Eyelid Inflammation, Infection & Blepharitis

“Eyelid inflammation, called blepharitis is a common and ongoing condition where the eyelids become inflamed and swollen, with oily particles and bacteria coating the eyelid margin near the base of the eyelashes,” explained Center for Sight Ophthalmologist Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. “This eyelid condition is a problem and annoying because it causes irritation, itchiness, redness, and stinging or burning of the eyes,” Dr. Hofeldt shared. While the underlying causes of blepharitis aren't completely understood, it can be associated with a bacterial eye infection, symptoms of dry eyes or certain types of skin conditions such as acne rosacea. Blepharitis is often a chronic, or ongoing, condition, but it can be controlled with one of more types of treatment that may include warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, antibiotic ointment, nutritional therapy and good overall eyebrow, scalp and hair hygiene.

If you or someone you know suffers from eyelid inflammation, infection or blepharitis please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, or visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Fall River LASIK Surgeon on Astigmatism

“LASIK for Astigmatism is not only possible-but we use it all the time as an excellent way to correct vision”, said Fall River LASIK Surgeon Keegan Johnson, M.D. of Center for Sight.. “Astigmatism correction can be confusing to patients. A number of people are under the incorrect impression that having astigmatism means you can’t have Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK to correct your vision,” commented Dr. Johnson.

Here is what you need to know about LASIK and astigmatism. First, astigmatism is one of the common types of refractive problems that cause blurry vision. Common refractive-or eye focus problems-include nearsightedness or myopia, farsightedness or hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Astigmatism usually results from an unequal curvature of the cornea-the outermost clear dome in the front of the eye-that causes the eye to have two different curvatures and thus two different focal points. This can make images look more blurry at a specific orientation so that things horizontally are blurred or things vertically are blurred, depending on the direction of the astigmatism. Astigmatism can be very annoying visually and can even cause headaches and many visual symptoms apart from the blurriness itself. The visual distortions caused by astigmatism in healthy eyes are correctable with eyeglasses, contact lenses and Laser Vision Correction such as LASIK. Astigmatism has been correctable with Laser Eye Surgery for more than 15 years in the United States. “Today, as LASIK surgeons, we are able to accurately measure and treat all types of astigmatism with high degrees of precision and predictability”, said Dr. Johnson.

If you or someone you know has astigmatism and would like to be less dependent or possibly even free from the hassle of glasses and contact lenses for seeing at distance, please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, or visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment for a Free Evaluation for Laser Eye Surgery for the Laser Vision Correction of astigmatism.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Cataracts & Night Driving Problems in Fall River

Corneal Specialist & Cataract Surgeon Keegan Johnson, M.D. of Center for Sight in Fall River offered some thoughts about night driving and cataracts. “Patients often tell me that one of the most troubling things about their vision with cataracts is how disturbed they are while driving at night,” said Dr. Johnson. “Driving at night is already difficult enough as reduced lighting can cause you to misjudge distances and boundaries like the edge of the road as well as simply causing an overall dimming of your vision,” Dr. Johnson further explained. “So, if have been told that you have the beginning of a cataract and you are becoming fearful of night driving  with cataracts, it might well be time to consider whether cataract surgery might be a good option to help you regain your night driving comfort level,” Dr. Johnson recommended.

If you or someone you know feels they have night driving problems that might be related to cataracts or has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to schedule an eye exam by calling Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Contact Lenses & Self Esteem for Teens

Contact lenses can play an important role in helping adolescents-especially teenagers-with some difficult times for their self esteem and self image. “Teens and tweens are often quite challenged during adolescence by the “Trifecta of Awkwardness-braces, acnes and glasses!” commented Fall River Contact Lens Specialist Dr. Fatima Raposo, an eye doctor at Center for Sight. “Teenagers often experience the peer pressure and insecurity created by concerns about appearance at these ages,” Dr. Raposo explained.

Not being able to play sports or worrying about how they look can leave many teens feeling anxious, stressed out and unhappy. “We love fitting children and adolescents in this age group with contact lenses because we routinely see that teens who wear contact lenses benefit beyond simply correcting their vision. They typically improve in how they feel about their physical appearance, their acceptance among friends and of course their ability to play sports,” further explained Dr. Raposo.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about contact lenses or schedule an appointment for a contact lens fitting please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, or visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Eyelid Inflammation, Infection & Blepharitis

“Eyelid inflammation, called blepharitis is a common and ongoing condition where the eyelids become inflamed and swollen, with oily particles and bacteria coating the eyelid margin near the base of the eyelashes,” explained Center for Sight Ophthalmologist Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. “This eyelid condition is a problem and annoying because it causes irritation, itchiness, redness, and stinging or burning of the eyes,” Dr. Hofeldt shared. While the underlying causes of blepharitis aren't completely understood, it can be associated with a bacterial eye infection, symptoms of dry eyes or certain types of skin conditions such as acne rosacea. Blepharitis is often a chronic, or ongoing, condition, but it can be controlled with one of more types of treatment that may include warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, antibiotic ointment, nutritional therapy and good overall eyebrow, scalp and hair hygiene.

