Lunovus

Foreign Bodies

close up of a woman with a bloodsshot eye pulling down her lower eyelid

When something gets into the eyes, whether it be an eyelash, sawdust, sand, or dirt, this is considered to be a foreign body. Irritation or pain is typically the primary symptom. Depending on what it is and how the injury occurred, the foreign body may pierce the eye and cause major injury, or it may just fade away with no long-term problem. The severity of the injury depends on both factors.

It’s possible that the foreign object will set off a chain reaction of inflammation, which will lead to the expansion of the capillaries in the area and, as a consequence, swelling of the eyelids, conjunctiva, and cornea. It is possible for an infection to develop if a foreign body is not removed.

If something has been caught in your eye for more than a couple of hours, you should immediately stop trying to remove it on your own and seek medical attention instead. It is important to keep in mind that the eyes are an extremely fragile organ, and any attempt to do something unusual or adventurous with them can only have bad and undesirable outcomes. If the foreign body you are referring to is not causing you a significant amount of discomfort, then it is recommended that you visit an eye doctor to get it taken care of. If that doesn’t work, you might need to contact the emergency services in your area.

DO NOT make any attempt to remove an object that is embedded.

How exactly can an ophthalmologist assist?

If there is something foreign in your eye, like a piece of grit, our eye doctor may try to remove it by first administering anesthetic eye drops in your eye in order to numb it and prevent any discomfort from occurring. If this is the case, we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

If the foreign body is easily accessible, it may be feasible to remove it from your eye by simply rinsing it with water, or by wiping it away with a cotton wool bud or triangle of card if the foreign thing is small enough. In the event that this does not work, however, your eye doctor may try to extract the foreign substance by lifting it out of the eye with the point of a small metal instrument.

Especially if you can feel anything there, or if you have scratches or grazes (abrasions) on the top half of the clear outer layer of your eye, the foreign body may be caught behind your upper eyelid. This is especially true if you can feel something there (cornea).

It is possible that your eye will feel a little sore until the abrasion heals after the effects of the anesthetic eye drops have worn off. No matter what is going on with your eyes, if you are experiencing pain or even if you have the slightest suspicion that a foreign body has entered the outer layer of your eye, you should get to the treatment facility as soon as possible. It is possible to lose your vision, get cataracts at an earlier age, and sustain damage to the retina if no action is taken; thus, you should not take any chances because delaying treatment is risky.

Among the symptoms that warrant calling an ambulance are, but are not limited to, the following:

Abrupt impairment or loss of vision

Sudden double vision

Suddenly bloodshot and aching eyes

Pink Eye

Flashes and/or floaters that just started appearing

A foreign object was found in the eye (especially metal or chemicals)

Symptoms of increased swelling or discomfort following eye surgery

While you are waiting for expert medical aid, here are several things you SHOULD NOT do:

DO NOT apply any pressure to an injured eye, and DO NOT let the person rub their eye (s).

DO NOT try to remove a foreign body that is lying on the cornea (the clear surface of the eye through which we see) or that looks to be embedded in any portion of the eye. This includes the conjunctiva (the white area of the eye) and the iris (the colored part of the eye).

DO NOT touch the eye with dry cotton (including cotton swabs) or sharp devices (like tweezers).

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Glossary of Eye Care Terms

Amblyopia: Also called lazy eye. Vision impairment in one eye that causes a person to rely more on their other eye as their primary visual organ. A challenge that is almost always encountered in relation to children.

Anti-reflective coating, also known as A/R coating: A treatment that can be applied to the lenses of your glasses to make them appear clearer and lessen the amount of light that is reflected from their surfaces. This helps to alleviate eye strain and glare that can be distracting. Behind the glasses, your eyes will also be more noticeable to others.

Astigmatism: An abnormal curvature of the cornea, the crystalline lens, or the eye itself can cause astigmatism, which causes the eye to have difficulty focusing light in a consistent manner in all directions. Astigmatism is the medical term for this disease. Vision that is somewhat to moderately blurry and/or strain on the eyes are both symptoms of astigmatism.

