Glaucoma may strike at any age

Glaucoma may strike at any age, article points out.
UPI (12/24) reports that glaucoma, "often associated with the elderly, can strike at any age," according to "officials at the Chicago-based Prevent Blindness America," who "say glaucoma causes loss of sight by slowly damaging the optic nerve, which results in loss of peripheral vision." If the condition is "not treated central vision can be lost as well." While there is currently "no cure for glaucoma," early treatment "can lessen the risk of severe vision loss."

symptoms, treatment of glaucoma.

South Carolina Now /WBTW-TV (12/18, Boone) reported that glaucoma, "a leading cause of blindness," is "not preventable," but "can be treated if detected early." According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), "glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that occur when internal pressure in the eye increases enough to cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to loss of nerve tissue, resulting in vision loss." The AOA points out that primary open-angle glaucoma, "the most common type," comes on "gradually and painlessly, usually without symptoms." Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, "occurs rapidly, and its symptoms may include blurred vision, loss of peripheral vision, seeing colored rings around lights, and pain or redness in the eyes." "African-Americans over age 40," anyone older than age 60, and "people with a family history of glaucoma" are more likely to develop the condition. Treatment options include "prescription eye drops and medicines to lower pressure in the eyes," or even "laser treatment or surgery."

importance of regular eye examinations, especially for people with diabetes.

In a column in Health News Digest (12/16), optometrist Barry Kay, O.D., pointed out that "diabetes is becoming an epidemic in the" U.S. A recent study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology found that the "prevalence of retinopathy, glaucoma, and other vision problems related to diabetes is projected to rise dramatically over the next four decades." During "a comprehensive eye examination, optometrists can detect and diagnose diabetes and start patients on the road to treatment for the disease," Dr. Kay explained. By "using the latest technology, such as scanning laser ophthalmoscopy or even a more traditional dilated fundus exam," optometrists "can look inside the eye and examine blood vessels directly, detecting signs and symptoms of vascular diseases such as diabetes and hypertension." Because undiagnosed diabetes "can result in vision impairment, a frequent complication of both Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes," Dr. Kay urged people with diabetes to undergo regular eye examinations

Michael Kors Newest Sun and Optical Collections

Marchon Bows Michael Kors Newest Sun and Optical Collections
December 15, 2008 3:30 AM

The Michael Kors sun styles, the Olympia (left) and the Santa Barbara (right), from Marchon.

MELVILLE, N.Y.—Marchon has introduced the newest sunwear and ophthalmic collections from Michael Kors featuring iconic design elements, luxurious materials and meticulous craftsmanship for a sleek, sophisticated eyewear collection that embraces the jet-set lifestyle.



In sun, standouts include the Amalfi, which showcases a chain captured in a layer of crystal zyl; while on the Sun Valley, a chain’s two metal links are integrated into a working hinge. Hollywood glamour lent inspiration to the Olympia, featuring metal hardware, rich zyl and a fashionable square shape. Michael Kors also re-interprets classic styling and takes a cue from his Fall 2008 runway collection, with the Santa Barbara, a modern take on the vintage approach, and the Venice, an updated wayfarer design.

Timeless appeal is also captured in Michael Kors optical releases from the Signature Collection. The MK615 offers a feminine look with a triangular cut out on the end piece and a modified deep rectangle shape. The MK133, a modified navigator metal style, MK600, a complete zyl vintage style and the MK608, a progressive, friendly sophisticated zyl frame, all offer a masculine look with a clean design and an understated logo on each temple.

Diabetes, related eye conditions have worsened, CDC data indicate.

The Baltimore Sun (12/15, Owens) reported that diabetes "has dramatically worsened for Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)." The CDC released data this year "which showed that about 24 million Americans -- or about eight percent of the population -- have the disease, an increase of more than three million in just two years." Additionally, "another 57 million people are estimated to have blood sugar abnormalities called pre-diabetes, which puts them at increased risk for developing the condition, experts say." And, "a new study from the CDC projects that the number of adults 40 and older with diabetic retinopathy...will reach 16 million in 2050, up from 5.5 million in 2005." Patients with diabetes "are also more prone to developing cataracts and glaucoma, the study notes." Although "experts stress that diabetes is a manageable condition, it...is the seventh-leading cause of death in the country."

Be careful out there this Holiday Season !

Estimated 1,500 Americans suffer cork-related eye injuries, group say:


In the USA Today (12/8) Better Life blog, Rita Rubin wrote that, according to a group of eye physicians, "an estimated 1,500 Americans suffer cork-related eye injuries" from improperly opening bottles of champagne and sparkling wines. According to the group, a champagne cork "can fly through the air at 50 miles an hour. That's enough to break glass or cause permanent eye injuries in a fraction of a second." Experts recommend chilling the bottle well, not shaking it before opening, and "covering the cork with a towel as you twist it out by hand, not with a corkscrew," as well as not pointing it at anyone as you are opening it.

CDC study predicts dramatic rise in diabetes-related vision problems

MedPage Today (12/8, Phend) reported that, according to a study published in the Dec. issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology, the "prevalence of retinopathy, glaucoma, and other vision problems related to diabetes" is "projected to rise dramatically over the next four decades." For the study, Jinan B. Saaddine, M.D., M.P.H., of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and colleagues, utilized the "National Health Interview Survey and census data" to project that, "with rising diabetes rates, the number of Americans 40 and older with diabetic retinopathy will triple by 2050," and the "number of diabetic patients with cataracts and glaucoma will likely double or triple as well." The projections are based on "a steady increase in the total U.S. population, an increase in the average age of the population, and disproportionate growth in the number of Hispanics and blacks, among whom the prevalence of diabetes is higher than among whites."

Contamination may be common in contact-lens storage cases, research suggests.

HealthDay (11/27, Preidt) reported that, according to a study presented recently at an ophthalmology meeting, "contamination is common in contact-lens storage cases." Researchers from the Soroka Medical Center in Israel conducted tests "of contact-lens disinfection solution in the storage cases" and discovered that "Pseudomonas -- a known cause of severe corneal infections -- was the most common type of pathogen (41 percent), while fungal pathogens accounted for about 3.3 percent of contamination." In fact, "some of the solutions tested positive for pathogens every time they were tested. These pathogens can cause keratitis, an often painful inflammation of the cornea," the complications of which "can lead to vision loss." The study authors "advised contact-lens users to closely adhere to contact lens care guidelines, including frequent cleaning and replacing their lens case regularly, in order to prevent contamination."

Study indicates 1 in 20 children may suffer from convergence insufficiency.

Yet another reason why school vision screenings are no substitute for comprehensive eye exams. It is estimated that 80-90% of all learning is done visually......


ScrippsNews (11/21, Dean) reports that a recent study by the National Eye Institute "found that one in 20 students may suffer from a childhood eye-muscle coordination problem called convergence insufficiency, or CI." Youngsters "with CI find it difficult to make their eyes focus inward or converge." Optometrist Benjamin Kohn, O.D., explained that CI is "a reading-related vision disorder" which may be caused by "visual stress, such as reading, writing, and working on computers." He pointed out that the majority of vision-screening tests performed by pediatricians or schools do not catch the condition, because they are designed to "test distance acuity." Children with CI may express "some sort of block where reading is concerned," which vigilant parents and teachers should investigate. The study also "concluded that a combination of office-based vision-therapy treatment, coupled with at-home reinforcement, is more effective than home-based methods most commonly used" to treat the disorder.

