Seven Tips to Help Protect Kids’ Eyesight

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Eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in U.S. children, and most injuries in school-aged children occur during sports. These injuries account for an estimated 100,000 physician visits per year and cost more than $175 million. The good news is that most of these injuries are preventable with proper eye protection like safety glasses, goggles, shields and eye guards (source: NEI).

Here are some tips to help protect children’s vision during activities and sports:

1. Purchase helmets with polycarbonate face shields for hockey and baseball. Polycarbonate does not reduce visibility, and it is ten times more impact-resistant than other plastics.

2. Purchase proper safety goggles for racquet sports and basketball. Check for eyewear that is labeled ASTM F803 approved. This will provide the highest level of protection.

3. Check helmets, face shields and goggles regularly for cracks or signs of wear and replace them as needed.

4. Insist that children wear proper protective eyewear for all practices and games.

5. Encourage children’s sports teams and schools to adopt a policy on protective eyewear.

6. Ask coaches to be good role models and wear protective eyewear.

7. Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams for children to maintain clear vision and healthy eyes.

The risk of eye injury depends on the activity, so be sure to purchase eye protection that is specific to the activity. Regular eyeglasses do not offer proper eye protection, so never substitute regular glasses for sports eyewear. Talk to an ophthalmologist about prescription goggles or face shields so your children can participate in activities safely.

Age and Health Factors into When You Should Get an Eye Exam

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Through a comprehensive eye exam, an ophthalmologist can assess visual acuity and eye health. The doctor will perform several tests, including dilation of the pupil with special eye drops to view the retina and optic nerve. It is essential that eye issues are diagnosed and treated because certain vision problems affect not only eyesight but also overall wellness.

When and How Often Should You See an Eye Doctor?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that you get a baseline eye examination at age 40 because this is often the time when early signs of eye disease or vision changes appear. A baseline vision screening allows your ophthalmologist to detect signs of eye disease at an early stage when intervention and treatment are most effective.

Many people need a comprehensive eye exam before the age of 40. If you have a chronic medical condition like hypertension or diabetes or a family or personal history of eye disease, you should see an ophthalmologist earlier (source: AAO).

After your eye examination, your ophthalmologist can tell you how often you should have your eyes examined. This will depend on your medical history, family history and other risk factors for age-related diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts. Most adults should have their next comprehensive eye exam in the next year to two years. 

How to Choose the Best Ankle Brace

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Ankle braces are commonly used to treat injuries or provide relief from the pain of arthritis.

While it is possible to purchase ankle braces online or at a local drugstore, it is important to know the types that are available and to consult with a doctor to determine which treatment is best for you.

Types of Ankle Braces

  • Compression braces: Also known as elastic braces, compression braces are often used to treat mild ankle sprains and tendonitis. These types of braces are made of lightweight stretchable materials which allow normal rotation and movement of the ankle. They are designed to provide joint support, enhance balance and reduce swelling. Compression braces also help keep the ankle joint warm and decrease muscle stiffness. They can usually be worn on either the right or left ankle, and are typically sold by shoe size.
  • Lace-up braces: Lace-up braces are semi-rigid. They are used to treat mild to moderate ankle sprains. Lace-up braces limit side-to-side and up-and-down movement of the joint. They provide more support than compression braces, and most types will fit into the shoe. Like compression braces, they are designed to be used on either the right or left ankle.
  • Hinged braces: Hinged braces are also semi-rigid. They prevent the ankle from rolling from side to side but do not hinder up-and-down movement. Hinged braces typically have padded sides for comfort and Velcro straps so they can be easily adjusted or removed. Unlike lace-up or compression ankle braces, hinged braces are specifically made to fit either the right or left ankle.
  • Rigid braces: Doctors often prescribe rigid braces to athletes or active people to help them recover from an ankle sprain or stress fracture. This type of ankle brace is made from hard plastic that extends up either side of the ankle and is secured with Velcro straps. While rigid braces provide excellent support, they may not fit inside shoes. Depending on the condition, a doctor may recommend that a patient switch to a less limiting type of brace after the ankle begins to heal.

