Ray T. Tells Us About LASIK

“Your office is outstanding.  Dr. Fu was extremely thorough with the pre-LASIK evaluation exam and all follow-up appointments as well.  Dr. D’Ambrosio, Jr. further explained the procedure and what to expect during the procedures and post-procedure requirements and expectations.  I am so happy with the result.  I can’t say enough about the overall positive experience and getting my vision back to normal.  I also appreciate the fact that all appointments have been on-time.  I would recommend anyone looking for surgical eye care to your office.  My son had his LASIK procedure done in your facility in 2007 and it’s nice to see the level of caring hasn’t diminished as your business has grown.  Thank you again.”

If you or some you know is tired of the hassle of glasses or contact lenses for seeing at distance and would like to find out if LASIK might be a good vision correction option, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

Thank You & Happy Holidays!

This is the time of year where we like to thank our loyal patients who visit us during the year and also purchase from our Optical Departments. This year was another great year and we hope to see you soon. Don’t forget if you have a flexible spending account you can use that toward eyewear and many lose funds each year when their account expires, so don’t delay. Every December, and quarterly throughout the year, we host Trunk Shows that offer 35% off most purchases for that day only. Our frame vendors come the day of the sale and bring their entire collection, so if you are someone who likes to see all your options, new styles, etc., stop by our Trunk Show. We mail invitations out so just let any of our Optical staff know that you would like to receive an invite and you will be added to the listing.  Merry Christmas!

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Great Cataract Patient Story

“No one wants to hear they need cataract surgery but it was time. I saw Dr. D’Ambrosio, Jr. and he explained why I needed the surgery and what my potential outcome might be. I had several appointments for measurements and other testing and chose the laser cataract surgery option.  The day of my procedure, I was a little anxious, but the staff at the Cataract & Laser Center put me right at ease.  The laser was performed in just a few minutes; as was my actual surgery.  I was done and out within just a couple of hours of getting to the Center.  My quality of life has improved greatly.  I can see much more clearly and feel more confident as I move around doing my daily activities; including watching my grandchildren. Everyone, both at the office and the surgery center, was just great!  They were knowledgeable and caring.  The follow up call after my procedure was re-assuring and she was able to answer the couple of questions that had come up.  I have recommended D’Ambrosio Eye Care and the Cataract & Laser Center to my friends and family.”

If you or some 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 D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, MA 01609.

Google Artificial Intelligence Can Help Diabetic Eye Exams

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) more than 29 million people in the U.S. have diabetes and are therefore at risk for diabetic retinopathy and its associated vision loss and potential blinding complications. All diabetics should have regular eye exams with thorough retina exams. The task of diabetic eye exams is enormous and soon will be assisted by Google Artificial Intelligence disease detecting software. Researchers, reporting in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology showed that by using Google software to analyze images and then having retina specialists provide input to refine the algorithms,  it allowed the computer software disease detection software to become roughly as effective at the retina specialists. This technique of using machine learning “neural networks” to refine disease detection is hopefully able to bring even more effective early detection and diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy to those at risk.

If you or someone you know has diabetes please be sure to have regular eye exams as early detection, diagnosis and treatment are the keys to preventing vision loss from diabetes. Schedule a diabetic eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

Migraine Help with Glaucoma Eye Drops

The beta-blocker eye drop Timolol or TIMOPTIC® may help relieve migraine headache pain according to research in JAMA Neurology. While there are several bets-blocker medications that can be taken by mouth for migraine, they tend to work very slowly-sometimes hours or days-and are not terribly helpful for migraine sufferers. TIMOPTIC® eye drops are very quickly absorbed into the blood and seem to alleviate the pain in most patients with migraines fairly quickly. Research in underway to determine the best dose and frequency of these eye drop to help those with migraines.

If you or someone you know suffers from migraines, help with eye drops may be on the way. Learn more at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

Welcome David Terrell, M.D., Ph.D.!

Please join all of us at Eye Surgeons of Worcester, a D’Ambrosio Eye Care Medical Practice in welcoming Ophthalmologist David Terrell, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. Terrell is a Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Cataract Surgeon & Retinal Disease Specialist who sees patients for cataract surgery and lens implants, specialized eye exams for the diagnosis and treatment of retinal disease, such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration (AMD) and inherited diseases of the retina, diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, as well as routine eye health and comprehensive ophthalmology needs.