If you or someone you know suffers from eyelid inflammation, infection or blepharitis please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, or visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Cataract Surgery with Diabetes in Fall River

If you suffer from diabetes, develop a cataract and need cataract surgery in Fall River you will be in good hands at Center for Sight. According to Retina Specialist & Cataract Surgeon Robert Kelly, M.D., “Diabetes is a known risk factor for developing cataracts. Fortunately, cataract surgery can be successfully performed for patients with diabetes and even for diabetic patients at risk for or who have developed diabetic retinopathy-a serious threat to vision and a leading cause of new blindness.”

Researchers believe that the abnormal carbohydrate and sugar metabolism that is the hallmark of diabetes causes the sugars and metabolic byproducts to damage the crystalline lens of the eye and form a cataract. “It is not uncommon for diabetic patients to need cataract surgery-often at an earlier age than others who are not diabetic. While diabetes is known to cause difficulty with wound healing, the type of cataract surgery we perform today using a tiny incision, no stitches and with eye drops for anesthesia, really poses no additional risk to diabetic patients compared to non diabetic patients, “shared Dr. Kelly.

Dr. Kelly further stressed, “It is important that diabetics considering cataract surgery have a careful evaluation of the retina-especially the macula-using ocular coherence tomography (OCT) to identify the presence of diabetic macular edema (DME), a known finding in diabetic retinopathy that can cause less then optimal results after cataract surgery.” In addition, in certain situations cataract surgeons may elect to take an added precaution of placing an injection of VEGF inhibitor such as Eyelea® or Lucentis® into the vitreous of the eye to prevent new blood vessel growth. Other than these considerations diabetic cataract surgery can offer patients good results. Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to preserving eye health and vision with diabetes. See your eye doctor regularly as he or she requests.

If you or someone you know has questions about diabetes and cataract surgery please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Eye Exams in Fall River for Diabetic Retinopathy

Center for Sight Retina Specialist Robert Kelly, M.D. advised patients with diabetes to have regular eye exams to help preserve eye health and vision. “Regular eye exams are the best way to help prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy,” said Fall River Retina Specialist Robert Kelly, M.D. “The eye examinations for diabetic retinopathy need to be thorough and when necessary include advanced testing such as retinal photography, fluorescein angiography and ocular coherence tomography, or OCT in order to really document how the retina and it’s blood vessels are functioning,” Dr. Kelly further explained. “Depending on the severity and the risk of progression of each patient’s diabetic retinopathy we will advise them of the frequency and intervals for their exams. But, patients with diabetes need to know that it is terribly important to keep their appointments.”

Vision loss from diabetes and especially catastrophic vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented with early detection, diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams by calling Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Diabetes and Your Eyes

Diabetes can have a significant effect on your eyes and vision. Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively to control blood sugar levels. Although glucose is an important source of energy for the body’s cells, too much glucose in the blood for a long time can cause damage in many parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, blood vessels and the small blood vessels in the eyes. When the blood vessels in the retina swell, leak or close off completely, or if abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina, it results in diabetic retinopathy. Those people who are at greater risk of developing diabetic retinopathy are those with poor blood sugar control, women who are pregnant and people with high blood pressure, high blood lipids or both. Also, people who are from certain ethnic groups, such as African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans, are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes can cause vision in your eyes to change even if you do not have retinopathy. If your blood sugar levels change quickly, it can affect the shape of your eye’s crystalline lens, causing blurry vision, which goes back to normal after your blood sugar stabilizes. Maintaining good control of your blood sugar helps reduce episodes of blurry vision.

If you or someone you know has diabetes or even high blood sugar, especially if there is a family history of diabetes-you should have regular eye exams to help protect your eye health and vision. Please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Fall River Retina Specialist on Diabetic Eye Disease & Problems

Robert Kelly, M.D. a Retina Specialist in Fall River, Massachusetts at Center for Sight commented on diabetic eye disease and diabetic eye problems as Prevent Blindness America has designated November as National Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month.

