Could Eating Your Vegetables Help Maintain Healthy Vision?

Maybe your mother was onto something when she continuously told you to “Finish your Vegetables.” According to a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, women who eat large amounts of vegetables – like broccoli, squash, corn, and peas – better Maintain Healthy Vision as they age.

Suzen Moeller, PhD, and colleagues studied more than 1,700 women between the ages of 50 and 79. Each women completed a survey about their current diet, a survey about their diet 15 years earlier, and had high-tech photos taken of their eyes to screen for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a progressive eye disease that causes damage to the Macular, the part of the retina portion of the eye. AMD is also the leading cause of irreversible blindness in people over the age of 65. Currently, there is no cure for AMD, and treatments are limited.

Of those studied, 361 women showed signs of AMD. 327, about 18%, showed signs of intermediate AMD, while 34 showed signs of advanced AMD.

The study showed that healthy women younger than 75 with high lutein and zeaxanthin intake on both food surveys were less likely to have AMD. Lutein and zeaxanthin are two nutrients found in vegetables, such as broccoli, squash, corn, and peas. Lutein and zeaxanthin are also found in egg yolks and supplements.

However, more research is needed before the findings can be confirmed. Moeller even admitted that “Our results could be due to chance.”

If you have any questions about our blog, “Could Eating Your Vegetables Help Maintain Healthy Vision?” or if you would like to know more about Age-Related Macular Degeneration, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at the Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or visiting AnneArundelEyeCenter.com today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Source:

Eat Your Veggies, Keep Your Vision WebMD

Memorial Day and Eye Injuries: Be Aware and be Prepared

With Memorial Day right around the corner, we thought now was the perfect time to address the very serious subject of Eye Injuries. Did you know that 2.5 million eye injuries occur each and every year and 50,000 of those injuries result in complete or partial vision loss? And nearly half (44%) of these occur in or around the home while performing simple, everyday tasks, like mowing or even frying some bacon. Scary, isn’t it? Fortunately, 90% or more of these eye injuries could have been prevented with proper protective eyewear, according to experts!

“Slipping on a pair of safety glasses is quick and easy,” said American Society of Ocular Trauma (ASOT) President Ferenc Kuhn, MD, PhD. “Unfortunately, compared to other commonsense safety steps such as wearing seatbelts, using protective eyewear does not happen frequently enough.”

So why do so few people wear proper eyewear? Well, according to a survey released by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and ASOT, “most people underestimate their at-home risks.” While 66% of survey respondents said they owned protective eyewear, 30% admitted that they did not consistently use the eyewear.

“Protective eyewear could prevent most home eye injuries,” said AAO spokesman Andrew Iwach, MD.

Memorial Day and Eye Injuries: Be Aware and be Prepared

Every year, nearly 10,000 Americans are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks related injuries. And next to injury to the hands, eye injuries are the most common reason for fireworks-related hospital ER visits, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Nearly half of all eye injuries from fireworks occur in children, with 25% resulting in permanent vision loss.

“No one should go from a backyard celebration to the emergency room with firework-related injuries,” said CPSC acting chairman Nancy Nord. “Using only legal fireworks and using them correctly is an important step toward celebrating safely.”

Fireworks Safety Tips from the CPSC

1. Keep young children at a safe distance and never allow them to ignite fireworks.
2. Make sure the fireworks you purchase are legal for your area and always follow the safety instructions on the packaging.
3. Never have any portion of your body directly over the fireworks when lighting the fuse.
4. Never use homemade fireworks.
5. If fireworks do not ignite, never attempt to re-light.
6. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
7. Keep a bucket of water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher handy in case of emergency.
8. Wear protective eyewear.

To learn more about Memorial Day and Eye Injuries, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Source:

1. Nearly Half of Eye Injuries Occur at Home WebMD
2. News release, American Academy of Ophthalmology/American Society of Ocular Trauma.
3. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: “Fireworks Continue to be Dangerous Part of Fourth of July Festivities,” June 25, 2008.
4. AAO Eye Injury Snapshot 2008.
5. Andrew Iwach, MD, executive director, Glaucoma Center of San Francisco; spokesman, American Academy of Ophthalmology.
6. Ferenc Kuhn, MD, PhD, president, American Society of Ocular Trauma.
7. Nancy A. Nord, acting chairman, Consumer Products Safety Commission.

 

The Link between the Outdoors & Your Eyesight Explained by Your Annapolis Eye Doctor

Myopia, better known as nearsightedness, is much more common nowadays than it was just 40 years ago, according to American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). But why? Could it be the increasing popularity of computers, video games, television, and other indoor activities? Well, according to research, the answer could be yes!

According to a study presented at the 115th Annual Meeting of the AAO in Orlando, Florida, spending more time outdoors could decrease the likelihood of nearsightedness in children. Myopia currently affects 33% of Americans, causing the blurring of objects at a distance. However, researchers claim that each additional hour spent outdoors during a week helps decrease the risk of developing nearsightedness.

“This translates to about a 13% reduced chance of developing nearsightedness per extra hour per day of physical activity outdoors,” said researcher Anthony Khawaja, MBBS, an ophthalmologist at the University of Cambridge, U.K.

According to the study, children with myopia typically stayed indoors around four hours more per week than children with normal vision.

“Increasing children’s outdoor time could be a simple and cost-effective measure with important benefits for their vision and general health,” said Khawaja.

Do you suffer from nearsightedness? Do you even know? When was the last time you had your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist or optometrist? Schedule an appointment with the Anne Arundel Eye Center, Your Annapolis Eye Doctor.

Led by Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams to help diagnose common eye problems, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. So if you are experiencing blurred vision, squinting, and fatigue, schedule an appointment at either of our state-of-the-art treatment centers. And if you are diagnosed with either nearsightedness, we will be happy to provide you with a referral to an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can fit you for glasses or contacts or provide Lasik services.

To learn more about The Link between the Outdoors & Your Eyesight, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Source:

1. Does Playing Outdoors Benefit Kids’ Vision? WebMD
2. 115th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Orlando, Fla., Oct. 23-25, 2011.
3. Anthony Khawaja, MBBS, ophthalmologist, University of Cambridge, U.K.
4. Anne Sumers, MD, ophthalmologist, Ridgewood, N.J.

 

The Link between Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, & Fruits and Vegetables

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that causes damage to the Macular, the part of the retina portion of the eye.  AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in those over the age of 65. Cataracts, another eye disease affecting aging Americans, develop when proteins in the eye’s lens form abnormal clumps that gradually get larger, clouding the eye and distorting vision. Nearly 50% of those age 65 and older have cataracts.

So what is the Link between Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, & Fruits and Vegetables?