About David Terrell, M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. Terrell earned his Medical Degree as well as a Ph.D. in Developmental and Molecular Biology from the University of Cincinnati College Of Medicine. Dr. Terrell completed his Residency in Ophthalmology at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago and his Fellowship in Ophthalmology-Inherited Retinal Degenerations at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston.

Dr. Terrell brings D'Ambrosio Eye Care patients clinical experience and patient management techniques as a specialist in inherited retinal diseases including Leber Congenital Amaurosis, Retinitis Pigmentosa, inherited Macular Dystrophy such as Stargardt Disease, Cone-Rod Dystrophy and Achromatopsia as well as Usher Syndrome. Dr. Terrell is a Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Association of Research and Ophthalmology and the Massachusetts Medical Society.

Lipid Lowering Medication Can Help Diabetic Retinopathy

Did you know that medications used to treat high cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood can help diabetic retinopathy? In two clinical studies, the Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) study and the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) study, the medications Fenofibrate (TriCor, Lipofen, Triglide, Trilipix) and Statins (Lipitor, Crestor, Mevacor, Pravachol, Zocor) have been found, to reduce the signs of blood vessel disease in the retina from diabetic retinopathy but also to actually reduce the need for certain treatments for diabetic retinopathy.  We are hoping that additional research becomes available that helps us help patients with diabetes avoid the sight threatening complications of this terribly common disease.

If you or someone you know has diabetes please be sure to have regular eye exams in order to avoid the potentially blinding vision loss from this disease. Schedule an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

Flex Spending-Use It or Lose it!

Use your flex spending on something fun!

Many flexible spending accounts expire at year end. Don’t let your hard earned money go to waste on sun block and Band-Aids at the online flexible spending stores when you could come in and get a new pair of Maui Jim, Ray Ban, or Kate Spade eyeglasses. Use your flex spending on a new pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses. Many of our patients who have flexible spending accounts also have VSP vision insurance which also normally expires at year end. Use both and you may even walk out of our store without paying anything out of pocket! Stop by any of our locations and talk with our Opticians about how to get the most out of your insurance and flexible spending.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Cataract Patient Story from Richard K.

Bin Wu, M.D.

“If you are contemplating cataract surgery, take my recommendation and get it done sooner than later.  It is a very easy procedure to have done and the results are great.  The appointments in the office take longer than the surgery itself.  Because I also have glaucoma, I’m seen regularly by Dr. Bin Wu and he is the one that did my cataract surgery.  He was wonderful explaining what would happen and was so comforting in the operating room.  I’m very happy with the results and have just had my second eye done within the last month.  My driving confidence has improved and I just wish I had this done a couple of years ago when Dr. Wu first recommended it.”-Richard K.

If you or some 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 D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

LASIK Experience from Donna A.

“Overall it was a wonderful experience from my first consultation, my pre- and post-op visits with Dr. Fu and my day of surgery with Dr. D’Ambrosio.  Everyone took the time to explain things and were happy to answer any questions or concerns that I had.  Megan (in LASIK scheduling) was extremely helpful and comforting.  The office in general is a very busy place.  The staff members at the front desk and discharge desk were friendly and courteous as were the staff members who walked me from place-to-place. I would highly recommend this office.”

If you or some you know is tired of the hassle of glasses or contact lenses for seeing at distance and would like to find out if LASIK might be a good vision correction option, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Eyeglass & Optical Loyalty Card!

When you purchase in our Optical shops (not including insurance) you will receive a loyalty card. This card holds a discount toward future pairs for up to 3 months. The more you purchase the higher your discount, up to 40% off! Your purchase also comes with complimentary “perks” like a 90-day money back or exchange policy, 1 year manufacturer’s warranty, 1 year damage warranty, and free repairs and adjustments. Some places charge you to get a warranty; we offer these for free. The best part is if you want, you can give your card to someone else, anyone else, so they can use your discount. This helps families get the cost down on eyewear or if you had a friend you knew was coming in to make a purchase you could give them your card.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Retinal Blood Vessel Blockage Warns About Heart Arrhythmia

Certain types of blockage of blood vessels in the retina may be an indicator of a recently developed heart arrhythmia called Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) according to research reported in BMC Cardiovascular Disorders. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of cardiac or heart arrhythmia where patients experience an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. While any retinal artery or vein occlusion warrants a complete workup by a cardiologist, in particular if you should suffer a Retinal Artery Occlusion (RAO) you have a significant risk of having a recent onset of AFib.

