery involves the removal of the eye’s lens. During the procedure, the lens that has been damaged due to a cataract is completely removed using a laser. Once it is gone, doctors will carefully replace the lens with an artificial lens implant. The lens used can be designed to correct near or farsightedness. That means when you go in for cataract surgery, you will most likely have your vision corrected at the same time.

While not too long ago surgeons were only able to fix farsightedness, new breakthroughs in multi-focal lenses have made a big difference on this front. Special lenses have also been designed to help people who suffer from nearsightedness as well. Add to this the fact that some surgeons can actually correct astigmatism during the cataract removal and the options are staggering for those who are used to living life behind a pair of glasses.

Cataract surgery has come a very long way in recent years with many people finding they can leave their glasses behind after a successful operation. Courtesy of laser technology, the procedure takes just minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis for your comfort and convenience.

If cataracts are a concern, be sure to consult with a skilled surgeon about all available options. Keep in mind, too, that surgeons cannot guarantee 20/20 vision, but many patients find they enjoy it after the procedure is performed.

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Using Your Phone at Night is a Bad Idea. Here’s Why…

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In an age where mobile technology has taken over, it can be difficult to set boundaries for using your mobile device. We’re all guilty of checking our phones at night, or even reading on them before bed, but doing so is bad for your eyes and can have other serious health implications as well. 

Limiting your screen time at night can help you sleep better and keep your eyes healthy, but it may also help reduce your risk of other weight gain, heart disease, some cancers, memory problems.

Here are just a few reasons why you should limit your screen time at night. Using your phone before bed…

  • May cause early cataracts. Some eye doctors believe an increase in cataract cases among younger adults may to be linked to the use of digital devices.
  • Could lead to macular degeneration. Digital devices emit a blue light emitted, which can damage the retina and cause macular degeneration.
  • Makes you less alert during the day. Poor sleep at night means will be less alert and sleepier during the day.
  • Can cause weight gain. Poor sleep habits can slow your metabolism. Without adequate sleep, you’ll also find it harder to control cravings.
  • Can lead to diabetes and/or heart disease. If poor sleep quality can cause obesity, it can also lead diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as well as other health problems.
  • May increase risk of some cancers. Using your digital device before bed reduces production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Chronic melatonin suppression may increase risk of some cancers including breast and prostate cancer.
  • Causes attention and memory problems. Poor sleep results in an inability to focus during the day and can even cause memory problems. To prevent attention and memory problems from lack of sleep, turn your phone off at least an hour before bed.
  • May be linked to depression. Research suggests that suppressed melatonin can also lead to depression.

At least an hour before going to bed at night, turn off all digital devices, including your TV, phone, and tablet. If you need to wind down or want to read before bed, pick up a book instead.

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10 Tips to Care For Your Contact Lenses

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Do you wear contact lenses? Taking care of your contacts is important to prevent and eye infection or damage to your eyes. In a survey of people who wear contact lenses, 85 percent believed they follow proper contact lens care, but only one percent were found to be fully compliant with guidelines for proper contact lens use and care.

Whether you are new to contact lenses or have been wearing them for years, here are 10 contact lens care tips to review.

  1. Have your first pair of contact lenses fitted by an eye doctor who can show you how to properly put them in and remove them.
  2. Wash your hands before handling your contacts. Anything on your fingers could get on your contacts and cause irritation or even infection.
  3. Store your lenses in a clean case with the lids screwed securely to prevent your contacts from drying out. Always rinse your case between uses and leave the lids off to allow your case to dry while you are wearing your contacts. Replace your case every few months. (A new case comes with every bottle of contact lens solution—use it!)
  4. Only use contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor to clean and store your contacts.
  5. Don’t wear contact lenses longer than prescribed. If they are two-week lenses, be sure to replace them every two weeks.
  6. Avoid using tap water to clean your contacts or contact lens case.
  7. Never use saliva to moisten your contact lenses. Doing can cause an eye infection.
  8. Avoid swimming with your contacts in or wearing them in a hot tub.
  9. Never share your contact lenses with another person.
  10. Avoid falling asleep in your contact lenses.

Don’t get lazy when it comes to caring for your contact lenses. Failing to follow these tips could result in eye irritation or even infection. If you have questions about your contact lenses, or experience discomfort when wearing them, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. 

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Keep Your Eyes Healthy with Regular Exercise

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Regular workouts help keep your heart strong and reduce risk of obesity, diabetes, and other major health concerns, but hitting up the gym on a regular basis can also be good for your eyes.

Research shows that regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of several eye conditions including: age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration—the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over 60—causes vision loss as the light-sensitive cells or neurons in the macula begin to fail.

One study published in the British Journal of Opthalmology found that people are physically active may be as much as 70 percent less likely to develop AMD than people who are sedentary. Why? Exercise reduces inflammation in the body, including inflammation in the blood vessels in the eyes. Regular exercise may also slow aging, therefore reducing one’s risk of this age-related eye condition.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is characterized by an increase in ocular pressure in the eye. People who get regular exercise are less likely to experience a buildup in pressure. One study found that people who did regular, moderate physical activity were 25 percent less likely to develop glaucoma than people who were less active.  

Routine exercise can also help people who have already developed the eye condition, as moderate exercise helps to lower intraocular pressure and improve blood flow to the retina.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is common among diabetics and is the leading cause of blindness in adults. Regular exercise can help prevent diabetes and help keep the condition under control for people who have already been diagnosed. Managing diabetes through regular exercise and a healthy diet is key in preventing the development of diabetic retinopathy.

How Much Exercise Do You Need?

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes—or 30 minutes, five days a week— of moderate intensity physical activity (such as brisk walking) every week. Make regular exercise a priority for your overall health, including the health of your eyes.

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Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

What to Expect From Laser Eye Surgery

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While the promise of a possibility of 20/20 vision is rather alluring for those who find themselves dependent on their glasses or contacts, fear may keep some away from laser eye surgery. This highly routine, commonly performed procedure can be a rather scary proposition, after all, but it doesn’t need to be. 
 

In roughly 20 minutes’ time, many people find their vision dramatically improved from an experience that is much, much less intimidating that it might seem on the surface.

So, what can patients really expect from laser eye surgery? Here are few points those who have gone through the simple procedure say prospective patients should know about:

  • Simple process – The procedure typically begins with the use of some numbing drops that are placed into the eyes. After that, a laser is used to create a flap. Once that’s done, the cornea is reshaped to correct the vision problem. The first part can cause some discomfort, but not much, many patients say and the second involves a bit of pressure.
  • Strange sensations – While many patients report nothing more than a tiny bit of discomfort, the experience can feel a little strange to some. The pressure on the eye when the flap is made is an unusual feeling some report and the smell of slightly singed flesh can be a bit disconcerting. Even so, most report these sensations only last for seconds and are very much worth the reward.
  • Amazing outcome – Doctors cannot guarantee 20/20 results, but many patients report the outcome is incredibly pleasing. In less than a half-hour, many people go from being completely dependent on glasses to not needing them at all.

If you are considering laser eye surgery to correct vision problems, contact us today for a consultation. The experience can be a little different for each patient, but this surgery is typically quite quick and painless. Recovery tends to be very fast, as well, with most patients able to go about their normal routines almost immediately.

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Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.