Researchers say poor night vision may predict AMD.

Eat your veggies loaded with anti-oxidants or take premium nutritional supplementation to fend off AMD.

HealthDay (11/13, McKeever) reported that, according to a study published in the Nov. issue of the journal Ophthalmology, "poor night vision might be a predictor of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)." Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine gave "more than 1,000 people with early signs of AMD" a questionnaire in which respondents were asked to "rate their difficulties with night driving and low-light activities," then tracked the participants "for up to six years." The authors found those "with the worst night vision at the start were most likely to develop reduced visual acuity and one of two types of advanced AMD -- geographic atrophy (GA) or choroidal neovascularization (CNV)."

Optical coherence tomography imaging provides non-contact optical biopsy of the retina.

Optical coherence tomography imaging provides real-time information about eye structure.

Iowa's Spencer Daily Reporter (11/13, Todd) reports that "optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging method which uses light to scan an eye's retina and optic disc" to provide "detailed, real-time information about the structure of an eye" through "a non-invasive, non-contact optical biopsy of the retina." These scans, "which may be performed on undilated pupils," can assist in the "diagnosis and management" of "cystoid macular edema, central serous retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, macular holes, and glaucoma."

importance of annual dilated eye examinations for people with diabetes

In a Health Watch column, the Gate House News Service (11/10) reported that of the approximately "23 million Americans" who "are affected by diabetes...almost six million are unaware that they have the disease." If diabetes goes undiagnosed, it can "result in vision impairment...and blindness." Patients with diabetes should consider having "a dilated eye examination on at least an annual basis," or even "more often" if they have "existing eye issues or more serious retinopathy." In the process of a thorough eye examination, an optometrist "will perform a variety of tests, including looking in [the] eyes with lights and lenses that magnify the view of the retina, to identify signs of diabetes and other eye-related health problems."

Sàfilo Renews Agreements for Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Alexander McQueen Eyewear

PADOVA, Italy— The Sàfilo Group (SFL.MI) and the Gucci Group, one of the world's leading multi-brand luxury goods companies, have announced the extension of their license agreements for the production and worldwide distribution of branded eyeglass frames and sunglass collections for Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Alexander McQueen.

The renewals extend the Gucci brand contract to 2018, Bottega Veneta to 2010 and Alexander McQueen to 2013. The two groups first entered into partnership in 1989 with the presentation of Gucci’s first eyewear collection.

“Gucci is one of the most famous and desired brands in the world and this agreement allows both groups to focus on common values and strengths, such as the quality of product and distribution, through a strong and exclusive brand image,” said Massimiliano Tabacchi, vice-chairman and CEO of Sàfilo Group. “The target we have set ourselves for the upcoming years is to further strengthen the brand’s leadership in all worldwide markets. Furthermore, we are satisfied to be able to continue the partnership started in 2002 with two of the most prestigious Gucci Group brands; Bottega Veneta and Alexander McQueen, which, with their distinctive product and differing target consumer, both fit perfectly into our brand portfolio.”

"We are delighted to continue our long and highly successful collaboration with Sàfilo,” added Robert Polet, president and CEO of Gucci Group. “The success of Gucci Group brands' designer eyewear is a reflection of the unique design and quality execution of our many products over the last 20 years we have partnered with Sàfilo. Their consistent respect for the spirit, heritage and exclusivity of these Gucci Group brands has made them a wonderful partner to work with. We look forward to building further on this strong foundation as we continue to expand our eyewear business in the years ahead."

The Gucci Group is owned by Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR), (Euronext: PP), a global retail and luxury goods company.

: Marchon has renewed its global license with Fendi

ROME—Marchon has renewed its global license with Fendi, a division of LVMH (Moet Hennessey, Louis Vuitton S.A.), to manufacture and distribute sunglasses and optical frames for an additional five-year term, effective Jan. 1, 2009.

Marchon, which was acquired this summer by VSP Vision Care, has held the global license for Fendi eyewear and sunwear since 2005 and the license for the western hemisphere since 1991.

“Fendi is a jewel in our brand portfolio,” said Al Berg, CEO Marchon. “We have learned a lot working with the Fendi management team. Our sales results demonstrate what partners can do when working perfectly in tandem.”

Pierre Bessez, executive vice president of European designer brands for Marchon, added “Fendi is a very creative brand with rich heritage. It has been a fantastic success story for both the Marchon Design Center in Italy, and our creative counterparts at Fendi, Rome.”

“The collaboration between our design teams has been very successful,” concluded Michael Burke, CEO of the Fendi Group. “The beautiful eyewear and sunwear developed by Fendi and Marchon resonates with our global consumer base.”

The house of Fendi was established in Via del Plebiscito, Rome in 1925 by Edoardo and Adele Fendi. Since then Fendi has won international acclaim and emerged as a worldwide luxury brand. LVMH purchased Fendi in 2001 but it remains a family business with Silvia Fendi, the granddaughter of Edoardo and Adele, designing the brand’s menswear and accessories collections. Karl Lagerfeld has designed the Fendi women’s and fur collections since the 1960s.

Group provides Halloween eye-safety tips.

HealthDay (10/25, McKeever) reported that the advocacy group Prevent Blindness America "reminds everyone that a happy Halloween should be a safe one when it comes to your eyes." The group recommends that people "avoid costumes that could block vision," and use only "hypoallergenic or non-toxic make-up." Adults "should apply make-up to children," and remove it by with "cold cream or eye make-up remover, instead of soap." Trick-or-treaters should "avoid props or accessories with sharp edges or pointed ends, such as pitchforks, spears, knives, swords, or wands," and should wear "bright, reflective clothing," or decorate their "costumes and bags with reflective tape/patches." Finally, people should avoid "non-prescription contact lenses to change their eye color." In fact, "without a prescription, these are illegal to purchase, whether the lens are corrective or not. Improper use of contacts can lead to eye infections, corneal injuries, and even vision loss."

risks of decorative contact lenses

AOA warns consumers about risks of decorative contact lenses.
Medical News Today (10/21) reports, "With Halloween approaching, the American Optometric Association (AOA) is warning consumers about the risks of wearing decorative contact lenses without a prescription from an eye doctor." While the Food and Drug Administration regulates "decorative lenses as a medical device, similar to corrective lenses," some "decorative lenses continue to be illegally marketed and distributed directly to consumers through a variety of sources, including flea markets, the Internet, beauty salons, and convenience stores." Paul Klein, O.D., chair of the AOA's Contact Lens and Cornea Section, emphasized that "purchasing contact lenses without a prescription can result in serious eye health and vision damage since consumers are not properly educated on cleaning and disinfecting, nor in proper removal and application of the contact lens." He explained that "consumers who wear these contact lenses put themselves at risk of serious bacterial infection, or even significant damage to the eye's ability to function, with the potential for irreversible sight loss." Additional "risks associated with the use of decorative contact lenses include conjunctivitis, swelling, allergic reaction, and corneal abrasion due to poor lens fit."