While ankle braces can provide a temporary solution, they should only be used during the initial phase of recovery unless a doctor recommends otherwise. Be sure to make an appointment if you have had an injury or are experiencing ankle pain.

Heartburn or Heart Attack? How to tell the difference

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Symptoms of heartburn and heart attack can mimic each other because the pain comes from a similar location. The esophagus and heart are in close proximity, so it is understandable that you might not be certain about what is causing your pain.

Heartburn Versus Heart Attack:

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Dr. Thomas J. Zaydon, Jr. accepts roll as President of the Florida Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons

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At this year’s 58th annual meeting “Dr. Thomas J. Zaydon, Jr., M.D. accepted the roll as President of the Florida Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in the State of Florida.” They are holding their annual meeting in Orlando and he is a past graduate of Drexel and has an office in the Mercy Professional building. He is on staff at Weston Outpatient Surgical Center.

For more information, visit ​http://www.fsps.org/home/meetings/.

5 Ways to Ward off Digital Eye Strain at the Office

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Office work can be stressful, and digital eye strain is an unwelcome visitor after a long day at the office. Gone are the days of the traditional office job that included typing, making copies and filing. Today, most tasks are performed using a single device. While this may be more efficient, staring at a computer screen all day can be harmful to your vision. However, with creativity and planning, you can create a productive workspace that is gentle on your eyes.

Here are 5 Ways to Avoid Digital Eye Strain at the Office:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Prolonged exposure to digital screens can cause eye strain and dry eye. Take breaks throughout the day to give your eyes a rest. Remember the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

2. Upgrade your screen. Does your computer screen flicker? Do you find yourself squinting or leaning closer your screen? You may need a new monitor. Take some time to adjust the contrast and brightness on your monitor and increase the font size in your default settings.

3. Reduce glare. Use an anti-glare filter on your computer screen and a blue-light filter on your smartphone and tablet. This will reduce the high wavelength blue light which can contribute to eye fatigue. The color of your office furniture can also make a difference when it comes to glare. Choose darker office furniture that won’t reflect as much light.

4. Adjust your lighting. If you do a lot of reading and writing at work, you may need brighter light. Bright overhead lighting can create glare, so add a desk lamp or floor lamp for more diffuse lighting.

5. Use a humidifier. Studies show extended screen time decreases blink rate and increases dry eye. A humidifier can replenish moisture and comfort level (source: My VMC).

With minor adjustments to your work environment, you can reduce digital eye strain and eye fatigue. This March, during Save Your Vision Month, take some time to discover ways to maintain good vision and prioritize your eye health. Even a slight prescription change can make a difference in eye comfort, so schedule an annual eye exam today.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Symptoms, Treatment and More

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If you are currently experiencing wrist or hand pain, you may wonder whether you are developing carpal tunnel syndrome. But how can you know?

First, recognize that it is always wise to see a doctor early on if you are experiencing any type of joint pain so you can be properly diagnosed. Second, keep in mind that it can be very helpful to document your symptoms — that way, you will have helpful information your doctor can consider when he or she is examining you to determine whether you have carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the nerve which runs down the inside of the arm and hand. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome vary, but include:

  • Tingling or numbness in the fingers, particularly the first and middle finger, and the thumb
  • Pins and needles sensation
  • Impaired thumb and finger dexterity
  • Pain that extends up to the shoulder
  • Swelling or weakness in the hand
  • Pain in the thumb that extends into the wrist area
  • Inability to move fingers without wrist pain
  • Gradual onset of symptoms
  • Symptoms that worsen at night

People at Higher Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

People who are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome include those who frequently use hand tools that vibrate, such as drills, or perform work that requires repetitive motion, such as cleaning, sewing, meat packing or data entry. Women are more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis and Treatment

Here are some tests a physician may use to determine whether a patient has carpal tunnel syndrome:

  • Tapping on the wrist with a reflex hammer to determine if there is tingling in the fingers
  • Having patient grip an object to check thumb strength and movement
  • Having patient press the backs of hands and fingers together for several minutes to check for tingling

If you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor may recommend a non-surgical treatment, such as icing the area or taking an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen. If these treatments do not help, your doctor may recommend a cortisone injection, or if your condition is severe, carpal tunnel release surgery.