“What we know from the most recent Prevent Blindness America Vision Problems in the U.S. report is that diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults 20-74 years of age. According to the Centers for Disease Control, diabetes affects 25.8 million people in the United States. Although there is no cure for diabetic eye disease, annual eye exams for diabetes patients are essential to help slow the progression of the disease,” said Dr. Kelly.

The Prevent Blindness America Vision Problems in the U.S. identified that there are almost 8 million people ages 40 and older who have diabetic retinopathy. This represents an 89 percent increase between the years 2000-2012. “While it is not surprising that the incidence of some eye diseases and problems is increasing with the aging of the baby boomer population, it is terribly disturbing to see the dramatic spike in diabetic retinopathy cases, a consequence of the diabetes epidemic that this country is experiencing with no end in sight,” Dr. Kelly explained.

The vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented if it's caught early and treated in time. More than one third of those diagnosed with diabetes do not adhere to vision care guidelines recommending a dilated eye exam every year. As part of Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month we are urging people with diabetes to have a dilated eye exam every year. The longer a person has diabetes, the greater his or her risk for developing diabetic retinopathy. However, diabetic retinopathy does not only affect people who have had diabetes for many years, it can also appear within the first year or two after the onset of the disease.

“Blood sugar levels can weaken blood vessels causing them to break down which causes swelling, hemorrhages and lipid deposits that can ultimately lead to vision loss. More ominous is the effect of the blood vessel breakdown and oxygen deprivation in promoting fragile new blood vessel growth that can easily break resulting in vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment and catastrophic vision loss,” further explained Dr. Kelly.

In addition to having regular eye examinations and testing at the direction of your eye doctor, patients can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease  by not smoking, controlling their cholesterol and lipid profile and blood pressure, as well as working to eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fish, fruit and green leafy vegetables and exercising.

If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams by calling Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Fall River Cataract Surgery & Lens Implant Cost

“The cost of cataract surgery and lens implants can get a little confusing,” commented Marie Urfer, Practice Administrator at Center for Sight in Fall River, Massachusetts. “Here is some information that we think will be helpful for those patients contemplating cataract surgery and lens implants,” she explained.

Almost all insurances and Medicare cover the bulk of the cost of cataract surgery and basic lens implants. HOWEVER, deductibles, co-pays and the extent to which certain services are or are not covered can affect the actual amount you might need to pay out of pocket.

Preoperative Testing and Consultation
With the exception of co-pays and deductibles specific to your insurance plan the eye examination, consultation and measurements necessary for Cataract Surgery and basic Intraocular Lens (IOL) implantation are covered services. If there are specialized tests that might be required such as more precise types of testing for multifocal lens implants or toric lens implants, you may need to pay for these tests out of pocket as your insurance and Medicare may only cover the basic testing. If this is the case these extra tests may range in cost up to a few or several hundred dollars depending on the scope of the necessary testing.

Surgery Center Facility Fee
The surgery center facility fee is generally covered by insurances and Medicare although there may be a small co-pay or deductible with certain plans. This fee will cover the use of the facility including the operating room, the nursing staff, the instrumentation and equipment and all related operating room supplies. Depending on the types of anesthesia used it is possible that there will be an additional fee-mostly covered by your insurance or Medicare-for the administration of anesthesia and the staff.

Cataract Surgeon’s Fee
The Cataract Surgeon’s fee is generally covered by insurances and Medicare although there may be a small co-pay or deductible with certain plans.

Lens Implant Fee
The cost of a basic Monofocal lens implant is generally covered by insurances and Medicare within the facility fee. However, should you and your Cataract Surgeon elect to use an astigmatism correcting toric lens implant or multifocal lens implant there will be an out of pocket fee as most insurances and Medicare do not cover these more advanced types of Lens Implants.

If you or someone you know has questions about the cost of cataract surgery and lens implants please feel free to Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Fall River Eye Doctor on Computer Use & Eyestrain

Dr. Cristina Lopes, an eye doctor at Center for Sight in Fall River helped us understand the relationship between computer eyestrain, computer use and video terminal display use. “Excessive computer use or looking at video displays or even computer game screens for periods of time can cause patients to experience eyestrain,” explained Dr. Lopes. There are some important things to know about computer and video display terminal use, your eyes and eyestrain. “Staring at your computer screen, smartphone, video game or other digital devices for long periods won’t cause permanent eye damage, but your eyes may feel dry and tired. Although there are no long-term studies at this time, we do not believe there is any reason to be concerned that 3-D movies, TV or video games will damage the eyes or visual system,” she explained.

