Laser Toy Eye Injury in Children

Inexpensive and extremely powerful lasers that are incorporated in toys are now available for purchase on the Internet. Laser pointers used for presentations or as toys typically have outputs of 5 milliwatts (mW) or less, usually in the red wavelength. These lasers are generally harmless to the human eye in short exposures. Ophthalmic lasers for treating diabetic retinopathy typically have a power output of 50 to 100 mW and come in a variety of wavelengths, depending on the clinical application. If misused, the lasers are capable of causing severe eye damage. Such lasers are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not available for public use. However, foreign companies sell lasers over the Internet that have outputs of up to 200 mW or more in dangerous green wavelengths.

These lasers can cause eye injuries plus confusion for eye doctors. Children who suffer eye damage from lasers may be misdiagnosed with genetic eye disorders and undergo expensive and unnecessary testing. It’s never advisable for children to play with lasers, but it’s especially worrisome that these devices are becoming more dangerous. The increased accessibility and stronger power of these devices most likely explains the sizable number of cases of eye damage in children being reported over the past two years.

If you or someone you know needs information or help with a laser toy eye injury in children

please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

What Do You See During Cataract Surgery?

We always like to take the time to carefully explain all of the things patients having cataract surgery and lens implants might experience during their visit to the surgery center and even during their cataract surgery procedure. In this way we are hopefully helping them relax and have an easy and comfortable experience as we correct their vision. For just about all of our patients having cataract surgery, they are awake but very comfortable. Every once in a while a patient will be curious about what they will actually see during the cataract procedure since they are awake. As this can really vary greatly from patient to patient we were please to find the results of a study that can give patients some guidance of what they might experience.

Results

Patients having cataract surgery were asked to describe the quality of the visual experience as, pleasant, neutral or unpleasant. The group of 200 patients interviewed in the study included an almost even mix of men and woman around the age of 70 years old and as is to be expected, were a bit anxious before the surgery and were given an oral tablet to help them relax. They all reported seeing some gradation of colors including in descending order blue, red, pink, yellow, green, purple, turquoise, and orange with the most common color combination being red-blue light which was most likely from the operating microscope. Most-61% of the light and color experiences during surgery were reported to be pleasant, 38% were neutral and 1% found them transiently unpleasant. Overall the experience of light and colors seen during cataract surgery is mildly pleasant and in fact should reassure patients that the visual experience is actually somewhat calming and relaxing during surgery.

If you or some you know is concerned about having a cataract or needing cataract surgery and lens implants and worried about what they will see, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Injections vs. Laser Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy

Injections for Advanced Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy progresses in stages that reflect the severity of the disease. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a more advanced stage and requires treatment. Therapeutic injections for proliferative diabetic retinopathy represent a sound treatment for some patients with this advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy where blood vessels in the retina begin to grow, or proliferate, many which are fragile and more likely leak and bleed. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a significant cause of vision loss if left untreated. Reporting on a clinical trial in the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers compared the visual outcomes in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy who underwent either anti-VEGF treatment or Panretinal photocoagulation laser treatment. They found in many respects the outcomes of the group receiving injections were better in that the average vision over the two years in the injection group was better than the laser group, and the patients with the injections had less peripheral vision loss, required fewer future surgeries and developed fewer complications in the macular area of the eye.

If you or someone you know has diabetes, it is important to have regular diabetic eye exams to prevent vision loss from diabetic eye disease complications called diabetic retinopathy. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment are the keys to preventing vision loss from diabetic retinopathy.

If you need a diabetic eye exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Diabetic Retinopathy & Neuropathy

We have known for quite some time that with both Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus are at high risk for developing diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common cause of irreversible blindness in adults. Vision loss occurs because of microvascular damage to the retina. People with diabetes are typically not aware that they are also at risk for developing retinal diabetic neuropathy, which is the loss of nerve cells in the retina. For many years, scientists believed patients developed retinopathy and, as a result of the damage to the blood vessels, later developed neuropathy. Doctors were focusing on early detection and treatment of retinopathy to prevent blindness, which they thought would then prevent the damage caused by neuropathy.

