EDUCATION

CataractThe advances in cataract surgery over the last thirty years are the envy of medicine. Ophthalmic surgeons have more technologic options than ever. Patients can now choose surgery designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses. Over three millions cataract surgeries were performed in the United States last year, the great majority successfully providing improvement in the vision and quality of life of its recipients.http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/cataract/cataract_facts.asphttp://eyesurgeryeducation.org/surgery-options-cataract-about.php
Dry EyeScratchiness, irritation, fatigue and discomfort are the hallmarks of dry eye. It is often associated with other conditions such as infection or inflammation of the eyelids, dysfunction of the oil glands of the eyelid and even dermatologic conditions such as acne rosacea. Risk factors include gender, genetics, age, hormonal status, occupation and the environment. A proper diagnosis is essential to provide effective treatment.http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000426.htmhttp://www.sjogrens.org/home/about-sjogrens-syndrome/symptoms/dry-eyes
Professional Organization Sites For The PublicThe American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association are the leading organizations representing the vision care profession. Drs. Noreika and Esposito are members of the American Academy of Ophthalmology; Dr. Wiseman is a member of the American Optometric Association. These websites are an starting place for trustworthy internet information on eye health.
EyeSmart: American Academy of Ophthalmologyhttp://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/index.cfm
American Optometric Associationhttp://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions
GlaucomaGlaucoma is described as the “Silent Thief of Sight” and is a leading cause of vision loss. There are many different variations of glaucoma. A comprehensive examination is necessary to determine if and what therapy is best to preserve the optic nerve. Successful management is possible but once damage to the nerve occurs, there are no current methods to repair it. If treatment is necessary, medications, lasers or surgery are available to lower the pressure in the eye to maintain the health of the optic nerve. Our doctors have the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options available.http://www.glaucoma.orghttp://www.americanglaucomasociety.net/patients/faqs
Macular DegenerationThe heartbreak of macular degeneration affects millions of our senior citizens. Slowly, the eye’s most acute vision used for reading and detail work is lost. New therapeutic options and research promise help for this incurable disease. There is a genetic link and family members of patients with macular degeneration can take steps to reduce the risk through behavioral and medication changes. Early diagnosis is always best.http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_facts.asphttp://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/maculardegeneration.htmlhttp://www.macular.org
OtherThis is an interesting website that concentrates on conditions that greatly affect the quality of life of our elderly patients. The proposed connection of glaucoma to central nervous system degeneration is compelling. Research initiatives to prevent or repair the slow deterioration of the macula, your retina’s cells necessary for reading vision, is very exciting. More information on this subject may be found in Dr. Noreika’s blog.www.brightfocus.orgEmphasis on Alzheimer’s, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma
Retinal DetachmentAlthough rare, retinal detachment is a serious threat to vision. It presents in all age groups but is most commonly seen in patients who are near-sighted, have had previous blunt injury to the eye, or have genetically determined conditions such as lattice degeneration. Many patients who develop retinal tears and detachments notice the sudden onset of sudden flashes of light and the appearance of more floaters in their field of vision. These symptoms should be evaluated at the earliest opportunity. Excellence in Eyecare sees patients work-in to the schedule every day.http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-retinal-detachmenthttp://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001027.htm
Diabetes And The EyeDiabetes is epidemic in the United States. It is the leading cause of new blindness and is almost always treatable. New approaches suchas anti-VEGF injections are transforming the outcome of this serious disease. Diabetes is also associated with an increased incidence ofcataract and glaucoma. All patients with a diagnosis of diabetes are recommended to have an annual comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist. Our protocol at EiE is to monitor patients with diabetes by supplementing our clinical exam by using the latest imaging technology.http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/eye-complications/http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/diabetic/retinopathy.asp
Floatershttp://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Floaters/Pages/Introduction.aspxUsually more nuisance than problem, floaters are a common source of symptoms and complaint among our patients. If there is a sudden change in the nature or number of floaters – especially if accompanied by sudden, unexplained flashes of light, the situation should be evaluated through a dilated eye exam with careful evaluation of the retinal periphery. Retinal tears and holes, the precursors of a retinal detachment, may be found and readily treated.
Retinal or Ocular Migrainehttp://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/guide/ocular-migraine-basicsThere are several variations of migraine syndrome. The classic migraine syndrome preceded by an aura and resulting in a “sick” headache leading to bed rest in a dark, quiet room is most often referenced. Retinal migraines are thought to occur for the same reasons as do classic migraines. There is usually a family history. Episodes of fluttering light in the peripheral vision, blurriness extending to the center of vision, and difficulty focusing are hallmarks. The epidodes typically last twenty minutes or less; headache is rare. Migraines become less common with advancing age. It is important to rule out other causes of vision disturbance.