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April 6, 2017

New Technology for Your Technology

Posted in News & Updates
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I’ll admit it. I am on my smartphone a lot—as in all day long. Just like my kids are. During the day I’m using iPads and computers at work, and at night, I’m relaxing by using my iPad to stream the latest Netflix show. We cannot get away from technology because it is everywhere we turn and in everything we do. Being connected is part of everyday life – no matter if we are at work, at school, at church, or at the doctor’s office. Everywhere! It is no wonder that over 90% of adults are at risk for digital eye strain. Did you know as little as two hours in front of a screen can cause it? You may know the feeling: tired eyes, blurred vision, difficulty focusing, fatigue, dry and red eyes. It’s no fun.

Enter Eyezen technology. Eyezen lenses are enhanced to help you see comfortably regardless of what device you are using – from viewing a full-sized desktop monitor, a handheld smartphone, and everything in between. These new lenses provide “relief” that is built right into the lens. This technology helps reduce strain and keeps your eyes relaxed and comfortable throughout your digital day.

Eyezen lenses can be used whether you require a prescription lens or not, they are working to protect your eyes. Eyezen lenses filter out  harmful Blue Light. Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. It comes from the sun, our digital screens, and fluorescent lights. It is absorbed deep in the eye, and it is one of the most intense forms of visible light to humans. So…there is good news and bad news. First, the good: Blue light from the sun can be beneficial in moderation by helping to regulate our internal clocks, and it plays a role in basic brain functions such as alertness, memory, emotion, and cognitive performance. Now, the bad: Harmful Blue Light (from our devices and artificial sources) has been linked to an increased risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration which is the leading cause of blindness in adults over the age of 50.

So, protecting your eyes with Eyezen lenses is a smart decision. The Smart Blue Filter is built into the Eyezen lens – the result is a lens that still looks clear but offers the protection we all need. With this new technology, you can continue your digitally-connected lifestyle knowing you are giving your eyes the relief, comfort, and protection you deserve. I’m wearing mine right now!For more information, you can visit our website at www.renaissanceeyecare.com or call 256-767-5000 for more information.

 

— Dr. Kathy Warner

 

*Image from www.eyezenusa.com

January 31, 2017

February is National AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month

Posted in General
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Age-related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, is a leading cause of vision loss among adults over the age of 50. AMD primarily destroys the sharp central vision that is provided by a spot in the center of the retina called the macula. Sharp central vision is needed to read, drive, identify faces, watch television and perform daily tasks that require detailed vision.

AMD has few symptoms in the early stages, so it is important to have your eyes checked regularly. In some people, AMD can develop slowly, so that the vision loss does not occur for a long time. In others, the disease progresses more quickly and can affect one or both eyes. Symptoms of AMD can include: visual distortion (straight lines appear wavy), blurring of central vision, or a blind spot in your vision.

There are a number of risk factors that may play a role in the development of AMD. Age is the major risk factor. Smoking and obesity both increase your risk. Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD than are African-Americans or Hispanic/Latinos. Having a family member with AMD increases your risk, as does uncontrolled hypertension and elevated cholesterol, as well as UV and blue light exposure.

Having a low Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) score is also thought to increase your risk. We now have the ability to test the thickness of your macular pigment with a simple, painless, in-office procedure. If you are found to have a low MPOD score, you may be placed on specific vitamins to increase your pigment thickness. This in turn helps to lower your risk for developing AMD. It is recommended that anyone with any risk factors for AMD have their MPOD tested.

Treatments for early AMD include vitamin supplements and lifestyle modifications to help reduce the risk of further progression. With advanced macular degeneration, injections to stop progression are the mainstay of treatment, as well as vitamin supplements.

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, there is hope. Low Vision Specialists can help you use your remaining vision more effectively. There are devices for everything from reading to cooking to watching television and sports events. Some of our favorite devices are digital and provide amazing clarity and magnification. Others incorporate LED lighting and magnification together to allow for reading smaller text. A low vision specialist can also offer tips on simple things you can do around your home to make life easier and more enjoyable.

So what can you do? Decrease your risk factors as much as possible. Avoid smoking, wear good UV protection every time you go outside, exercise regularly, maintain normal blood pressure and cholesterol and eat a diet rich in green leafy vegetables. Have your eyes checked regularly and encourage those you love to do the same!

Please do not hesitate to call our office if you have any questions.

– Dr. Kathy Warner