Colon Cancer Risk Factors – Age, Ethnicity, Habits and More

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March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, so let’s learn more about the risk factors for colon cancer.

Colon Cancer Risk Factors Beyond Our Control

There are several risk factors for colon cancer that you cannot change, but it is important to be aware of them so you can discuss them with your doctor.

  • Age — Nine out of ten new cases of colon cancer develop in individuals over the age of 50.
  • Personal or Family History of Colon Cancer or Colon Polyps — If you or a first-degree relative has ever had colon cancer or an adenoma (colon polyp), you are more likely to develop cancer of the colon or rectum.
  • History of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) — Having IBD, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, puts you at higher risk, especially if it goes untreated.
  • Having an Inherited Syndrome — The most common inherited syndromes associated with colon cancers are Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer or HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
  • Racial and Ethnic Background — African Americans have the highest colon cancer incidence and mortality rates in the United States.
  • Type II Diabetes — Colon cancer and type II diabetes share some similar risk factors like inactivity and obesity.

Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors We CAN Control

Several risk factors for colon cancer can be limited or eliminated when you have the proper support.

  • Obesity or Being Overweight — If you struggle with weight, especially weight around your waistline, you are at higher risk for colon cancer. Talk to your doctor for help managing your weight.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle — Increasing your physical activity can lower your risk for colon cancer, even just walking each day.
  • Diet — Eating red meat, processed meats and high-fat foods put you at higher risk for colon disease. Replace high-fat and processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
  • Smoking — When you smoke, you increase your risk for colon cancer as well as lung cancer. Quitting smoking will provide immediate health benefits.
  • Heavy Alcohol Use — Limit your alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day if you are male and no more than one drink per day if you are female (source: American Cancer Society).

You can’t control all risk factors for colon cancer, but you can control your habits. Changing daily choices regarding diet, smoking, drinking and activity level could make all the difference in whether you develop the disease. Talk to a gastroenterologist about more healthy living tips to keep you cancer-free. Limiting your risk factors can help you maximize your health and longevity!

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What Causes Cataracts? Symptoms, Treatment and More

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Over time, the cataract will spread and cause symptoms such as blurred or double vision, sensitivity to glare, faded colors and halos around lights.   

Causes and Risk Factors for Cataracts

One of the greatest risk factors for cataracts is age, but many other factors influence cataract formation including:

  • Family history
  • Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, tanning beds and other sources
  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • High alcohol consumption
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
  • Statin medicines used to reduce cholesterol
  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Previous eye injury or eye surgery
  • Eye inflammation
  • High myopia

An Ophthalmologist May Help with Cataract Diagnosis

If you think you may be at high risk for cataracts, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. If you have a developing cataract, your doctor can suggest some lifestyle changes to help delay its progression. You may be able to slow the formation of cataracts by quitting smoking, changing medications, staying out of the sun or managing your blood pressure.

Cataract Treatment Involves Eye Surgery

If cataracts are affecting your vision, your ophthalmologist will perform cataract eye surgery. Cataract eye surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed in the United States. A surgeon removes the affected lens and replaces it with a clear plastic one called an intraocular lens (IOL). There are countless types of customized IOLs that can correct vision at various distances or even block ultraviolet light to protect the retina.

Another benefit of cataract surgery is that it is usually an outpatient procedure that can be performed at an ambulatory surgery center. There is little down-time required, so most patients can resume their normal activities rapidly.

It might be difficult to avoid getting cataracts, but you do not have to live with them. Make an appointment with your ophthalmologist today to improve your vision health.