Ocular Rosacea

Ocular Rosacea

by Beverly Hills Optometry

310-659-2020

http://www.bheyeguy.com

Rosacea may first appear as reddish patches of skin on your face or neck that lead to bumpy skin lesions, pimples or blood vessels on the surface. While Rosacea is very apparent on the face and neck, many have undiagnosed Ocular Rosacea. About 13 million people suffer from Rosacea, and about 50% also have Ocular Rosacea. 

If you are experiencing swollen, itching, and burning sensations throughout the day, you may be experiencing Ocular Rosacea. It is also important to mention that Ocular Rosacea may arise even before Rosacea. While there is no cure for Ocular Rosacea at this time, there are treatments to help alleviate the discomfort, eliminate flare-ups, and prevent serious conditions, such as corneal ulcers, scarring of eyelids, or vision loss. 

If you are suffering from this condition, avoiding lifestyle and environmental factors that may trigger the flare-ups are essential. Some of the most common triggers include, but are not limited to the following: wind, extreme hot or cold, spices, alcohol, or stress. If you have been diagnosed with Rosacea or are you experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule an appointment at Beverly Hills Optometry (www.bheyeguy.com) today!

Tecnis Symfony Intraocular Lenses

Tecnis Symfony Intraocular Lenses

by Beverly Hills Optometry

310-659-2020

http://www.bheyeguy.com

If you have been told that cataract surgery is in the near future, there is a new technology in intraocular lenses, or IOL, to consider. The newest IOL in the United States are assisting vision issues at varying distances following cataract surgery. Most cataract surgeries replace the patient’s lens with a monovision lens, correcting mostly distance vision. 

This dynamic lens is following the revolution of allowing patients to maintain an active lifestyle without the constant hassle of glasses wear. Tecnis's Symfony IOL offers an increase in visual acuity at distance, but also with the near and intermediate ranges. This is an exceptional innovation for patients with presbyopia, the lose in the ability to focus at near object (usually occurs in the 4th decade of life). If you have an astigmatism, there are options for toric IOL implants as well. 

Symfony IOL strives to provide patients with more youthful vision. Another benefit of the Symfony IOL includes significant reduction in the incidence of halos and glare compared to monovision IOL.

If your doctor has suggested cataract surgery, this may be an option for you. Schedule an appointment at Beverly Hills Optometry (www.bheyeguy.com) today to further inquire.

Thygeson's Superficial Punctate Keratitis

Thygeson's Superficial Punctate Keratitis

by Beverly Hills Optometry

310-659-2020

http://www.bheyeguy.com

Thygeson's Superficial Punctate Keratitis, or TSPK, is a type of inflammation of the cornea that causes a scattered loss of epithelial cells across the surface of the cornea. It can be caused by various factors including abrasions, chemicals, or overuse of contacts. The damage can occur anywhere on the cornea, but most often centrally. 

The most common individual suffering from TSPK is under the age of 40. At the exam, the doctor will observe your eyes for multiple white or opaque lesions in the epithelial of the cornea, which is its main defining characteristic. 

While there is often no residual scarring and very rarely permanent vision loss, it is important to see a doctor for treatment in order to properly heal. Therapeutic corticosteroids (or steroid eye drops) are available to relieve symptoms as well as a soft, bandage contact lens to protect the eye. 

If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule an appointment at Beverly Hills Optometry (www.bheyeguy.com) today!

The Importance of Annual Retinal Exams for Diabetic Patients

The Importance of Annual Retinal Exams for Diabetic Patients

by Beverly Hills Optometry

310-734-3446

http://www.bheyeguy.com

Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes run the risk of developing Diabetic retinopathy (“DR”) due to elevated glucose levels. Increased glucose levels can behave as slow-acting poison that gradually erodes the ability of pancreatic cells to produce insulin, causing the pancreas to overcompensate and produce excess amounts. It can also cause the calcification of blood vessels, making them fragile and more susceptible to hemorrhaging; and neovascularization, which is the formation of functional, but fragile microvascular networks. 

These formed, fragile vessels can hemorrhage, allowing blood to enter and cloud the viscous gel body, obstructing the refraction of light. Consequently, nutrient and oxygen deprivation of the retina may occur, hindering it from functioning properly and leading to severe or permanent vision loss. The four main types of DR are non-proliferative Diabetic retinopathy, proliferative Diabetic retinopathy, Diabetic macular edema (DME), and advanced diabetic eye disease.

It is imperative for Diabetic patients to visit an eye care professional for annual retinal and comprehensive eye exams, in addition to maintaining controlled blood glucose levels.

Studies such as the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) have shown that controlling blood glucose levels slows the onset and worsening of diabetic retinopathy. 

“DCCT study participants who kept their blood glucose level as close to normal as possible were significantly less likely than those without optimal glucose control to develop diabetic retinopathy, as well as kidney and nerve diseases. Other trials have shown that controlling elevated blood pressure and cholesterol can reduce the risk of vision loss among people with diabetes” (NEI – National Eye Institute).

Weekly exercise and consuming lower caloric foods, saturated fats, trans fats, sugar, and salt; and consuming more fiber-containing foods (i.e. whole grain cereals and breads), will help maintain a healthy weight and lower risks of high glucose levels.

To be evaluated for Diabetic retinopathy and other Diabetic ocular risks, please contact our office at 310-734- 3446 or visit our website http://www.bheyeguy.com to book an appointment.