tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50965471163876529412023-12-12T10:28:02.161-05:00LASIK Boston Laser Cataract Surgery D’Ambrosio Eye Care BlogD’Ambrosio Eye Care Boston-Eye Exams for LASIK, Laser Cataract Surgery, Lens Implants, Eyeglasses, Glaucoma, Diabetic Eye Problems & AMD.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comBlogger804125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-53146749498344565342022-06-13T02:32:00.005-04:002022-06-13T02:32:53.724-04:00Tips for Computer Screen Eye Protection <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLMuoG7lOjlCZsNsxOjKLo435qsAsB5W91i8MtBp3vho1Pechso8yRoPJzG9YJOzF543lNOH7zS_kcEvEj5kGOj6vzSfqu6UeRvzSbk-oUbyr6sDKjFLfMP62OoWD6On9CdpikPvcYbnPZFpAPjdFc3H7_vsb7enIAATIviLRSzcTR-SqQLJrrkWuIA/s1200/Computer%20Screen%20Time2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLMuoG7lOjlCZsNsxOjKLo435qsAsB5W91i8MtBp3vho1Pechso8yRoPJzG9YJOzF543lNOH7zS_kcEvEj5kGOj6vzSfqu6UeRvzSbk-oUbyr6sDKjFLfMP62OoWD6On9CdpikPvcYbnPZFpAPjdFc3H7_vsb7enIAATIviLRSzcTR-SqQLJrrkWuIA/s320/Computer%20Screen%20Time2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Did you know that the average office worker
spends </span><a href="https://www.studyfinds.org/office-worker-1700-hours-computer-screen/"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">1,700
hours per year</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> in front of a
computer screen, without even considering the time spent on a phone or other
digital device? All this screen time has led to an increase in complaints
of </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-eye-strain"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">eye strain</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, </span><a href="https://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(19)30047-9/abstract"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">dry eye</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, headaches and </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/should-you-be-worried-about-blue-light"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">insomnia</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Computer use causes more eye strain than reading print material</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> because </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">focusing your eyes on computer
screens or other digital screens is typically at less than ideal angles and
distances and your blink rate decreases by a third to a half, causing dry eyes
as well. Follow these simple tips for protecting your eyes from this computer
screen eye strain:</span><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep Your Distance</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">: Keep
the screen at arm’s length, about 25 inches away and position it so your eye
gaze is slightly downward.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reduce Glare</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">: Use
a matte screen filter to reduce glare.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adjust Lighting</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">:
Adjust your room lighting to get the highest screen contrast increase the
contrast on your screen as much as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Take Breaks</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">: Blink
and follow the 20-20-20 rule. Take a break every 20 minutes by looking at an
object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep Eyes Moist</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">: Keep
artificial tears nearby to lubricate your eyes when they feel dry. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">Stop Screen Use Before Bed: </span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Limit
screen time one to two hours before bedtime and use nighttime settings on
devices and computers that minimize blue light exposure.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If you
experience consistently dry red eyes or eye pain at any time, but especially
with computer screen use please schedule an eye exam at </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D’Ambrosio Eye
Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> so that we can
help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-90400625409884122872022-06-13T02:29:00.001-04:002022-06-13T02:29:09.122-04:00Retina Problems & Bladder Medication?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVMGwqU9ftRHDR9qCTXsYJCuaj_WWFyUAKGtMHNt3Vo6uYzZ-n3jKfd2fX5wW_J2HiV4Olq2x5pFPjlittBqjDh_R-H6JnGylOdrMFjFbnJQ00BAI5IebBcd-cLXsL-CKmFjfKbbZLwoJfJXAMh0q1KAprJQExe3x3T_sxTTvH06tAeaabaQ1z4NlUA/s1200/Torn%20Retina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVMGwqU9ftRHDR9qCTXsYJCuaj_WWFyUAKGtMHNt3Vo6uYzZ-n3jKfd2fX5wW_J2HiV4Olq2x5pFPjlittBqjDh_R-H6JnGylOdrMFjFbnJQ00BAI5IebBcd-cLXsL-CKmFjfKbbZLwoJfJXAMh0q1KAprJQExe3x3T_sxTTvH06tAeaabaQ1z4NlUA/s320/Torn%20Retina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Did you know that the common bladder medication Elmiron (Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium) prescribed for Interstitial Cystitis may be associated with retinal damage? Interstitial Cystitis causes chronic pain in the bladder and pelvis area for more than 1 million people in the United States. Elmiron is the only FDA-approved pill to treat it-but we now know that this medication may be toxic to the macula, or central area of the retina. It is recommended that if you are taking this medication you should have a screening for retina damage at least once a year even if you show no signs of damage. If you show any signs of damage your eye doctor will need to alert your Urologist or Ob/Gyn that it might be necessary to discontinue the medication. The good news is that if identified early, the damage may be mitigated by stopping the medication. In the late-stage, toxicity can mimic late-stage dry atrophic age-related macular degeneration and result in permanent vision loss. <br /><br />If you or someone you know has been taking Elmiron for Interstitial Cystitis please schedule an appointment for an eye exam today at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-50730283534107049922022-06-13T02:23:00.003-04:002022-06-13T02:23:57.275-04:00What Is a Detached Retina?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigmD2DZJC4iirD6sqZ3Orh5nwiiv4icuNl9HRF9xg5XxHMGMm6FZIQNJep-2EQyyaq1Ny8tb4lNEcO4R_IJ8el4wEZlc3Q0XrOhwwSkdEs9QeRbItxaWxHNjn5XwI-NsuMFmeZWYgBWgz36WAJMp11NLB6ehiVZ5vXoMvzZfDS9UZZxNK25wX5EaP4g/s1200/DEC-What%20Is%20a%20Detached%20Retina-1013258524.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigmD2DZJC4iirD6sqZ3Orh5nwiiv4icuNl9HRF9xg5XxHMGMm6FZIQNJep-2EQyyaq1Ny8tb4lNEcO4R_IJ8el4wEZlc3Q0XrOhwwSkdEs9QeRbItxaWxHNjn5XwI-NsuMFmeZWYgBWgz36WAJMp11NLB6ehiVZ5vXoMvzZfDS9UZZxNK25wX5EaP4g/s320/DEC-What%20Is%20a%20Detached%20Retina-1013258524.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A detached retina is when the </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">retina</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> lifts away from the back of the eye. The
retina does not work when it is detached, making vision blurry. As we get
older, </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">the
vitreous gel in our eyes</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> starts to shrink
and get thinner. As the eye moves, the vitreous moves around on the retina
without causing problems. But sometimes the vitreous may stick to the retina
and pull hard enough to tear it. When that happens, fluid can pass through the
tear and lift or detach the retina.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Who
is at Risk of a Detached Retina?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Patients who are at greater risk for detached
retina are those who:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">>Are nearsighted and need glasses to see
far away<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Have had eye surgery such as cataract surgery<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Have had a serious eye injury<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Have had a retinal tear or detachment in the other eye<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Have family members who had retinal detachment<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Have weakened areas in their retina from thinning or
degeneration <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">What
are Symptoms or Warning Signs of a Detached Retina?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>Sudden Flashes of
Light. </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some people say this is
like seeing stars after being hit in the eye.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>New Floaters. </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These can look like specks, lines or cobwebs in
your field of vision.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">></span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Shadow
in Your Side Vision.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">>A</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Gray
Curtain</b> covering part of your field of vision.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">A detached retina is a serious problem. If you experience any
