Does Your Family Use Technology?

Have you been hearing about blue light and want to know more about it? Blue light is everywhere at this point. There is good blue light and bad blue light. You need just the right amount of blue light so your body releases melatonin our sleep hormone but too much will keep you up at night. Blue light emits from the sun but also things like smart phones, televisions, tablets, computers, kindles, and all the new light bulbs. We are at a new all time high when considering our indoor blue light (HEV) exposure. Our eyes are only equipped to handle natural blue light exposure so they are being overexposed on a daily basis. Damage from overexposure which is considered over 4 hours daily is linked to poor sleep and an increased risk to AMD. There are a lot of new products out there to protect your vision some are of lesser quality that block all blue light, including the good blue light. We have available to you a few different options that will protect your vision (and sleep) while also helping improve CVS (computer vision syndrome) as the causes of both is very similar. Interested in learning more about blue light or your blue light protection options stop by any of our locations and ask our licensed Opticians more about it.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more about blue light and protection, 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, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Glaucoma Acupuncture Treatment

About Glaucoma & Acupuncture
With so many advances in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, could it be possible that acupuncture could be a beneficial treatment option for glaucoma patients? Researchers reporting in the American Journal of Ophthalmology evaluated whether the use of acupuncture was an effective treatment for primary open angle glaucoma-the most common type of glaucoma that we diagnose and treat. The researchers carefully considered the effect of acupuncture on intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual field testing and using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), the health and integrity of the nerve fiber layer around the Optic Disc-all important criteria we use for diagnosing and managing glaucoma. Their study showed that acupuncture has no overall effect on changes in IOP throughout the day and that IOP actually increases immediately after an acupuncture treatment. Further, they found no effect on best uncorrected visual acuity, OCT or visual field tests and thus concluded that acupuncture may offer other health benefits but was not an effective treatment option for glaucoma.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma or needs a glaucoma eye exam and testing please call us 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Facial Wrinkles: Are They All the Same?

Understanding Facial Wrinkles
Understanding a bit about facial wrinkles will allow us find the best ways to help you look your best-as facial wrinkles are not all the same! Facial wrinkles vary from fine surface lines to deeper creases and folds. Wrinkles can actually be grouped into two types: Dynamic Wrinkles, which are formed when muscles contract, or Static Wrinkles, which are lines or depressions that exist even when there is no muscle action or pull on the skin. Dynamic wrinkles are best treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport® or Xeomin® whereas static wrinkles are best treated with substances that plump up, volumize and fill out the problem lines. These substances are known medically as "dermal fillers" or “gel fillers.” Gel fillers are easy to inject and are biodegradable and thus not permanent. The most popular dermal fillers are Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®. Depending on your areas of concern and the type of wrinkle, we may suggest just using BOTOX® Cosmetic, or JUVÉDERM™ or Restylane®, or perhaps injecting a combination of the materials in order to achieve the best possible results.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about facial rejuvenation or other non surgical treatments to help you look your best please schedule a consultation with Balaji Perumal, M.D. Please call us 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Why Do Children Need Glasses?

Why Do Children Need Glasses?
Kids can need glasses to correct common refractive errors that can blur their vision-like nearsightedness or myopia, farsightedness or hyperopia or astigmatism, or they need glasses to help correct an eye muscle imbalance, or strabismus such as “crossed eyes’ or esotropia or provide help with a vision development problem such as “lazy eye” or amblyopia. The reasons children can need to wear glasses really depends on the nature of their vision development and eye coordination and focusing ability. The reasons can be somewhat different than for adults in certain cases. Depending on the problem they may have to wear the glasses through their developmental years and could “outgrow” the need in certain development instances.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about why kids need glasses or need to schedule a children’s eye exam please call us 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Laser Cataract Surgery Benefits