Studies suggest that the risk of both eye diseases can be decreased with diets that are rich in fruits and vegetable. More specifically, fruits and vegetables that are high in lutein and zeaxanthin. These chemicals work as antioxidants, protecting the eye from free radical damage. Eating fruits and vegetables high in lutein and zeaxanthin, such as  Kale, Collard Greens, Spinach, Brussels Sprouts, Corn, Avacados, Grapes, Orange Huice, and more, have been found to increase the concentration of these chemicals in the blood and in the eye.

Additional Tips to Help

1. Fatty fish at least once a week may reduce the risk of AMD by as much as 50%.
2. Eating fatty fish at least once a day may reduce the risk of AMD by as much as 70%.
3. Rest, exercise, and protective eyewear can also help reduce the risk of AMD.

Of course, nothing replaces regular Comprehensive Ophthalmic Eye Exams with your ophthalmologist.

The Anne Arundel Eye Center, led by Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, offers comprehensive ophthalmic exams to help diagnose eye problems, such as AMD and cataracts. Dr. Boles and his staff have helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision. He is also passionate about educating patients and their families regarding prevention and treatment.

“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor.” – Dr. Boles

To learn more about The Link between Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, & Fruits and Vegetables, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Source:

Vision Quest: Keep an Eye (or Two) Out for These Foods WebMD

Annapolis Eye Doctor: The Differences between Nearsightedness & Farsightedness

It is no secret that nearsightedness (Myopia) and farsightedness (Hyperopia) are common eye conditions, affecting as much as 90% of the population to some degree. It is also no secret that many people confuse the two eye conditions. So what are the Differences between Nearsightedness & Farsightedness?

1. Nearsightedness: Caused by an eyeball that is too long and affecting around 33% of Americans, nearsightedness affects the way in which we see objects at a distance. Because of this, nearsightedness is often associated with problems driving, playing sports, or seeing the blackboard in school. Symptoms include: blurred vision, squinting, and fatigue. High myopia is associated with an increased risk if retinal detachment, flashers and floaters.
2. Farsightedness: Caused by an eyeball that is too short and affecting between 30-60% of Americans, farsightedness affects the way in which we see objects that are near. Because of this, farsightedness is often associated with difficulties reading. Symptoms include: trouble with reading, blurry vision at night, eyestrain, and headaches. Hyperopia is associated with an increased risk of narrow angle glaucoma and acute angle closure glaucoma.

Both nearsightedness and farsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery in some cases.

Comprehensive Ophthalmic Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center: Your Annapolis Eye Doctor

Led by Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams to help diagnose common (and some uncommon) eye problems, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, both of our state-of-the-art treatment centers can meet all your eye care needs.

If you are diagnosed with either nearsightedness or farsightedness, we will be happy to provide you with a referral to an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can fit you for glasses or contacts or provide Lasik services.

“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor.” – Dr. Boles

To learn more about The Differences between Nearsightedness & Farsightedness, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Source:

1. Slideshow: What Eye Problems Look Like WebMD

April is Sports Eye Safety Month: Eye Injuries & Protective Eyewear

Spring has finally sprung, which means one thing. No, not spring cleaning. It means that countless individuals, like yourself, will return to the sports and hobbies they love. And while this may seem like great news, the truth is that it puts you at risk of eye injury.

Each and every year, tens of thousands of people suffer sports- or recreation-related eye injuries that. Fortunately, most of these eye injuries are preventable. In fact, 90% of serious eye injuries are preventable!

April is Sports Eye Safety Month, so what better time than now to address the topic? The hope is that organizations will help spread awareness and individuals will begin to take the necessary precautions – wearing protective eyewear – when performing tasks that have any likelihood of eye-related injury, injuries that could lead to more serious medical conditions like red eye, traumatic cataract or traumatic glaucoma.

Risk of Eye Injuries

High risk sports include:

1. Baseball
2. Basketball
3. Racquetball
4. Ice Hockey

High risk hobbies and activities include:

1. Yard Work
2. Home Repairs
3. Cleaning
4. Cooking

More than 40% of patients treated for eye injuries sustained at home were involved in one of the above activities.

Protective Eyewear

Before taking part in any sport or activity, consider the risk of flying debris. If there is ANY risk, be sure to wear protective eyewear. And remember, eyeglasses are not sufficient protection.

1. For sports like baseball, ice hockey and men’s lacrosse, be sure to wear a helmet equipped with a polycarbonate facemask or wire shield.
2. For other sports, such as basketball, soccer, field hockey, or racquetball, wear protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses.

If an eye injury occurs, see your ophthalmologist or go to the emergency room right away. Any delay medical attention could result in permanent vision loss or even blindness.

To learn more about Sports Eye Safety Month, Eye Injuries, & Protective Eyewear, please contact Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

Eye Health in Sports and Recreation

Annapolis Eye Doctor: Is the Eyelid Crusty & Swollen? It may be Blepharitis

Have you noticed that your eyelid has become slightly swollen, red, and crusty? You may be suffering from a common eye condition known as Blepharitis. This common inflammation of the eyelid is often caused by excess bacteria growth, blockage of the eyelid’s oil glands, and occasionally allergies.

Symptoms of Blepharitis Include:

1. Burning
2. Sensitivity to light
3. Redness
4. Swelling
5. Blurry vision
6. Dry eyes
7. Excessive Tearing
8. Crusty Debris
9. Feeling like something is in your eye
10. Styes, bumps on the eyelid that are raised and painful to the touch

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor at your earliest convenience. While Blepharitis cannot be cured, it can be treated and controlled with simple eyelid hygiene techniques that are easy to learn and follow.

If left untreated, Blepharitis can lead to more serious issues, such as scarring or injury to the eye’s tissue.

Blepharitis Treatment

1. Wet a clean washcloth with very warm water and place it over the closed eyelid for five minutes to help soften the clogged oil glands and loosen crusty debris that has collected on the lashes.
2. Using the washcloth, apply a diluted solution of 50% baby shampoo or mild soap to the affected area.
3. Use the washcloth with baby shampoo or Ocusoft Lid scrub pads to clean the eyelid margin.  You want to scrub from side to side, not up and down.  Make sure you get the lid margin (where your lashes are) while being careful not the scratch the eye itself.
4. Rinse the affected area with a clean, warm, wet washcloth and pat dry.
5. Take your fingertip and ‘roll’ your finger from the cheekbone up to the lid margin, and from the brow down to the lid margin.  This should be done multiple times in order to cover the whole margin of both eyes.  Please ensure the pressure is firm.  Don’t hurt yourself, but don’t be afraid to apply a firm, gentle pressure.