warning signs of a detached retina you need to have it examined immediately or
you risk losing vision please call</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937,
visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/" style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare" style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> so that we can help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-31284994789571833852022-04-18T16:39:00.004-04:002022-04-18T16:39:50.819-04:00Cataract Surgery Improves Driving Safety<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPEXzZwOArk9hyLY4hP17lKMIclIsF-yxBQmHF-pGifmH4iJmiuu8r-B1oyLi3LyE6ujzueBkRJ9YwjSUy7a31Ycv1ZZWEFxFrl8QVqOxRP1B1j4FAZyvwOofq9YmXgWuOjp6w-fPkhtSKMOwKrBbq5mIUo6aed1YBGEpO4FksIvDvXdX3jkYzqNjhw/s1200/Types%20of%20Cataracts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPEXzZwOArk9hyLY4hP17lKMIclIsF-yxBQmHF-pGifmH4iJmiuu8r-B1oyLi3LyE6ujzueBkRJ9YwjSUy7a31Ycv1ZZWEFxFrl8QVqOxRP1B1j4FAZyvwOofq9YmXgWuOjp6w-fPkhtSKMOwKrBbq5mIUo6aed1YBGEpO4FksIvDvXdX3jkYzqNjhw/s320/Types%20of%20Cataracts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Did you know that cataract surgery actually improves driving safety? The ability of<a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts"> cataract</a> surgery to restore sight is well known. Patients say they’re stunned by the vibrancy of color after surgery and the improvement in night vision. Depending on the type of lens implant (IOL) selected to correct your vision after cataract surgery many patients no longer even need to wear glasses, reading glasses or bifocals after cataract surgery. Researchers reporting at a recent meeting of the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a> used a driving simulator to test patients’ vision before and after cataract surgery. They found that near misses and crashes decreased by 48 percent after surgery! While visual acuity-how well you see the eye chart-is quickly measured after cataract surgery, it’s an incomplete assessment of how visually able you might be to drive.<br /><br />Cataract surgery appears to improve quantity of vision, or visual acuity, as well as contrast sensitivity leading to better night vision and improving drivers’ safety on the road. <br /><br />These results highlight the importance of timely cataract surgery in maintaining safety and continued mobility and independence in seniors. If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptom such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please schedule a cataract evaluation. Call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-27066121193481695482022-04-11T13:56:00.008-04:002022-04-11T13:56:59.404-04:00Save Your Sight with Seven Simple Steps<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5mR6ZkAhnqR9mIEXRQtKSoSkbAXpnyVAlN1FruUU8bj38uIRaQFzJL-5DDEdFM1j8piyHjxKInq0WGRsLXWSad7c97jPH_oQnFivTs877mwygHGV1wCnCA8CVZdVGV91NooEAr6fEJs7bfZuOPLgOQK2V9epYUvkXLLV_XaDfsZhDUgZLOjWEy_feA/s1200/DEC-Sunglass%20Myths-381764155.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5mR6ZkAhnqR9mIEXRQtKSoSkbAXpnyVAlN1FruUU8bj38uIRaQFzJL-5DDEdFM1j8piyHjxKInq0WGRsLXWSad7c97jPH_oQnFivTs877mwygHGV1wCnCA8CVZdVGV91NooEAr6fEJs7bfZuOPLgOQK2V9epYUvkXLLV_XaDfsZhDUgZLOjWEy_feA/s320/DEC-Sunglass%20Myths-381764155.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></p><br />People in their 20s or 30s are likely more concerned with launching careers and families than with their eye health. But this is the exact time of life to take action to preserve vision. That’s because most vision problems are preventable. Vision loss doesn’t have to be a natural part of getting older. Study after study has shown that exercise and a diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables can protect against blinding eye diseases, such as <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration">age-related macular degeneration</a> (AMD) and <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-glaucoma">glaucoma</a>. Taking simple steps can also help prevent certain types of eye cancer as well as work- and sports-related eye injuries. Here are seven simple steps for a lifetime of seeing well.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Wear Sunglasses.</b> Long-term exposure to the sun without proper protection can increase the risk of eye disease, including <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/cataracts">cataract</a>, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration">macular degeneration</a>, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pinguecula-pterygium">growths on the eye</a>, and a rare form of eye <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/ocular-melanoma">cancer</a>. Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.</li><li><b>Exercise. </b>Regular physical activity can protect you from serious eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.</li><li><b>Stop Smoking. S</b>moking increases the risk for eye diseases such as cataract and age-related macular degeneration. Smoking also raises the risk for cardiovascular diseases which can indirectly influence your eye health. Tobacco smoke, including second-hand smoke, also worsens <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-dry-eye">dry eye</a>.</li><li><b>Protect Your Eyes @ Work & Play. </b>Every year, thousands of people in the United States get a <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/preventing-injuries">serious work-related eye injury or sports-related eye injury</a>. Wearing protective eyewear can prevent most of these injuries. To make sure you have the right kind of protective eyewear and you’re using it correctly, talk with your eyecare professional.</li><li><b>Be Aware of Eye Fatigue.</b> If you spend a lot of time at the computer or staring at your phone, you may forget to blink-and that can <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-eye-strain">tire out your eyes</a>. Try using the 20–20–20 rule throughout the day: Every 20 minutes, look away from the screens and focus about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. Eye fatigue won’t damage your vision, but if it persists, it can be a sign something else is wrong.</li><li><b>Take Proper Care of Contact Lenses.</b> Sleeping, showering and swimming in contact lenses increases your risk for a potentially blinding eye infection. <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/prevent-infection-with-proper-contact-lens-care">Learn how to properly care for contact lenses</a>.</li><li><b>Know Your Family History.</b> Certain <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/know-your-family-medical-history">eye diseases can be inherited</a>. If you have a close relative with macular degeneration, you have a 50 percent chance of developing this condition. A family history of glaucoma increases your glaucoma risk by four to nine times. Talk to family members about their eye conditions.</li></ul> Please schedule regular eye exams to preserve your eye health & vision. It’s important to take care of your eyes, just like you take care of the rest of your body. Call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<p></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-46594284215522429502022-03-28T15:50:00.001-04:002022-03-28T15:50:14.090-04:00More NFL Players Wear Protective Visors More players in the National Football League (NFL) are using visors to protect their eyes than ever before, despite visors being optional. That's according to new research published in <a href="https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00080-4/fulltext#%20">Ophthalmology</a>, the journal of the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology.</a> Visors shield players' eyes from injury. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/a/nfl-preview-2019/visors">Tinted visors</a> offer added protection from the sun. About 41% of defensive players and 24% of offensive players wore visors during the 2019-2020 season, the report found. Linebackers, running backs and defensive backs were much more likely than other positions to wear a visor. The study examined all 32 teams in the NFL. <br /><br /><b>Ophthalmologists Urge NFL to Make Visors Mandatory <br /></b><br />Sport-related eye injuries can be devastating and career-ending. Over the past five seasons, 16 NFL players sustained eye injuries ranging from eye gouges to <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/orbital-fracture-diagnosis-treatment">fractures of the bone around the eyes</a>, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-corneal-abrasion">corneal abrasions</a> and cuts to the eyelid, the study revealed. Because so many players are already using visors and because visors don’t hinder performance the ophthalmologists who authored the study urge the NFL to take a stronger stand on visor usage. Athletes on college, high school or community football teams should also wear visors, the authors note. Amateur leagues may not have access to the same equipment and resources that NFL players do, which could result in more significant eye injuries. The Academy has categorized football as a sport with a moderate risk of eye injury and <a href="https://www.aao.org/clinical-statement/protective-eyewear-young-athletes">recommends the usage of a polycarbonate eye shield or visor for protection</a>.