Learn more about retinal blood vessel blockage and AFib by scheduling an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

Cataract Story from G.T.

“I was having trouble with my vision and had no idea that I had cataracts.  I was seen by Dr. JoAnn Chang at D’Ambrosio Eye Care and cataract surgery was recommended.  The process involves several appointments so the doctor can have all the needed information on what types of lens to use.  The staff members who schedule surgical appointments were great!  They answered all my questions, informed me of the options for laser cataract surgery and for upgraded lenses.  I chose to go with both the laser and multi-focal lenses to best fit my active lifestyle and I am delighted in my choices!  It’s been over a year since my surgery and I couldn’t be happier with Dr. Chang and with my vision. Overall, I had a terrific experience.  It has been great not having to wear eyeglasses any more.  I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you.”-G.T.

If you or some 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 D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Oral Health Can Affect the Retina

Did you know that not taking care of your teeth and gums can increase your risk of blood vessel damage in the retina? Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the gums that results from bacterial buildup and the surface and between your teeth. It is easily prevented with through oral hygiene such as brushing your teeth and flossing properly to avoid accumulation of bacteria on your teeth and gums. If left untreated it can result in loosening or even loss of teeth. But, a study in the Journal of Periodontology found that there was an association between periodontontitis and the health of the retinal blood vessels in terms of their narrowing and constriction in a similar manner as results from hypertension and vascular and inflammatory diseases. The researchers speculated that over time this could lead to “leaky blood vessels” and indicate that  periodontitis might lead to increased risk for other diseases.

To learn more about tooth and gum disease such as periodontitis ask your dentist. If you have periodontitis and have not had a regular eye exam please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

Migraine Help with Glaucoma Eye Drops

The beta-blocker eye drop Timolol or TIMOPTIC® may help relieve migraine headache pain according to research in JAMA Neurology. While there are several bets-blocker medications that can be taken by mouth for migraine, they tend to work very slowly-sometimes hours or days-and are not terribly helpful for migraine sufferers. TIMOPTIC® eye drops are very quickly absorbed into the blood and seem to alleviate the pain in most patients with migraines fairly quickly. Research in underway to determine the best dose and frequency of these eye drop to help those with migraines.

If you or someone you know suffers from migraines help with  eye drops may be on the way. Learn more at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

Eye Fatigue and Electronics

Many people suffer from eye fatigue; your high school or college student, your IT professionals and anyone spending hours per day on an electronic device from a computer to cell phone. Symptoms like dry tired eyes, eye twitching, redness, etc. You should check your whole environment while using computers. Your eyes are more comfortable when the lights or sunlight is not as bright as most offices or computer screen. Adjust your screens brightness, change lighting or close shades to improve your lighting. Minimize glare by purchasing non-glare lenses and if you do not wear prescription eyeglasses look into purchase a non-glare screen cover to minimize unwanted reflections that cause eye strain from glare. You can even do small adjustments like font size, background color and contrast to your monitors to make your eyes more comfortable. It sounds silly but you should blink more often so you ward off dry eyes and always take screen breaks. Look away from your computer at least every 20 minutes and gaze at a distant object (at least 20 feet away) for at least 20 seconds. Some eye doctors call this the "20-20-20 rule." Looking far away relaxes the focusing muscle inside the eye to reduce fatigue. If you do have an eyeglass prescription, we have several lens designs that help maintain optimal vision while using a computer. Even for a student, a day full of studying or screen time, we have lenses that have just a little bit of plus power in the bottom of your lenses that you will not even notice that help keep your eyes more comfortable and focused. Come in anytime to talk to one of our Opticians about lens solutions. Your eyes will thank you!