If you are in the early stages of Blepharitis treatment, avoid using eye makeup. This may help prevent further irritation.

To learn more about the Blepharitis, please contact Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

1. Eye Health and Blepharitis WebMD

Anne Arundel Eye Center opens an Eastern Shore Office

You depend on your vision for nearly everything you do. So why not depend on Anne Arundel Eye Center and Maryland’s top physicians to care for it? Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center are dedicated to the health and happiness of you, our patients.

To better support the community and our physician referrals, we have opened a second location on the Eastern Shore.

Anne Arundel Eye Center – Eastern Shore

1630 Main Street, Suite 210

Chester, MD 21619

We invite you to visit us at our Eastern Shore office, offering the same great services and team! Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment centers are dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

Anne Arundel Eye Center’s Eastern Shore office is located in the Anne Arundel Medical Center Building, next to the Fire House in Queen Anne County.

Anne Arundel Eye Center provides complete medical eye exams as well as diagnostic surgical eye care. This comprehensive approach ensures you access to the most current information and resources available regarding eye care conditions, including:

Cataracts Glaucoma Diabetic Retinopathy Pink Eye Macular Degeneration Retinal Detachment Iritis / Uveitis Flashes & Floaters Dry Eye Cornea Problems Emergency Eye Care

When you visit Anne Arundel Eye Center, you can be assured you’re in expert hands.

To learn more about the Anne Arundel Eye Center – Eastern Shore office or to schedule an appointment, please contact us by calling 410-224-2010 or visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

Cataract Surgery, Hip Fractures, and your Annapolis Eye Doctor

As we age, our eyes undergo natural wear and tear, resulting in the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This clouding is known as cataracts. Cataracts develop when proteins in the eye’s lens form abnormal clumps that gradually get larger, distorting vision. To treat cataracts, cataract surgery is used to remove the damaged lens and replace it with a new crystal clear lens to remove any clouding.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, cataract surgery has an unexpected benefit. We know that cataract surgery helps restore clear vision, but what else can cataract surgery do? According to the study Risk of Fractures Following Cataract Surgery in Medicare Beneficiaries, cataract surgery could also help reduce the risk of breaking a hip, something that plagues 350,000 Americans annually.

Visual impairment is a known risk factor for fractures. So naturally, cataract surgery should help reduce the risk of hip fractures, right? Well, lead investigator Dr. Anne L. Coleman of Brown University certainly believes so.

“Seeing helps you navigate a new environment and helps with balance,” said Coleman. “You really need your eyes and vision to help you stay stable.”

Coleman and her colleagues analyzed the effect of cataract surgery on the frequency of hip fractures. Of the more than 1 million Americans over the age of 65 who had cataracts, 1.3% suffered hip fractures. However, the frequency of hip fractures in those individuals who underwent cataract surgery was 16% lower. By statistical analysis, the reduction in risk was even greater, coming in at 23%.

Anne Arundel Eye Center & Dr. Samuel Boles, your Annapolis Eye Doctor

The Anne Arundel Eye Center is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of both glaucoma and cataracts. We provide complete medical eye exams as well as diagnostic surgical eye care. Should you require surgery, your comfort and wellbeing are our top priority, from pre-op testing to post-op care. When you come to the Anne Arundel Eye Center, you can be assured you’re in expert hands.

Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.

To learn more about the Cataract Surgery, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

Cataract Removal linked to fewer Hip Fractures Harvard Health Publications

Making the Most of Glaucoma Treatment: Tips from an Annapolis Eye Doctor

A glaucoma diagnosis is not the end of the world. With early detection and treatment, vision loss can be slowed and even stopped. However, it is up to you to make the most of your glaucoma treatment. But how?

1. Work with your Doctor: The best way to make the most of your glaucoma treatment is to first understand your condition and treatment options. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Your eye doctor will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. There are several types of glaucoma and more than a few treatment options. What type of glaucoma do you have and what treatment has your doctor prescribed. Finally, stay in touch with your eye doctor and notify him/her of any changes in your health.
2. Friends and Family: One of the most overlooked aspects of your glaucoma treatment is your friends and family, your support system. Glaucoma can be difficult to deal with. It is important to have a good support system to help you deal with your diagnosis and ensure you stick to your glaucoma treatment regimen.
3. Glaucoma Medication: Make sure you take your medication as prescribed. If you need to, do not hesitate to ask your eye doctor for written instructions. Also, be sure to inform your doctor of any other medications you are on. And again, don’t be afraid to ask questions: How will I know if my treatment is working? How long will the treatment last? How often will I need checkups?

With our current treatment options – and especially with good careful follow-up – it is unusual to lose vision from glaucoma. With today’s modern treatment, glaucoma does not have to be a scary, sight threatening disorder.

Anne Arundel Eye Center: Your Annapolis Eye Doctor, specializing in Glaucoma Diagnosis and Treatment

At the Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC), a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, Dr. Samuel Boles and his staff have helped preserve thousands of patients’ vision. Dr. Boles and the caring and knowledgeable professionals at AAEC are also passionate about educating patients and their families regarding their glaucoma diagnosis and treatment.

Anne Arundel Eyes Center’s state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

To learn more about the Glaucoma Treatment, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

Getting the Most Out of Your Treatment Glaucoma Research Foundation

Visual Field Tests & Compressive Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center

A visual field test is a subjective measure of central and peripheral vision to help detect or track vision loss. This test is used by your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist – in conjunction with other measures to diagnose and monitor for glaucoma.

At first, vision loss due to glaucoma is almost unnoticeable, affecting an individual’s side or peripheral vision. Without regular visual field tests, a person can lose as much as 40% of his or her vision before ever noticing a change. This is why nearly half of the more than 70 million people suffer from glaucoma are completely unaware they have the eye disease. This is also why regular, comprehensive eye exams are so very important. With no cure for glaucoma, a person’s best chance to protect their vision comes with early detection and treatment.

If glaucoma is diagnosed using the visual field test, your eye doctor will then use the test help calculate the severity of the disease and track future vision loss. This will be done every 3-12 months depending on the severity of the glaucoma.

Visual Field Tests & Compressive Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center

Led by Dr. Samuel Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases, offering complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Dr. Boles and his staff have helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.

“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor.” – Dr. Sam Boles

To learn more about the Visual Field Tests & Glaucoma Treatment, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

1. Why Do I Need a Visual Field Test? By Anna C. Momont, MD and Richard P. Mills, MD, MPH

FDA approves Bionic Eye for Rare Eye Disorders, like Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic eye disease that causes gradual deterioration of the eye’s photoreceptor cells, the light-sensitive cells of the retina. The disease currently affects about 100,000 Americans and until recently, these individuals had very little hope for the future. With no known treatments, those 100,000 Americans were left to just watch their vision slowly degrade.