<br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-6572761213357989702022-03-17T08:56:00.002-04:002022-03-17T08:56:37.199-04:00Air Pollution & Macular Degeneration (AMD) Risk<br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs7d1-MCVmTLtL_OfftmOhc_XF9-x4O68g6SmbBHDk6FY8kf2NfJvLJDfSJjOVOw6El1VyVR1CeOfemUBpWk9gmZcM9x95EmI7lQ0CtwbjB-y8_qbNFATFjfaY4AiUH4h38sufPC0R10EwhqDD96-uq71PvIFNVRFxTg_HYOhCKUN1I4I7Mn3W_JrIHw=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs7d1-MCVmTLtL_OfftmOhc_XF9-x4O68g6SmbBHDk6FY8kf2NfJvLJDfSJjOVOw6El1VyVR1CeOfemUBpWk9gmZcM9x95EmI7lQ0CtwbjB-y8_qbNFATFjfaY4AiUH4h38sufPC0R10EwhqDD96-uq71PvIFNVRFxTg_HYOhCKUN1I4I7Mn3W_JrIHw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-weight: 400;">New research suggests living in a city with poor air quality increases your chance of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)-a leading cause of blindness. The study, published in the </span><a href="https://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2021/01/11/bjophthalmol-2020-316218" style="font-weight: 400;">British Journal of Ophthalmology,</a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> found that residents of highly polluted areas were at least 8% more likely to be diagnosed with AMD than residents of less polluted areas. AMD develops when the </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/macula-6" style="font-weight: 400;">macula</a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the part of the eye responsible for central vision, is damaged.</span><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><b>How Does Air Pollution Cause Eye Problems?</b><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><span style="font-weight: 400;">We do not know the exact mechanism of how air pollution increases AMD risk but we do know that increased inflammation can increase risk of dry macular degeneration, and pollutants increase inflammatory responses.</span><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></div><div><b><br /></b></div>How Do I Know if I Have Age-Related Macular Degeneration? </b><br /><br />During the early phases of AMD, people often notice no changes to their vision. Because of this, getting your eyes checked regularly is critical. When they do occur, symptoms of AMD may include <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-vision-simulator">loss of central vision</a>, blurry vision or seeing "wavy" lines. <br /><br /><b>Lower Your Risk of Vision Loss From Macular Degeneration </b><br /><br />While some factors may be out of your control, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk of vision loss from AMD. These healthy habits include not smoking, eating an eye-healthy diet and exercising regularly. Genetics can contribute to almost half the risk of macular degeneration in some people. <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-treatment">Treatments</a> for eye diseases like wet AMD are most effective with an early diagnosis. Make sure you get regular <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/eye-exams-101">comprehensive eye exams</a> to lower your risk of vision loss. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is over 50 and needs a comprehensive eye exam please call us at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<br /><br />Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-54468667259693098032022-02-14T10:24:00.001-05:002022-02-14T10:24:17.653-05:00Are AMD & Cataract Surgery Compatible?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiwQMQNQS3LLBgKqulSFODOVZrH1MAqFt8IsDTQ3OwOE3I2BBlrBkxWeTQ1SusbJQIf-40WVBOwPVMceik_b_NdSKtgzj39KmZToQpVZkLerku2SVI2Y-Rl1SDXv-j6F0HyDXgsxLDS2h_nso2z1On43hwZyhSWQxG4RBVX0j4GLiUF-kH-c5B-5TWtQ=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiwQMQNQS3LLBgKqulSFODOVZrH1MAqFt8IsDTQ3OwOE3I2BBlrBkxWeTQ1SusbJQIf-40WVBOwPVMceik_b_NdSKtgzj39KmZToQpVZkLerku2SVI2Y-Rl1SDXv-j6F0HyDXgsxLDS2h_nso2z1On43hwZyhSWQxG4RBVX0j4GLiUF-kH-c5B-5TWtQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> is a frustrating
condition that diminishes your ability to see detail clearly. When you combine
AMD’s loss of central vision with the </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/symptoms/blurriness-2"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">blurriness</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> from </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">cataracts</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">, you have a recipe for significant vision
loss. Can you have </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">cataract surgery</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> to restore some clear vision if you
have macular degeneration? The answer is probably yes, but there are some
factors that need to be considered first.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Which Condition Impacts
Your Vision Most: Cataracts or Macular Degeneration?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Before recommending
cataract surgery, your cataract surgeon will want to find out whether most of
your vision loss is caused by the cataract or by the AMD. Some people who have
a lot of damage to their </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/retina-103"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">retina</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> from macular degeneration won’t see much or any
vision improvement from cataract surgery. Your ophthalmologist will examine
your retina and take photographs to assess its condition. They will also take a
look at how cloudy your </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/lens-9"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">lens</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> is to see how much
vision the cataract may be blocking. And before recommending cataract surgery,
your surgeon will check your vision to see if a change in your </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/glasses"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">eyeglass</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> prescription or even </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/low-vision"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">low vision</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> magnifiers may be enough to see better.
Having cataract surgery with AMD may not restore your ability to do up-close
tasks, such as reading. Removing the cataract will allow more light to enter
the eye, but that may not be enough for good central vision. We need a clear
lens and a healthy retina for sharp vision.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Does Having Cataract
Surgery Make Macular Degeneration Worse?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Depending on the </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">type of AMD</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> you have, the answer is not fully known
at this point.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">If you have the “dry” form
of AMD, there is no evidence that cataract surgery will make your AMD worse.
However, if you have the “wet” form, it is not clear if cataract surgery will
negatively affect your macular degeneration. Cataract surgery causes
inflammation inside the eye, which in theory could make wet AMD worse. However,
results of multiple </span><a href="http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/857108"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> have been
inconsistent, so we don’t know for sure if cataract surgery worsens wet AMD.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Fortunately, for those
struggling with the double whammy of vision loss from both AMD and cataracts,
studies have shown that cataract surgery can improve vision in those who are
candidates for the procedure. You and your eye doctor can discuss your options
for achieving better sight. Please call us at</span><span style="color: #1c1d1e; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> so that we can
help.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-31111481230512826662022-02-08T15:21:00.003-05:002022-02-08T15:21:45.851-05:00Visual Hallucinations & AMD<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Vision loss from </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Age-Related Macular Degeneration</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(AMD) or other causes is known to cause some
people to see faces or shapes that aren't really there. But a </span><a href="https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00609-6/fulltext"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">new study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> suggests these hallucinations, known as </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-charles-bonnet-syndrome"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Charles Bonnet Syndrome</span></b></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, affect many more people with AMD than
previously thought. More than 12% of people with AMD experience visual
hallucinations, the study found. The actual number may be even higher. On
average, people experience these hallucinations on and off for about 3 years.
Those who experience hallucinations tend to see multiple types of images,
particularly people and faces. Many people keep quiet about these phantom
images for fear they'll be labeled with dementia or a psychiatric condition.