In a new study researchers discovered that the sequence of events occurring in the retina is just the opposite. Unfortunately we now know that the nerve damage actually does come first, before the vessel damage. Even people with diabetes who never get retinopathy can still develop this damage, and after many years, damage may be severe, similar to glaucoma. As part of the diabetic eye exam we provide for patients, we often perform a test called Optical Coherence Topography (OCT) that actually allows us to carefully examine the retinal nerve fiber health

The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is through early detection, diagnosis and treatment with regular eye exams. If you or someone you know is diabetic and needs an diabetic eye exam, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Dry Eye during Breast Cancer Treatment

Did you know that certain types of breast cancer treatment medications can cause dry eye symptoms? The class of medications called “aromatase inhibitors” (AIs) has been studied and found to cause dry eyes. Fortunately, we also know that this is a newly emerging, and easily treated side effect of AIs. But we need to know that you are taking one of the AIs in order to offer help for your dry eyes. Some of the medications in this class include Arimidex, Aromasin and Femara-although there are many others. Researchers used a validated questionnaire to assess the presence of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES). They found that DES is significantly more prevalent in women on AIs compared with controls. They recommend routine screening of patients on AIs with the Ocular Surface disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire with the aim of improving patient quality of life and possibly adherence.

If you or someone you know is being treated for breast cancer with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) and suffers from dry eyes, grittiness or is generally experiencing eye problems of fatigue or dryness, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Cataracts, Cataract Surgery & Driving

Blurry, cloudy vision from cataracts is a well known driving risk, especially for seniors where declining vision is often caused by cataract development. Researchers reporting in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery studied cataracts and the outcomes of cataract surgery and how these impacted crash risk, driving self-regulation practices, and driving performance. Not surprising there was clear consistent evidence that cataract negatively affects driving and that cataract surgery is beneficial to driving outcomes. What was not clear and requires further study is how specific vision measures such as visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and glare sensitivity specifically affect crash risk and driving performance so that we can be optimally effective in prioritizing cataract patients for surgery.

If you or someone you know has been told they have a cataract and is having difficulty with driving especially at night or in dim illumination or with glare, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Nutrition & Prevention of Eye Problems

Age Related Macular Degeneration, Dry Eye Syndrome and Cataracts are very common senior eye problems. While we rarely think about nutrition problems in the U.S., there is global information that tells us what CAN happen if we allow people to develop nutritional deficiencies and thus what types of supplements and vitamins might be helpful in preventing these eye problems According to research presented in the Journal of Clinical Dermatology on the role of vitamins, essential fatty acids and antioxidants in age-related macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome and cataract, there is useful information and it helps us advise our patients on a daily basis. When we look around the world, we find that visual impairment is a global epidemic. In developing countries, nutritional deficiency and cataracts continue to be the leading cause of blindness, whereas age related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts are the leading causes in developed nations. The World Health Organization has instituted VISION 2020: "The Right to Sight" as a global mission to put an end to worldwide blindness. In industrialized societies, patients, physicians, researchers, nutritionists, and biochemists have been looking toward vitamins and nutrients to prevent AMD, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome (DES).

We know that nutrients from the AREDS2 -lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, EPA and DHA as set forth by the National Institutes of Health remain the most proven nutritional therapy for reducing the rate of advanced AMD. We also know that Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, have been found to improve dry eye syndrome in randomized clinical trials. Finally we know that there continue to be conflicting results with regard to multivitamin supplementation on the prevention of cataract.

When you visit us for your regular eye exam, we may very well ask you about your nutrition and what vitamins and supplements you already take. If you are in a risk group for AMD or have complaints about dry eye symptoms we may also recommend supplements or vitamins to help you.

Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Shopping for Health Insurance & Deductibles

Obamacare was supposed to help patients become better healthcare consumers by allowing them to shop for high deductible health plans at lower cost. High deductible health plans are sold as a way for consumers to take greater control over managing their medical costs, but new research shows people on those plans are no better at price shopping for health care professionals or services than people on traditional insurance. The study surveyed more than 1,000 “high deductible" health insurance enrollees of which 71% believe out of pocket costs were important to consider when choosing a doctor. They compared this to 852 enrollees traditional of “low deductible” plans and they had the exact same perspective. The researchers also found that during their last use of medical care, the “high deductible” plan enrollees were no more likely than traditional plan enrollees to consider going to another professional for care or to compare out of pocket costs across health care professionals. They concluded that “having more skin in the game” makes no difference on how consumers shop for health care and insurance.