Diseases that can be detected during eye exam

HealthDay (10/17, Preidt) reported that, according to a survey of "1,001 Americans age 18 and older" commissioned by the American Optometric Association (AOA), 26 percent of Americans "have not visited an eye doctor or eye-care specialist within the past two years," suggesting that "many people aren't paying enough attention to their eye health." AOA expert James Kirchner, O.D., recommended "a comprehensive eye exam" for adults "at least every two years." He emphasized that eye exams are "even more important for people who already use corrective lenses," who might just "assume they just need a different lens prescription, when they really have a more serious problem. With eye diseases and disorders, as with most health issues, early detection and treatment are often the keys to avoiding permanent problems." For example, the survey showed that 62 percent of respondents didn't know that signs of diabetes may be detected by an eye doctor, while 71 percent didn't know that a comprehensive eye exam can detect hypertension, brain tumors (75 percent), cancer (78 percent), cardiovascular disease (80 percent), and multiple sclerosis (90 percent).

Maui Jim Releases the MauiPassport Rx Lens

LAHAINA, Maui--Maui Jim has introduced the MauiPassport Rx lens, which provides prescription sunglass wearers, including those who prefer wrap-styles, clarity, acuity, color enhancement and glare protection across the entire field of view.

“Our new lenses are designed specifically for our frames, base curves and materials,” said Chris Abbruzzese, vice president of marketing for Maui Jim.

“Factors such as pantascopic tilt, panoramic tilt and vertex distance are taken into account, resulting in lenses that optimize the performance of each individual prescription. With our latest technological breakthrough, we’ve not only eliminated the mold process but created concrete benefits for both patients and practitioners alike.”

For both single vision and progressive prescriptions, the MauiPassport uses digital surfacing technology to create each lens, a back-surface lens design created in conjunction with Shamir Optical Industry Ltd. to compensate for wrap-induced distortion and provide perfect edge-to-edge clarity. According to Abbruzzese, the new Maui Jim digital surfacing process is accurate to within 1/100th of a diopter. The lenses also incorporate Maui Jim’s patented glare protection and color enhancement of PolarizedPlus2 technology.

MauiPassport lenses are available for polycarbonate and Maui Evolution 1.6, in single vision and progressive and are priced to the dispenser between $207 to $614 for the lens.

American Eye-Q® Survey Indicates Strong Need To Educate Consumers About Eye Health

ST. LOUIS, MO, Oct. 9, 2008 –Too many Americans are not paying enough attention to their eyesight and overall eye health, according to a new survey by the American Optometric Association (AOA).

The AOA’s 2008 American Eye-Q® survey, which assesses public knowledge and understanding of a wide range of issues related to eye and visual health, showed that most Americans – 81 percent of respondents – wear contact lenses, eyeglasses or both. At the same time, however, 26 percent have not visited an eye doctor or eye care specialist within the past two years, as recommended by the AOA.

Since many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms, people often are unaware that a problem exists. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye and vision problems are important to maintain good vision and eye health and, when possible, prevent vision loss.

“Every adult should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years, but it’s even more important for people who already use corrective lenses,” said Dr. James Kirchner, optometrist and AOA’s Eye Health Expert. “Too often we see people who have put off eye exams because they assume they just need a different lens prescription, when they really have a more serious problem. With eye diseases and disorders, as with most health issues, early detection and treatment are often the keys to avoiding permanent problems.”

Comprehensive eye exams are designed to:

Evaluate the functional status of the eyes, taking into account special vision demands and needs
Assess vision health and related systemic health conditions
Determine a diagnosis (or diagnoses)
Formulate a treatment and management plan
Counsel and educate patients about their visual, ocular and related systemic health care status, including recommendations for treatment, management and future care
Most Americans are unaware that comprehensive eye exams can detect more than just vision problems. Sixty-two percent didn’t know that signs of diabetes can be detected by an optometrist. Other diseases and conditions that respondents did not realize can be detected through a comprehensive eye exam include hypertension (not recognized by 71 percent), brain tumors (75 percent), cancer (78 percent), cardiovascular diseases (80 percent) and multiple sclerosis (90 percent).

Aging Eyes
Baby boomers need to pay particular attention to eye problems. The American Optometric Association recommends annual eye examinations for everyone over age 60.

It's a fact of life that vision changes as you age, and baby boomers – Americans born between 1946 and 1964 – are at the stage when vision problems often begin. But these changes don't have to compromise a person’s lifestyle.

According to the American Eye-Q® survey, 72 percent of respondents age 55 and older began experiencing changes in vision between the ages of 40 and 45. Their top concerns
about the effects of vision problems include not being able to live independently, cited by 48 percent; losing the ability to drive, 23 percent; and being unable to read, 21 percent.

Health problems in other parts of the body can affect vision as well. Individuals with diabetes or hypertension (high blood pressure), or people taking certain medications that have eye-related side effects, are at greater risk for developing vision problems.

Therefore, regular comprehensive eye exams are especially important later in life, when more people develop these types of chronic conditions and begin taking medications more frequently. Unfortunately, some people over 60 experience loss of sight beyond the normal, age-related vision changes. The good news is that more than half of survey respondents were aware of many of the risks of age-related eye diseases. The bad news is that the survey revealed limited understanding of the fact that without treatment, some eye diseases result in blindness. Macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are among the age-related eye health conditions that can lead to permanent vision loss.

Rehabilitative services can give people with conditions such as low vision the assistance and resources needed to regain their independence and to help preserve remaining vision. A doctor of optometry can develop a rehabilitation program to help people with low vision live and work more effectively, efficiently and safely. Treatment options commonly include spectacle-mounted magnifiers, miniature hand-held or spectacle-mounted telescopes, and video magnification devices that enlarge reading materials on a video display monitor.

The American Eye-Q® survey revealed how respondents age 55 and older are addressing their age-related vision problems. More than half, or 60 percent, said they schedule frequent eye exams; 28 percent said they limit their night driving; 29 percent are increasing the nutrients necessary for healthy eyes; and 9 percent purchase books and other materials in large print.

Common Misconceptions and Other Findings
As in past Eye-Q® surveys, Americans continue to value their ability to see. Most respondents indicated that they worry about losing their vision (38 percent) more than their memory (31 percent), their ability to walk (14 percent) or their hair (8 percent).

Many respondents also held misconceptions about behaviors that can damage the eyes. For example, 71 percent incorrectly believe that reading under dim light can cause eye damage. Other misunderstandings about the causes of eye damage included sitting too close to the television, cited by 66 percent; and rubbing the eyes. While these behaviors can cause eye strain, they don’t cause physical damage to the eye or eye sight.

Nutrition is one promising means of protecting the eyes. However, respondents are unaware of what to eat to help their eyes. For example, only 2 percent of respondents correctly chose spinach as the best food for one’s eye health. Almost half, or 48 percent, believe the misconception that carrots are best for their eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in dark green leafy vegetables including spinach, help to protect against cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Fun Facts
Americans consider their eyes and eyesight important for reasons beyond health and vision. The survey indicated that 32 percent of respondents report they receive more compliments on their eyes than other features, and 42 percent said they consider color to be their eyes’ best attribute.

Source: http://www.aoa.org/x11023.xml

Glaucoma leading cause of preventable blindness

Glaucoma leading cause of preventable blindness in the U.K., eye experts say.
The BBC (10/9) reported that, according to eye experts, "up to half a million people in England and Wales risk losing their sight because they have undiagnosed glaucoma." The condition, which is the "leading cause of preventable blindness in the U.K.," is "caused by too much pressure inside the eye," and can affect "those who are already short-sighted, the over 40s, people with diabetes, and those of African-Caribbean origin." A recent survey by the pharmaceutical company "Pfizer suggests a third of people do not know" the symptoms of glaucoma. In fact, "fewer than half of those surveyed had undergone an eye test within the last five to 10 years, with one in five saying they would only visit the optician if a problem was obvious." Meanwhile, "a simulation developed at City University in London shows how badly glaucoma can affect driving" by creating "a 'tunnel vision' effect." The article features a video which depicts "how a driver experiences tunnel vision."