Their hesitancy to speak up could explain why hallucinations were thought to be
relatively uncommon until now.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Why
Do People with Macular Degeneration Have Hallucinations <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hallucinations in people with vision loss do not
stem from neurological problems. Rather, they occur when brain craves new
images to process. Finding none (due to vision loss), the brain resorts to
making up images or recalling images from memory.<br />
<br />
These phantom images may be simple lines, shapes, flashes of light or more
complex images of faces, people or animals. They can occur at any time and last
for seconds, minutes or hours. Sometimes the images remain still, other times
they move around. People with</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/low-vision"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">significant vision loss</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">,</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">especially loss of
central vision, are most often affected.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How to Deal with Visual Hallucinations<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is no cure or </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/charles-bonnet-syndrome-treatment"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">treatment
for Charles Bonnet Syndrome</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">,
but there are strategies to stave off episodes and cope with hallucinations
that occur. If you feel you are seeing things that aren’t really there, reach
out to your doctor. They will rule out other causes of visual hallucinations
like neurological conditions or medication-related side effects. If your doctor
thinks you have Charles Bonnet Syndrome, they will give you techniques to
manage the hallucinations. These include:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Changing Your Lighting Conditions and Environment<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Blinking Frequently or Moving Your Eyes Side-to-Side <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sleeping, Exercising and/or Relaxing, as Fatigue and Stress
can Exacerbate Hallucinations<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If you have AMD and experience visual
hallucinations please call us at </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> so that we can
help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-85313033926643600522022-01-31T14:59:00.002-05:002022-02-08T15:20:04.096-05:00AMD Facts to Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOxqHdT8k3VDbvFwdzmhnawjxkeJqGvP_PyFQh488p9z6NWfh0tUAaczyLgFNfquluLdTRN0mXAHF1qegDIAxHUnNqOqj3BaRmxKCABBszpIeL_o0je0if0TdS01ENNxQyqx4o1T3LXa_pLZE8s2DcNYuWL8KasmLoaYZlMlbyEYq-P4V1rtfvJeBOmQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOxqHdT8k3VDbvFwdzmhnawjxkeJqGvP_PyFQh488p9z6NWfh0tUAaczyLgFNfquluLdTRN0mXAHF1qegDIAxHUnNqOqj3BaRmxKCABBszpIeL_o0je0if0TdS01ENNxQyqx4o1T3LXa_pLZE8s2DcNYuWL8KasmLoaYZlMlbyEYq-P4V1rtfvJeBOmQ" width="320" /></a></div><br />Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in seniors. The disease harms central vision and limits a person’s ability to read, write and recognize faces. Older Americans who are unaware of the disease may be putting themselves at risk. The good news is that they can protect their sight with routine eye exams and some lifestyle changes. New treatments and protective steps can help people with AMD avoid vision loss. Here are some facts we think you should know: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The early warning signs of macular degeneration are subtle and easy to miss </li></ul>In the earliest stages of AMD, you may not notice any <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-symptoms">changes to your eyes or vision</a>. But at the same time, an early diagnosis allows for timely treatment. So how can you be sure to catch the disease early without obvious symptoms? The best defense is to get a <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/eye-exams-101">comprehensive eye exam</a>, even if you don't need glasses or contacts. The American Academy of Ophthalmology urges adults with no symptoms to have an eye exam at least by age 40. After age 65, it's important to get an exam every one to two years. But don't wait until age 40 if you notice problems with your eyesight or have eye discomfort. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Family history shapes your risk of macular degeneration </li></ul><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21865200">If you have a close family member with AMD, you have a greater risk of getting the disease</a>. Before your next eye exam, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/family-reunions">speak with your family about their eye health history</a>. Catching AMD early could better your chances of saving your sight. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>You can't reverse vision loss from macular degeneration, but you can save your remaining vision</li></ul>Fifteen years ago, there was little that we could do to stop AMD from stealing people's vision. The most advanced form of disease, called <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration">"wet" AMD</a> because it causes fluid to leak from blood vessels in the eye, often caused blindness. Thanks to major advances in treatment, such as the use of <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-treatment">anti-VEGF drugs</a>, fewer people are going blind. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Vitamins can slow macular degeneration (in some cases)</li></ul>If you have AMD, you may have heard that the <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/areds2-study-results-amd-supplement">AREDS 2 vitamin formula</a> can help slow the disease. Clinical trials show that these <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/vitamins-amd">vitamins for AMD</a> can help with intermediate or advanced AMD in one eye. Trials have not shown that they prevent AMD in people who do not have the disease. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Smoking increases your risk of age-related macular degeneration</li></ul>Many studies have found that smoking cigarettes can increase risk of AMD. Smoking also increases the speed at which the disease worsens. If you smoke, you are twice as likely to get AMD compared with a nonsmoker. The good news is that <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/smokers">stopping smoking</a> is the best action you can take to lower your risk of AMD. People who quit smoking 20 years ago have the same risk of AMD as people who have never smoked. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Daily vision checking at home is effective at monitoring AMD progression</li></ul>The Amsler grid is a simple chart that people with dry AMD can use at home to check for changes. All you have to do is look at it once every day! <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-low-vision">Learn how to use the Amsler grid</a> to track progression and risk of AMD-related vision loss.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Eating certain foods may cut your risk of macular degeneration</li></ul>Studies have shown that <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/fish-vitamin-d-rich-foods-amd">foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids</a> are good for eye health. Studies link eating these foods with a reduced risk of AMD-but not when taken as supplements. Other nutrients that help eye health include lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc and vitamin C. <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Exercise can help protect your vision as you age</li></ul>Many studies show <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/exercise-eyes-vision-4">getting regular exercise can benefit your eyes</a>. One study found that exercising three times a week reduced the risk of getting wet AMD by 70%. Studies also show that <a href="https://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(17)30218-0/abstract">exercise reduces the risk of all stages of AMD</a>. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is concerned about AMD please call and schedule an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-19912250960448861372022-01-24T15:24:00.002-05:002022-01-24T15:24:43.786-05:006 Tips for Using Glaucoma Eye Drops Effectively<p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt;">Did
you know that less than 50% of glaucoma patients use their eye drops properly
and risk vision loss? Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible
blindness in the United States. When glaucoma is treated in its early stages,
vision loss can be prevented. Recent studies show that more than half of
glaucoma patients do not adhere to their prescribed treatment plans due to
factors including difficulty in applying eye drops, lack of medication
education and forgetfulness. Here are 6 tips to help overcome glaucoma
medication challenges:</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Be
honest with your eye doctor about your medication difficulties.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">
Missed a dose? It may not seem to matter much, but research shows that skipping
doses can cause your glaucoma to become more severe. Be candid with your eye
doctor about any problems you face in taking your medicine regularly, and ask
about the best way to make up for a missed dose. The more you tell your doctor,
the better he or she can help you find ways to customize your treatment plan to
make it more manageable for your lifestyle.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Ask
for help from health professionals and loved ones.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> It
can be difficult to keep track of which meds to take and when. Talk with your
ophthalmologist or pharmacist about your medications, their impact and possible
side effects. Also, use the buddy system and tell your friends, family and
caregivers about your condition and treatments. Consider taking a loved one or
caregiver with you to your eye appointments, so they can help you follow your
treatment plan when you're at home. They may also be able to help you apply
your eye drops at home.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Use
memory aids.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> The most common reason for not taking eye drops is
forgetfulness. Try simple memory aids like linking your eye drop schedule to
other things you do routinely. For example, put your eye drop bottle next to
your toothbrush or your pill box if you take other medications. Try using physical
reminders such as marking off a calendar when you use your drops, or moving
your eye drop bottle from one place to another after you've applied your drops.
Also, take advantage of today's technology and set an alarm on your phone to
help you make your medication a part of your daily routine, or look for </span><a href="http://www.eyedropsapp.com/"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">free smartphone apps</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> and </span><a href="http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/wilmer/danacenter/publications/quigley_docs/travatan_dosing_aid.pdf"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">other tools</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Perfect
the "pocket." Giving yourself eye drops can be challenging.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> In
fact, research has shown that nearly 30 percent of people taking glaucoma
medication are not properly applying their eye drops. This should involve
gently pulling and pinching the lower lid to make a pocket to catch your drops.