If you need help understanding your health insurance as it relates to any aspect of eye care service we provide please do not hesitate to ask us by calling us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Possible Treatment Help for Dry AMD

Researchers seeking ways to treat the “Dry” form of Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) are encouraged by findings of their clinical trial. The researchers at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary/Harvard Medical School and the University of Crete have found that some patients taking high doses of atorvastatin (Lipitor®) had complete resolution of lipid deposits in the dry form of Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Although we currently use therapeutic injections of VEGF inhibitors to treat the “Wet” form of AMD, as of yet we really do not have an effective treatment options for the “Dry” form-so this is encouraging.

The best way to avoid vision loss from the senior eye problem of age related macular degeneration (AMD) is by having regular eye exams for early detection diagnosis and treatment. Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Do Nearsighted Parents Have Nearsighted Kids?

Whenever we see children who need eyeglasses-especially those who need correction for nearsightedness to see clearly at distance for the first time-parents always want to know if the prescription will get worse, and if the parent wears eyeglasses, did this cause the child to need glasses. We have always known that there seems to be a familial predisposition so that children of myopic parents tend to become myopic or nearsighted and need glasses. According to research published in the journal of the Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation where a 22-year long study evaluated the parental influence on nearsightedness and its progression, there is no meaningful influence of the parent’s nearsightedness on boys, but there is a clear statistical influence on both the prevalence of nearsightedness and its progression among girls. Further, the cause of the nearsightedness seems to be related to corneal anatomy and its refractive power rather than the length of the eye.

It is important for all children to have regular eye heath and vision exams. Vision problems in kids can contribute to literacy problems and delays, overall learning problems and even the perception of attention and behavioral problems. Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Eyeliner Tips for Healthy Eyes

Eyeliner can be applied to create a new look, or enhance natural eye appearance. But our eye doctors want to share some tips and alert eyeliner wearer to watch when and where eyeliner is applied. Three tips for safe application:

When to Apply-If you’re running late to work, school or an appointment, you may be tempted to grab your makeup and apply it in the car. But don’t use eyeliner when the car is moving, you could injure or poke your eye. A better idea is to wait until you are safely parked.

Keep It Clean-Eyeliner pencils periodically need sharpening for easy application. Use a makeup sharpener, not a kitchen or pocket knife, or a sharpener used for pencils or crayons. Prevent spreading germs to your eyes by washing your hands before using eyeliner, and don’t borrow or share eyeliner products with others. This includes liquid and cream eyeliners as well.

Watch the Location-Applying eyeliner along the inside edge of the eyelid, called the waterline, can enhance the look of your eyes. But it also may increase the risk for contamination and vision problems. Studies show that flecks from eyeliner, especially those with glitter, may drop into the eye and collect in tear film. Vision may become blurry, and eyes may become red and irritated. A bacterial infection also may develop. This is a problem, especially for those who wear contacts or have dry, sensitive eyes.

If you or someone you know has a question about how to use eyeliner safely and protect eye health, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Cataract Surgery & Lens Implant Patient Satisfaction

Cataract Surgery Patient Satisfaction

If you have cataracts or are considering cataract surgery and lens implants, if you are a good candidate, it is pretty likely that your cataract surgeon will offer you the option of a multifocal lens implant in addition to the standard monofocal lens implant. The objective of using a multifocal lens implant to correct vision after cataract surgery is to help patients become less dependent or completely independent of glasses after their cataract is removed. A multifocal lens implant allows patients to see at a range of far, arms’ length and near without glasses whereas a monofocal will require the patient to still need glasses for most arms’ length or close vision tasks. Whenever we present or recommend this option to our patients they almost always ask, “Which one is better?” or “Which one will I be most satisfied with?” A multisite clinical trial was conducted and reported on in the Journal of Refractive Surgery that compared outcomes and patient satisfaction of monofocal vs. multifocal lens implants after cataract surgery. 