Bi-Focal Lenses: Lenses that use two separate unique powers in each lens, typically for close and distant correction. These lenses are also referred to as varifocal lenses.

Cataracts: A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye, which makes it difficult for light to flow through and be focused properly. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world. In a healthy eye, the crystalline lens appears almost completely transparent; but, damage to the lens, advanced age, or disease might eventually cause it to lose its transparency. A cataract is the medical term for a lens that has become cloudy or opaque. Operable means of treatment.

Color deficiency: A loss of the ability to differentiate between particular hues is referred to as color deficit. The inability to differentiate between different tones of red and green is the most prevalent type of color deficiency. This condition is often sometimes referred to as “color blindness.”

Conjunctivitis: Sometimes known as pinkeye. An inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the transparent membrane that covers the white area of the eye and the lining of the eyelids, is the underlying cause of this eye ailment. The eyes will frequently seem gritty and swollen in addition to having a reddened appearance. It is frequently caused by a virus and may spread easily. There are really twenty distinct varieties of conjunctivitis, ranging from strains that are rather common and typically do not offer any long-term risk to the eyesight of either you or your child to types that are resistant to medications. To treat pink eye, either give your doctor a call or see them in person.

Cornea: The clear, multilayered front section of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil. It is responsible for the vast majority of the eye’s optical power.

Dry Eye Syndrome: The name given to an eye condition that manifests itself in the form of itching, burning, and irritation of the eyes. This condition is commonly referred to as “dry eye syndrome.” It is one of the most prevalent issues that is addressed by professionals in the field of eye care. In most cases, this condition is brought on by a breakdown (or lack) in the tear film that coats and lubricates the eyes. As we become older, our bodies create less oil, which makes it harder for the eyes’ watery layer to be sealed. Dryness of the eyes can be caused by a number of factors, including hot and dry conditions, some medications, air conditioning, and irritants like cigarette smoke. To assist in alleviating the symptoms associated with the condition, your eye care specialist may recommend “artificial tears” or other types of eye drops for you to use.

Floaters: A generic phrase that is used to describe microscopic specks that move gradually yet noticeably in your range of vision. This term encompasses both floaters and spots. It is possible that a floater or a spot is a small clump of gel or cells in the vitreous, which is the transparent fluid that is found inside of your eye. The most common causes of floaters and spots include age-related changes, trauma to the eye, and vitreous degeneration. If you suddenly see more numbers than usual, you should consult an eye care professional as soon as possible.

Fovea: A little region in the center of the retina that is made up entirely of cone cells is referred to as the fovea. The clarity of our vision can be attributed to the function of this region.

Glaucoma: A common and avoidable cause of vision loss that occurs when there is an abnormally high pressure within the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve. ability to be treated with the use of pharmaceutical medicines or surgical procedures.

High(er) Index:  A lens material that is more dense than conventional plastic but produces lenses that are smaller and lighter. Index is short for “index refraction,” which describes the rate at which light moves through the lens. There is a range of higher index lenses available, starting at 1.56 and going up to 1.74. (the higher the number, the thinner the lens). People who need stronger prescription eyeglasses can benefit from using them.

Hyperopia: A condition in which one can see things in the distance quite clearly while seeing things up near less clearly. In common parlance, this condition is referred to as “farsighted.”

Iris: The pigmented (colored) membrane that controls the size of the pupil and located between the cornea and the crystalline lens of the eye. It is called the iris.

Lens: The crystalline Lens is the natural lens of the eye, and it is placed just below the iris. It is able to alter its shape in order to concentrate light rays onto the retina.

Macula is the area of the retina that is responsible for the clear, focused vision that is necessary for reading and driving.

Macular degeneration: A range of disorders that include a degradation of the macula, which leads to a loss of center vision, which is essential for having eyesight that is both crisp and clear. In those aged 65 and older, it is the main cause of vision loss and blindness. [Citation needed] [Citation needed] There are a several different names for macular degeneration, including AMD and ARMD (age-related macular degeneration).

Mild Eye Irritation: A mild form of eye irritation that is brought on by the presence of a foreign body on the surface of the eye, such as eyelashes, sand, or dirt. First, wash your hands, and then use tepid water to flush the eye for up to a quarter of an hour. Immediately seek the assistance of a qualified medical expert if the irritation persists and the discomfort continues.