That was then and this is now!

The new Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System, popularly referred to as the bionic eye, is a sight-enhancing implant designed to help patients with retinitis pigmentosa regain some sense of vision.

“Patients with retinitis pigmentosa in the United States for the first time ever will [now] have a treatment option,” said Dr. Robert Greenberg, president and CEO of Second Sight Medical Products Inc., the maker of the bionic eye.

The Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System was recently issued a limited “humanitarian use device” approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that the bionic eye can be used only for fewer than 4,000 patients (25 years and older) per year.

“It’s a start, it’s a beginning,” said Dr. Mark Fromer, an ophthalmologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

The Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System utilizes a tiny video camera attached to eyeglasses that transmits images to a sheet of electrode sensors that have been sewn into the patient’s eye. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve.

“For many of the approximately 1,300 individuals who will develop the disease this year, this technology may change their lives,” said Dr. William Maisel, deputy director for science and chief scientist at FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “It’s the difference between night and day.”

“It’s going to be exciting for people who get this device who are currently just seeing light or dark, [they] will see shapes and that will be life-altering for them,” added Fromer.

To learn more about the Retinitis Pigmentosa, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

FDA Approves ‘Bionic Eye’ for Rare Vision Disorder WebMD

Is there a correlation between Exercise & Eyesight? A 2006 Study says “Yes”

According to a 2006 study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, exercise may not only help you improve your physical fitness, but it could also save your eyesight. In fact, this study suggests that regular exercise (three or more times a week) can reduce a person’s risk of Age Related Macular Degeneration by as much as 70%.

Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative eye disease that damages the central part of the retina, known as the macula, and may eventually permanently distort a person’s central vision. AMD, which is divided into two categories: wet AMD and dry AMD, is the leading cause of severe vision loss in individuals over the age of 60.

1. Wet AMD: With wet AMD, a growth of abnormal blood vessels underneath the macula leak into the retina.
2. Dry AMD: With dry AMD, which is the more common of the two forms of AMD, individuals experience deposits called drusen in the macula.

Researchers from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health followed close to 4,000 men and women between the ages of 43 and 85 for 15 years, detailing both their exercise habits and lifestyle. Then, researchers administered comprehensive eye exams every five years to track eye health.

Research Findings: Regular exercise can reduce a person’s risk of Age Related Macular Degeneration by as much as 70%. Researcher M.D. Knudston also suggests other factors, especially diet, could also affect the risk of AMD.

Comprehensive Eye Exams in Annapolis, Maryland

Led by board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Sam Boles, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases, like Age Related Macular Degeneration. AAEC offers comprehensive ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care.

To learn more about Age Related Macular Degeneration, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

1. Exercise may protect Eyesight WebMD
2. Knudtson, M. British Journal of Ophthalmology, Oct. 31, 2006, online first edition. News release, BMJ Specialist Journals. WebMD Medical Reference in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: “Eye Health: Macular Degeneration.”

Cataract Treatment in Annapolis, Maryland

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. Board certified ophthalmologist Samuel Boles, M.D. likes to compare cataracts to the clear plastic window on a convertible car.

“Just like the little plastic window in the back of a convertible, the natural lens inside the eye can become cloudy after many years of natural exposure to the sun and through the normal aging process,” said Dr. Boles.

There are three categories of cataracts:

• Subcapsular Cataract: Beginning in the back of the lens, subcapsular cataracts are most common among those with diabetes, high farsightedness, retinitis pigmentosa, or those taking high doses of steroids.
• Nuclear Cataract: The most common form of cataracts, nuclear cataracts forms in the nucleus, the center of the lens, as a result of natural aging.
• Cortical Cataract: Forming in the lens cortex and gradually extending its spokes from the outside in, cortical cataracts are most common in people with diabetes.

What causes Cataracts?

Cataracts are usually caused by age, when the protein in the lens may start to clump together and cloud a small area of the lens. No one knows for sure why this occurs, however, several studies claim that exposure to ultraviolet light could be to blame.

Are Cataracts Common?

Simply put, yes. Nearly 50% of all adults will develop cataracts by the time they turn 65 years old.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts?

Common cataract signs and symptoms include:

• Blurry sight
• Double vision
• Halos
• Difficulty driving at night
• Colors may become faded
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions

If you feel as if you may be suffering from one or more of these symptoms, you should schedule an eye exam at your earliest convenience. Early detection is the key to slowing or even stopping the spread of cataracts.

What is the Treatment for Cataracts?

If cataract symptoms persist and become bothersome, surgery may be your best option. Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure, taking just about 10 minutes (not including pre and post-op preparation). Cataract surgery involves removing the damaged lens and replacing it with a new synthetic one.

Best of all, cataract surgery has the highest success rate of any surgery practiced today. And recovery is a breeze. Most patients can resume their normal, everyday function in very little time and can even drive a few days after surgery.

Where can I have my Cataracts treated in Maryland?

Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or seeking surgical treatment, our state-of-the-art treatment center can meet all your eye care needs.

To learn more about Cataracts, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration to support Glaucoma Research

Please join us for the 2^nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration on Saturday, February 23, 2013 from 7-11pm at the Sheraton Baltimore North in Towson, Maryland. Proceeds from this great event benefit The Polakoff Foundation and the Blind Industries and Services of Maryland and will used for training services, programs and opportunities for blind individuals, as well as free glaucoma screenings for high-risk populations and research and education supporting the fight against glaucoma.

To Purchase Tickets, Please Contact Denise Polakoff
410-420-8132
dfpolakoff@polakoff-foundation.org

Glaucoma Facts

1. Glaucoma is a blinding eye disease without symptoms or a cure.
2. More than 70 million people suffer from glaucoma, but nearly half of them are completely unaware they have the eye disease because glaucoma displays no symptoms and, at first, only affects peripheral or side vision.
3. An individual can lose as much as 40% of their vision before even noticing.

Please consider joining us at this year’s Mardi Gras Celebration to help fight glaucoma. Tickets are just $125 per person and this promises to be a great evening filled with good food and good music.

 

 

 

Why Attend?

1. Support the blind
2. Help fight glaucoma
3. Enjoy a great evening out
4. Network with people from local businesses, charities and public service.
5. Meet guests of honor, Bob & Kendel Ehrlich

Interested in purchasing tickets? If so, contact Anne Arundel Eye Center to by calling 410-224-2010. Or click here for more information on how to sponsor or donate.

About Anne Arundel Eye Center:

Led by Dr. Samuel Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment glaucoma and cataracts.