About Laser Cataract Surgery
If you are concerned about cataracts or been told that you have a cataract, when you visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care for a cataract surgery and lens implant exam we will carefully evaluate not only the impact of the cataract on your vision and overall quality of life, but should you be ready to have the cataract removed, we will also make a recommendation about the safest, most precise and gentlest type of cataract surgery so that we can get you the best, most reproducible result in the shortest timeframe. This is why if you are a good candidate, we will recommend laser cataract surgery rather that standard cataract surgery. Our clinical experience at D’Ambrosio Eye Care is consistent with the published research in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, that laser cataract surgery is gentler and provides faster visual recovery, more precise optical prescription results and quicker stabilization of the final vision.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts, laser cataract surgery and lens implants please call please 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Winter Sunwear

Sunglasses are not just for summer. You may not need sun block on the mountain but you should still protect yourself from the dangers of UV especially since it reflects off snow. Besides safety, polarized lenses can enhance other activities or sports. Outdoor enthusiasts like skiers benefit from polarized sunglasses, who wouldn’t enjoy a clearer view along with the elimination of glare? And if you have ever driven route 2 East in the morning you are well aware of glare from the sun, even in winter. Interested in learning more about polarized sunglasses stop by any of our locations and ask our licensed Opticians more about them.

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, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Meet Balaji Perumal, M.D.!

Did you know that Dr. Perumal at D’Ambrosio Eye Care is not only an ophthalmologist, but is also a cosmetic & reconstructive eye plastic surgeon! At D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Dr. Perumal can not only help you see your best and maintain your eye health and vision, but he can help you look your best too!

Dr. Perumal earned his Medical Degree at Duke University School of Medicine and completed a Residency in Ophthalmology at the Kresge Eye Institute followed by a Fellowship in Oculoplastic Surgery sponsored by the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS). Dr. Perumal has a special interest and training in all areas of cosmetic and reconstructive oculofacial surgery including periocular skin cancer, eyelid tumors, eyelid reconstruction, ptosis repair, cosmetic blepharoplasty eyelid surgery, orbital tumors, endoscopic brow lift for droopy eyebrows, entropion and ectropion repair, lacrimal system & tearing disorders and thyroid eye disease. He is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS).

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about facial rejuvenation, cosmetic eyelid surgery or other non surgical treatments to help you look your best please schedule a consultation with Balaji Perumal, M.D. Please call us 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Angle Closure Glaucoma with Certain Medications

About Angle Closure Glaucoma
Angle Closure Glaucoma is a type of glaucoma caused by a blockage or complete closure of the drainage structure of the eye called the trabecular meshwork. The trabecular meshwork is actually a fine filter, and if it is blocked or obstructed by any alteration in the size or shape of the surrounding structures, or by change in the size or shape of the tissue itself, it will cause the intraocular pressure (IOP) to elevate. In instances where the meshwork becomes blocked abruptly, it will cause a sudden rise in the intraocular pressure (IOP), resulting in Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma. Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma is characterized by this sudden rise in pressure which will cause pain, redness, light sensitivity, colored haloes around lights, nausea or vomiting, and blurred vision, and if left untreated permanent loss of vision.

Medications Can Cause Angle Closure Glaucoma
In patients who may already be at risk for Angle Closure Glaucoma because they have certain tissue and anatomical features inside their eyes, certain medications can significantly increase their risk. Two medications that are worth mentioning are the antidepressants Wellbutrin (Buproprion) and Topamax® (Topiramate). While both of these are often used to treat mild to moderate depression, they are also used to help patients stop smoking! Researchers reporting a study in Archives of Ophthalmology found that the risk of angle-closure glaucoma in patients younger than 50 years was twice as high in patients taking Wellbutrin and more than 5 times higher in patients taking Topamax®.