Results of Cataract Surgery with Monofocal vs. Multifocal Lens Implants

The results showed both monofocal and multifocal IOLs provided good clinical outcomes. More patients receiving multifocal IOLs attained better uncorrected visual acuity at a range of distances and spectacle independence compared with patients who received monofocal IOLs. Patient satisfaction was significantly better in the multifocal group.

If you or some you know suspects they have a cataract or is considering cataract surgery and lens implants and wishes to schedule a cataract and lens implant eye exam, please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Retinoblastoma Eye Cancer in Children

Retinoblastoma is a rare but potentially catastrophic eye cancer that is found in children during a routine eye exam. We encourage all parents or caregivers of children to be sure that at least their primary care doctor or pediatrician is performing a simple “red reflex” test especially under the age of two years to quickly identify children at risk. This is especially important in less affluent or lower socioeconomic areas as there are a noticeable disparity in outcomes for children with retinoblastoma who have limited access to routine pediatric care. Researchers from Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center report in a study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics found that although virtually all the children in the study survived, Hispanic children and children who lived in disadvantaged areas were more likely to lose an eye due to late diagnosis. White children and children who live in areas with a higher socioeconomic status were more likely to have been diagnosed early enough that physicians could preserve their eye and vision.  The study found: 

·        At the time of diagnosis, the disease had spread beyond the eye in 33 percent of Hispanic children, compared with 20 percent of non-Hispanic children.

·        At diagnosis, disease had spread beyond the eye in 28 percent of children from high-poverty areas, compared with 20 percent of other children. Similar disparities were found in other measures of socio-economic status.

·        Three-quarters (74.5 percent) of Hispanic children had the diseased eye surgically removed, compared with two-thirds (67.5 percent) of non-Hispanic children and less than two thirds (63 percent) of non-Hispanic white children. Among non-Hispanic black and Asian children, 74 percent had their eye removed.

·        Three-quarters (76 percent) of children living in disadvantaged counties had their eye removed, compared to less than two-thirds (64 percent) who lived in advantaged counties.

As with many eye problems, conditions and diseases, retinoblastoma eye cancer can be best addressed with early detection, diagnosis and treatment.

If you or someone you know is concerned about a child being at risk for retinoblastoma or any children’s eye problem please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Stroke Recovery Takes Time

It is not uncommon for us to see patients who experience vision and eye problems from having suffered a stroke. These can often include double vision, loss of peripheral vision and even loss of sections of their visual field which can affect safe comfortable mobility, and sometimes just reduced vision. It is important, and we tell patients, that recovering from a stroke doesn’t end with the first weeks of acute care and the period of functional rehabilitation that follows. Negative effects of a stroke can present themselves well past the initial event. In healthy older adults, exercise training and a social network that allows both intellectual and social engagement have been shown to be effective measures for helping recovery from a stroke. Using your eyes and vision may be fatiguing even for normal recreational activities but is very important to recovery.

If you or someone you know has had a stroke and needs an eye exam we are happy to help. Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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 Increase Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition that results from prolonged focusing of your eyes on a computer or other display device for protracted, uninterrupted periods of time. Typical symptoms of CVS include headaches, blurred vision, neck pain, eye redness, fatigue, eye strain, dry eyes, irritated eyes, double vision, vertigo, dizziness and difficulty refocusing the eyes. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, computer vision syndrome affects about 90% of the people who spend three hours or more a day at a computer. We now know that CVS is actually made worse by contact lens wear. According to a study in Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics contact lens wearers are more likely to suffer CVS than non-lens wearers, with a prevalence of 65% for contact lens wearers. In particular, people who wear contact lenses and are exposed to the computer for more than 6 hours per day are more likely to suffer CVS than non-lens wearers working at the computer for the same amount of time.

If you or someone you know suffers from symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) please feel free to contact us for guidelines and help with the uncomfortable effects. Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Glaucoma Impacts Driving Safety

Driving Safety with Glaucoma

Moderate or advanced glaucoma can affect driving safety according to research noted in the American Journal of Ophthalmology. Patients with bilateral moderate or advanced glaucoma are at risk for unsafe driving. For this reason we now suggest a very careful evaluation for those glaucoma patients who might be at risk so that we can evaluate driving safety of these patients. Glaucoma, especially in more advanced stages can reduce peripheral vision as well as contrast and make driving particularly difficult-especially in dim illumination. Our goal is to help all patients avoid vision loss from glaucoma by asking that you schedule regular eye examinations with glaucoma testing as often your eye doctor suggests. This will depend on the overall health of your eyes, your family history, your general health and many other glaucoma risk factors your eye doctor may identify. The key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma is early detection, diagnoses and treatment.

Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Cataract Surgery Risk Factors for Postmenopausal Women

Increased Cataract Surgery Risks for Postmenopausal Women

According to a recent study reported in the journal Ophthalmology, smoking, diabetes and obesity may increase the risk of cataract surgery in postmenopausal women. The results of the “UK Million Women Study” included more than 1.3 million postmenopausal women who had not previously had cataract surgery. The women were followed for cataracts treated surgically and studies with powerful statistics to calculate the adjusted relative risks for cataract surgery in terms of use of hormonal therapies, reproductive history, lifestyle factors and diabetes treatment. Two percent of women had diabetes, which was the strongest risk factor for cataract surgery. Additionally, both past and current smoking was found to elevate the risk for cataract surgery. Obesity, with a Body Mass Index of 30 kg/m² or greater, was also found to have a small increase in risk of cataracts treated surgically.

If you or someone you know has been told they have a cataract or is concerned about cataract symptoms of cloudy vision, glare sensitivity or night driving problems and wishes to schedule a cataract & lens implant exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver  to schedule a Free LASIK Consultation.

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

Loose Eyelids & Dry Eye Problems

Dry Eye Problems from Loose Eyelids

Sometimes we are surprised by the many conditions and circumstances that can cause you to have dry eye problems. We know that many common medications, including those for blood pressure and allergies can certainly cause dry eyes. We know that the hormonal changes associated with menopause can cause dry eyes as well as certain environmental conditions of dustiness, breeziness or dryness you might encounter. We also know that problems with eyelid inflammation, called blepharitis, or systemic inflammatory diseases as well as contact lens wear can contribute to dry eye symptoms. Now, according to research we reviewed in Cornea we also know that loose eyelids may also cause a disruption of the normal tear film and lead to dry eye complaints. In a study of some 138 patients, those who had loose eyelids were much more likely to suffer from sensations of grittiness, in adequate tear film quality and quantity and dry spots on their cornea-all key sign and symptoms of dry eye. The researchers concluded that eyelid laxity or looseness should be tested in anyone with dry eye complaints as it might be a source of the problem.

If you or someone you know is bothered by dry eyes please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Vitamin C & Cataracts

Vitamin C & Cataracts
Cataracts are a common senior eye problem that occurs naturally with age and clouds the eye’s lens, turning it opaque. Despite the advent of modern cataract removal surgery, cataracts are still something seniors need to be aware of and work to limit their risk factors if possible. The role of vitamins and supplements in cataract development has generally been a bit uncertain. Based on some new research, it is thought that eating foods high in Vitamin C can cut the risk of cataract progression by as much as a third. The research is also the first to show that diet and lifestyle may play a greater role than genetics in cataract development and severity.

Probably the most important finding in this study was that vitamin C intake from food seemed to protect against cataract progression. While we cannot totally avoid developing cataracts, we may be able to delay their onset and keep them from worsening significantly by eating a diet rich in vitamin C.

If you or someone you know is concerned about senior eye problems such as cataracts or even has a cataract, please share this information. If you need a cataract eye exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

IVF & Keratoconus Progression

IVF & Keratoconus Progression

What could in vitro fertilization and Keratoconus have to do with each other? As it turns out, quite a bit! Keratoconus is a progressive degenerative disorder of the cornea whereby structural changes within the cornea cause it to thin and change to a more conical shape than the more normal gradual spherical shape. We carefully monitor our patients with Keratoconus because Keratoconus can cause substantial distortion of vision, with multiple images, streaking and sensitivity to light-all of which can worsen if the disease progresses quickly. Researchers reporting in the Journal of Refractive Surgery alerted us to the fact that drugs used in IVF treatment increase estrogen levels, which may affect corneal biomechanics and induce progression of Keratoconus and thus we need to be even more carefully following those patients with Keratoconus who might also be starting IVF treatments. If they are determined to be of particularly high risk for progression, then we might recommend corneal cross-linking treatment to minimize the risk of keratoconus progression before starting IVF treatment.