Normally, you blink about 18 times a minute, but only blink half that often while using computers and other digital screen devices, whether for work or play. Reading, writing or other intensive “near work” can also cause eyestrain of a similar nature.

What Should I Do for Computer Eyestrain?

• It is helpful in avoiding computer related eyestrain if you first position yourself about 24” from the screen you are viewing and with your eye gaze is slightly downward. It also helps to reduce glare from the screen by lighting the area properly and if possible use a screen filter if needed.
• It may seem silly but post a note that says “Blink!” on the computer as a reminder.
• Use the “20-20-20” rule. Every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.
• It is also helpful to use artificial tears to refresh your eyes when they feel dry. Make sure that you take regular breaks from computer work, and be sure to get enough sleep at night.
• If you wear contacts for the computer screen it’s important that you use and care for them properly in order to avoid eye irritation, swelling, infection and vision problems. Also, give your eyes a break and wear your glasses instead of your contacts sometime.
• Consider a special prescription and lens coating for computer use to help manage eyestrain and fatigue.

If you wish to learn more about computers, vision, eyestrain and your eyes please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Fall River Halloween Contact Lens Safety

Fall River Corneal Specialist Keegan Johnson, M.D. shared some words of caution about contact lens safety, Halloween and your eyes. “Halloween, decorative contact lenses and your eyes may not be a great combination,” stated Dr. Johnson of Center for Sight. “Right around Halloween each year we see the result of patients who want to change their eye color from brown or blue to some far out appearance or ghoulish look by using over-the-counter, decorative contact lenses. While this can be a good source of Halloween fun, it can also lead to serious vision-threatening problems,” explained Dr. Johnson.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, all contact lenses are regulated medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. Even someone with perfect vision would still require an eye exam and a prescription in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses. Some websites advertise decorative contacts as if they were fashion accessories or toys with fanciful, playful packaging in order to attract teens and young adults, especially girls. The problem is not that people use decorative, noncorrosive lenses-sometimes called Plano-or zero-powered lenses, but that they buy the devices without a prescription through unlicensed vendors on the Internet or at flea markets and specialty shops.

“People who elect to buy these over-the-counter contact lenses face a considerable risk including scratched corneas, pink eye and more serious types of blinding infection as a result of a corneal ulcer,” cautioned Dr. Johnson.

In 2005, a federal law was passed that classified all contact lenses as medical devices and restricted their distribution to licensed eye-care professionals. Illegal sale of contacts can result in civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation.
 

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye  problems from becoming a reality.

If you or a friend would like to learn more about contact lenses of any type including decorative contacts please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Eye Refractions Billing & Cost

Eye refraction is a basic part of an eye exam that eye doctors need to perform more often than not, whether or not we are able to bill your insurance of Medicare for the cost. The eye refraction test allows us to determine what your best possible vision is at that point in time while wearing a prescription optical lens. In addition, it gives us the basis for prescribing a prescription optical lens and giving you a new prescription for a change in eyeglasses should you need one. The most common type of eye refraction is called a Manifest Refraction and is performed without the use of eye drops so that we can examine the eye in a natural state. If you have ever had and eye exam you are probably familiar with the “which is better, one or two” test-this is a Manifest Refraction. Another type of eye refraction is called a Cycloplegic Refractions which is performed after the instillation of eye drops to temporarily immobilize the ciliary muscle of the eye. This temporarily prevents you from accommodating or “focusing” up close and is used when there is a need for an even more precise measurement of refractive error. In addition the eye drops will also dilate the pupil so the eye doctor can easily see the back of the eye to examine the retina, optic nerve and blood vessels in order to evaluate their health.

From an insurance standpoint, eye refractions are considered part of a routine eye exam.  Because refractions are normally used to determine refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, and therefore prescribe glasses or contact lenses, many insurance companies, particularly Medicare and Medicaid, do not pay for them.  It's important to understand that when patients are having their eye exam, refractions are a necessary part of a routine eye exam and must be paid for out of pocket. If you have questions about the cost of your refraction or billing questions about refraction please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Glaucoma Risk, Coffee & Caffeine

“Researchers reporting in the journal Clinical Ophthalmology identified that caffeine found in coffee really has no effect on people with glaucoma in terms are elevating their intraocular pressure (IOP). Rather, it is believed that other byproducts of coffee beans being roasted at high temperature may actually cause eye pressure to rise after drinking coffee or tea,” shared Fall River Ophthalmologist Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. of Center for Sight. “Coffee has been suggested to increase intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with Open Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension. Generally this was thought to be due to the caffeine content,” further explained Dr. Hofeldt.