Multi-Focal Lenses: These lenses allow you to focus on two or more distances through the same lens. Multi-focal lenses are becoming increasingly popular (usually distance, intermediate, and near). These lenses are also referred to as bi-focals, tri-focals, and multi-focals.

Myopia: Refers to a situation in which objects in the distance are seen less clearly whereas objects that are up close are viewed clearly. In common parlance, this condition is referred to as “nearsighted.”

Nyctalopia: A condition that manifests itself as reduced vision in low-light or completely dark environments. It is often commonly referred to as “night blindness.”

Optic Nerve: The bundle of nerve fibers responsible for transmitting signals from the eyes to the brain.

Photochromic Lenses: Eyeglasses or contact lenses that, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, transform themselves from transparent to opaque.

Photophobia: A disorder that can have a wide variety of underlying reasons and can be triggered by a wide variety of drugs. Photophobia is also known as “light sensitivity.” Anyone who suffers from photophobia must take precautions to avoid exposure to strong light.

Plastic 1.50: A lens material that is frequently used for prescriptions that are not severe. Nowadays, only a very small percentage of lenses are constructed from glass because of its higher density, greater thickness, and fragility. Additionally known by the name standard index, as well as the brand designation CR-39.

Polarized lenses: This form of lens has an invisible “polarized” filter that helps to cut down on blinding glare from reflecting surfaces such as water and snow for better visual acuity (sharpness) under bright light settings. This type of lens is also known as “polarized” lenses.

Polycarbonate lens: A type of lens material that is more impact resistant than regular plastic while also being significantly smaller and lighter. Lenses made of polycarbonate material have become the industry standard for children’s eyewear.

Presbyopia: A condition in which the crystalline lens in the eye, which normally begins to lose its ability to alter shape around the age of 40, gradually loses its ability to concentrate light at all distances, especially near vision. Reading glasses, bi-focal glasses, or progressive lenses are the three types of eyewear that can treat presbyopia. Squinting, headaches, and eye strain are some other symptoms of this condition.

Progressive lenses: A type of multifocal or bi-focal lens that do not have any visible lines and have a lens power that progressively changes from distance to near. Additionally known as PALs (Progressive Addition Lenses).

Pterygium is the medical term for an elevated growth on the eye that is most frequently and directly linked to excessive exposure to the sun. Conditions that are dry and dusty could also have a role in the development of these growths. It is essential to take precautions against ultraviolet radiation, including protecting one’s eyes.

Pupil: The opening in the center of the iris, known as the pupil, that can be adjusted to regulate the amount of light that enters the eye.

Pupillometer: A device that measures the amount of space that exists between the pupils. It is necessary to take this measurement in order to appropriately position the eyeglass prescription in front of the eye.

Refraction : A test that is used to identify an eye’s refractive error as well as the most effective pair of corrective lenses that can be given.

Retina: Located in the back two-thirds of the eye and is responsible for converting visual impulses from the optical system of the eye into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the optic nerve. consists of layers, each of which may contain rods or cones.

Rods and cones: The two types of cells that are found in the human eye, and the retina uses them to analyze light. Cones are responsible for sharp visual acuity and color perception, while rods are responsible for seeing in dim light (also known as night vision).

Sclera: often known as the white part of the eye, is made up of fibrous tissue and serves to protect the organs and cells that are located deeper within the eye.

Single-Vision Lenses: Lenses that only treat a single type of vision defect, such as being too close or too farsighted.

Snellen Chart: This is the most popular type of eye chart, and it is used in eye examinations. It is typically topped with a huge letter “E.” Your eye’s visual acuity, or your capacity to see fine details clearly, will be evaluated using this method.

Strabismus: A loss of coordination between the eyes that can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including one or both eyes turning in, out, up, or down. In young children, this disease is also referred to as “crossed eyes.”

Ultraviolet radiation/UVR: A term that refers to light waves emitted by the sun that include both UVA and UVB rays. Ultraviolet radiation is also commonly referred to as “UV Rays.” In the absence of appropriate eye protection, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause a variety of eye disorders as well as damage to the eye.