If you or someone you know is being treated for depression or has been prescribed Wellbutrin or Topamax® to help stop smoking, please make sure you tell your eye doctor and ask about your risk of Angle Closure Glaucoma, as well as become familiar with the symptoms above. If you have not had an eye exam with glaucoma testing and are taking these medications, 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Headaches & Childrens’ Eye Problems

About Headaches and Childrens’ Eye Problems
It is pretty common for parents to bring their children in for an eye exam because they are complaining of headaches. Headaches are a frequent complaint of kids but fortunately they are usually not serious. Some of the more common causes of headaches in kids include migraine, the stress and tension of school, certain foods with nitrate or MSG preservatives, physical trauma, sinus infections and of course eye problems. Parents can be concerned with the serious but truly rare occurrence of brain tumors causing headaches but this is usually accompanied by other complaints of dizziness, weakness of arms and legs and a loss of coordination.
 
Evaluating Kids with Headaches
As part of evaluating any child with headaches I always want to be sure that there has been a complete and thorough examination by their pediatrician who may need to order additional tests or even a referral to a neurologist. Then I will need to perform a complete eye exam including evaluation of the pupils, a refraction to determine any refractive error or need for glasses, eye alignment and binocularity testing and sometimes possible a visual field examination. Generally I will put drops in the child’s eyes to dilate the pupils, so that the optic nerves can be properly examined and the refractive error can be most accurately measured.

Eye Problems That Can Cause Headaches
If your child has uncorrected hyperopia or farsightedness, it requires extra effort to focus clearly while reading. This can sometimes lead to fatigue and headache. Glasses can reduce the effort required to see clearly at near and improve the headache, if significant hyperopia exists. Mild hyperopia is normal in children, however, and generally does not cause headaches or other symptoms.

When we read or perform other near activities, our eyes pull in toward each other, this is called convergence. The decreased ability to pull the eyes toward each other when viewing near objects (convergence), particularly while reading, may cause headaches. This is called convergence insufficiency, and symptoms include the doubling of images or words, blurred vision, fatigue, and headaches which worsen with prolonged reading. At home eye exercises, sometimes with the help of computer software, can help treat convergence insufficiency. Glasses are sometimes prescribed, but costly in-office eye exercises are rarely necessary.

Acute infections, allergic and inflammatory diseases of the eyes can also cause headaches. These problems are often accompanied by redness of the eye and/ or the eyelid as well as light sensitivity or photophobia. Acute glaucoma can cause headaches, but rarely affects children. Pseudotumor Cerebri is a condition caused by increased intracranial pressure or too much fluid around the brain, and this causes headache and swelling of the optic nerves, but does not typically cause redness of the eyes. During the complete eye exam we perform we will be able to rule out these problems as a cause of headaches in your child. If we do not find any ocular causes of your child’s headache we may refer them back to his/her pediatrician and/or to a neurologist to look for other possible causes of the headaches.

If you have questions about causes of kid’s headaches or children’s eye problems, or need assistance 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Cataract Surgery Patient Satisfaction

About Cataract Surgery Patient Satisfaction
The benefits of cataract surgery in restoring poor vision as well as quality of life are very obvious. As cataract surgeons we are also very pleased to report that cataract surgery has an extremely high level of overall patient satisfaction-in our practice as well as in national surveys collected by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) Institute for Quality Improvement. By 2030, 38 million Americans will suffer from cataracts, a number that will increase to 50 million by 2050, according to the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health. According to the study, from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) Institute for Quality Improvement, 99.7% of patients would recommend the procedure to friends or relatives suffering from cataracts. 96% of patients reported that their vision was better post-surgery, and 98 percent said they were comfortable during the procedure and right after their surgery. What’s more, 96% returned to normal activities of daily living within one week of their cataract surgery procedure. This is very typical of what we see at D’Ambrosio Eye Care and the data clearly shows that patients find value in cataract surgery and are generally very pleased with the outcomes of the procedure,” Dr. D’Ambrosio Jr.