What is Glaucoma


Glaucoma refers to a category of eye disorders often associated with a dangerous buildup of internal eye pressure (intraocular pressure or IOP), which can damage the eye's optic nerve that transmits visual information to the brain.

With untreated or uncontrolled glaucoma, you might eventually notice decreased ability to see at the edges of your vision (peripheral vision). Progressive eye damage could then lead to blindness.

In fact, glaucoma creates at least some vision loss in more than half of the approximately 2.5 million Americans estimated to have the eye disease and is the second leading cause of blindness.

Glaucoma Symptoms
Glaucoma is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," because most types typically cause no pain and produce no symptoms. For this reason, glaucoma often progresses undetected until the optic nerve already has been irreversibly damaged, with varying degrees of permanent vision loss.

But with acute angle-closure glaucoma, symptoms that occur suddenly can include blurry vision, halos around lights, intense eye pain, nausea and vomiting. If you have these symptoms, make sure you immediately see an eye care practitioner or visit the emergency room so steps can be taken to prevent permanent vision loss.



Diagnosis, Screening and Tests for Glaucoma
During routine eye exams, a tonometer is used to measure your intraocular pressure or IOP. Your eye typically is numbed with eye drops, and a small probe gently rests against your eye's surface. Other tonometers direct a puff of air onto your eye's surface.

An abnormally high IOP reading indicates a problem with the amount of fluid (aqueous humor) in the eye. Either the eye is producing too much fluid, or it's not draining properly.

Normally, IOP should be below 21 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) — a unit of measurement based on how much force is exerted within a certain defined area. If your IOP is higher than 30 mmHg, your risk of glaucoma damage is 40 times greater than someone with an IOP of 15 mmHG or lower.* This is why glaucoma treatments such as eye drops are aimed at keeping IOP low.


Your eye pressure (intraocular pressure) will be measured with a tonometer. Some tonometers blow a puff of air onto your eye's surface. Others rest gently against the surface of your eye, which will be numbed with eye drops. (Photo courtesy of National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health)
Other methods of monitoring glaucoma involve imaging of the eye's optic nerve and internal structures (scanning laser polarimetry or SLP, optical coherence tomography or OCT, confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, etc.) to establish a baseline and make sure no obvious changes have occurred over a period of time, which might indicate progressive glaucoma damage.

Visual field testing is another way to monitor whether blind spots are developing in your range of vision, resulting from glaucoma damage to the optic nerve. Visual field testing involves staring straight ahead into a machine and clicking a button when you notice a blinking light in your peripheral vision. The visual field test may be repeated at regular intervals so your eye doctor can determine the extent of vision loss.

Instruments such as an ophthalmoscope also may be used to help your eye doctor view internal eye structures, to make sure nothing unusual interferes with the outflow and drainage of eye fluids. Ultrasound biomicroscopy also may be used to evaluate how well fluids flow through related angles of the eye's internal structure. Specialized lenses also may be used (gonioscopy) for better viewing of internal eye structures.

Types of Glaucoma
The two major types of glaucoma are acute angle-closure glaucoma, with angle referring to the configuration of internal eye structures that drain fluids, and chronic or primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Other variations include congenital glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma.


Primary open angle glaucoma is one of the most common forms of the disease. See animation.
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG): About half of Americans with chronic glaucoma don't know they have it. Glaucoma gradually reduces your peripheral vision. But by the time you notice it, permanent damage has already occurred. If your IOP remains high, the destruction can progress until tunnel vision develops, and you will be able to see only objects that are straight ahead. [Read more about primary open-angle glaucoma, including risk factors.]

The cause of normal-tension glaucoma is not known. But many doctors believe it is related to poor blood flow to the optic nerve. Normal-tension glaucoma is more common in those who are Japanese, are female and/or have a history of vascular disease.

Normal-tension glaucoma: Like POAG, normal-tension glaucoma (also termed normal-pressure glaucoma, low-tension glaucoma or low-pressure glaucoma) is an open-angle type of glaucoma that can cause visual field loss due to optic nerve damage. But in normal-tension glaucoma, the eye's IOP remains in the normal range. Also, pain is unlikely and permanent damage to the eye's optic nerve may not be noticed until symptoms such as tunnel vision occur.

Pigmentary glaucoma: This rare form of glaucoma is caused by pigment deposited from the iris that clogs the draining angles, preventing aqueous humor from leaving the eye. Over time, the inflammatory response to the blocked angle damages the drainage system. You are unlikely to notice any symptoms with pigmentary glaucoma, though some pain and blurry vision may occur after exercise. Pigmentary glaucoma affects mostly white males in their mid-30s to mid-40s.

Angle-closure glaucoma: Angle-closure or narrow angle glaucoma produces sudden symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, halos around lights, dilated pupils, vision loss, red eyes, nausea and vomiting. These signs may last for a few hours, then return again for another round. Each attack takes with it part of your field of vision. [Read more about causes and risk factors for angle-closure glaucoma.]


Glaucoma can be very destructive to your vision; in fact, it's the second-leading cause of blindness in the United States.
Congenital glaucoma: This inherited form of glaucoma is present at birth, with 80 percent of cases diagnosed by age one. These children are born with narrow angles or some other defect in the drainage system of the eye. It's difficult to spot signs of congenital glaucoma, because children are too young to understand what is happening to them. If you notice a cloudy, white, hazy, enlarged or protruding eye in your child, consult your eye doctor. Congenital glaucoma typically occurs more in boys than in girls.

Secondary glaucoma: Symptoms of chronic glaucoma following an eye injury could indicate secondary glaucoma, which also may develop with presence of infection, inflammation, a tumor or an enlarged cataract.

http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/glaucoma.htm

Amoeba infection threatens eyesight of contact lens-wearer

Texas CBS affiliate KENS-TV (10/8, Rigby) reports on the case of Beverly Keller of Castroville, Texas, a contact lens-wearer who is suffering from an eye infection that was caused by an amoeba. Keller traveled "to San Antonio every day...to see an eye specialist," because the "pain in her right eye was extraordinary." She "was diagnosed with acanthamoeba," which is "a tiny parasite living in her cornea," that if left untreated "could have caused her to lose her eye in a matter of days." Ophthalmologist Dr. Kenneth Maverick said, "You ask a patient what their degree of pain is, and an acanthamoeba is a 10 out of 10. And that's because it actually nibbles on some of the nerves in the eye." The organisms "often come from pools, hot tubs and even well water." In order to destroy the parasites, "powerful eye drops" are used. "Acanthamoeba infections are more common in the south where the weather is warmer. Overall, the risk is about one in 10,000 contact lens wearers."

Replace your contacts after swimming in risk areas like mentioned!

Possible drawbacks of LASIK surgery discussed.