If you have any questions, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

“I have Glaucoma. Now what?” FAQs answered by your Annapolis Eye Doctor

You have been diagnosed with glaucoma. Now what? How will your vision be affected? Will you go blind?

Glaucoma and your Vision

Will you go blind? Probably not. As long as you seek out effective monitoring and treatment, it is rare to loose vision from glaucoma. In fact, just 5% of all glaucoma patients go totally blind.

• Mild Glaucoma: At first, vision loss due to glaucoma is almost unnoticeable, affecting your side or peripheral vision. But because a person can lose as much as 40% of their vision before noticing, regular, comprehensive eye exams are extremely important.
• Moderate Glaucoma: Eventually, vision loss will become noticeable. At this point, the patient will have already experienced significant loss of vision. And once a person begins to lose their vision, the damage is irreversible.
• Severe Glaucoma: In severe cases of glaucoma, extreme vision loss can occur, including central vision.

The key to preserving your site is early detection. This is why regular, comprehensive eye exams are so important. With no known cure for the eye disease, early detection and treatment is your best defense against vision loss.

Glaucoma Treatment

There are several known treatment sot help slow or even stall the progression of glaucoma. These treatments fall into one of three categories: drops, laser and actual surgeries.

Drops

1. Eye Drops: Eye drops are used to reduce fluid in the front of the eye and lessen intraocular pressure (IOP).

Laser

1. Trabeculoplasty: A laser is used to pull open the trabecular meshwork drainage area. The type we use is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). We will talk more about this in next week’s blog.
2. Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): A small hole is made in the iris, allowing fluid to flow more freely. This type of laser surgery is most commonly used to treat Narrow Angle Glaucoma or Angle-Closure Glaucoma. Click here to learn more about this type of glaucoma.
3. Cyclophotocoagulation: A laser is used to treat the middle layer of the eye to reduce the production of fluid.

Surgery

1. Trabeculectomy: The most common surgery for glaucoma.

To learn more about Glaucoma, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source:

1. Glaucoma and your Eyes WebMD

 

Could there be a Better Test for detecting Glaucoma?

More than 60 million people worldwide currently suffer from glaucoma. Shockingly, however, nearly 30 million of these individuals are completely unaware they have the eye disease, because glaucoma displays no symptoms and, at first, only affects peripheral or side vision. As a result, a person can lose as much as 40% of their vision before even noticing. What’s worse is that once vision loss occurs, there is no way of reversing the damage.

“We call this disease a ‘thief of vision’ because most people with it have no idea that they have lost sight until it is too late to bring it back,” said ophthalmologist Andrew Iwach, MD, the executive director of the Glaucoma Center of San Francisco and an associate clinical professor of opthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco.

Luckily, there may be a solution on the horizon. According to a new study, which appears in the latest issue of the journal Ophthalmology, there may be a new way to identify people at risk of glaucoma years before vision loss occurs.

For 10 years, researchers from the University of Sydney followed nearly 2,500 adults 49 years of age and older, none of whom had glaucoma when the study started. Researchers were able to predict which participants were at increased risk of developing glaucoma by measuring blood vessel thickness in the retinas using a computer-based imaging tool.

Those participants with the narrowest vessels were four times more likely to have developed glaucoma ten years later, at the end of the study.

“It remains to be seen if this approach will help us identify people at risk for glaucoma sooner,” said eye surgeon Mark Fromer, MD, of Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. “We have a number of tools now to help us do that, but we’ve got to get people in our offices to use them.”

This is why regular, comprehensive eye exams are so important. In fact, the American Optometric Association recommends eye exams for adults aged 18 to 60 every two years. For those ages 61 and older, the AOA recommends annual eye exams. In addition, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has its own recommendations, which dovetail nicely with the AOA suggestions. Those AAO recommendations can be found by clicking here.

Comprehensive Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center in Annapolis, Maryland

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases. Led by Dr. Samuel Boles, the AAEC offers complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care.

Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.

To learn more about Glaucoma, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: New Eye Test May Help Predict Risk of Glaucoma WebMD

 

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month: When was your last Eye Exam?

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the eye characterized by elevated pressure inside the eye and sometimes other factors that cause the fibers running through the optic nerve to slowly deteriorate. The optic nerve is the part of the eye that carries the images we see to the brain.

Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Want to hear a scary statistic? More than 60 million people suffer from glaucoma, but nearly half of them are completely unaware they have the eye disease. This is because glaucoma displays no symptoms and, at first, only affects peripheral or side vision. As a result, an individual can lose as much as 40% of their vision before even noticing. So when was the last time you had a comprehensive eye exam?

Early detection of Glaucoma means earlier, simpler and more effective treatment!

Once a person begins to lose their vision, the damage is irreversible. This is why eye exams are so important. Early detection and treatment are your best options to slow or even prevent further vision loss brought on by glaucoma. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

Another scary statistic: glaucoma is the second leading cause of vision loss in the United States behind only cataracts.

So once again, when was your last comprehensive eye exam? Call to make an appointment with your eye doctor to receive a thorough screening for ocular diseases, such as glaucoma!

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

• You are of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent
• You are over the age of 60
• You have a family member who has already been diagnosed
• You are diabetic
• You are severely nearsighted (myopic)

While everyone should have their eyes examined regularly, those with the above risk factors should increase the frequencies of those examinations.

To learn more about Glaucoma Awareness Month, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Aspirin and your Eyes: Could Aspirin be causing your Eye Problems?

According to new research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the regular use of aspirin could put users at a slightly increased risk of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD damages the central part of the retina, known as the macula, and could potentially permanently distort a person’s central vision.

According to researcher Barbara E.K. Klein, MD, MPH, someone would need to take aspirin at least twice a week for more than three months straight for the drug to negatively affect their vision. Still, even with the regular use of aspirin, the risk of developing wet AMD is extremely low, with only about 1% of people 40 years of age or older contracting the eye disease.

For 20 years, Klein followed nearly 5,000 men and women, ages 43 and older. By the end of the study, 512 people were diagnosed with early AMD and 117 with late AMD.

“This study is suggestive that there may be a relationship but it is by no means definitive,” said George Williams, MD, professor and chair of the department of ophthalmology at Oakland University’s William Beaumont School of Medicine in Rochester, Michigan.

Additional Risk Factors for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

1. Family history

2. Light eyes

3. Tobacco use

Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

• Gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly
• Objects appear distorted in shape.
• Straight lines look wavy or crooked.
• Loss of clear color vision
• A dark or empty area appears in the center of vision.

If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible. Any sudden change in your vision is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical attention from your optometrist or ophthalmologist.