The researchers conducted a study whereby pure caffeine was applied directly to the eyes of patients with glaucoma. The results showed no increase and really no effect on intraocular pressure in both a 1-day study as well as a repeated application 1-week study. Also, there was no cumulative effect. They concluded that caffeine has no significant effect on IOP in patients with glaucoma and that any eye pressure elevation reported in coffee drinkers may be related to other constituents in coffee that are known to be generated by thermal degradation caused in the coffee beans by roasting at relatively high temperature.

If you or someone you know has a question about eye pressure, glaucoma, coffee and the effect of caffeine,  please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Cataract Surgery & Driving Safely

Cataract Surgeon Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. of Center for Sight in Fall River remarked on cataracts and the impact of cataract surgery on driving safely, particularly with regard to differences between men and women. “An interesting study on cataract surgery and driving was reported in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology whereby motor vehicle accidents involving men decreased by 15.3% in the 12 months following cataract surgery but the frequency of postoperative crashes didn't change significantly for women,” noted Dr. Hofeldt. “We know all too well that delaying cataract surgery often results in patients modifying their lifestyles and activities. This is especially the case as people restrict their driving in response to health and vision changes. We need to hear from patients about their driving habits and whether they have had to change them as their cataracts develop-then we can help,” said Dr. Hofeldt.

If you or someone you know has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery and lens implants or driving please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Smoking: Cataract & Macular Degeneration Eye Health Risk

“Smoking can have a great effect on your eyes-especially in terms of your risk of cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD),” noted Fall River Cataract Surgeon & Retina Specialist Robert Kelly, M.D. of Center for Sight. Avoiding smoking, or quitting, is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term eye health. Smoking-even in your teens or twenties when your senior years seem far away-increases your future risks for cataracts and age related macular degeneration (AMD). The more a person smokes, the greater the risks.

“In general if you quit smoking the risks of these eye diseases decreases to approximately the same level as if you never smoked at all,” shared Dr. Kelly. Keep on mind that smoking also increases your risk of cardiovascular disease which also can affect your eyes. Besides the vascular problems mentioned smoking and even being around smokers and their second hand smoke increase the likelihood of dry eye.

If you or someone you know has a question about smoking and eye health risks such as cataracts and age related macular degeneration please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406 Fall River, Massachusetts 02720 at 508-730-2020 for patients from Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Eye Infections & Acne Medication

What do eye infections and acne medication have to do with each other? Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. an Ophthalmologist & Cosmetic Eye Plastic Surgeon in Fall River at Center for Sight offered some insight. “Recently, a study on eye infections and acne medication was presented in Archives of Dermatology where researchers collected data on nearly 15,000 teens and young adults taking isotretinoin to treat acne and compared their rates of eye infections to group that had acne but not taking the drugs and to a third group that didn't take the drugs and didn't have acne,” stated Hofeldt. 

Isotretinoin is also sold under the brand names Roaccutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan and Sotret. Within a year of starting the medication, nearly 14 percent of those in the acne medication group developed an eye infection or dry eyes, compared with almost 10 percent in the group that had acne but did not take the medications and about 7 percent in the group that didn't have acne. Compared to the acne-free group, those taking isotretinoin were at 70 percent increased risk of an eye infection over the course of a year.

“The most common problem was conjunctivitis, an inflammation or infection of the membrane lining the eye and eyelids. Other problems included hordeolum or stye which is an inflamed oil gland on the edge of the eyelid, chalazion which is a tender, swollen lump in the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland, blepharitis-an inflammation of the eyelash follicles and dry eyes,” further explained Dr. Hofeldt. Isotretinoin treats acne by reducing oil production from the sebaceous glands, among other effects. But isotretinoin also disrupts function of the meibomian glands, or oil glands inside the eyelids. The meibomian glands help keep the eyes lubricated. Less lubrication may mean the eyes are irritated, itching and burning, prompting people to rub them and introduce bacteria. “The good news is that most side effects of the drugs can be prevented using artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated,” said Dr. Hofeldt. 