Once the drops are in, close your eyes (do not blink) and apply pressure to the
point where the lids meet the nose for two to three minutes. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Don't
use pot as a glaucoma treatment.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> Don't fall for
rumors that medical marijuana can replace glaucoma medications. Prescription
medicated drops are much more effective at treating the condition and have
fewer risks than marijuana. Marijuana can also affect memory, which could make
it more difficult to remember your treatments.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><!--[if !supportLists]--><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: -.05in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.4pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.4pt;">Certain
factors put people at higher risk of developing glaucoma. These include age,
family history of glaucoma, African-American and Hispanic-American ancestry,
diabetes and past eye injuries. The American Academy of Ophthalmology
recommends that all people get an eye exam by age 40, especially those who have
a higher risk of glaucoma. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">If you or someone you know is over 40, or has other
glaucoma risk factors please schedule a glaucoma eye exam at</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> D’Ambrosio Eye
Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> so that we can
help.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-79361466799183909302022-01-20T16:31:00.001-05:002022-01-20T16:31:31.757-05:0010 Tips to Reduce Vision Loss from Glaucoma <p>G<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">laucoma is one of the leading causes of vision
loss in America. While early detection, diagnosis & treatment can slow its
progression, there is no permanent cure. Lifestyle factors can influence eye
pressure, which is a major risk factor for the disease. Here are some lifestyle
tips that can actually help minimize the risk of losing vision from glaucoma: </span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Exercise regularly</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. A recent </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/another-reason-to-exercise-protecting-your-sight"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> showed that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous
physical activity appear to have a 73 percent lower risk of developing
glaucoma. This is because blood flow and pressure inside the eye may change
with exercise, which may affect glaucoma risk.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables,
especially green, leafy ones</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. One </span><a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/2480455"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> showed that people who ate more leafy vegetables have a 20
to 30 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. Why? Nitrates in green
vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and
help regulate pressure inside the eye.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drink coffee in moderation. Better yet, drink
tea instead of coffee</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. A </span><a href="http://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2017/11/25/bjophthalmol-2017-310924"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> published last month showed that people who consumed at
least one cup of hot tea daily had 74 percent decreased odds of having glaucoma
compared with those who did not consume hot tea. A little coffee is fine, but
excessive caffeine intake is not ideal. One study found that drinking 5 or more
cups of caffeinated coffee increased the risk of developing glaucoma. How can
tea help? Antioxidants and the flavonoids contained in tea may improve the
body’s ability to prevent the harmful effects of free radical damage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Consider taking a magnesium supplement</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><a href="http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/112067211002000118"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> suggest that an adequate intake of dietary magnesium may be
beneficial for patients with glaucoma. Why? Magnesium improves circulation
and seems to have a beneficial effect on glaucoma patients’
vision. However, another </span><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3374099/"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> suggests that too much magnesium may be associated with an
increased risk of glaucoma.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. A recent </span><a href="http://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(16)30663-7/abstract"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">study</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> showed that tooth loss may be linked to increased glaucoma
risk. This is because periodontal disease may trigger an inflammatory response
that can contribute to glaucoma.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Don’t smoke</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5228680/"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> indicate that smoking cigarettes increases the risk of
glaucoma, and has an overall negative impact on eye health.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintain a healthy body weight</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><a href="http://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(16)30487-1/abstract"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> show that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) are at
increased risk for diabetes, and having diabetes puts people at risk of
glaucoma. Having a too low BMI is also associated with increased glaucoma risk.<br />
<b>Avoid inverted postures in yoga</b>. </span><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4689525/"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> show head-down positions can increase eye pressure and are
not recommended for glaucoma patients. There are plenty of yoga exercises that
don’t have this effect<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Avoid neckties</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1771792/"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Researchers</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> say that a too-tight necktie may increase the risk
of glaucoma by increasing blood pressure inside
the eyes. </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <b>Have regular eye exams including glaucoma testing, especially if you
have a family history of the condition</b></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">. </span><a href="http://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(16)31042-9/abstract" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Researchers</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> have recently identified certain genes that increase the
risk of glaucoma. Those </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-risk" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #557ab5; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">at higher risk of glaucoma</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> include people of African descent, people
with diabetes, and those with a family history of glaucoma. You are at
increased risk if you have a parent or brother or sister with glaucoma. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Schedule
an eye exam at</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">
D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> so that we can
help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-81408210944739971192021-12-13T10:10:00.001-05:002021-12-13T10:10:20.001-05:00Flexible Spending & VSP Benefits End December 31st<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxVW9B9mSEkKEefrny5w-7fSLXc0XBKSyzReHHJiEHHupHPthv5hk6rdZrEfKdv_NFsH6Bvv87D_rVp1VdwP1ht6QQm83IRNPgSGwrwOPvNL1kR-E8wh3dQZbowiRsRTSfK4x7G2sWZrS/s1080/12.13.21+DEC-FSA-%2528ss1899293890%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxVW9B9mSEkKEefrny5w-7fSLXc0XBKSyzReHHJiEHHupHPthv5hk6rdZrEfKdv_NFsH6Bvv87D_rVp1VdwP1ht6QQm83IRNPgSGwrwOPvNL1kR-E8wh3dQZbowiRsRTSfK4x7G2sWZrS/s320/12.13.21+DEC-FSA-%2528ss1899293890%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-hyphenate: none;"><span class="allowem"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Most
people are aware of how much they have left to use before they lose their
flexible spending but not everyone knows you can use it towards eyewear, even
sunglasses! Patients are also sometimes unaware they have VSP benefits that
renew every January 1<sup>st</sup> and that they can use their leftover
flexible spending and their annual VSP benefits to get new eyewear without
spending much or anything out of pocket. Our Opticians can look up your VSP
benefits for you while you are in the office, review your plans options and
benefits and educate you so you can make a confident choice on how to best
utilize your VSP and flexible spending benefits.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span class="allowem"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Visit D’Ambrosio
Optical Center to learn more flexible spending benefits, or visit us at </span></span><a href="http://www.dambrosioopticalcenter.com/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D’Ambrosio Optical Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> so that we can help select
fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire
family.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio Optical
Center provides personalized service fitting and selection of eyewear for
patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with
office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 100
Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119,
Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331
and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-1471978027077448082021-12-13T09:51:00.000-05:002021-12-13T09:51:02.108-05:00Time for Glaucoma Testing! <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqaR4RHMR898omQJg50hHyTY1i3RxZoh7JeByyKp0_tl6_lHJgD0ezTpnrtfoEAqNlC4BIP-DA_Av0ddUBKkV2otRF0aOapbSNUQejr6RdL4VU9X4N3T8IpY9rAM79jCttJLwBJaIR0OF/s1200/Glaucoma+Treatment+MIGS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqaR4RHMR898omQJg50hHyTY1i3RxZoh7JeByyKp0_tl6_lHJgD0ezTpnrtfoEAqNlC4BIP-DA_Av0ddUBKkV2otRF0aOapbSNUQejr6RdL4VU9X4N3T8IpY9rAM79jCttJLwBJaIR0OF/s320/Glaucoma+Treatment+MIGS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Glaucoma is a disease that damages your eye’s <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/optic-nerve-3">optic nerve</a>. It usually happens when fluid builds up in the front part of your eye. That extra fluid increases the pressure in your eye, damaging the optic nerve. This is the most common type of glaucoma called Primary Open Angle Glaucoma. This type of glaucoma is painless and causes no vision changes at first so it is important to have regular eye exams and testing-especially if you are over 40 or someone in your family has glaucoma.<br /><br />The only sure way to diagnose glaucoma is with a complete eye exam. A glaucoma screening that only checks <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/eye-pressure">eye pressure</a> is not enough to find glaucoma. During a glaucoma exam, your eye will:<div> <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Measure your eye pressure-called tonometry. </li><li>Inspect your eye's drainage angle-called gonioscopy. </li><li>Examine your optic nerve for damage with a special lens </li><li>Test your peripheral (side) vision-called visual field testing. </li><li>Take a computer measurement of your optic nerve-called OCT. </li><li>Measure the thickness of your cornea-called pachymetry. </li></ul>These tests are part of your complete eye exam with glaucoma testing and give your doctor the necessary information to provide early detection and diagnose glaucoma. With early detection, diagnosis and treatment vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented. <br /><br />If you or someone you know has not had recent eye exam with glaucoma testing please schedule one at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</div>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-23321816352197259542021-12-07T14:22:00.000-05:002021-12-07T14:22:16.795-05:00Concerned About Cataracts?<br />Cataracts are one of the most common senior eye problems we hear about. There are many myths and misunderstandings about cataracts and cataract surgery that sometimes cause unnecessary concern. Here are some facts to help you put your mind at ease: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVvRLsDshvdNY2KUEf-4WoU705G1MSTt4ZznvJl0GeWFQ-uipO8XydsLOnaEeaQGUJyR1CQvcSLObWJMVFjT_Zw-cKP_mCCJoJcBUNf3U0qL_d0kKVKHzhULfWEoKMYZqkt7f3Y6f6nK0/s1200/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVvRLsDshvdNY2KUEf-4WoU705G1MSTt4ZznvJl0GeWFQ-uipO8XydsLOnaEeaQGUJyR1CQvcSLObWJMVFjT_Zw-cKP_mCCJoJcBUNf3U0qL_d0kKVKHzhULfWEoKMYZqkt7f3Y6f6nK0/s320/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Cataracts are quite common affecting more than 24 million Americans over 40 and by age 80 half of all Americans have cataracts or have had cataract surgery to get rid of cataracts. </li><li>Cataracts often start slowly and at first, you may not notice that you have a cataract. But over time, cataracts can make your vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful and you may have trouble reading or doing other everyday activities, especially driving at night! </li><li>Vision problems from cataracts can almost always be corrected with cataract surgery & lens implants to restore your vision. </li><li>Most people having cataract surgery can have the cataract removed and their eyeglass prescription for distance vision and astigmatism corrected at the same time, and many can even have their need for bifocals or reading glasses greatly reduced or eliminated as well.</li></ul>If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please call <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-38407356180125270352021-11-30T09:03:00.005-05:002021-11-30T09:03:53.838-05:00What is a Retinal Tear or Torn Retina?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToL8hyUBFL3-dvWjBElmawC3r0KnlJZ3Ok1ZVQrSM62D0TLo0TrNrv_sozvYz6LQKGX0to4cPqYv95_C3iYHWuwsaHmTWxorsdQ_5VZCv-wWrQl0s7BpDBBHMcolrryaX6D3pnt7myvIt/s1200/Torn+Retina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToL8hyUBFL3-dvWjBElmawC3r0KnlJZ3Ok1ZVQrSM62D0TLo0TrNrv_sozvYz6LQKGX0to4cPqYv95_C3iYHWuwsaHmTWxorsdQ_5VZCv-wWrQl0s7BpDBBHMcolrryaX6D3pnt7myvIt/s320/Torn+Retina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><b>What is a Retinal Tear or Torn Retina? </b><br />A torn retina is a serious eye problem that can happen when the retina has a tiny tear or hole that actually tears further, like a rip in a piece of cloth. If not treated right away, a torn retina can lead to an even more serious problem called a detached retina where the retina is lifted away from the back of the eye and puts you at considerable risk of vision loss. <br /><br /><div><b>How Does a Torn Retina Happen? </b><br />When you are young the vitreous gel in your eyes is pretty firm. As we get older, the vitreous gel in your eyes starts to shrink and get thinner. Normally, the vitreous moves around on the retina without causing problems. But, IF the vitreous sticks to the retina it can pull hard enough to actually tear it. When that happens, fluid can pass through the tear and lift it or detach the retina. <br /><br /><b>What Will I See if the Retina Tears? </b><br />When the retina tears, you may suddenly see flashes of light or floaters. Sometimes blood can leak into the vitreous. This is called a vitreous hemorrhage, and it can cause a large number of floaters to appear suddenly. With any sudden onset of flashes of light or floaters you need to be examined right away as a torn retina can quickly cause a retinal detachment and you could lose vision. <br /><br />If you or someone you know experiences sudden flashes of light or floaters please call our office and tell us that you need an immediate appointment. Call us at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</div>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comGardner, MA, USA42.5750883 -71.99813314.264854463821152 -107.154383 70.885322136178843 -36.841882999999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-46081294090589429622021-11-22T10:50:00.005-05:002021-11-22T10:50:56.571-05:00What is a Stye?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuK6GlUkNgZgi-NWMEuvyg7RiOwy5eoLW33u3HVvHq9dyvAb0kl-ToWsikEA2AEI7F7tjAGHTD3440X-DDmHs3LzbYpl542-Qthfov1TxCc_6GDr9E23wLJyi3J3AFFDfq3tJyUuFb2Yk/s1200/Stye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuK6GlUkNgZgi-NWMEuvyg7RiOwy5eoLW33u3HVvHq9dyvAb0kl-ToWsikEA2AEI7F7tjAGHTD3440X-DDmHs3LzbYpl542-Qthfov1TxCc_6GDr9E23wLJyi3J3AFFDfq3tJyUuFb2Yk/s320/Stye.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">A
stye-also called a Hordeolum-is a red, sore lump near the edge of the eyelid </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">that grows from the base of
your eyelash or under the eyelid. Most styes are caused by a
bacterial infection. There are two kinds of styes:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .55in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .55in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">External Hordeolum</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">: A stye that begins at the base of your
eyelash often from an infection in the hair follicle that looks like a pimple.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .55in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .55in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Internal Hordeolum</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">: A stye inside your eyelid that is caused by
an infection in an oil-producing gland in your eyelid.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">You can also get a stye if
you have blepharitis-an inflammation of your eyelids- that makes your
eyelids at the base of the eyelashes red and swollen. When you first get a
stye, your eyelid is probably red and tender to the touch. Your eye may also
feel sore and scratchy.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">There are a number of ways your doctor can
treat a stye including warm compresses, antibiotics or in office surgery if the
other treatments aren’t helping. Never squeeze stye!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or
someone you know has a stye please schedule an appointment </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D’Ambrosio Eye
Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> so that we can