To learn more about Age-Related Macular Degeration, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Regular Aspirin Use May Boost Risk of Eye Problem WebMD

The Benefits of Comprehensive Eye Exams told by an Annapolis Eye Doctor

According to a 2007 survey of 1,000 adults conducted by the American Optometric Association (AOA), nearly half of all adults (47%) worry about vision loss, yet 30% don’t have their eyes checked by an eye doctor – optometrist or ophthalmologist. Another survey, this one conducted by the Center for Disease Control in 2011, found that 40% of adults over the age of 40 avoided the eye doctor in 2010. 35% of these respondents said they skipped their visit with their eye doctor because they had “healthy vision.”

Now what if I told you that an individual with glaucoma can lose as much as 40% of their vision before even noticing any vision loss? Scary, isn’t it? In fact, this is why more than half of the 2.2 million Americans affected by glaucoma are unaware that they even have the eye disease.

What’s even scarier is that once a person begins to lose their vision, the damage is irreversible. This is why the AOA recommends that adults, ages 18-60, have their eyes examined every two years, while adults older than 60 have their eyes examined annually.

Comprehensive Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center in Annapolis, Maryland

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases. Not only does AAEC offer a wide range of advanced procedures to improve and preserve your vision, but board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles is passionate about further educating patients and their families about the eye disease they are afflicted with.

“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor,” said Dr. Boles.

To learn more about Glaucoma and Comprehensive Eye Exams, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Sources: Many Adults Fuzzy on Eye Health WebMD

Nonrefractive Vision Problems, like Glaucoma and Cataracts, are on the Rise

According to a recent study published in the December 12^th issue of the Journal of American Medical Association, nonrefractive vision problems are on the rise in the United States, increasing in prevalence by 21% since 1999. Common nonrefractive vision problems include glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts. Unfortunately, these vision problems cannot be corrected using glasses or contact lenses.

A nonrefractive vision problem is one that is caused by an underlying medical condition, like diabetes.

“The increasing diabetes prevalence in the U.S. is leading to more vision loss,” said researcher David S. Friedman, MD, PhD, MPH. “The number of people who have had diabetes for more than 10 years has more than doubled in the last six or seven years.”

“We have to recognize that this is a large public health problem so we can start developing methods to deal with it,” he added.

If you or a loved one has diabetes or is at risk of developing diabetes, it is important to have your eyes checked frequently. This will help you catch many of these nonrefractive vision problems early enough to prevent any serious vision loss.

“Certainly people need to be aware of the risks of getting nonrefractive vision impairment down the road,” said Alan N. Carlson, MD. “If there is a family history of certain diseases like macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetes, you should be seen more regularly by an eye doctor to make sure these diseases are caught earlier when they are much more treatable.”

To learn more about Nonrefractive Vision Problems, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Vision Problems rising rapidly in the US WebMD

Anderson Cooper, Eye Protection, Sunburn on the Eyeballs, & Photokeratits!

A survey by the American Optometric Association recently discovered that 35% of Americans are unaware of the risks that ultraviolet light poses to the eye. Are you one of them? If so, you are not alone. Popular journalist and television personality Anderson Cooper had no idea about the risks of UV rays until recently.

Last week, Cooper learned about those risks the hard way. While reporting on a trip for CBS’ 60 Minutes, Cooper spent one fateful afternoon on a boat in the waters on Portugal. And not thinking anything of it, the reporter did so not wearing any eye protection.

Cooper explained what happened next: “I wake up in the middle of the night and it feels like my eyes are on fire, my eyeballs. [I was] temporarily blinded.”

So what happened to Cooper? Sunburn of the Eyes! You see, while the sun may not have been particularly bright that day, what caused Cooper’s condition was the ultraviolet light reflecting off the surface of the water.

Symptoms of Sunburned Eyes

• Redness
• Irritation
• Tearing
• Pain
• Feeling like something is in your eye
• Blurry Vision
• Temporary Vision Loss (Photokeratits)

Preventing Sunburn of the Eye

Protection is simple and easy. The American Optometric Association recommends sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. And just in case you thought you were safe because it is winter, the same thing can happen from UV rays bouncing off snow. This is often referred to as snow blindness. So please be careful and cautious!

Treating Sunburned Eyes

If not too serious, sunburned eyes can easily be treated at home with rest and lubricating eye drops. And, of course, you should stay out of the sun. However, if the pain is too severe, if you experience temporary vision loss, or if the symptoms worsen, you should schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist – as soon as possible.

To learn more about Sunburned Eyes and other common eye conditions, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Sources:

Anderson Cooper Recovers From Sunburned Eyeballs

Sunburned Eyes

 

An Overview of Common Eye Disorders explained by your Annapolis Eye Doctor

Blurry vision, spots, eye strain, headaches, trouble reading, and glare are just a few of the common warning signs of eye problems. If you are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, it is important to visit your eye doctor as soon as possible. She will be able to examine your eyes and administer tests to evaluate and diagnose a variety of eye problems including the following:

Common Eye Issues

• Myopia: More frequently referred to as nearsightedness, Myopia affects 33% of all Americans between the ages of 12 and 54. This common eye problem results in the blurring of vision when viewing objects at a distance.

• Hyperopia: More frequently referred to as farsightedness, Hyperopia is a common focusing problem resulting in the blurring of vision when viewing objects that are near.

• Presbyopia: This common age-related eye problem results in the blurring of one’s vision when reading. Presbyopia is a result of the normal aging of the eye’s lens.

• Astigmatism: When the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye, is shaped more like a football than a basketball, light rays do not focus properly on the retina. This results in blurred vision. Astigmatism is commonly treated using glasses or contacts.

• Glaucoma: This common eye disease is actually a group of eye diseases, all of which lead to damage of the optic nerve, usually as a result of a rise in intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain.

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration: AMD damages the central part of the retina, known as the macula, and may eventually permanently distort a person’s central vision.

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Currently, between 40-45% of Americans with diabetes have some varying degree of Diabetic Retinopathy, the most common diabetic eye disease and one of the leading causes of blindness in American adults. This common eye disease results in damage to the blood vessels in the eye, which leads to damage to the adjacent retina.

• Cataracts: As we grow older, our eyes undergo natural wear and tear, resulting in the clouding of the lens in the eye, better known as cataracts. In fact, more than half of all people age 80 and older are affected by cataracts.

And that is just the beginning!

Medical Eye Exams at Anne Arundel Eye Center

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases.

Not only does an AAEC offer a wide range of advanced procedures to improve and preserve your vision, but board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles is passionate about further educating patients and their families about the eye disease they are afflicted with.

To learn more about Common Eye Diseases, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: What Eye Problems Look Like WebMD

Image Source

Understanding your Glaucoma Diagnosis: “Will I go Blind?”