In a column for Canada's Brantford Expositor (10/7), Dr. W. Gifford-Jones related a discussion with a patient who wanted to know "if she should toss away her eye glasses and have her vision corrected by LASIK surgery." Dr. Gifford-Jones explained that "millions of North Americans have had this procedure done and are happy with the result," but added that "now the FDA (Federal Drug Administration)...wants stronger warnings of complications on patient information material" because of the "devastating surgical complications" that can occur. In particular, Dr. Gifford-Jones pointed out that "some patients suffer side effects that impair the quality of their eyesight -- even if visual acuity is improved" -- such as reduced nighttime vision, and added that "others develop the dry eye syndrome." While noting that it was not his intention "to put the fear of death into anyone who contemplates LASIK surgery," Dr. Gifford-Jones wrote that "it's wise for people to follow the old time-tested advice...let the buyer beware"

Sales of designer glasses have increased significantly.

Massachusetts CBS affiliate WBZ-TV (10/2, Ebben) reported on its website that when Gov. Sarah Palin (R-Alaska) "hit the campaign trail, her eyewear sparked a trend. The Japanese designer of her glasses says sales have quadrupled." Some of "those orders may be coming from people with 20/20 vision" who wear glasses even though there is no need. According to one consumer, "You look sophisticated. It looks great, and you kind of have more respect because people" believe glasses make one look intelligent. Experts say that "the trend is growing with both men and women, but it has really" taken off with men.

Article provides AMD overview.

The American Chronicle /EmPower Research (9/30, Ravikiran) provided an overview of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including its causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. AMD is the "major cause of blindness in the elderly. Loss of vision in AMD is a result of degeneration of rods and cones in the macular region of the central retina, which is responsible for high acuity vision." The condition "can make it difficult or impossible to read or recognize faces, although enough peripheral vision remains to allow other activities of daily living." AMD "may be caused by a variety of factors," including "genetics, age, nutrition, smoking, and sunlight exposure." The condition "is classified as either wet (neovascular) or dry (non-neovascular)." Wet AMD "occurs when new vessels form to improve the blood supply to oxygen-deprived retinal tissue." These vessels, however, "break easily, causing bleeding and damage to surrounding tissue." Dry AMD, which is more common, "is caused by aging and thinning of the tissues of the macula," and is characterized by "loss of pigment in the retina," as well as drusen, which "are small, yellowish deposits that form within the layers of the retina."

what is a retinal detachment.?

The U.K.'s Edinburgh Evening News (9/29) reported that "a detached retina is a rare, but serious, condition which can cause blindness if it is not treated quickly. It affects around one in 10,000 people, usually those who are middle-aged and very" nearsighted, but, in certain cases, "it is seen in younger people who have a retinal weakness. Cataract surgery, ocular tumors, and diabetic eye disease can also be causes." Detachment can happen when there is "a tear in the retina, allowing fluids to leak underneath and leading to the retina peeling off its choroid, which contains the blood vessels which nourish" it. The "most common symptom" of a detached retina "is a shadow or curtain spreading across the eye. Dark spots called floaters are also common, but none of these symptoms are painful." The Evening News urged readers "with these symptoms" to "have them checked out as quickly as possible," because "the sooner the retina is reattached, the better the chances of saving vision." The article also featured the experiences of a young woman who had suffered two retinal detachments, one of which cost the vision in her right eye.

Spinach may help prevent macular degeneration, dietitian says.

The Dallas Morning News (9/28, Churnin) reported that certain foods "can turn back the clock," according to dietitian Karen Ansel, R.D. For example, spinach, which is "loaded with Vitamin K," can help "improve bone density and lower the risk of hip fracture." In addition, "it's the No. 1 source of zeaxanthin and lutein, nutrients that soak up harmful light before it can damage the retinas in your eyes, meaning spinach helps to prevent macular degeneration and blindness." Tomatoes, which are "packed with lycopene," may help protect "skin from the oxidation that results from sun damage and leads to wrinkles." Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, "which are plant chemicals that encourage blood vessels to relax," thus lowering blood pressure, and possibly "reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke."

LASIK complications.

In a syndicated column in Canada's Edmonton Sun (9/27), W. Gifford Jones, M.D., talked about complications associated with laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). While, "millions of North Americans have had this procedure done, and are happy with the result," the Food and Drug Administration "wants stronger warnings of complications on patient information material." The corneal flap created during surgery "and then placed back in its original position may move, causing problems." The incision site may become infected, which "may require intensive treatment, and may lead to temporary loss of vision or even irreversible blindness." Other "patients have developed debilitating visual problems, such as double vision, or have complained of glare halos." Some patients "develop the dry-eye syndrome," in which "the eye is unable to produce enough tears to keep [itself] moist. This can cause not only discomfort, but also intermittent blurring, and it can be a permanent problem requiring regular eye drops." Dr. Jones recommended, "Simply, you must be a well-informed patient before agreeing to LASIK surgery," and "anyone who tells you there are no complications is either a liar or a fool."

Maui-Jim Sunglasses for fishing

The great outdoors offers many challenges especially in the world of fishing. Maui-Jim is ready to take on these challenges with an exclusive line of polarized products offering unique layer technology, contributing to ultimate clarity in all lenses. Each polycarbonate lens is shatterproof with scratch-resistant, AR and super hydrophobic coatings. Special polarization and 100% UV protection provides unequaled clarity and contrast. Fishing may not be considered a contact sport but lures, hooks and weights are always in action. All poly-carbonate are impact resistance, which comes in handy when taking on this challenge. Maui-Jim eyewear offers high performance protection and functionality along with great styling, all perfectly suited for the most competitive of anglers.

At Fine Eyewear, we carry the full line of Maui-Jim sun glasses and can readily put prescription lens in them to solve all your sun glasses requirements!

Dilation

Dilation of your eyes is a temporary inconvenience; however, the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience. DILATION IS THE STANDARD OF CARE TO ALLOW THOROUGH EVALUATION OF EYE TISSUE FOR A NUMBER OF EYE CONDITIONS. The use of dilation drops temporarily increases the size of your pupils, which allows us to accurately investigate the health of your eyes and many important aspects of your general health. The inconvenience of eye dilation drops will diminish gradually. It will typically take two to six hours for the effects to wear off. During this time, reading ability may be more difficult and your sensitivity to light may increase. For a short time, wearing sunglasses may be a necessary comfort. Notify staff if you feel your distance vision is excessively blurred before attempting to drive home. Thank you for your patience during this important procedure. Call your doctor immediately if you experience excessive pain, discomfort, or nausea.

AMD affects one in 10 people over age 50, eye expert says.

The Irish Independent (9/22, Leonard) reported that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is "a condition affecting the central part of the retina at the back of the eye." AMD "affects one in 10 people over the age of 50, and is the leading cause of blindness in the Western world." Dara Kilmartin, consultant ophthalmic surgeon at the Eye and Ear Hospital in Dublin, Ireland, explained that, "by 2020, the number of people with AMD is going to at least double," because people are living longer. Dr. Kilmartin said that the risk of AMD "becomes greatest over the age of 65. One in five people over 75 will have AMD." Dr. Kilmartin pointed out that risk factors include "age, family history, and smoking." In addition, there is a possible link between AMD and "obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol." Dr. Kilmartin urged older people to "get their eyes tested more often," and to "check their 'straight ahead' vision" in "each eye separately." The article also discussed the experience of Rosemary Smith, a patient with the wet form of AMD, who is now a peer counselor with the National Council for the Blind of Ireland.

Some learning disabilities may be undiagnosed vision problems, optometrist says.