If you or someone you know suffers from Keratoconus and is considering IVF please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Keratoconus, Risks & Systemic Disease

Keratoconus, Risks & Systemic Disease

Keratoconus is a progressive degenerative disorder of the cornea whereby structural changes within the cornea cause it to thin and change to a more conical shape than the more normal gradual spherical shape. Keratoconus can cause substantial distortion of vision, with multiple images, streaking and sensitivity to light all often becoming troubling to the patient. Usually, we diagnose keratoconus during the adolescent years. If both eyes are significantly affected, the deterioration in vision can affect the person's ability to drive a car or read normal print.

In most cases, we can fit specialized contact lenses to correct vision sufficiently to allow the person to continue to drive legally and likewise function normally. Further progression of the disease may require surgery, for which several options are available and most popular, including intrastromal corneal ring segments, corneal collagen cross-linking, and in about 25% of cases, corneal transplantation. Estimates of the rates for keratoconus range from 1 in 500 to 1 in 2000 people. Recent information alerts us to a number of demographic, ancestry and systemic risk factors. These include that those of African ancestry have a 57% greater risk of a keratoconus and Latino persons have a 43% greater risk of being diagnosed compared with a Caucasian population. Asians had 39% reduced risks of keratoconus and patients with uncomplicated diabetes mellitus (DM) had 20% less risk. Other conditions found to have significantly increased risk of developing keratoconus include sleep apnea and asthma.

If you or someone you know is at risk for keratoconus or wishes to be evaluated for keratoconus please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Satisfaction with LASIK vs. Contact Lenses

Satisfaction with LASIK vs. Contact Lenses
Patients who have been wearing contact lenses have made the choice to minimize their dependence on eyeglasses, but still have many of the inconvenient aspects of contact lens and care to contend with. For contact lens wearers, the decision to have LASIK represents the desire to experience a lifestyle and convenience with independence and freedom from the hassle of BOTH glasses and contacts. But, how does satisfaction with LASIK actually compare with contact lens wear? Researchers reporting in the journal Ophthalmology assessed patient satisfaction and perceived outcomes of 1800 patients split into two groups-one continuing to wear contact lenses and the other having LASIK, through annual surveys administered over a 3-year period. Most contact lens users had worn them successfully ≥5 years. The proportion expressing strong satisfaction with their current vision correction method decreased from 63% at baseline to 54% at year 3 in the contact lens control group, whereas 88% of former contact lens wearers and 77% of former glasses wearers were strongly satisfied with LASIK at year 3. Patients 40 years of age or younger when they had LASIK were somewhat more likely to be strongly satisfied than older patients. LASIK significantly reduced difficulties with night driving and nighttime visual disturbances among former contact lens users and former glasses users. The proportion with dry eye symptoms at 1, 2, or 3 years after LASIK was not significantly increased relative to baseline contact lens wear but was significantly increased relative to baseline glasses use, consistent with many glasses users having tried and abandoned contact lenses because of latent dry eye problems. Compared with continued contact lens wear, LASIK significantly reduced the self-reported rates of eye infections, ulcers, and abrasions each year.

The overall conclusions then were that compared with contact lens wear, current LASIK technology improved ease of night driving, did not significantly increase dry eye symptoms, and resulted in higher levels of satisfaction at 1, 2, and 3 years follow-up.

If you or someone you know is wearing glasses or contact lenses and would like be free of the hassle they create for seeing clearly at distance, please schedule a Free LASIK Consultation by calling us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Blood Thinners and AMD Hemorrhages

Blood Thinners and AMD Hemorrhages
Many seniors take blood thinners for various types of cardiovascular and other vascular disease as a preventative measure for avoiding a heart attack or stroke. This same senior population is also at greatest risk for age related macular degeneration-including wet or hemorrhagic macular degeneration (AMD). Thus, the question of whether taking anticoagulants might be increasing the risk of and progression of AMD is important and reported on in a study published in Ophthalmology . The results showed that taking anti-platelet or anticoagulant medication was not significantly associated with macular hemorrhage and increased AMD risk unless the patient also had hypertension.