Each and every glaucoma patient has the same question: “Will I go Blind?” And fortunately, the answer for most patients is no. While total blindness is always a possibility with glaucoma, it is fairly rare, with just 120,000 cases of blindness in the United States compared to 2.3 million cases of glaucoma. This represents just 5% of all glaucoma patients in the U.S.

Vision loss, on the other hand, is much more likely.

Even with the best treatment, some degree of vision loss can still occur. The key to successful treatment and minimal vision loss is early detection. And because glaucoma presents no detectable symptoms in its earliest stages, the only way to catch the eye disease early is with regular visits with your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist.

Diagnosing Glaucoma

During your routine eye exam, your eye doctor tests you for glaucoma. There are several ways in which your eye doctor can diagnose glaucoma, including:

• Non-Contact Tonometry (NCT): You may know this test as the “puff of air” test. This is used to calculate Intraocular Pressure (IOP) based on your eye’s resistance to the air. Normal intraocular pressure (IOP) ranges between 12 and 22 mmHg (millimeters of mercury, a measurement of pressure). If you have high eye pressure, you may be at risk for or have glaucoma.

• Visual Field Test: This diagnostic test checks a patient’s side or peripheral vision for blind spots, known as scotomas, which can originate as a result of glaucoma.

• Cupping: Your eye doctor will look for damage to your optic nerve, known as “cupping,” which can occur with or without high intraocular pressure.

• Pupil Dilation: Your doctor may use dilating drops to enlarge the pupil. And once the drops have taken effect, your eye doctor will use various instruments to look inside your eye.

Anne Arundel Eye Center: Your Annapolis Glaucoma Specialists

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Samuel Boles and the eye care experts at the Anne Arundel Eye Center specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. In fact, Dr. Boles has helped preserve thousands of patients’ vision. He is also passionate about educating patients and their families regarding prevention and treatment.

“I treat my patients the way I want to be treated when I see a doctor,” said Dr. Boles.

To learn more about Glaucoma, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Understand Your Glaucoma Diagnosis Glaucoma Research Foundation

Image Source

Presbyopia & the Natural Aging Eye explained by your Annapolis Eye Doctor

Similar to farsightedness, Presbyopia results in a person’s inability to focus to see objects that are near. However, that is where the similarities end. While farsightedness occurs as a result of the shape of the eyeball, which causes the light entering the eye to focus incorrectly, Presbyopia is the blurring of one’s vision as the result of the normal aging of the eye’s lens.

As the eye ages, its lens begins to lose its flexibility and the ability to focus to see objects that are near.

Symptoms of Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process and will affect everyone at some point in life. Symptoms of Presbyopia generally begin to appear around the age 40 and include:

1. The inability to read materials at normal distance. Because of this, those suffering from Presbyopia can often be seen holding reading materials at arm’s length in order to see them more clearly.

2. Those with Presbyopia are also likely to suffer from headaches or fatigue as the result of doing close work.

If you are experiencing the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – Ophthalmologist or Optometrist – at your earliest convenience. He or she will inspect your eyes for common eye diseases and other problems affecting your vision, such as Presbyopia.

Presbyopia Treatment

While there is no cure for Presbyopia, the effects of the eye disease are easily manageable using prescription glasses, contact lenses, reading glasses, progressive addition lenses, or bifocals. And now, there is even a surgical procedure, called keratoplasty, to treat Presbyopia. This FDA approved surgery, utilizes radio waves to reshape the cornea and thus improve vision.

Talk to your eye doctor to find out which treatment method is right for you.

To learn more about Presbyopia, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Presbyopia and your Eyes WebMD

Image Source

What is Keratoconus? Eye Health FAQs answered by your Annapolis Eye Doctor

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye condition affecting the shape of the cornea, the clear, central part of the front surface of the eye. The cornea is typically dome shaped. However, if the cornea is not strong enough to hold its shape, it can begin to slowly bulge into a cone shape. This is what is known as keratoconus.

What Causes Keratoconus?

In most cases, the cause of kertoconus is unknown. However, certain studies suggest the condition may be hereditary, passed down from generation to generation.

Other potential causes include:

• Keratoconus is more prevalent in patients with certain medical problems, including certain allergic conditions.
• Some researchers have hypothesized that chronic eye rubbing may be a culprit.

Still, most often, there is no underlying cause to explain the onset of keratoconus.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Keratoconus?

• The cornea becomes more irregular in shape
• Subtle blurring or distortion of vision
• Causes progressive nearsightedness and irregular astigmatism
• Glare and light sensitivity may occur
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
• Double vision when looking with just one eye

How does Keratoconus affect Vision?

The changing shape of the cornea makes it impossible for the eye to focus without the use of glasses or contact lenses.

• Irregular Astigmatism: As the cornea slowly changes shape, the smooth surface also begins to become wavy, a condition known as irregular astigmatism.
• Nearsightedness: As the cornea becomes more cone-like, the eye also becomes more nearsighted.

How is Keratoconus Treated?

For the most part, keratoconus is treated using eyeglasses or contacts, though other treatments are available, including:

• Corneal Transplant: When keratoconus worsens to the point that glasses and contacts no longer make a difference, a corneal transplant may be required. Still, even after a transplant, you will likely need glasses or contact lenses for clear vision
• Collagen Cross-Linking: This treatment method, which is still in clinical trials, uses UV light and a photosensitizer to strengthen the chemical bonds in the cornea. This halts progressive and regular changes in corneal shape.

To learn more about Keratoconus, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Eye Health and Keratoconus WebMD

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What are the Different Types of Glaucoma? :: Annapolis, Maryland Eye Doctor

What many people do not realize is that the term glaucoma actually refers to a group of eye disease that lead to damage of the optic nerve, usually resulting from a rise in intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain.

The various types of glaucoma include:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma is what most people think of when referring to glaucoma.

• Low-Tension Glaucoma: Also known as normal-tension glaucoma, this form of the eye disease causes optic nerve damage and vision loss in people with normal intraocular eye pressure.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: In this form of glaucoma, the fluid at the front of the eye cannot reach the angle to leave the eye, causing a sudden increase in eye pressure.

• Congenital Glaucoma: Congenital glaucoma occurs when children are born with a defect in the angle of the eye, slowing the normal drainage of fluid and the eventual increase in eye pressure.

• Pigmentary Glaucoma: This is a type of inherited open-angle glaucoma, which develops more frequently in men than in women and is most prevalent in individuals in their twenties and thirties.

• Trauma-Related Glaucoma: Trauma to the eye can sometimes result in the development of glaucoma in the injured eye.