In continuing coverage from previous editions of First Look, WCSH-TV (9/20) Portland, an NBC affiliate, reported on its website that, according to optometrist David Redman, O.D., some children's "learning disabilities are actually undiagnosed vision problems." Dr. Redman explained, "When children are diagnosed with a learning disability, about 60-percent of the time it's just a visual problem, and then once they get their glasses, they come up to speed." Dr. Redman said that "a pediatrician's eye exam is not enough." In fact, children "need a more thorough exam." Therefore, he "recommends they get one at ages one, three, and five, and every year after that."

Optometrist points out importance of eye examinations for aging eyes.

In the Ask an Optometrist column in Canada's Midland Free Press (9/17), Lillian Linton, O.D. pointed out that "common eye conditions affecting" aging "baby boomers can include glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration." She reminded readers that the "only definitive way to diagnose your condition is to visit your optometrist to be tested." Optometrists "use a number of techniques to assess any potential vision or eye health problems, and will keep a file of that information in order to keep track of changes in" future "eye health or vision."

Medical flexible spending accounts cover vision-related expenses.

In the Boston Globe's (9/9) Managing Your Money column, Cheryl Costa wrote that medical flexible spending accounts (FSAs) cover "eligible healthcare expenses," such as "office visit co-payments and glasses/contact lenses." In addition, FSAs cover "Braille books and magazines, guide dogs for the blind," and "laser eye surgery," which is often not covered by health-insurance plans. "For a full list of eligible expenses," eye-related or otherwise, "check out IRS Publication 502," Costa advised.

http://www.irs.gov/publications/p502/index.html


Eyeglasses (and contacts and eye examination fees)
You can include in medical expenses amounts you pay for eyeglasses and contact lenses needed for medical reasons. You can also include fees paid for eye examinations.

Medicines
You can include in medical expenses amounts you pay for prescribed medicines and drugs. A prescribed drug is one that requires a prescription by a doctor for its use by an individual. You can also include amounts you pay for insulin. Except for insulin, you cannot include in medical expenses amounts you pay for a drug that is not prescribed.

Medical Services
You can include in medical expenses amounts you pay for legal medical services provided by:

Physicians,

Surgeons,

Specialists, or

Other medical practitioners.

Nutritional Supplements

if they are recommended by a medical practitioner as treatment for a specific medical condition diagnosed by a physician.

Computer Glasses

For people "staring at a computer screen all day...glare is everywhere," contributing to computer vision syndrome. "There are about 175 million people in the workplace using computers, and about 80 percent of those people notice problems" with eye strain. Glasses are available to reduce computer glare. They have specially coated lenses made to reduce eye strain. It's just more relaxing on their eyes, allowing them to "work longer, and be more productive,"

Be sure to ask your doctor about computer vision glasses if you work in front of a computer all day.

Doctor explains how eyes may change with age.

South Carolina's Greenville News (9/9, Foley) reported that "eyes change as we age." Bill Caldwell, M.D., explained that "presbyopia happens to almost everyone right about the time they turn 40." Yet "another common age-related eye issue is a lack of sensitivity in the eyes. People have difficulty with color perception," and "depth perception can be hampered." Because "pupils get smaller" with increasing age, people "need more light to see well," and also "need more time to adjust when changing from one extreme of either bright light or darkness to the other." As the "lens of the eye naturally hardens with age," cataracts form, with typical onset at "about age 60." According to Dr. Caldwell, "macular degeneration usually begins with those 65 and older," and "occurs when the macula, which is the central part of the retina, is damaged." Glaucoma causes "damage to the optic nerve. It's usually caused by a fluid buildup that exerts pressure on the eye." To catch serious conditions early, Dr. Caldwell "suggests annual eye checkups."

U.K. judge orders company to pay over £60,000 for illegal sale of contact lenses.

Optician Online (9/12) reports that a judge in the U.K. "has ordered Vision Direct to pay over £60,000" (about $105,213) "after the General Optical Council achieved a successful prosecution against the company for illegal sales of contact lenses." The company "pleaded guilty to six offenses of selling" contact lenses "without a valid specification, and without the supervision of a registered doctor or optician, at the Sept. 3 hearing at Hendon Magistrates Court." In the U.K., "sale and supply of optical appliances are regulated under the Opticians Act." Reacting to the verdict, the president of the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), Sarah Janikoun, stated, "Contact-lens wearers and practitioners must be vigilant of contact-lens suppliers who do not request a proper contact-lens specification from a qualified practitioner, since lenses that are not as the practitioner prescribed can cause visual and ocular problems."

Made in Italy Eyewear

Vitality, inventiveness and ambition are the positive qualities that have made it possible for the Italian eyewear industry to successfully face up to the competitive challenges over the last half-century. With an efficient distribution network, outstanding development of industrial facilities combined with an extremely qualified work force, the Italian optical sector was one of the first to realize the importance of the combination of esthetic values and technology. It's no wonder that it has become an uncontested world leader. Currently more than 80% of eyewear manufacturing is concentrated in the Veneto region (the province of Belluno alone accounts for 72.6%) where it is said to have had its origin. In fact, in 1878 Angelo Frescura (who is considered, and rightly so, the founder of this industry) registered his eyewear factory, the first in Italy, located near Calalzo di Cadore, with a notary in Padua. (The invention of spectacles, however, goes back to much earlier times, around the 11th century). This natural environment formed the perfect cradle for an industrial sector that has evolved from a "family-run small business" to a full-fledged international industry in just over 300 years. Many descendent entrepreneurs have conscientiously cultivated a global vision of their industry. This means they focused on constantly being aware of the socio-cultural changes taking place in various countries, and tried to capture and interpret their essence and spirit. Flexibility in making use of their productive energies allowed these companies to offer varied responses to different world markets. Furthermore, the conviction that cooperation between the various components of the sector is one of the winning cards toward creating a place for oneself in the international scenario, contributed significantly to making the eyewear industry one of the primary driving forces behind the Italian economy. The eyewear industry in Italy comprises approximately 1,510 companies, (260 industrial manufacturers and 1250 small businesses) which employ 17,800 workers.

Optometrist explains importance of eye exams for schoolchildren.

Canada's Calgary Herald (8/28, Gray) reported that now that school is back in session, some children may be experiencing vision difficulties that make learning difficult. Calgary optometrist Gaggan Basra, O.D., "says that typically, parents won't act on getting a child's eyes checked until a problem is mentioned. While many schools will screen for vision problems, they only check how well a child sees at a distance." A "comprehensive eye" examination performed by an optometrist, however, includes "tests that can determine nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, color vision, eye coordination, muscle function, and focusing abilities," Dr. Basra explained. She also pointed out "some of the signs that indicate a child has a vision problem," including "difficulty seeing the board at school or TV," squinting while "reading or watching TV," holding "reading material close" to the face, frequent headaches, making "letter or number reversals when reading or writing," using "a finger to keep a place when reading," achieving "below academic or sporting potential," closing "one eye while reading," experiencing "behavioral problems," or turning "the eye inward, outward, upward or downward."

Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables may help protect against cataracts, AMD, researchers say.

The Miami Herald (8/25) reported that according to Harvard Medical School's Healthbeat newsletter, "Carrots, which contain vitamin A, are one of several vegetables that are good for the eyes." Even better are "fresh fruits and dark green leafy vegetables, which contain more antioxidant vitamins, such as C and E," that "may help protect against cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)."

Sunglasses protect eyes against UV rays, skin cancer, AOA says.

