Diabetic retinopathy refers to an eye disease that can lead to vision loss and potential blindness in people diagnosed with diabetes. The condition is triggered by high blood sugar which damages blood vessels in the retina.
The Two Forms of Diabetic Retinopathy
NPDR (non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy)
NPDR occurs when small blood vessels leak leading to swelling in the retina. The macula, the part of the retina at the back of your eye, swells causing macular edema. There is a high possibility that the blood vessels will shut down leading to macular ischemia. As a result, blood cannot enter the macula and your vision begins to suffer.
PDR (proliferative diabetic retinopathy)
PDR is more complex and a dangerous form of diabetic retinopathy. It affects both your central and peripheral vision. Neovascularization results causing the retina to grow new blood vessels. It is common for the vessels to bleed into the vitreous and prevent you from being able to see anything. Unfortunately, the blood vessels can also create scar tissue resulting in a detached retina.
Symptoms
If you were recently diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy you may start to have trouble reading, seeing objects at long distances or experience vision discrepancies. Common signs to look out for include:
According to the CDC, these symptoms are most common in one-third of adults over age 40 years old with diabetes. The demographics most affected include African Americans and Mexican Americans.
Treatments
If you were recently diagnosed, your healthcare provider may suggest to wait a while before taking action to gage how your eyesight is doing over a period of time. It is common to require frequent eye exams to monitor the progress. If your vision worsens the following treatment options may be recommended:
If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision complications and the best options for you.
Sources: CDC, American Academy of Ophthalmology, National Eye Institute
At South Shore Eye Care, ensuring we offer the best IOL’s will set all our patients up for success. Our priority is to make sure every patient that walks out the door feels that their vision has improved.
Cataracts:
Our eyes are our vision system cameras. Images enter the eyes which send the information to the brain. Each eye has a focusing lens. The lens begins life very flexible and clear. As we age the lens hardens and eventually clouds. This is called a CATARACT. Cataract visual loss can also occur from injury, some medications, and medical conditions.
When blurriness alters our ability to read, drive, enjoy TV, etc., repair becomes necessary. We replace the clouded natural lens with a new lens (made of plastic) to restore clear vision. These are called Intra-Ocular Lenses or IOL’s.
What are the types of IOLs?
IOLs have been available for over 30 years. The materials and styles have evolved to give better visual quality. There are a variety of features.
STANDARD IOLs
These lenses are like the original lenses we first had available. They are of one focusing power so they could correct, say distance vision, but the intermediate and near ranges would require the patient to wear reading glasses or bifocals to see at near.
PREMIUM IOLs
These newer technology IOLs help us have surgical results with less dependence on glasses:
ASTIGMATISM CORRECTING or TORIC IOLs
In addition to cataract, uneven eye surface shape distorts the vision. This is astigmatism.
This can leave patients still in need of glasses after cataract surgery. TORIC IOLs can neutralize the distortion, resulting in sharper vision. (Near and Mid-Range still are under-corrected).
EXTENDED DEPTH OF FOCUS IOLs or EDOF IOLs and MULTIFOCAL IOLs
Clear vision correction for distance, but difficulty with the Intermediate and Near Range, spurred the creation of lens for both distance AND near.
We have a variety of lenses that reduce the eyeglass dependence for both distance and near! Patients frequently need none!
And YES, there are astigmatism correcting TORIC EDOF and TORIC MULTIFOCAL IOL’s, so most cataract repair focusing problems can be successfully handled!
If you are interested in exploring the options for cataract surgery, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your lens options and advise what will work best for you.
At South Shore Eye Care your vision is our focus.
Adapting healthy habits such as eating the right foods or exercising can prevent common eye conditions such as glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. According to George Town EDU, 20 million Americans have vision impairments. Changing your lifestyle can lead to long-term benefits that can help prevent you from developing a common eye condition.
Foods with key nutrients for your diet
As you plan out your meals for the week it is important to include key vitamins and minerals. Foods that include nutrients vital for your daily intake can lead to a better immune system and decrease the risk of vision disorders. The following is a list of foods to consider:
Too often people gravitate towards a sugary drink or dessert with a high sugar content. Making this a habit can lead to type 2 diabetes and heart disease that can cause diabetic retinopathy. By making simple dietary adjustments, you can set yourself up to maintain healthy vision.
Activities that help with hand-eye coordination
Eye health can be managed by being active a few times a week. Whether you are working out in your house or at the park, spending at least 30 minutes doing cardio will help to stimulate the brain and improve hand-eye coordination. Here are a few ways you can exercise to get your eyes stimulated:
To maintain a healthy mind, you must implement healthy habits. If you are experiencing vision discrepancies, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision complications and the best options for you.