• Pseudo-Exfoliation Glaucoma: This type of glaucoma is characterized by the production and progressive accumulation of a dandruff-like material in the ocular tissues.

• Secondary Glaucoma: This refers to any glaucoma that develops as a complication of other medical conditions.

Glaucoma Detection and Treatment in Annapolis, Maryland

In its earliest stages, glaucoma presents little or no symptoms. Because of this, many patients can lose as much as 40% of their vision before even noticing, which is why glaucoma is sometimes referred to as the sneak thief of sight. And once a person begins to lose their vision, the damage is irreversible. This is why regular eye exams are so important.

With early detection and treatment, glaucoma can be managed. If left untreated, glaucoma can and does lead to total blindness.

Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.  Not only does an AAEC offer a wide range of advanced procedures to improve and preserve your vision, but board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles is passionate about further educating patients and their families about the eye disease they are afflicted with.

To learn more about Glaucoma, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Living with Macular Degeneration: Tips from your Annapolis Eye Doctor

The leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 60, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a deterioration of the small central portion of the retina, known as the macula. Currently, about 1.75 million U.S. residents have advanced AMD with that number expected to grow to almost 3 million by 2020.

AMD can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as reading and driving. But the disease is manageable. Although there is currently no cure for AMD, there are several methods designed to slow or even stop the eye disease from progressing.

Home Remedies to Slow the Progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

1. Eating Green, Leafy Vegetables: A diet rich in vitamins, like those found in green, leafy vegetables, may help slow the progression of AMD.

2. Taking Supplements: Similar to the above recommendation, taking supplements like antioxidant vitamins and zinc cab help delay vision loss. But check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

3. Eating Fish: A good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fish may lower your chances of getting AMD.

4. Limiting Fat Intake: An abundance of saturated fats could actually increase your risk of developing AMD.

5. Getting Regular Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight could help lower the risk of developing wet AMD, one of the two forms of AMD.

6. Using an Amsler Grid: If you have AMD, you should check the vision in both eyes daily using an Amsler Grid. And if you notice your vision worsening, it is important to call your eye doctor as soon as possible.

7. Regular Visits with the Eye Doctor: AMD can advance so slowly that individuals initially notice little change in their vision. Other times, AMD progresses more rapidly and may even lead to vision loss in both eyes. This is why regular eye exams are so important.

Living with AMD and the resulting vision loss doesn’t have to be debilitating. There are several ways you can adjust your lifestyle to keep your quality of life as much as possible. Work with your eye doctor to find ways to best use your remaining vision.

To learn more about Age-Related Macular Degeneration, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Source: Age-Related Macular Degeneration – Home Treatment

Eye Care FAQs: Am I at Risk for Developing Cataracts?

Unfortunately, everyone is at risk for developing cataracts. It is a normal part of aging. As we grow older, our eyes undergo natural wear and tear, resulting in the clouding of the eye’s lens, better known as cataracts. In fact, nearly half of all adults will develop cataracts by age 80. There are several factors, however, that can increase one’s risk of developing cataracts. These risk factors include:

• Aging: As we have already mentioned, aging is a major factor for cataracts.

• Genetics: If you have a family history of cataracts, you are more likely to develop cataracts, yourself.

• Diabetes: The high blood sugar (glucose) associated with Diabetes can damage the lens of the eye, making individuals with Diabetes more susceptible to cataracts.

• Smoking: Smoking can lead to the formation of chemicals called free radicals, which can damage the eye’s lens.

• Infections during Pregnancy: Certain infections during pregnancy, like rubella or chickenpox, can put the infant at risk for developing cataracts before birth.

• UVB Exposure: Ultraviolet B (UVB) has been linked to cataract development.

• Steroid Medication: High doses of steroids or long-term use can increase one’s risks for cataracts.

Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts

• Blurred or blurry vision

• Yellowing (clouding) of the eye’s lens

• Difficulty with night vision

• Sensitivity to light

• “Halos” around lights

• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription

• Fading or yellowing of colors

• Double vision in only one eye

If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist – as soon as possible. But do not worry. Cataracts are very treatable.

Cataract Treatment

If the symptoms of cataracts persist, surgery is an excellent option for most individuals. Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure involving the replacing of the damaged or clouded lens with a new synthetic lens. The surgery typically only takes about 10 minutes and most patients can resume their everyday activities in very little time. Many can even drive a few days following cataract surgery.

Plus, cataract surgery has the highest success rate of any surgery practiced today.

To learn more about Cataracts or Cataract Surgery, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Sources:

Cataracts – What increases your risk?

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Diagnosing & Treating Styes :: Eye Care Tips from your Annapolis Eye Doctor

Styes are painful and annoying lumps found along the edge of the eyelid, caused by a bacterial infection of an eyelash follicle. A stye is rarely serious and typically goes away on its own, without treatment. Most styes heal in about a week.

Signs and Symptoms of Styes

• A red, pimple-like bump along the edge of the eyelid

• Most styes will swell for about three days before breaking open and draining.

Sometimes, however, styes become persistent and last for weeks or even months unless actively treated.

Treating Styes

Click here to view our simple, three-step home stye remedy. It is one of the best and easiest ways to treat a stye at home.

If the above remedy does not help alleviate your problem, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – ophthalmologist or optometrist – at your earliest convenience. Eye pain and vision impairment are serious situations that require prompt medical attention.

Preventing Styes

Stye prevention really comes down to hygiene. The cleaner you keep your face, especially the area around your eyes, the less likely styes are to develop. Below, you will find several tips to help prevent styes from forming.

1. Eye Protection: It is important to wear safety glasses when performing any tasks that may bring irritants, such as dirt and dust, into contact with your eyes.

2. Remove Makeup: For starters, you should never go to bed without first removing your makeup, especially eye makeup. Secondly, it is important to replace your makeup at least every 6 months, as bacteria tend to grow in makeup.

3. Wash your Face: It is important to keep your face clean, especially if you are prone to styes.

4. Lid Massage: While it is true that rubbing your eyes frequently can lead to irritation and introduce bacteria to the eye, lid massage can actually be very beneficial. This will open the glands along the eyelid to better express stagnate oils to allow bacterial growth. For more on cleansing the lid please take a look at our blog on blepharitis.

Differences between Styes, Chalazion, and Hordeolum

• Chalazion: A chalazion is a lump in the eyelid, similar to a stye. However, a chalazion is usually larger than a stye and may not hurt.

• Hordeolum: When a stye occurs inside the eyelid, it is called an internal hordeolum.

To learn more about Styes, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

You can also follow Anne Arundel Eye Center on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube as well!

Sources:

Styes and Chalazia – Topic Overview

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