UV Protection: The capacity of a lens to shield the wearer’s eyes from potentially damaging rays of the sun. To protect one’s eyes from the sun’s rays as much as possible, it is advisable to wear glasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.

Visual acuity: The evaluation of the eye’s capacity to differentiate between different aspects of an object’s shape and details, and it is numerically stated as 20/20, 20/70, etc.

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Eye Allergy

People who suffer from allergies may experience symptoms beyond the runny nose and itchy eyes that are typically associated with the condition. Its red, swollen, and irritated eyes may also be a key sign of allergies, and these symptoms can appear regardless of whether or not you are sneezing uncontrollably.

lots of blooming ragweed

This illness is referred to by its scientific term, which is allergic conjunctivitis. A faulty activation of the immune system in your body is the root cause of the condition, as is the case with any allergic reaction. Your immune system goes into a “panic” when it is exposed to allergens, causing it to respond badly to items that are truly harmless to the body in and of themselves. This reaction can be triggered by allergens such as dander from pets, pollen, or even dust. This allergic reaction causes the release of a chemical known as histamine, which causes your eyes to become dry and causes your tear production to increase. This reaction is designed to remove any foreign things that may be present. Because the blood vessels in your eyes become inflamed as well, you may notice that your eyes appear to have a bloodshot appearance.

What Are the Symptoms of an Eye Allergy?

The symptoms of an allergic reaction might vary quite a bit from person to person. You may discover that your eyes are red, inflamed, or itchy; that your eyes are sensitive to light; that your eyelids are swollen; or that all of these symptoms occur simultaneously. In more extreme cases, you may even have a stinging, sore, or burning sensation in your eyes, as well as excessive tear production and a runny nose. You could also find that you have to blow your nose frequently and sneeze frequently.

There are several potential triggers for allergic reactions. Pollen from grass, weeds, and trees, along with dust and fur from pets, is one of the most well-known types of allergens. Less commonly recognized is the fact that it is also possible for a person to be allergic to goods that are used on a daily basis, such as perfume or makeup, and even contact lenses. It is also not widely known that although it is very common for allergic symptoms to appear immediately upon contact with the allergen, it is also possible for an allergic reaction to present itself as much as four days after the initial contact with an allergen. This is despite the fact that it is very common for allergic symptoms to appear immediately upon contact with the allergen.

How Can I Get Rid of the Symptoms of My Eye Allergy?

Even though allergic reactions typically cease once the offending allergen is eliminated and the eyes are allowed to restore to their normal state, this is not always the case with allergens such as dust and pollen because these substances are so pervasive in the environment. Optometrists in Mesa may recommend over-the-counter or prescription eye drops for patients suffering from these and other types of allergies. The allergens in your environment should be affected less by the use of these eye drops because to their antihistamine properties. A number of these eye drops have been designed to act as antihistamines, which means that they prevent the body from producing histamine. These eye drops will also function in a variety of other ways, including relieving existing symptoms and preventing new ones from developing.

The usage of artificial tears is another fantastic method for alleviating the symptoms of dry eye that are brought on by allergens. These eye drops have been particularly developed to replicate the tears that the allergic reaction had previously produced before they dried up. Artificial tears are often only available with a doctor’s prescription, but studies have shown that they are superior to over-the-counter eye drops in a number of important respects.

There are a number of additional methods available to lessen or alleviate the symptoms. When going outside, protecting your eyes with sunglasses helps prevent pollen, dust, and other allergens from the environment from getting into your eyes. If you have tried everything else and your eyes are still bothered, you should remove your contact lenses and see if that helps. Last but not least, if you are having an allergic response, you should never rub your eyes. No matter how much your eyes itch, rubbing them will just cause more irritation and make the situation even more uncomfortable.

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Cataracs

closeup of an older man's eye with a cloudy film over the center

Our eyes work in a manner quite similar to that of a camera. Each of your eyes contains two naturally occurring lenses. There is one lens on the front surface of your eye, and another lens, known as the crystalline lens, is located within your eye. Together, these lenses bring images into sharp focus on the retina, which is located in the center of the back of the eye. When we are born, the crystalline lens in our eyes is clear. It turns a yellowish color and becomes more rigid as we get older. As soon as it turns clouded, we refer to it as a cataract, and it starts to affect the quality of our eyesight.