Source: Health Harvard
As kids are going back to school it is important to prioritize eye health and to be educated on how to take care of your vision. According to the CDC, 6.8% of children younger than 18 years old in the United States have a diagnosed eye and vision condition. Thousands of kids struggle with undiagnosed vision disorders because they are too embarrassed to express their concerns.
Signs you are experiencing vision issues
With schools becoming more competitive, having the ability to see clearly is imperative. By ignoring eye health issues, students can fall behind educationally, have self-esteem issues and run the possibility of prolonging eye diseases and other health issues.
Signs to look for in the classroom:
If you ignore these signs, you may become part of “more than 600,00 children and teens who are blind or have a vision disorder”. Acknowledging your vision impairments is the first step, the next is contacting your local eye care clinic to schedule an appointment.
Eye care tips for inside and outside the classroom
Being aware of common vision challenges faced by students is valuable, so is knowing how to deal with them. Taking care of your eyesight is the utmost importance because your eyes help you study, read, and write. If you want to prioritize your vision incorporate the following tips:
To maintain healthy eyes, you must implement healthy habits. If you are experiencing vision issues, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision complications and options for your treatment.
Throughout the teenage years the body enters puberty which can cause drastic changes to your vision. The importance of your eye health can often be overlooked as homework and school activities become a priority. However, understanding why you should prioritize your vision care is essential to either maintain healthy vision or treat prolonging eye diseases.
Typical eye conditions found in teens
Three eye conditions that are normally discovered in teens include myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
If you are looking to correct these vision impairments, then opting for glasses or contacts may be your best options. Your doctor will disclose what option is best suited for your prescription and eye shape.
At this stage of adolescence, teens are in sports activities that may require them to be outside for extended periods of time. This raises concern as they become exposed to other dangerous eye health complications including:
Families and teens should be privy to the conditions that can be detrimental to eye health.
Tips to maintain healthy vision
To enact healthy eye habits here are few tips you should follow:
If you have experienced the following eye conditions, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision discrepancies and the best options for you.
Our eyesight is an essential tool vital in completing daily tasks. As we age, our vision begins to deteriorate and we become prone to more eye diseases. According to the CDC, “93% of people in the United States are at risk for vision loss.” Here are 5 tips to maintain healthy vision:
Having good eye health starts with planning the right meals for your body. When meal prepping, nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, lutein, zinc and Vitamin E must be incorporated into your diet. To decrease your chances of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts here a few foods you should buy on your weekly grocery trip:
If you forget to wear your sunglasses in 100-degree weather, then you increase your chances of being diagnosed with cataracts or macular degeneration. UV light exposure affects the cornea and lens, which function to absorb light. Too much exposure can lead to permanent damage affecting your central vision. Next time you are in the market for shades make sure they are 100 percent UVA- and UVB-absorbent or UV 400.
Digital eye strain can progress if you are always looking at your laptop or phone. Staring at a screen for a long period can lead to blurry vision, difficulty looking at long distances, and headaches. To prevent vision discrepancies here are some suggestions:
If you work in a lab or have a job where you have regular contact with chemicals use safety glasses or protective googles.
Being active in sports such as hockey or football can lead to eye injuries. Make sure to wear your uniform, padding and face/eye gear to ensure you are protecting your eyes from long term damage.
Attending your annual eye exam can lead to prescription changes and discovering an eye or health disease. It is imperative to attend your appointments to receive treatments and take care of your vision. Having your yearly visit may include:
If you have not gone to your annual checkup, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision discrepancies and the best options for you.
Source: Web MD
Throughout the teenage years the body enters puberty which can cause drastic changes to your vision. The importance of your eye health can often be overlooked as homework and school activities become a priority. However, understanding why you should prioritize your vision care is essential to either maintain healthy vision or treat prolonging eye diseases.
Typical eye conditions found in teens
Three eye conditions that are normally discovered in teens include myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
If you are looking to correct these vision impairments, then opting for glasses or contacts may be your best options. Your doctor will disclose what option is best suited for your prescription and eye shape.
At this stage of adolescence, teens are in sports activities that may require them to be outside for extended periods of time. This raises concern as they become exposed to other dangerous eye health complications including:
Families and teens should be privy to the conditions that can be detrimental to eye health.
Tips to maintain healthy vision
To enact healthy eye habits here are few tips you should follow:
If you have experienced the following eye conditions, Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about your vision discrepancies and the best options for you.
You may be eligible for scleral contact lenses if you’ve had trouble wearing contacts in the past – or you’ve been told you’re not a suitable candidate for contacts.
Most contact lenses sit on top of the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) to correct refractive errors and make your vision clearer. Scleral lenses are rigid contact lenses that sit on the sclera (the white part of the eye) instead of the cornea. The space between the scleral lens and the cornea can hold fluid to heal damaged corneas and treat severe dry eye. There has been a significant evolution in contact lens technology over the past few decades. There is a specialty lens option available for nearly everyone today. The scleral contact lens is one of the most versatile types of specialty contacts.