help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-18497352910980180642021-11-16T15:48:00.001-05:002021-11-16T15:48:17.326-05:00Sleep Apnea & Diabetic Eye Problems?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzT992XwNdJF0aa5MKOvewdp3_6tlrZntx11fbsWzgT0rOj9b3sre6LI4LAfp466zjdQhnNA27u2d1rv961hpgLHA5f5uzZ_gmV81zLZrbhimEJv8EDOtdfEo9ou5SJNKMosDBBjBL07m/s1080/DEC-Blog-Apnea-%2528ss430205362%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzT992XwNdJF0aa5MKOvewdp3_6tlrZntx11fbsWzgT0rOj9b3sre6LI4LAfp466zjdQhnNA27u2d1rv961hpgLHA5f5uzZ_gmV81zLZrbhimEJv8EDOtdfEo9ou5SJNKMosDBBjBL07m/s320/DEC-Blog-Apnea-%2528ss430205362%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div> <p></p>If you have diabetes, did you know that having severe sleep apnea may increase your risk of developing <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-macular-edema">diabetic macular edema</a>, a <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/diabetic-eye-disease">complication of diabetes</a> that can cause vision loss or blindness? Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) also appears to be more difficult to treat in patients with severe sleep apnea according to reports from researchers at the Annual Meeting of the <a href="http://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a>. <br /><br />Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts, disrupting sleep and causing blood oxygen levels to drop. This drop in oxygen appears to unleash a host of changes in the body that may play a role in injuring blood vessels. People with sleep apnea are at risk of developing hypertension, heart attacks, stroke and type 2 diabetes. When people with diabetes have poor control over their blood sugar levels, the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye can become damaged. Sometimes, tiny bulges protrude from the blood vessels, leaking fluid and blood into the retina. This fluid can cause swelling or edema-called Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) in an area of the retina that allows us to see clearly. Researchers believe that sleep apnea may contribute to the development and worsening of diabetic retinopathy by increasing insulin resistance, elevating inflammation and raising blood pressure, all of which can damage the blood vessels at the back of the eye.<br /><br />If you or someone you know is diabetic and especially if you suffer from sleep apnea, please be sure to have an annual eye exam and be tell your eye doctor that you suffer from sleep apnea as it is a risk factor Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). Please call us to schedule a diabetic eye exam at at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help.<br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<br />Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-53657983269545223722021-11-10T10:44:00.001-05:002021-11-10T10:44:32.420-05:00Diabetics Need Annual Eye Exams!<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MZfOpSRumpjqrRO4-_yIiVT3ss8F0uujV_Po_xNOV0YTtuSu_6lI3befJ7_bfuYsiEgU1aUwYN9wI4FsBAPusFORY237QpvDDogjp1QytYoaqnUsL-3EVrQuqjDqYOaiAZh20J925noB/s1080/DEC-blog-eye-exam%2528ss536401498%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MZfOpSRumpjqrRO4-_yIiVT3ss8F0uujV_Po_xNOV0YTtuSu_6lI3befJ7_bfuYsiEgU1aUwYN9wI4FsBAPusFORY237QpvDDogjp1QytYoaqnUsL-3EVrQuqjDqYOaiAZh20J925noB/s320/DEC-blog-eye-exam%2528ss536401498%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></p></span>Diabetes and the related diabetic eye problem of diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause preventable blindness in the United States among adults age 20 to 74. About 1/3 of the 30 million Americans with diabetes have <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy">diabetic retinopathy</a>. With early detection and treatment vision loss from diabetes is preventable! Often, people may not notice vision changes in the disease's early stages. But as it progresses, diabetic retinopathy usually causes vision loss that in many cases cannot be reversed. Even if you don’t notice changes in your vision-diabetics should have annual eye exams. That’s why it’s so important that everyone with diabetes has yearly exams for early detection. But the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still reports that less than 2/3 of people with diabetes undergo their recommended annual dilated ophthalmic examination. We all lead busy lives, but diabetics need annual eye exams to prevent vision loss. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is diabetic please remind them to have an annual eye exam or call us to schedule a diabetic eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.<p></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-65366671410999488592021-11-02T11:03:00.000-04:002021-11-02T11:03:02.381-04:00Give the Gift of Eyewear Style<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtDxWiLcqAY4B-YAYsGHQFUcwBiaQEYyrjuf_fTAUoX6oN4dj50MGPbO6774xXMxUlQKhqxuF0IT4AolPnlFvDShhmUBHKstZ3ysOx451OciffUgnzer9fa3DG5SAjR2gpbyGDb9sGP2Y/s1080/11.1.21+DEC-Blog-image-1805270914.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtDxWiLcqAY4B-YAYsGHQFUcwBiaQEYyrjuf_fTAUoX6oN4dj50MGPbO6774xXMxUlQKhqxuF0IT4AolPnlFvDShhmUBHKstZ3ysOx451OciffUgnzer9fa3DG5SAjR2gpbyGDb9sGP2Y/s320/11.1.21+DEC-Blog-image-1805270914.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-hyphenate: none;"><span class="allowem"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Did
you know we offer gift certificates? Not sure what to get your spouse, college
student, or mother? We have options in every price point, and we host several
popular frame designers such as Gucci®, Kate Spade®, Ray-Ban®, Silhouette®, Jimmy
Choo, Oakley® and the list goes on. The gift certificate does not have to go
towards new eyeglasses it can also be used to purchase contact lenses. New
eyeglasses not only help you see better, but they are also a fun stylish way to
spruce up your daily wardrobe. During the holidays wouldn’t it be fun to say to
your loved one, why don’t you use this gift certificate and go pick out
something new and fun, I hear D’Ambrosio Eye Care has your favorite designer…</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span class="allowem"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Visit D’Ambrosio
Optical Center to learn more designer eyewear, or visit us at </span></span><a href="http://www.dambrosioopticalcenter.com/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D’Ambrosio Optical Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> so that we can help select
fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire
family.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">D'Ambrosio Optical
Center provides personalized service fitting and selection of eyewear for
patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with
office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 100
Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119,
Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331
and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-45744906775939149392021-10-25T15:44:00.003-04:002021-10-25T15:44:28.650-04:00Avoid Eye Injury from Halloween ContactsSpooky contact lenses can complete your Halloween costume. But beware of the dangers of illegal costume contact lenses lurking on store shelves and invading online retailers. Though the federal government works to keep illegal and harmful versions of decorative or color contact lenses off the shelves, they can still be purchased at costume shops, gas stations, corner shops and online. Here’s an easy way to tell if your lenses are counterfeit: Can you purchase them without a prescription? If the answer is yes, those creepy lenses are a danger to your vision. <br /><br />That's why the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a> is urging people to buy decorative contact lenses only from retailers who require a prescription and sell FDA-approved products. It’s easy to forget that decorative lenses are medical devices, not costume jewelry. They must be prescribed and fitted by an eye care professional, just like regular contact lenses. That's because a poorly fitted contact lens can easily scrape the cornea, the outer layer of the eye, making the eye more vulnerable to infection-causing bacteria and viruses. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21401905">Research</a> shows that people who purchase contacts without a prescription face a 16-fold increased risk of developing an infection. <br /><br />To help ensure you won’t be haunted by a ghoulish and painful contact lens-related eye infection, here are some tips to follow: <br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>See an Eye Care Professional for a Prescription for Costume Contact Lenses. Packaging that claims “one size fits all” or “no need to see an eye doctor” is false. Get properly fitted by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.</li><li>Buy Only FDA-approved Contacts. Buy contacts only from eye care professionals or retailers that require a prescription and sell FDA-approved lenses.</li><li>Never Share Contacts. Sharing contacts can spread germs and bacteria, potentially causing blinding corneal infections and even pink eye.</li><li>Practice Good Hygiene. It is important to follow directions for cleaning, disinfecting and wearing costume contacts. See an eye doctor right away if you notice any swelling, redness, pain or discharge from wearing contacts.</li><li>Limit Wear of Colored Contact Lenses to 4-5 Hours. The dye and less expensive materials used in costume lenses can restrict oxygen flow to the cornea. Less “breathable” lenses are less healthy for the eye. Never sleep in contact lenses, even if you have a prescription.</li><li>Spread the Word About the Dangers of Costume Contacts. Don’t let friends make the mistake of wearing costume contacts without a prescription. It can cost them their vision.</li></ul>If you or someone you know has questions about or needs a fitting for Halloween colored contact lenses please schedule an appointment at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-83626996881860987262021-09-27T10:54:00.001-04:002021-09-27T10:54:27.405-04:00Durysta Implant for Glaucoma<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU5AQ3Bq_ehVRZ-T0kbs7oWtJ6JPsOnIFS6c6PFi9BE2-N7ubRQ9HbGbJqomZBbI9QYOV9K68YNOwG5BOfEhldqNybkMqr2D-tS47HRostvumCZ8hn4QehvFGSdzs0FxAId_zlpHuwgbD/s1200/Durysta+Glaucoma+Treatment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU5AQ3Bq_ehVRZ-T0kbs7oWtJ6JPsOnIFS6c6PFi9BE2-N7ubRQ9HbGbJqomZBbI9QYOV9K68YNOwG5BOfEhldqNybkMqr2D-tS47HRostvumCZ8hn4QehvFGSdzs0FxAId_zlpHuwgbD/s320/Durysta+Glaucoma+Treatment.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Durysta Implant for Glaucoma<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In order to
maintain the best control of glaucoma and prevent vision loss, many patients
with glaucoma must be quite consistent in their use of eye drops to maintain
the proper eye pressure or Intraocular Pressure (IOP). For many, glaucoma laser
treatment is often helpful in reducing or eliminating glaucoma eye drops but
for others eye drop use is part of their daily routine several times each day.