South Carolina's Sun News (8/20, Leotta) reported that "sunglasses can protect the eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays." Optometrist Mark Saunders, O.D., explained that "some of the problems that can result from UV rays include macular degeneration, cataracts," and "pterygium," which is a "fibrous growth in the cornea that" can also be "caused by wind damage." The American Optometric Association (AOA) "notes that sunglasses can" also "protect against skin cancer of the eyelids and skin around the eyes." People "who are sensitive to the sun for other reasons -- for example, younger people, and those with lighter skin, eyes, and hair -- have increased risk for eye problems if they don't wear sunglasses."

Research suggests antioxidants may prevent onset of AMD.

Utah's Salt Lake Tribune (8/21) reports that "a new study involving Brigham Young University (BYU) has shown how antioxidants help protect against" age-related macular degeneration (AMD), "a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 55." BYU researchers, working with colleagues at the "Weill Medical College of Cornell University, discovered a link between two processes in the retina that, in combination, contribute to the disease."

Both on the air and on its website, Utah NBC affiliate KSL-TV (8/20) explained that an age-related build-up of vitamin A may be associated with the breakdown of the mitochondria in the eyes' "critical visual cells." BYU chemist Heidi Vollmer-Snarr, and colleagues, "tried to...disrupt the process" by "treat[ing] these cells with certain antioxidants" and "vitamin E derivatives." For the study, the researchers "used a derivative of vitamin E called trolox. 'We saw complete reversal in the presence of antioxidants,'" Snarr explained. KSL-TV noted that "a variety of fruits, vegetables, and nuts are rich in antioxidants," including "chokeberry, wheat germ, almonds, asparagus, avocado, pecans, blueberries, artichokes, olives, spinach,...canola, corn, sunflower, soybean, and cottonseed oils."

Fendi - The Double F Symbol

The Double F Symbol

Fendi's double F symbol

Commonly referred to as the "Zucca" print in its original form and "Zucchino" in its smaller style, Fendi's iconic "double F" logo pattern was first designed by Karl Lagerfeld in the 1960s. It has been used on a variety of Fendi products, including handbags, wallets, luggage, shoes, and apparel. AND Eye glasses and sun glasses FRAMES !!!

Sports-related blows to eye common, experts say.

Connecticut's News-Times (8/19, Miller) reported that "sports-related blow[s] to the eye" are becoming "regrettably common." Without protection, "eyes are vulnerable to flying objects, whether they be a hockey puck, an air ball pellet, or a line-drive hit back to the pitcher." James Salz, M.D., of the University of Southern California, pointed out that the eye's interior "is filled with a gel-like fluid called vitreous humor that helps the eyeball maintain its shape. But, when a very fast-moving object hits the eye, the force drives the eye into the back of the socket," and "the collision can pull the retina off the rear wall of the eye." Retinal specialist Nazanin Barzideh, M.D., urges people who have "a sudden flurry of floaters, or" notice "a dark permanent shadow in the corner of [their] vision," to see an eye specialist "quickly, so that a doctor can surgically reattach the retina. Otherwise, blindness in the eye might follow." Although "any kind of eyewear will offer the eye some protection," Dr. Salz said that "specially-designed, protective glasses are best."

VSP Vision Care buys Marchon Eyewear for $735 million.

California's Sacramento Bee (8/18, Smith) reported that "VSP Vision Care bought eyewear manufacturer Marchon Eyewear, Inc." on Monday "in a deal that combines the nation's largest eye-care benefits provider with one of the world's largest manufacturers of designer eyewear." The $735 million "cash-and-debt" deal "creates a $3.3 billion company that substantially adds to VSP Vision Care's designer portfolio."

"Marchon makes private-label eyewear for companies such as Calvin Klein, Coach, Michael Kors, Sean John, and Nike, and makes its own eyewear collections, including its Airlock and Flexon lines," Ohio's Business First of Columbus (8/19) adds. VSP "gets Marchon's 50-percent ownership in Eye Designs, a custom interior designer for the optical industry." In addition, "VSP's Altair Eyewear brand will become a division of Marchon." And, "Marchon's OfficeMate Software Solutions subsidiary, an industry software and technology company, will merge with VSP's Eyefinity, a web-based business-management firm."

New York's Newsday (8/18, Dymski) noted that VSP "services one in every six Americans with vision-insurance benefits through a network of more than 25,000 doctors, the company said. With more than 55 million members in the United States and Canada, VSP last year had total revenues of $2.6 billion." New York's Long Island Business News (8/19, Powderly) also covers the story.

Regular eye exams may help detect early warning signs of disease.

The North American Press Syndicate (8/17) reported that "[r]egular eye exams are not just about obtaining optimal vision through the right eyeglass or contact prescription, but can also help detect early warning signs of disease that can affect your eye health and general health." And, because "an eye examination can help detect many health problems, eye-care practitioners often work in conjunction with internists and general practitioners to help empower individuals on their health and wellness journey." Many eye doctors now "offer new technology, such as digital retinal eye scans, that are quick and comfortable, and produce a computerized picture of blood vessels in action. This new technology effectively provides information on eye health and certain systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and glaucoma." For good eye health, patients are urged to "[b]egin a regular routine of eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist once a year, or as often as the doctor recommends."

AOA estimates 125 million Americans may suffer from computer-vision syndrome.

In continuing coverage from a previous edition of First Look, the San Diego Union-Tribune (8/17, Somers) reported that, according to the American Optometric Association, "An estimated 125 million Americans suffer from what is now commonly referred to as...computer-vision syndrome." Optometrist Jeffrey Anschel, O.D., pointed out that while "[t]he eye focuses on the hard edge of an image,...digital images don't have a clean edge." Therefore, "the focus drifts forward and back, causing eye fatigue." In addition, when "people spend long periods focusing on something close to their face," the muscles of the eye tend "to lock into that one position, which is tiring, and can push the eye down the path to becoming farsighted." At the same time, "[t]here's also glare from the light shining into the eyes." In addition, "the angle of view for the computer screen, which is straight ahead, isn't desirable. People tend to focus better at objects when looking down," Dr. Anschel explained.

Several manufacturers are now "launching a line of computer lensthat aim to prevent the dry eyes, blurry vision, and headaches that can be caused by" computer use

Optometrist's column explains how children's eye examinations may help learning.

In the Eye Man column appearing in California's Redwood City Daily News (8/14), optometrist Andrew C. Soss, O.D., FAAO, responded to a reader who had enrolled her child in a private school that requires students to undergo eye examinations performed by an eye doctor prior to the start of the school year. The reader had already taken her son to the family physician for a physical, during which the child's eyes were checked. She now wanted to know "what difference...it make[s]" who performs the eye examination. Dr. Soss replied that "there is a lot more to vision than just seeing 20/20." For example, "[c]hildren's eyes are different than adults." Specifically, "the constant adjustments to continuous changes associated with development of these growing eyes and formulating brain centers devoted to vision can create challenges." In addition, "the amount of reading and learning that goes on in a classroom and during homework duties can cause a lot of stress to these young students." During "a comprehensive examination" performed by an eye expert, tests "can predict what visual stimuli may impair a student's ability to learn."

State halts health program sign up

Here's some old news, but worth mentioning. This is a prime example of what could happen to our nations medicare/medicaid programs if they are cut too much.......

State halts health program signup

Medicaid patients' difficulty finding doctors within Evercare network prompts demand for changes.

By Corrie MacLaggan
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Wednesday, March 28, 2007

State health officials on Tuesday suspended enrollment in an Austin area health care program that serves Medicaid patients because too few physicians were willing to accept new patients.