Safeguard Your Perspective

Cataracts, if left untreated, can cause damage to your vision and potentially result in the complete and permanent loss of your sight. The removal of your cataract can be accomplished in a short amount of time and without any discomfort, thereby assisting in the prevention of further vision loss.

a brightly colored outdoor scene by a river. Many trees are in their fall colors

Vision that is more crisp and colors that are more vivid

Cloudiness in the lens is one of the most common signs of cataracts, which can also cause poor vision. Patients report improved vision after having their native lens surgically removed and replaced with an artificial one. They also observe that the colors appear to be more vivid and dazzling.

Maintain Your Independence

When you have trouble seeing, it can be tough to complete the things that are required of you on a daily basis. This is especially relevant to activities like working on intricate projects or driving late at night. Many patients find that they are able to resume past interests and activities that they had to give up because of poor vision after undergoing cataract surgery.

Possibilities to Make Adjustments to Your Vision

During the consultation for your cataract, our specialists will talk about you about the many options for Advanced Technology. Vision at a single point in the distance is provided by the standard lenses that will be used during your cataract removal procedure. You will be able to maximize your ability to focus at a variety of distances with the use of an advanced technology lens such as a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL). This also reduces the amount of time you need to spend wearing glasses if you are one of these patients.

Surprisingly, cataract surgery is one of the operations that causes the least amount of discomfort for patients. You should feel better in a few days, and you should almost instantly notice an improvement in your vision.

extreme close up of a woman's eye

Does the Removal of Cataracts Actually Work?

The surgeries for cataracts are highly successful. Because of advances in medical technology, cataract surgery is now a less risky procedure that can also be adapted to each patient's individual eyes and requirements for clear vision.

Cataract removal is not only successful but also has a lasting effect that might last a lifetime. The natural lens is removed during cataract surgery, so the condition can never develop again. The longevity of the artificial lens that is used in place of the natural lens is designed to exceed 200 years.

The majority of patients report that the procedure to remove cataracts is both rapid and painless. Outpatient surgery for cataracts means that you will be able to return home the same day as your treatment. You are going to need to get some rest, and you should have someone drive you home. On the other hand, the recuperation process as a whole is often relatively simple. Patients frequently report that they are able to detect improvements in their vision quite rapidly.

Today’s lens replacement patient needs great vision after surgery. Previous technologies for lens replacement surgery gave just one focal point: distance, leaving patients dependent on reading glasses or bifocals for their vision correction needs. Because of recent developments in multifocal technology, it is now possible to read the words on prescription bottles, magazines, newspapers, and computer screens without the use of magnifying glasses or bifocals (or even trifocals), while still maintaining your ability to see objects that are further away in crisp detail.

These lenses have the capability of constantly delivering better vision at a variety of ranges, ranging from close up to far away. Your eye doctor will be able to advise you on the type of lens that will best meet the demands placed on your vision by your lifestyle. These lenses are not appropriate for everyone, and more testing will be required to establish whether or not you are a good candidate for the intraocular lenses that are being discussed here. The vast majority of patients who have opted for advanced IOLs are extremely pleased with the results of the treatment and say they would suggest it to members of their family and friends who suffer from cataracts.

Your choice of lens should be viewed as an investment that has the potential to help you keep the same level of comfort in your daily life and have clear vision whenever you open your eyes for the rest of your life.

Who should get eye surgery for cataracts?

The formation of cataracts is a normal process associated with aging. Cataracts are a natural consequence of aging and will affect everyone at some point in their lives. Cataracts are usually caused by aging and can begin to form as early as the middle years of a person’s life; however, vision loss often does not occur until after the age of sixty.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of cataracts include diabetes, eye trauma, continuous use of steroid drugs, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and smoking.