If you or someone you know is taking blood thinners and at risk for age related macular degeneration (AMD) please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver to schedule an appointment.

Lower AMD Risk with Cholesterol Medication?

Statin Cholesterol Medications & Macular Degeneration

Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) continues to be a leading cause of vision loss in seniors-especially those with a family history or other risk factors such as smoking and other forms of vascular disease. While we have progressed a very long way in the treatment of Wet AMD through the use of anti-VEGF therapeutic injections such as Lucentis® and Eylea® , we are always hoping to find additional medications, vitamins or supplements that might be useful in preventing or delaying senior vision loss. There have been a number of clinical studies and reports about whether the use of the cholesterol lowering medications called “statins” are helpful in preventing or delaying AMD. Common statins include Lipitor®, Crestor®, Zocor®, Mevacor® and Pravachol®. Unfortunately, the most recent information we reviewed in a study reported in the Ophthalmology evaluated the association of statin use with progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and found that statin use was not statistically significantly associated with the progression of  AMD and showed no evidence of a beneficial effect on slowing AMD progression.

As with many eye problems, conditions and diseases, age related macular degeneration (AMD) can be best addressed with early detection, diagnosis and treatment.

If you or some you know is concerned about age related macular degeneration (AMD) and has not had a comprehensive eye exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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. 

Macular Degeneration Biomarker

Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) continues to be a leading cause of vision loss for seniors. The most effective way to avoid vision loss is through early detection, diagnosis and treatment. Now, researchers have found a functional “biomarker” that can help predict which patients might have a greater risk for developing age related macular degeneration (AMD). Dark adaptation refers to the time it takes for a person’s eyes to adjust to darkness after being exposed to bright light. The process of “dark adaptation” appears to be a predictor so that patients over 60 years of age who have slowed “dark adaptation” times are telling us that they are at greater risk. In fact according to a National Institute on Aging study of adults age 60 or older, those whose eyes are slow to adjust to the dark have a 2x greater risk of developing age related macular degeneration.

If you or someone you know is over 50, especially if they have increased risk factors for age related macular degeneration such as being a smoker, a family history, diabetes or other vascular disease please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Supplements Lower Macular Degeneration Risk Supplements Lower Macular Degeneration Risk

Supplements Lower Macular Degeneration Risk
Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a very common senior eye problem and in fact is the most common cause of visual loss after the age of 65. AMD affects the cells in the center of the retina-the macula-which contains the majority of photoreceptors responsible for crisp clear vision. Drusen are deposits in the retina that can cause the macula to deteriorate and degenerate and may predispose you to AMD and allow for potentially undesirable new blood vessel growth in the macula. Research shows that antioxidants neutralize drusen and prophylactic treatment of drusen maculopathy with high doses of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc, used in the recommended forms and doses from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS 2). Can lower the risk of developing advanced AMD was reduced by 27% over a 10 year period.

If you are concerned about senior eye health and specifically AMD, when you visit us for your annual eye exam, we will discuss whether in your particular case taking supplements might be beneficial to preserve your eye health and vision. If you have not had a recent eye exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Cataracts & Vitamin D

Cataracts continue to be a leading cause of vision decline in seniors as well as aging baby boomers. Those patients who do not yet have a cataract often ask if it is possible to reduce their risk or avoid cataracts with vitamins or diet supplement. Since Vitamin D has been shown to have an antioxidant effect it might seem like a good bet to reduce cataracts. But, the data continues to be confusing with regard to Vitamin D and cataract prevention. Researchers reporting in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery studied the impact and relationship between serum levels of Vitamin D and the risk of age related cataracts. They were able to eliminate the effect of other cataract risk factors such as age, sex, smoking status, diabetes, hypertension, and sunlight exposure. The results showed that in men, but not in women, the odds of developing age-related cataracts decreased with statistical significance when the serum Vitamin D levels were in the highest 10% as compared to the when they were in the lowest 10%. But, it wasn’t a uniform trend throughout the range-only in comparison of the top to the bottom levels of serum Vitamin D levels. This, along with no real benefit for women makes the results warrant more study for now. Fortunately cataract surgery and lens implants offer a safe, effective and predictable treatment method with excellent results.