At least for now, no more patients will be able to sign up for the Star Plus managed health care program run by the company Evercare, officials with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission said. The move comes less than two months after the program expanded to seven Central Texas counties, where it serves more than 13,000 Medicaid recipients who are elderly or have disabilities. Medicaid is the federal-state health insurance program for people with low incomes.

Although two HMOs, Evercare and Amerigroup Community Care, provide Star Plus programs in Central Texas, only Evercare's enrollment has been suspended.

"There are very significant concerns with (Evercare's) ability to have an appropriate primary care network for clients, which is the whole point," said Stephanie Goodman, a spokeswoman for the health commission.

A spokesman for Evercare, Peter Ashkenaz, said the company is working closely with the state to resolve the problems as soon as possible.

There are about 152,000 Texans enrolled in Star Plus, a legislative-mandated program intended to curb Medicaid costs. Enrollment in the program, which rolled out in Central Texas on Feb. 1, is required for certain Medicaid recipients.

Many of the more than 6,000 Central Texans in the Evercare plan say they have not been able to find a doctor.

Taylor Dickson of Austin, a former carpenter who said he is unable to work because of several disabilities, said he chose a doctor listed in the Evercare booklet. But when he called to make an appointment three weeks ago because of a hurt knee, the office said the doctor was no longer accepting Evercare. Then he called each of the other eight primary care physicians in Evercare's network in Travis County. None could take him as a patient, he said.

"I'd say, 'Evercare,' and they'd say, 'Oh, no,' " he said.

At his home, Dickson has a stack of notes he jotted down when he spoke to six different Evercare customer service representatives. None of them could find him a doctor, he said, and one suggested that he try a doctor in San Antonio. His doctor of more than three years is not in the network, he said.

"It's frustrating that they would send you a little booklet of names to pick from and none of them are taking new patients. . . . Now I'm without a doctor," Dickson said. "I was having hell getting any kind of cooperation from Evercare."

He also found errors in the Evercare booklet. He said he noticed that the only family practice doctor listed in Bastrop County was actually in Taylor, which is in Williamson County.

On March 20, state officials sent a letter to Evercare requesting a formal corrective action plan by Friday because of complaints that the state had received about "Evercare's lack of responsiveness" to doctors and patients.

Goodman said, "For the problem to be so widespread and come up so quickly, that is what is puzzling to us at this point."

Goodman said the state is "looking at penalties" it may assess because of Evercare's contract violations. The contract requires Evercare to provide access to a primary care doctor who is accepting new patients within 30 miles of a client's home, she said.

In March, Texas paid Evercare $2 million for premiums, she said.

Beth Mandell, executive director of Evercare of Texas, said Tuesday that there were "only a few" primary care doctors in the Evercare network accepting new patients in the Austin area.

"We recently had a number of our primary care physicians in this area close their practices to new members without notifying us," Mandell said.

But Dr. Sheila Shung, an internal medicine physician in Austin, said she never wanted to be listed at all. She agreed to accept Evercare for her existing patients but not for new patients, she said. She has been inundated with calls from prospective patients, she said. Her office called Evercare five times to ask to be removed from the list or at least indicate that she was not accepting new Evercare patients, she said.

Shung, like many doctors, does not like to take Medicaid patients because of the low reimbursement rates, she said.

Amerigroup has not had the same trouble as Evercare in providing an adequate network of doctors, Goodman said.

"We will do everything to accommodate folks" from the Evercare network, said Kent Jenkins, a spokesman for Amerigroup Corp.

Star Plus, which has operated in Houston since 1998, expanded this year to other Houston area cities as well as to the Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Austin areas. The Central Texas counties being served are Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Lee, Travis and Williamson. The expansion was expected to save $110 million over two years by better coordinating care for Texans with long-term health care needs, state officials said.

cmaclaggan@statesman.com; 445-3548

What should Star Plus patients on Evercare do?

Patients who have already found a doctor may stay in the Evercare program. Those who have not or who want to switch may join the Amerigroup Community Care plan. For more information about joining the Amerigroup plan, call the ombudsman's line at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission: (877) 787-8999.

The enrollment suspension in the Austin area does not affect patients in Evercare's other Star Plus service areas, Corpus Christi and Houston.

For more information about the Star Plus health care program, go to www.hhsc.state.tx.us/starplus/Overview.htm.

Source: Health and Human Services Commission

Reposted from:

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/region/legislature/stories/03/28/28starplus.html

Eating oily fish may reduce risk for neovascular AMD, research suggests.

In continuing coverage from previous editions of First Look, Medscape (8/12, Barclay, Nghiem) reported that eating oily fish, "the major source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)," at least once a week may be "linked to a reduced risk for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NV-AMD)," according to a study published in the Aug. issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. For the study, researchers from the U.K.'s London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine examined data from "[p]articipants aged 65 years or older" who were enrolled "in the cross-sectional, population-based European Eye Study." The participants "underwent fundus photography," then "were interviewed with use of a food-frequency questionnaire." Dietary data "and fundus images were available for 105 case patients with NV-AMD, and 2,170 control subjects without any features of early or late AMD." The researchers found that "eating oily fish at least once per week or more, vs. less than once per week, was associated with a halving of the odds of NV-AMD." Medscape noted that the "main dietary source of DHA and EPA is oily fish, such as mackerel, tuna, salmon, sardines, and herring."

AOA recommends comprehensive eye exams for children entering preschool and kindergarten

In continuing coverage from previous editions of First Look, Alabama's Clanton Advertiser (8/12) reported, "As parents send their children back to school, one of the most important things they can do to help ensure their child's ability to learn is to take them for an eye exam. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends comprehensive eye exams especially for children entering preschool and kindergarten." In particular, "[c]hildren entering preschool or kindergarten benefit the most from comprehensive eye exams," although "they rarely receive them early enough. Currently, only 14 percent of children under age six have received a comprehensive eye exam, according to the U.S. Center for Health Statistics." During an eye exam, an optometrist can detect "common vision problems, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness, as well as more serious conditions such as amblyopia."

Blindness prevention group head emphasizes importance of vision screening for children. In an opinion piece in Tennessee's Chattanoogan (8/12), Jenny Pomeroy, CEO of Prevent Blindness Georgia, wrote, "Since about 80 percent of learning in a child's first 12 years comes through the eyes, it is very important to ensure that...school-aged children can see properly." Across the U.S., "five percent of preschool children have significant visual impairment," Pomeroy noted, adding that "[m]any of these children will develop amblyopia, or 'lazy eye' blindness, if their eye conditions are not diagnosed and treated early." Studies have shown that "sight can be saved in 98 percent of children if treatment is begun by age four. At age six, only 20 percent of children's sight can be saved, and if treatment is delayed until age ten, these children may be blind in one eye for a lifetime," Pomeroy pointed out. Therefore, she urged parents to make sure that their children "can see properly," and that the children receive vision screening "appropriately, and at an early age."

Getting Back to School and the importance of Eye Exams

Studies show that 80% of all learning during a child's early school years is obtained through vision. Yet too many school-aged children and teenagers have vision deficiencies. Many go undetected because only a small number receive regular eye exams. That's just one reason why annual comprehensive eye exams are so important.

Welcome to our Eye care blog

We've decided to setup this blog to cover different eye topics such as eye diseases, types of eye exams, glasses, lens types, contacts and the importance of regular eye exams. Check back often as we will update regularly.

Jim
http://www.FineEyewear.Net