If you or someone you know has a question about acne medication, eye infections or eye problems such as dry eyes, stye, chalazion or blepharitis please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment. Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

LASIK, Contact Lenses & Dry Eyes

LASIK Surgeon Keegan Johnson, M.D., a Corneal Specialist at Center for Sight in Fall River cited some important information about contact lenses and dry eyes for contact lens wearers considering LASIK. “Dry eyes can be a very real problem for both rigid and soft contact lens wearers. Researchers reporting in the Eye & Contact Lens: Science & Clinical Practice demonstrated that both rigid and soft contact lenses negatively impacted the tear film surface quality,” remarked Dr. Johnson. “This is important to keep in mind when contact lens wearers present for LASIK consultations. The evaluation of the tear film quality and quantity is a critical consideration of determining the patient’s candidacy for LASIK surgery,” explained Dr. Johnson. “A significant number of patients who want LASIK are contact lens wearers thus we need to be aware that some of the pre LASIK tear film abnormalities that we find are actually due to their contact lens wear and that with a sufficient amount of time without contact lens wear many contact lens wearers who want LASIK will recover a normal tear film surface quality and be able to proceed successfully,” summarized Dr. Johnson.

Contact lens patients considering LASIK or any type of Laser Eye Surgery for vision correction are encouraged to find the best LASIK Surgeons in their area and have a thorough evaluation, examination and consultation in order to find out if they are good candidates. 

If you or someone you know has a question about LASIK, contact lenses, dry eyes or would like to schedule a Free LASIK Consultation please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

 

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island. 

Cataract Surgery & Driving Safely

Dr. Hofeldt
Massachusetts Cataract Surgeon

Cataract Surgeon Gregory Hofeldt, M.D. of Center for Sight in Fall River remarked on cataracts and the impact of cataract surgery on driving safely, particularly with regard to differences between men and women. “An interesting study on cataract surgery and driving was reported in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology whereby motor vehicle accidents involving men decreased by 15.3% in the 12 months following cataract surgery but the frequency of postoperative crashes didn't change significantly for women,” noted Dr. Hofeldt. “We know all too well that delaying cataract surgery often results in patients modifying their lifestyles and activities. This is especially the case as people restrict their driving in response to health and vision changes. We need to hear from patients about their driving habits and whether they have had to change them as their cataracts develop-then we can help,” said Dr. Hofeldt.

If you or someone you know has a question about cataracts, cataract surgery and lens implants or driving please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about about eye pain, osteoporosis medication or eye inflammation in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton and Tiverton.

Fall River Surgeon on Cataract Surgery & Hip Fracture

“What does cataract surgery have to do with preventing hip fractures?” asked Fall River Cataract Surgeon Robert Kelly, M.D. of Center for Sight. “What we know from recent studies is that cataract surgery may offer patients with cataracts a distinct advantage in preventing hip fractures according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association,” stated Dr. Kelly.

When looking at the risk of hip fracture among more than 1 million people on Medicare aged 65 with cataracts, researchers found people who had cataract surgery had a 16% lower risk of hip fracture one year after the procedure. Visual impairment from cataracts-whether from blurry vision, glare, halos or decreased contrast-is a known risk factor for falls. Thus when we improve vision for patients with cataracts, their mobility is typically improved as well as their confidence and the safety with which they navigate. A hip or pelvis fracture is the sentinel event that leads to a progressive decline in quality of life and usually signifies increased mortality and morbidity. Accidental falls and the resulting bone fractures are a major cause of disability and death among the elderly. “The key here is that there is a demonstrated need for timely cataract surgery for seniors in order to manage the risk of challenged mobility with resulting fractures. We are quite fortunate-and it is really rewarding-to be able to provide cataract patients with modern patient friendly cataract surgery on an outpatient basis that utilizes tiny incisions, eye drops for anesthesia and a quick visual recovery,” summarized Dr. Kelly.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataract, cataract surgery, lens implants or hip fracture prevention feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton and Tiverton.

Fall River Cataract Awareness Month

Gregory Hofeldt, M.D., a Cataract Surgeon at Center for Sight in Fall River helped raise our awareness of cataracts, cataract surgery and lens implants by sharing information that is important for everyone, especially seniors, to know more about.

“Almost all of us know someone who has a cataract or has had cataract surgery and a lens implant,” noted Dr. Hofeldt. “This is probably because more than 20 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts and more than half of all Americans over 65 have some degree of cataract development. In fact cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss among seniors. Fortunately, with modern cataract surgery and lens implants we can readily help people achieve very good vision.”

Many patients do not actually know that a cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye preventing light rays from passing through it easily. This results in a clouding and blurring of vision. Patients should understand that cataracts are not a growth or a film over the eye. For many patients cataracts start out slowly and have little effect on vision at first. But, as the cataract becomes denser, so does the impact on vision. The most common symptoms that bother patients with cataracts can include blurring of vision, sensitivity to light and glare, double vision in one eye, poor night vision, fading or yellowing of colors and frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions.