If you or someone you know suspects or has been told they have a cataract and would like to learn more about laser cataract surgery and 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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Tribrid™ Eyeglass Lenses

New Year, New Product

Brand new to the market is a new lens material, Tribrid™. If you have heard of the latest lens material, Trivex™, this is its newer thinner brother. Being impact resistant, clear, thin and lightweight makes this lens an ideal choice. This new material is only available at select eye care practices in America, kind of like a movie premier! Interested in learning more about this new lens stop by any of our locations and ask our licensed Opticians more about it.

Visit D’Ambrosio Optical Center to learn more about Tribrid™ Eyeglass Lenses 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, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Flexible Spending Accounts for Eyeglasses

It is that time of year again when it is time to decide how to spend that unused money in your flexible spending accounts before it expires. What better way than to get yourself or someone in your family a new pair of eyeglasses, especially for all those upcoming holiday parties. We have a lot of new technology that was released throughout this year. Transitions® Lenses come in 3 colors now, the grey and brown along with a classic graphite green color. We have new lens materials available to us that include many new options for digital eyestrain and we have chosen to continue offering our NEADs lens packages. When these lens packages are purchased part of the proceeds goes directly to NEADs (National Education for Assistance Dog Services) and you also get a toy stuffed dog puppy to take home, just in time for the holidays.

So please stop in any of locations anytime to talk with our licensed Opticians about what new solutions we have to meet your visual needs. If you have questions or need assistance with eyewear selection or fitting please feel free to contact us by calling 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

Eye Infection Tips

Eye Infections: What You Should Know!

If you’ve experienced red, itchy eyes, you may have wondered whether it’s a symptom of allergies or dry eyes or a more serious condition, such as an eye infection. Here is an overview of allergies and dry eye as compared to an eye infection.

About Allergies & Dry Eyes
Symptoms of Allergies or Dry Eyes

• If you work at a computer for an extended time or have allergies to products or airborne substances, you may experience dry, red or irritated eyes.
• Generally allergies and dry eyes affect both eyes.
• Treatment options usually include resting your eyes or using an over-the-counter or prescription eye drops, as recommended by your eye doctor.

About Eye Infections
Symptoms of Eye Infections

• Frequently occurs when bacteria, fungi or viruses attack any part of your eye, including the surface, membrane lining of the outer eye and inner eyelid, interior portions or the soft tissue of the eyelid.
• Infections inside the eye or in the soft tissue of the eyelid are the most dangerous and if left untreated, the condition may spread throughout the eye.
• Symptoms usually include redness, pain, discharge, watering and sensitivity to light; usually occurs only in one eye; if symptoms are detected, immediately contact your eye doctor for an evaluation

Types of Eye Infections
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) – A common infection that is highly contagious.
Viral Keratitis – Can be simply related to a respiratory virus or cold or more serious such as Ocular Herpes that occurs when exposed to the Herpes Simplex Virus.
Fungal Keratitis – A fungus commonly found in organic matter such as soil, leaves or branches of a tree.
Acanthamoeba Keratitis – A parasite that attacks the eye more often in individuals wearing contact lenses and swimming in pools, lakes, ponds, hot tubs or streams who are at increased risk for contracting this infection.
Trachoma – Usually found in underdeveloped countries. Typically infects the inner eyelid along with eyelashes touching the area can infect the cornea and cause permanent blindness.
Endophthalmitis – Occurs with a penetrating eye injury or complication following eye surgery and if left untreated, may lead to blindness.

Preventing Eye Infections

• If you experience symptoms associated with an eye infection, contact D’Ambrosio Eye Care immediately. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of permanent blindness.
• To avoid eye infections, wash your hands throughout the day, especially if you are near an individual with a red eye or other signs of infection. Contact lens wearers should follow care and handling instructions provided by their eye doctor.