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Eye Exams

close up of a biomicroscope, complex, binocular-like device used in eye exams

We provide each and every customer with a better level of care to ensure that they have clear vision and healthy eyes! In addition to providing routine vision exams, comprehensive eye exams, advanced management of ocular disease, dry eye treatment, specialized pediatric eye care, contact lens fittings, and a fabulous optical collection of high-fashion eyeglasses for every member of your family, our eye doctors are highly qualified and offer a full range of personalized vision care services. 

These services include routine vision tests, comprehensive eye exams, advanced management of ocular disease, dry eye treatment, and specialized pediatric eye care. No matter what it is that you require, we will employ the most up-to-date, cutting-edge technology and our top-tier expertise to provide you with an accurate vision prescription and a thorough diagnosis.

Because we think that the finest eye care is dependent upon open communication and trust between eye doctor and patient, at our contemporary optometry clinic, we invest in getting to know you, including your vision needs, your health condition, and the preferences you have regarding your lifestyle. We are happy to serve as your one-stop shop for professional vision care that will keep your eyes healthy, clear, and comfortable.

Examining your eyes on a regular basis is essential, regardless of your age or overall health. During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will not only determine your prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses, but they will also check your eyes for common eye diseases, evaluate how well your eyes work together as a team, and evaluate your eyes as an indicator of how well your overall health is doing. In addition to these tests, your eye doctor will determine whether or not your eyes require corrective lenses.

Do You Need an Eye Exam so That Your Prescription Can Be Updated?

A comprehensive eye exam is one that examines and evaluates the health of your eyes as well as the quality of your vision through the use of a number of different tests and procedures. These tests range from very straightforward ones, such as having you read from an eye chart, to more involved ones, such as utilizing digital retinal imaging technology to assess the health of the retina.

 

The eye care professionals at XYZ strongly suggest that you get a full eye exam at least once a year. This will allow the eye care professionals at XYZ to evaluate your risk for potentially damaging eye conditions and monitor any changes in your vision that you may be experiencing. Eye Care for Everyone in hometown.

How Often Should One Visit the Optometrist, Taking Into Account Their Age?

Any patient who uses corrective lenses, such as glasses or contacts, should get an annual eye exam, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). Even if you don’t regularly require corrective lenses for your eyesight, you should still have an eye exam once a year. Because so many diseases can have an effect on a person’s eyesight and eye health, medical professionals typically advise patients who suffer from conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions to have their eyes examined more frequently.

Everyone over the age of sixty should get an eye exam once a year because the risk of developing eye diseases continues to rise with age.

If you are over the age of 40, it is recommended that you get an eye exam once every one to two years to check for common age-related visual problems such as presbyopia, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

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Healthy Sight

close up of a woman focusing on they eyes

When we talk about maintaining healthy eyesight, what we’re really referring to is the immediate, short-term, and long-term care and protection of your vision, which is the sense that gives you a perspective on the world that is singular and specific to you. Our eyes are responsible for a significant portion of what we discover, what we feel, and what brings us pleasure.

Healthy Sight is not merely a catchphrase; rather, it is a way of life that improves your vision in everyday situations while also protecting the health of your eyes. It entails going in for checkups on a regular basis. If one requires corrective lenses or contacts, maintaining good eye health requires always wearing the appropriate prescription. It involves being aware of how to shield your eyes from the sun’s potentially damaging ultraviolet radiation, as well as the risks associated with participating in dangerous activities. 

Having healthy eyes means having a grasp of how one's lifestyle, nutrition, and other personal habits might affect one's vision, both now and in the future.

Protecting your children’s vision is an important part of maintaining your own healthy vision.

The eyes are a component of the human body. Some of the healthy behaviors that safeguard your overall health are also beneficial to your eyesight, including the following:

Consuming a diet that is well-balanced that is abundant in fiber, fruits, and veggies

Drinking water to hydrate your body and your eyes

Quitting smoking and minimizing your exposure to secondhand smoke over the long run

Protecting oneself from ultraviolet (UV) rays

Considering proper vitamin supplements

In research trials, antioxidants like vitamins C and E, as well as carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, have demonstrated some promise in terms of lowering the chance of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, as well as slowing their progression (AMD).