Scleral lenses offer several benefits for various eye conditions. Here are some key advantages of scleral lenses:
It’s critical to note that scleral lenses are custom-made to fit each individual’s eye shape and prescription. They require specialized fitting by an eye care professional experienced in fitting scleral lenses. If you are considering scleral lenses, it is best to consult with an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can evaluate your specific needs and determine if they are a suitable option for you.
Think you may be a candidate for scleral lenses? Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 for our Massapequa office to schedule an appointment today.
Sources: National Eye Institute & American Academy of Ophthalmology
Botox is an FDA approved cosmetic treatment that helps smooth lines to achieve a youthful glow. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, “The most frequently administered non-surgical cosmetic treatment in the United States in 2012 was botox.” Through this procedure fine lines become less apparent and prevent them from worsening.
What can I expect with botox injections?
As you enter the operating room you may be met with nerves, however, the ophthalmologist performing the procedure will be there to guide you every step of the way. Small injections will be placed with a fine needle across the target areas. The procedure is quick and only takes a few minutes. You should expect to see results within 3-4 days.
How do you know if you are a candidate for botox?
To qualify for botox you must be a healthy adult between the ages of 18-65. Having wrinkles or crow’s feet are expression lines that are valid reasons for the procedure.
Post Op Procedures
After the procedure is complete here are a few house rules to avoid complications:
What can I expect with Juvederm injections?
Juvederm helps to restore volume and smoothness by replacing depleted hyaluronic acid just beneath the skin. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and volume leading to less definition of certain features. This results in people seeking the treatment to achieve smooth skin.
What information should I be aware of?
Juvederm is a safe procedure that lifts your features and fills in areas that are lacking around your eyes. While it is USDA approved, there are certain precautions you should take before proceeding with the injections including:
Lidocaine is one of the key ingredients in the injection. If you are allergic, you should consult your doctor to see if this procedure is right for you.
If you take several medications it can lead to immune system issues, severe bruising, or extensive bleeding.
Post Op procedures
While many people may not want to follow the rules, doing so will result in less complications. Here are some instructions to follow 24 hours after receiving treatment:
Think you may be a candidate for botox or juvederm? Contact our office and request an appointment at one of our locations. Call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment. Our ophthalmologists will talk with you about the risks and benefits of both procedures.
Femto laser cataract surgery is a procedure that uses advanced technology to remove cataracts softly and accurately. Special lasers make precise incisions in the cornea and lens to break up the cataract. This technique aims to reduce astigmatism of the eye and optimize the clarity of your vision during cataract surgery.
Symptoms of cataracts
More than 20.5 million Americans over 40 years old deal with cataracts. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms your doctor may recommend Femto Laser Cataract Surgery:
Advantages of Femto Laser Cataract Surgery
While this procedure may be daunting it actually is a safe alternative to the traditional blade used in removing cataracts. There are a few advantages which include:
Capsulotomy refers to the thin and dainty membrane that captures the eyes clouded lenses. To have a good chance of spectacle-free vision it must be performed accurately. Before laser procedures were introduced a surgeon had to manually remove the capsule. This led to a higher risk of complications. Once computer-guided lasers were available surgeons were able to cut perfectly circular openings reducing the risk of breakage.
Cataracts refer to clouding of the natural lens. Sound waves are used to break our lens into smaller pieces. If a cataract is quite dense than more ultrasound energy is required. This can cause damage to the endothelial cells. With femtolaser cataract surgery the laser pre-softens the lens meaning less ultrasound is necessary. This results in less damage, a smoother procedure and a faster recovery period.
Typically a blade is used to make incisions which leads more room for error. With a femtolaser the exact area, width and dimensions are mapped out improving your vision.
Astigmatism refers to the cornea developing the shape of a football rather than being round. Throughout the procedure a laser is used in the peripheral cornea to fix the shape.
What to Expect Before, During & After Femto Laser Cataract Surgery
Before
Your doctor will perform an ultrasound test measuring the size and shape of your eye. This will decide the IOL, type of lens implant, suited for your eye during your procedure.
During
If you have cataracts surgery, you will be awake through the whole procedure. Sedation or local anesthesia may be offered to provide comfort. While the procedure is only a few minutes the whole process (before, and during) spans around an hour. If you are experiencing cataracts in both eyes your surgeon will most likely perform separate surgeries.
After
Most patients recover from cataract surgery with little to no complications. You will wear an eye shield for a few hours after surgery and when you sleep for a few days. It will take some time for your vision to properly adjust so do not be concerned if you are not seeing perfectly acute immediately after the procedure.
If you think Femto Laser Cataract Surgery may be right for you, contact our office or call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment.
Wantagh, NY 11793
Wantagh Office
Massapequa, NY 11758
Massapequa Office