If you or someone you know is concerned about having an eye infections please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Ocular Melanoma Eye Cancer

Most people don’t realize than Ocular Melanoma (OM) is the most common form of cancer that occurs in the eye. Every year, approximately 2,500 American adults are diagnosed with ocular melanoma (OM) which is an aggressive malignant cancer that starts in the pigment cells that produce eye color and tends to occur in people with light skin pigmentation and more typically, blue or green eyes and who are over age 50. However, OM also can occur in individuals of every race and at any age. For about 50 percent of individuals diagnosed with OM, the cancer may be fatal, because it metastasizes and spreads to other parts of the body. OM is considered a silent killer. There are no early warning signs, and it is difficult to see when studying your eyes in the mirror.

Eye doctors usually detect OM during routine eye exams, reinforcing the importance of scheduling regular appointments. Once OM has developed, people may experience blurred vision, a change in the shape of the pupil, flashing lights in their vision, loss of vision in the affected eye or a dark spot on the iris. Researchers have discovered that people with OM tend to have certain gene mutations, which could suggest there is a strong genetic component to the disease. However, scientists have not concluded that these abnormalities are the cause. They believe there may be a connection between the development of OM and prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial light, such as from tanning beds, but there is not significant research confirming this link.

If you or someone you know is concerned about the risk of Ocular melanoma (OM) please be sure to call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare and schedule an eye exam appointment.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Risk of Cataracts with Osteoporosis

Most people know that calcium is an important factor in bone health and the development of osteoporosis. It is also important to note that calcium is an important factor in cataract formation. Researchers reporting in the journal Clinical Ophthalmology shared some interesting information regarding an association between cataracts, cataract surgery and osteoporosis.

The data showed that age, female sex, higher socioeconomic class, smoking, chronic renal failure, hyperthyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases are all associated with an increased prevalence of osteoporosis. Through careful statistical modeling they also found that these factors and osteoporosis are ALL associated with an increased prevalence of cataracts. Thus, they concluded that osteoporosis is associated with the presence of cataracts which may be related to calcium imbalance, hormonal abnormalities, and even a shared genetic predisposition. If you or someone you know is concerned about osteoporosis and their risk of cataracts, please feel free to D’Ambrosio Eye Care by calling us at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

VEGF Injections Best for Diabetic Macular Edema Treatment

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a significant cause of vision loss in patients with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. According to researchers reporting in the American Journal of Ophthalmology reviewing and publishing an analysis of studies on Diabetic Maculopathy published between January 1, 1985 and July 31, 2013, although laser photocoagulation has been the standard treatment for DME for nearly 3 decades, there is increasing evidence that better outcomes can be achieved with anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (anti-VEGF) injections such as Lucentis® or Eylea®.

In fact, the number of patients with DME gaining an improvement of seeing an additional 10-15 letters on the eye chart was at least 2 times greater for those patients treated with the anti-VEGF injections as compared to being treated with laser treatments. Thus, the researchers concluded that anti-VEGF therapy is superior to laser photocoagulation for treatment of moderate to severe visual impairment caused by DME.

If you or someone you know has diabetes and is concerned about their risk of Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) or Diabetic Retinopathy, it is critical that they have regular dilated eye exams.

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 recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Computer Vision Syndrome Eyeglasses

20-20-20 Rule
Computer eyestrain is a hot topic right now and an estimated 70% of people suffer from one or more symptoms of CVS (computer vision syndrome). Common symptoms are tired eyes, blurred vision, headaches, dry eyes and neck and shoulder pain. It is recommended that every 20 minutes you give your eyes a break and look 20 feet away for about 20 seconds, 20-20-20. Even better is every 20 minutes taking a short walk to stretch your legs too. BUT computer eyestrain isn’t limited to adults anymore. Nowadays children spend just as much time if not more using an electronic device. We are now offering a children’s computer lens package at a discounted price just for kids!

These Lenses

Reflect HEV or “bad blue light” from computers and lighting

Reduce glare from computers and lighting

Are made in an impact resistant polycarbonate material

Reduce eye strain and fatigue

Allow more light to reach eye to improve vision

Cosmetically improve reflected lens glare

Stop by any of our locations to learn more details about this new package from our licensed Opticians. If you need computer lenses too, we have a lot of new technology available to you.