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Cataract Surgery Helps Avoid Car Accidents

Did you know that the improved quality of vision obtained after cataract surgery can lower your risk of a car accident by 9% according to new information published in the journal Ophthalmology? Cataracts typically develop with age and result in a clouding of the lens inside the eye. As the lens gets progressively cloudy and more opaque it limits the amount of light entering the as well as reduce contrast and clarity. People who develop cataract complain of symptoms that might include decreased visual acuity, impaired color vision, glare, dim vision and particular trouble seeing at night. Not all cataracts need to be removed. But when a cataract impairs your safe mobility-especially for driving-it is time to consider cataract surgery and lens implants. Results from the JAMA Ophthalmology study results show that drivers with cataracts who get surgery to have them removed may lower their risk of getting into traffic crashes.

If you or some 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 D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

Back to School Contact Lens Care

Contact Lens 101: A Back-to-School Must for Teens

Did you know that 25% of children and adolescent emergency room visits related to medical devices are for contact lens problems? Many of our children and teenagers start wearing contact lenses as they enter junior high or high school. Safe and enjoyable contact lens wear does require good hygiene and care in order to prevent a risk of infection. Young people are notoriously poor at caring for their contact lenses, creating a potential gateway for serious eye infections that can cause impaired vision or even blindness. Research has shown that poor contact lens care practices by teens and young people raise their risk of eye conditions such as infectious keratitis and corneal ulcers. In the most severe cases, they may require corneal transplants to restore sight. Fortunately, contact lens eye infections can be prevented by following simple contact lens care guidelines. Here are some practical safety tips that teens with contact lenses should follow to avoid eye infections.

New Quarter, New Case! Replacing your contact lens case every three months will help keep germs at bay. To make it easy to remember, swap out your case at the beginning of each quarter. Waiting to replace contact lens cases after 6 months increases the risk of eye infection by nearly 5.5 times!

Just Say NO to H₂0. You may be captain of the swim team, but you shouldn’t swim, shower or go in a hot tub wearing lenses. Water from the tap might be clean enough to drink or bathe in, but it’s still home to the parasite Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe eye infections resulting in vision loss. For the same reasons, NEVER use water to rinse or soak contact lenses or cases.

You Snooze, You Lose. Never sleep in your contact lenses. Even occasionally sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of moderate to severe eye infection by 6.5 times. Unfortunately, a poll of nearly 100,000 people by BuzzFeed found that about 70 percent of respondents occasionally or regularly sleep in their contact lenses.

It’s Too Late If You Wait. Symptoms of eye infections include redness, pain and light sensitivity and requiring examination and evaluation immediately. Waiting to get examined or treated could lead to vision loss.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more or has questions about contact lens hygiene and safety, please schedule an appointment at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

ADHD & Focusing Problems in Children

Did you know that ADHD can cause focusing problems in children? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders in children and cause many difficulties-including focusing problems. A clinical study reported in Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology evaluated the relationship between the neurological system that controls attention and eye focusing. They found that children with ADHD have a less accurate focusing, or accommodative response and may affect attentional deficits, which could have a direct impact on the academic, cognitive, and visual performance of ADHD children.

If you or someone you know has a child with ADHD and would like to learn more about focusing problems in children or schedule an eye exam please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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.

The LASIK Experience from Ralph B.

“I am extremely happy with how I was treated by the staff who were very friendly, straightforward and professional.  I will spread the good word about D’Ambrosio Eye Care.  I am also seeing a huge improvement (in my vision).”

-Ralph B.

If you or some you know is tired of the hassle of glasses or contact lenses for seeing at distance and would like to find out if LASIK might be a good vision correction option, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Back to School Eyeglasses & Eyewear

Back-to-School Season

It is that time of year already when the 10 weeks of summer vacation are almost over. Be sure to book your families annual eye exam early, as those appointment slots book up fast. Year round we offer lens packages for kids and adults. For kids, when you purchase a new frame you get polycarbonate (impact resistant) lenses with non-glare for only $29. There is no time limit or special promotional dates. The best part is every time these packages are sold we donate money to NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services) in Princeton MA and you get a toy stuffed puppy with a NEADS bandana. This is one of our favorite promotions as we love to support local nonprofits. Check in with us near Christmas as we usually offer holiday-themed toy stuffed puppies and they are very cute.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more about back to school eyeglasses & eyewear, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Rita Shares Her Cataract Surgery Experience

“I cannot put into words what this cataract surgery experience meant to me. Everyone was so very friendly and helpful. I felt no pain at all and was treated with such understanding and gentleness. I had no fear going back to have my other eye cared for and now have 20/20 vision in both eyes making night driving a cinch. Please tell your patients that are considering this surgery to have no fear and to trust the staff at D’Ambrosio Eye Care.”-Rita

If you or some 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 D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Alzheimer’s Disease & the Peripheral Retina

Francis A. D'Ambrosio, Jr., M.D.