Additional Eye Health Reminders

According to research done, a surprising number of healthy visual behaviors are not practiced, such as completely treating detected eye issues with the appropriate prescription when it is prescribed. That entails carrying out the prescribed actions in an exact manner until all of the medication has been consumed.

Also, make sure to advise your eye doctor about any other prescription medications you are currently taking, as there is a possibility that combining eye medication with other prescriptions could result in undesirable visual side effects.

You’d be amazed at how many of us admit to working in low light or poor lighting settings; when reading or doing work that demands attention, make sure to use good, even lighting. And make sure the illumination on your computer screen is adjusted to match your surroundings.

woman wearing eye examination equipment talking to an eye doctor. Both are smiling

Glare and ultraviolet (UV) radiation both bring specific risks and hazards to one’s vision. Take the time to learn how to reduce both of these issues by using protective lenses or lens products that already have glare reduction and 100% UV blockage built into them.

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Macular Degeration

Age Related Macular Degeneration

elderly man with glasses with blurred shelves in the background

A prevalent kind of macular degeneration is age-related macular degeneration, which is usually referred to simply as macular degeneration. Deterioration of the macula, which is a small area in the center of the retina in the rear of the eye, is the root cause of this condition.

Macular degeneration causes central vision loss. What you see directly in front of you when you gaze straight ahead constitutes what is known as your core vision.

When you gaze in front of you, you have something called “peripheral vision,” which is what you see off to the sides. Macular degeneration does not result in complete blindness since it just affects the retina and does not involve the peripheral vision.

It is believed that 11 million people in the United States have Macular Degeration.

It is the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide.

Macular Degeneration can occur in either a dry or moist form.

About eighty-five to ninety percent of patients who have macular degeneration also have dry macular degeneration. It is caused by the development of drusen, which are tiny yellow deposits that can be found under the macula.

The remaining 10 to 15 percent of people have what’s known as wet macular degeneration. It happens when aberrant blood vessels grow under the retina and macula, which can be very painful.

Macular degeneration's distinct signs and symptoms

Macular degeneration is a condition that worsens with time. This indicates that things will get even worse as time goes on.

In the early stages of the condition, it’s possible that you won’t notice any changes to your vision. When a change in vision affects both eyes at the same time, you are also less likely to detect the change in your vision.

Dry macular degeneration is characterized by the following signs and symptoms:

  • a weakening of one’s peripheral vision
  • a bending or warping of lines that are straight in your line of sight
  • the requirement for more brilliant lighting the difficulty in adjusting to dim lighting
  • haziness, difficulty in identifying faces, and retinal impairment are all symptoms of blurriness.

Visual abnormalities and a diminished ability to see clearly in the center of your field of vision are two examples of the symptoms that are shared by both wet and dry macular degeneration.

You may also encounter the following additional symptoms of wet macular degeneration:

  • a hazy region in the center of your field of vision
  • a spot of darkness in the middle of your field of vision caused by blood vessels bleeding or fluid leaking from them.
  • symptoms progressively becoming more severe with blurred vision

Factors that can lead to macular degeneration and its causes

Why some people get macular degeneration and others don't is a mystery that science hasn't been able to solve. However, the presence of certain risk factors can make you more likely to get the disease.

These potential dangers include the following:

Family history of macular degeneration

Over the age of 55

Having cardiovascular disease

Overweight or obese

Smoking or vaping

History of high cholesterol

Supplements for macular degeneration

Bottles of AREDS2, AREDS2 chewable, and AREDS@ multivitamin supliments

If you notice any changes in your overall health or in particular in your vision, you should never hesitate to consult your primary care physician. However, there is some evidence that specific vitamins can help slow the progression of late macular degeneration, which affects only one eye, as well as intermediate macular degeneration.

The National Eye Institute (NEI) provided funding for two extensive studies that investigated the role that nutritional supplementation plays in the progression of the disease. Both of these studies are collectively referred to as the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and AREDS2.

In the first study, researchers found that taking a daily supplement cut by 25 to 30 percent the risk of intermediate disease progressing to late disease over a period of five years. Additionally, it lowered the risk of vision impairment by 19 percent.

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