“What many people do not realize is that the poor vision in seniors is often associated with premature or accelerated mental decline. Further, the challenges reduced vision creates in terms of mobility and safety can also put patients at increased risk for orthopedic injury-especially hip fracture. So, helping seniors restore vision with cataract surgery has an important place in securing senior health, well being, mobility, safety and mental state,” said Dr. Hofeldt.

“When cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities or with patient comfort, mobility and safety, they can be treated surgically. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most frequently performed surgeries in the United States. Today, we have a full range of lens implants available that allow us to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and even near vision problems after cataract surgery, as well as distance vision, without requiring bifocals or reading glasses for the vast majority of patients,”, summarized Dr. Hofeldt.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about cataracts, cataract surgery or lens implants in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton and Tiverton.

Fall River Eye Doctor Says Women Need Bifocals Sooner

Dr. Fatima Raposo, a Fall River eye doctor at Center for Sight shared research on why women need bifocals for correcting near vision and presbyopia sooner than men.“Researchers reporting the journal Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS) found that women tend to need bifocals sooner to correct their near vision and the onset of presbyopia-the age related near vision focusing problem,” stated Dr. Raposo. “The studies show that presbyopia, the inability to see at a close distance that occurs with age, is more common in women. While men and women need bifocals as they age, the need is more common among women and tends to hit them at younger ages than men. It is believed that while men and women appeared to actually have the same focusing ability when looking at nearby objects, because women are generally shorter than the men, with proportionally shorter arm lengths, they needed to hold objects closer to their faces when reading and thus required the near vision presbyopia correction of bifocals, reading glasses or even bifocal contact lenses sooner.”

If you or someone you know has questions about near vision problems such as presbyopia or even need to schedule an eye exam for bifocals, please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about near vision focusing problems and bifocals in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton and Tiverton.

Fall River LASIK Surgeon on Contact Lenses for Swimming

Fall River LASIK Surgeon Keegan Johnson, M.D, commented on the risks and benefits of LASIK vs. contact lenses for swimming. “Wearing contact lenses while swimming is not a good idea,” stated Dr. Johnson of Center for Sight. “Clinical experience as well as the recommendation of the FDA is that contact lenses not be exposed to any form of water in order to avoid potentially devastating infections. For this reason, anyone who swims or participates in water sports or activities should give consideration to LASIK as the preferred method of vision correction today,” explained Dr. Johnson.

It is generally known that wearing contact lenses for swimming and water activities poses a risk of Acanthamoeba Keratitis, a potentially catastrophic eye infection of the cornea. Acanthamoeba Keratitis is caused by an organism present in all forms of impure water such as swimming pools, tap water, saunas, wells, and even showers.

“Contact lenses are quite safe to wear if you follow proper care guidelines and instructions. However, if water exposure such as swimming, bath tubs, and showering are part of your daily routine, you do need to keep your lenses out. Many patients-even very successful contact lens wearers-find this to be a hassle and are now interested in discussing LASIK as an option,” said Dr. Johnson.

If you or someone you know have questions about swimming or participating in water sports with contact lenses, or would like to learn more about LASIK or schedule a Free LASIK Consultation, please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients wishing to learn more about LASIK in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.

Fall River Retina Specialist & AMD Treatment Update

Robert Kelly, M.D.
Retinal Specialist

Fall River Retina Specialist Robert Kelly, M.D. of Center for Sight shared information and updates regarding the treatment of age related macular degeneration (AMD). “The treatment of Wet Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the most active topics discussed in Ophthalmology today because of the growth of our aging population and the substantial advances we have made in treatment,” stated Dr. Kelly.

If left untreated, Wet AMD causes progressive and irreversible vision loss, often leading to legal blindness. “With the use of Vascular Endothelial Growth (VEGF) Inhibitor injections such as Lucentis® and Eyelea®, with early detection and treatment we are able halt the progression of vision loss for a great majority of patients,” explained Dr. Kelly.