Alzheimer’s Disease & the Peripheral Retina

Your eyes can tell us a great deal about your overall health. In fact your eyes may turn out to be a “window” to brain degenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Researchers reporting in the Journal of Ophthalmic Research demonstrated that carefully examining and imaging the peripheral retina could identify a greater number of drusen which might be a marker for Alzheimer’s Disease. In addition they found that that while it is normal for blood vessels to get thinner as they approach the peripheral retina, Alzheimer’s patients had a significantly greater rate of thinning as the blood vessels were more peripheral in the retina. While peripheral retinal imaging is not a diagnostic measure for Alzheimer’s Disease, peripheral retina examination ad imaging of change in the eye could serve as a tool for disease progression in the brain.

Learn more at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

Kids Need Sunglasses Too!

Kids need sunglasses too. Sunglasses in the bins at checkout in your local department or clothing stores are generally just polycarbonate lenses in a non prescription-ready frame, costing about $15. Here we have kid’s sunglasses that start at $39, costing a few more dollars but worth the extra money. If you have insurance, which most people do, your most basic discount is about 15% off bringing the cost down. These lenses are polycarbonate (impact resistant), polarized, mirror coated and come with a manufacturer’s 1 year warranty. If your child wears a prescription we have frames that are prescription-ready, too. Remember to bring your child in so they can help choose their new pair of sunglasses. Children are more apt to wear frames they picked out and we need them here so we can be sure they fit comfortably.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.

Carrie's LASIK Experience

Carrie tells us about her LASIK experience…

 “Why did I not do this sooner? All the staff was super-accommodating and informative.  I wouldn’t think about going anywhere else. I was the third person in my family to have this procedure done at D’Ambrosio Eye Care and we all have had nothing but positive things to say.”

If you or some you know is tired of the hassle of glasses or contact lenses for seeing at distance and would like to find out if LASIK might be a good vision correction option, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester Massachusetts 01609.

Cataract Risk from Working Outdoors

Cataracts are a leading cause of decreased vision, especially in seniors. Patients always ask us if it is possible to prevent cataract from forming. There has been a great deal of research that has identified your exposure to solar radiation-or sunlight-as a main risk factor for developing a cataract. This is one of the reasons we urge patients to wear proper UV absorbing eyewear when they are exposed to sunlight. Further, patients who have outdoor occupations and are exposed to long hours of sunlight on a daily basis should be especially aware of the need for UV protection as they perform their daily work activities. A recent review of 15 different cataract studies regarding the relationship between cataract risk and sunlight or solar radiation exposure confirms the increased risk, and reinforces the need to limit sunlight exposure.

If you or someone you know spends a great deal of time outdoors or is exposed to sunlight as part of each day due to your work environment please be sure to wear UV protecting eyewear. If you are concerned about developing a cataract please schedule an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

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

It’s New Sunglass Time Again!

June 21^st is the first official day of summer. Maybe you have already been to the beach or maybe you booked your summer vacations already. Either way, you need the perfect sunglasses, and we have you covered. We carry many designer brands like Gucci, Kate Spade, Ray Ban, Oakley and Maui Jim.  Maui Jim has some of the best lenses for going to the beach in style. They come in prescription and non prescription, you can choose your lens color and mirror coating and all their lenses come with non-glare. Non-glare helps alleviate being uncomfortable from blinding sun glare but it also helps keep your lenses clean from things like sun block oils. Some folks really enjoy their bifocal sun lenses; they are great for reading poolside or at the beach. And we all know each year Ray Ban will come out with the latest greatest styles similar to all the other frame designers we carry.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more, or visit  us at D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help select fashionable, comfortable and durable eyeglasses and eyewear for your entire family.

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.