If you or some you know is concerned about their cataract risk or needs a cataract eye exam please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Glaucoma Risk Increases with Latino & African Ancestry

Glaucoma is an eye disease that if untreated can damage the optic nerve, impair vision and cause blindness. It is particularly sight threatening in that in its most common form it doesn’t strike the patient with any warnings or symptoms. Thus, becoming familiar with glaucoma risk factors is worthwhile for all patients. While we have known for quite some time about the increased risk among family members and certain ethnic and racial backgrounds, those patients of Latino or African, ancestry are clearly at greater risk for high pressure within the eye and thus should be aware of the need for routine eye exams and glaucoma testing at the direction of their eye doctor. Researchers from the UIC College of Medicine analyzed data from 3,541 participants 40 and older from the Mexican American Glaucoma Genetic Study, part of the Los Angeles Latino Eye Study and found that as the percent of African ancestry went up, intraocular pressure rose.

According to a report in the journal Ophthalmology, African ancestry carried more risk for high intraocular pressure than high body mass index, older age and high blood pressure-factors known to contribute to increased pressure inside the eye. The key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma is early detection, diagnosis and treatment.

If you or some you know has known glaucoma risk factors including diabetes, high blood pressure, is a smoker, has a family history of glaucoma, obesity or suffers from sleep apnea and you are of Latino or African ancestry, it is quite important that you have regular eye exams and glaucoma testing.

Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Genes for Glaucoma Identified

Genes for Glaucoma Identified
Researchers from Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary of Harvard Medical School and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have led an international effort to identify three genetic associations that influence susceptibility and risk of primary open angle glaucoma which is the most common and insidious type of glaucoma. They studied more than 4,000 cases and 30,000 controls for primary open angle glaucoma using human genomes collected through the NEIGHBORHOOD consortium, a National Eye Institute collaborative. The researchers identified relationships between primary open angle glaucoma and three genetic associations and we believe that this will provide key insights that may ultimately be used to develop gene-based testing and treatment strategies for glaucoma.

In order to prevent vision loss, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma is best managed through early detection, diagnosis and treatment. Having a genetic code that tells us whether you will be subject to the disease will go a long way in preventing damage to the optic nerve and thus compromised vision. As we move forward, regular eye exams with glaucoma texting-especially for those with known risk factors including diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, smoking and being of Latino or African ancestry-are important to maintain eye health and vision.

Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.

Marijuana Use with Glaucoma

A survey of patients with glaucoma showed that the perception of the legality and acceptability of marijuana use was significantly associated with intentions to use marijuana for the treatment of glaucoma, even though research has indicated it is of limited benefit, according to a study published by JAMA Ophthalmology. It is estimated that 2.2 million adults in the United States are affected by glaucoma. Many alternative therapies including acupuncture and marijuana are being explored but have not shown promise. Research has shown several limitations associated with the use of marijuana as a treatment for glaucoma. Driven mainly by public support, 21 states and the District of Columbia have legalized the medical use of marijuana, citing mainly the 1999 Institute of Medicine report that found possible therapeutic benefits for the use of marijuana in various debilitating medical conditions, including glaucoma. Given these legal changes, not infrequently, ophthalmologists are approached with patient inquiries about treatment of their glaucoma with marijuana. Researchers at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, evaluated factors associated with intentions by patients to use marijuana as a treatment for glaucoma. The study included a survey of patients with glaucoma or suspected to have glaucoma. The survey looked at demographics, perceived severity of glaucoma, prior knowledge about marijuana use in glaucoma, past marijuana use, perceptions toward marijuana use including legality, systemic adverse effects, safety and effectiveness, and false beliefs, as well as satisfaction with current glaucoma management and treatment costs. The data and results that the intent to use marijuana for glaucoma treatment was driven by perceptions of legality of marijuana use, false beliefs regarding marijuana, satisfaction with current glaucoma care, and relevance of marijuana and glaucoma treatment costs.

Clearly there is need for greater information and education based on the false perceptions of marijuana as having significant therapeutic value in glaucoma therapy. Please call us at 508-730-2020, visit Center for Sight, Google+ 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.