If you have questions or need assistance with CVS eyewear selection or fitting please contact us by calling 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Optical Center, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.

D'Ambrosio Optical Center provides eyewear, frames, lenses 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, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Diabetic Eye Exam Compliance is Important

The Need for Diabetic Eye Exam Compliance
We are asking and hoping that patients with diabetes will to do their part in helping to preserve their vision by being compliant with the recommendation to have regular dilated eye exams. Although there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, with careful management of risk factors such as blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, moderation of alcohol consumption and routine exercise along with regular annual dilated eye exams, the potential vision loss from diabetes and associated diabetic eye problems can be minimized.

Researchers reporting in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, studied and identified variables that predict adherence with annual eye examinations using the Compliance with Annual Diabetic Eye Exams Survey (CADEES), a new questionnaire designed to measure health beliefs related to diabetic retinopathy and annual eye examinations. A number of factors seemed to influence diabetic patient compliance with annual eye exams including beliefs concerning whether insurance covered most of the eye examination cost, whether it was difficult to schedule or physically get to an eye exam appointment, whether patients had been counseled and made obtaining an eye examination a top priority and whether they had been previously told that they had signs of diabetic retinopathy. Clinicians can also help patients with compliance with the diabetic eye exams counseling newly diagnosed patients more diligently along with those with uncontrolled blood glucose on the importance of annual eye examinations and discussing and helping patients remove perceived barriers and misconceptions.

If you or someone you know has diabetes they need to have regular annual dilated eye exams to prevent vision loss from diabetic eye diseases and problems. Please share this information with anyone you know who is diabetic and ask them to call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can schedule an appointment for a diabetic eye exam.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

LASIK Story from Benjamin

It’s not that I found the glasses bothersome; but it was a pain if you had to switch from sunglasses to regular especially if you forgot one of them. It was a hindrance to me in the aspect that I am a lineman and work outside, no matter the weather, so they were constantly fogging up and covered in rain or whatever else.

I was a little bit nervous before my surgery but calmed down when I was in the room.

The surgery was not bad; the only uncomfortable part would have been the pressure on the eyes but other than that not bad at all.

After the surgery I went home and relaxed for the day. I was able to see right away without glasses - which was awesome. My eyes had some discomfort, but nothing that was unbearable.

It’s awesome how I can just have a pair of sunglasses without having to remember to bring both pairs of glasses. Also, certain things at work were more of a challenge with glasses but now I don’t have that issue. I am able to play with the kids without worrying about breaking my glasses or anything.

Overall, I am incredibly pleased with everything that I experienced at D'Ambrosio Eye Care. I highly recommend everyone there. You all made the experience a pleasant and easy thing to have done. Lasik is awesome and I can’t believe it took me so long to have it preformed!

Benjamin A.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about LASIK or schedule a Free LASIK Consultation, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.

Eye Movements Help Diagnose Early Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease represents a real healthcare challenge in the United States. In particular, the ability to make an early diagnose of Alzheimer’s Disease is important to effectively implement treatment and support as well as deal with the longer term outcome. According to researchers reporting in Investigative Ophthalmology & Vision Science a subtle change in eye movements may provide a useful diagnostic tool for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease. In general, eye movements follow a reproducible pattern during normal reading. Each eye movement ends up in a fixation point, which allows the brain to process the incoming information and to program the following movements. The researchers found that Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) produces eye movement abnormalities and disturbances in reading with those patients with early AD displaying abnormal fixation patterns. So we now know that evaluation of eye movement behavior during reading might provide a useful tool for a more precise early diagnosis of AD and for monitoring the progress or stability of Alzheimer Disease.

If you or someone you know is concerned about Alzheimer’s Disease they are encouraged to schedule an eye examination at D’Ambrosio Eye Care by calling us at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+ or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

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, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440.