Today, we are fortunate to have data from several large randomized clinical trials that provide us with evidence-based recommendations for treatment indications and assessment, re-treatment, and monitoring. “The evidence suggests that a loading phase consisting of three monthly injections of VEGF inhibitor results in a rapid visual acuity gain, mostly occurring after the first injection. The key is that the treatment should start as soon as possible after its indication and if at all possible within 2 weeks from diagnosis is ideal, whereas to wait more than 1 month seems to lead to further visual loss,” continued Dr. Kelly. A number of clinical trials showed that a maintenance phase with continued monthly injections has provided the best visual acuity outcomes. Longer re-injection intervals, such as the quarterly re-injection, resulted in less favorable outcomes after the initial treatment and loading phase. If continued monthly injections are not possible, a flexible strategy appears viable, with monthly monitoring of lesion activity recommended. Continuous careful monitoring with flexible re-treatment might help avoid vision loss to recur. In fact, some data suggest that quarterly visits are insufficient, whereas monthly monitoring with re-injections on an as-needed basis warrants better outcomes.

So, using this information we are able to help you maintain your eye health and vision and hopefully avoid the potentially devastating effects of Wet Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). YOUR role is to be consistent in scheduling routine eye exams if you are over 50 years old or even earlier if you have a family history of AMD-and should you notice symptoms including distortion of your vision, waviness or curving of lines or straight surfaces or a sudden change or spots of any kind, please call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020 for an immediate appointment.

If you or someone you know has questions about the diagnosis or treatment of age related macular degeneration (AMD) or needs an eye exam for AMD, feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients seeking eye examinations and eye health vision exams for macular degeneration in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.

Eye Problems While Being Pregnant

What does being pregnant have to with your eyes? Sometimes quite a bit. During pregnancy your body undergoes fluctuations in hormone levels, changes in fluid retention, and even an increase in your overall blood volume. These types of changes can affect your eyes in various ways. Fortunately, eye changes due to pregnancy are usually temporary and resolve after the baby is born or after the cessation of breastfeeding. Typically vision changes are minor and don’t require a change in eyeglasses; however, there are some eye changes that do require care and attention.

“If you were thinking about having LASIK, you should delay your actual LASIK surgery until at least three months after your delivery or three months after you stop nursing,” commented Fall River Cornea, Cataract & LASIK Surgeon Keegan Johnson, M.D. of Center for Sight. Dr. Johnson further explained, “This is necessary because the thickness of your cornea may fluctuate during pregnancy, and will reduce the accuracy of the LASIK correction.”

Also, hormonal fluctuations are often the cause of dry eye. This can make your eyes uncomfortable and can certainly make wearing your contact lenses more difficult. If you experience dry eyes during pregnancy, be sure to consult your eye care provider so that “pregnancy-safe” lubricating eye drops or other alternative treatments for dry eye can be prescribed. Sometimes simply eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, flax seeds, and walnuts, may help resolve dry eye and also supports general good health.

On a more serious note, if your vision becomes noticeably blurry, it may signal high blood pressure or pregnancy-related diabetes. If you experience dry eyes, changes in vision, or especially very blurred vision during pregnancy it is important to schedule an appointment to see us at Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, or visiting www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients seeking eye examinations and eye health vision exams in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.

Fall River Fireworks Eye Safety for July 4th

Kevin O'Brien, M.D.

Fall River Ophthalmologist Kevin O’Brien, M.D. advised us on fireworks eye safety for the July 4th holiday. “To enjoy the fireworks this July 4th, it’s best to leave their use and display to professionals. Eye safety is pretty critical with fireworks displays as we know that eye injuries are the second most frequent injury we see from the emergency room each July 4th weekend,” said Dr. O’Brien of Center for Sight in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Around the Fourth of July, fireworks and celebrations often go together. There are precautions everyone can take to prevent eye injuries. The best defense against kids suffering severe eye injuries and burns is to not let kids play with any fireworks. Do not purchase, use or store fireworks of any type. Protect yourself, your family and your friends by avoiding fireworks. Attend only authorized public fireworks displays conducted by licensed operators, but be aware that even professional displays can be dangerous. However, if an eye accident does occur, there are a few things you should know:

• Do not rub the eye.
• Do not attempt to rinse out the eye. This can be even more damaging than rubbing.
• Do not apply pressure to the eye itself-but protecting the eye from further contact with any item, including the person’s hand.
• Do not stop for medicine! Over-the-counter pain relievers will not do much to relieve pain. Aspirin (should never be given to children) and ibuprofen can thin the blood, increasing bleeding. Take the person to the emergency room at once.
• Do not apply ointments or drops. They may not be sterile and may make the area around the eye slippery and harder for the doctor to examine.

Once you are seen in the emergency room please feel free to have them call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020 as we always have an eye doctor “on call” to provide consultation and continued care for you.

If you or someone you know has questions about fireworks eye safety and eye injuries please feel free to call Center for Sight at 508-730-2020, visit www.center-for-sight.com or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients seeking eye examinations and eye health vision exams in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.