Recently a microscopic implant containing a glaucoma eye pressure medication
was FDA approved to help glaucoma patients improve their quality of life by
reducing the need for eye drops as well as ensuring better consistency and
compliance and thus an exciting option for lowering IOP in the treatment of
glaucoma and a step in the right direction to reducing blindness related to
this common disease.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or someone you know is being
treated for glaucoma with eye drops, please schedule a glaucoma eye exam and
ask about options for glaucoma treatment to help reduce the need for daily eye
drops. Call us at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit </span><a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">D’Ambrosio
Eye Care</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">,
or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> so that we can
help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 10.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster,
Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main
Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts
01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.</span></p>Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-142561408737095692021-08-23T10:17:00.001-04:002021-08-23T10:17:49.107-04:00Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement Risks<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4hKUV6TPSRcoPxqpUjRJWcsYl3ylNEzm42pDCXxE99EOTUyGTYIvAGss99U_H_m4uGAocdvfj8wSiqx9wmd46mmbo3JlPiq_y85RMB3bpAPtnfYp7FVGsOGP59ANO3V0BteGAnzVf6Ri/s1200/Eyelash_Eyebrow+Enhancement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4hKUV6TPSRcoPxqpUjRJWcsYl3ylNEzm42pDCXxE99EOTUyGTYIvAGss99U_H_m4uGAocdvfj8wSiqx9wmd46mmbo3JlPiq_y85RMB3bpAPtnfYp7FVGsOGP59ANO3V0BteGAnzVf6Ri/s320/Eyelash_Eyebrow+Enhancement.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><b>Know the Risks of Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement </b><br />Did you know that eyebrow and eyelash enhancement treatments performed in salons can have risks you should be aware of? Having your eyebrows and eyelashes treated in a salon may seem like an easy way to enhance your look, but microblading, eyebrow lamination, eyelash lifts and tints can have risks to know about. <br /><br /><b>Types of Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement </b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Eyebrow & Eyelash <a href="https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/skin-care/a25983744/what-is-eyebrow-tinting/">Tinting</a>: During this 15-minute procedure, semi-permanent dye is painted onto the eyebrows or eyelashes to make them appear thicker, darker and fuller. The color lasts for about three to six weeks.</li><li><a href="https://www.elle.com/beauty/a37438/semi-permanent-eyebrow-microblading/">Eyebrow Microblading</a>: Microblading is also known as eyebrow tattooing, micro feathering or micro shading where a permanent pigment is tattooed into the skin using a needle mounted on a small handheld tool. The effects last for years.</li><li><a href="https://www.allure.com/story/brow-lamination-trend-photos">Eyebrow Lamination</a>: This is a chemical treatment, takes less than 1 hour and does not involve needles or semi-permanent dye, but rather a perming cream is brushed into the eyebrows to allow the hair to be sculpted into a more desirable shape. The procedure effects last for several weeks.</li><li><a href="https://www.today.com/style/eyelash-perms-bigger-brighter-eyes-no-makeup-required-t74201">Eyelash Perm:</a> During an eyelash perm the lashes are coated with an adhesive and curled around rollers. Chemical solutions are then applied to the lashes to create a long-lasting curl with the effects lasting one to two months.</li><li><a href="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/style/beauty-products/a31027825/what-is-a-lash-lift-and-tint/">Eyelash Lift:</a> An eyelash lift, often combined with an eyelash tint, involves combing eyelashes to a silicone shield and holding them there with adhesive while a chemical lotion is applied to break down the protein in each eyelash and encourage it to grow upward instead of outward. The results last about six to eight weeks.</li></ul><b>Risks of Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement </b><br />Eyebrow and eyelash enhancements pose eye health risks because they are so close to the eye. These treatments could cause problems with the eyes and affect vision, especially since there is a risk of sensitivity due to repeated exposure during the treatments. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productsingredients/products/ucm137241.htm">The Food and Drug Administration</a> (FDA) has not approved any color additives for permanent dyeing or tinting of eyelashes and eyebrows. The agency says permanent eyelash and eyebrow tints and dyes have been known to cause serious eye injuries, including blindness. Despite issuing warnings, the FDA cannot regulate salons. That job falls to state and local governments, which can have different rules. There are no set standards for eyelash and eyebrow tinting and it can be hard to judge how safe it is. Even if the FDA were to approve dyes for tinting, it would still be possible to get infections and <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies">allergic reactions</a>, so FDA approval alone does not automatically make the procedure guaranteed totally safe. If you have a reaction to any type of hair dye or cosmetic, you should contact your health care provider as well as schedule an appointment to see us if it involves your eyelashes, eyelids or delicate tissue around your eyes. Please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-36786818851326296772021-08-11T09:57:00.001-04:002021-08-11T09:57:30.804-04:00Viagra & Vision Problems<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HWITNI5JHMc1BIlQDHHrnu0iO8lbHSJ6a4JPN-Hvt3NRUgnMhNFnTKF0boLHHCwPy9InjV3LnB2-OYaBtJ1HcEQNd_Jhks824rAAyVi0vL90QueafNPoonTLe4xkEEuGLGgbV8Xl-yD1/s1200/DEC-Viagra+Vision+Problems-1662804514.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HWITNI5JHMc1BIlQDHHrnu0iO8lbHSJ6a4JPN-Hvt3NRUgnMhNFnTKF0boLHHCwPy9InjV3LnB2-OYaBtJ1HcEQNd_Jhks824rAAyVi0vL90QueafNPoonTLe4xkEEuGLGgbV8Xl-yD1/s320/DEC-Viagra+Vision+Problems-1662804514.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Viagra boosts blood flow by turning off an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 5. But in the process, the drug also meddles with a related enzyme in retinal cells. At high doses, experts say, this could permanently damage the retina. Side effects most often emerge in men with other underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart conditions. Erectile dysfunction drugs are tied to <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-ischemic-optic-neuropathy">ischemic optic neuropathy,</a> a sudden and permanent vision loss caused by interrupted blood flow to the optic nerve. This in fact is most common in men with high blood pressure or heart conditions. <br /><br />While the report raises concerns, experts do not recommend discarding the drug. One key takeaway: Only use ED medicine under medical supervision, and at a prescribed dose!. Also, purchase the drug from a trusted source. Counterfeit drugs, often sold online, are not regulated by the FDA and may not meet quality and safety standards. Please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5096547116387652941.post-56224249788794604862021-08-05T10:25:00.000-04:002021-08-05T10:25:03.200-04:00Bifocal Contacts Can Slow Kids NearsightednessDid you know that wearing bifocal contact lenses can actually help to slow down increases in nearsightedness-called myopic progression-in kids? High amounts of myopia are associated with an increased risk of sight-threatening problems, such as retinal detachment, choroidal degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. Slowing the progression of myopia could potentially benefit millions of children in the USA. A recent study published in <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2769263">JAMA</a> concluded that the wearing of high bifocal addition power could help in slowing the increases in myopia experienced by children. While they only shared results over a three year timeframe, it is a hopeful place to start if you child suffers from progressive myopia.
<br /><br />If you or someone you know has a child who suffers from continuing increases in nearsightedness, please schedule and eye exam and we will be happy to discuss whether bifocal contact lenses might be beneficial. Call us at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit <a href="http://www.dambrosio-eye-care-boston.com/">D’Ambrosio Eye Care</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare">Facebook</a> so that we can help. <br /><br />D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.Dr. Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17947082193207439866noreply@blogger.comLancaster, MA, USA42.4556452 -71.673124214.145411363821154 -106.8293742 70.765879036178845 -36.516874200000004