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What Can You Do to Protect Your Vision?

12/7/2020

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Although there are some aspects of health that we cannot control, two things you can do to protect your vision are 
1) Having a comprehensive eye exam every year (Call (818) 882-9300 before flex $$$ expire at the end of this month!)
2) Having consistent healthy eating habits!

Why is nutrition important for my eyes?

You might have heard that a diet low in sugar and fats, and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is helpful for your heart, but did you know that your eyes also benefit from these same foods? 
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Similarly to how some heart diseases result when its blood vessels become blocked or damaged, many eye diseases also involve the tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to your eyes. This is why keeping these arteries healthy is so important!

What foods should I incorporate into my diet?

Leafy green vegetables protect your central and detailed vision because they contain antioxidants that help the macula. Some examples include Kale and spinach, along with romaine lettuce, collards, turnip greens, broccoli and peas.

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Orange-colored vegetables are a great source of Vitamin A, which is a nutrient that is essential to help your retina (back part of your eye) turn light rays into the images your brain can understand. Vitamin A is also important to prevent dry eye! Carrots and sweet potatoes are great sources of vitamin A, and fruits such as cantaloupe and apricots are great as well.

Fruits and veggies rich in Vitamin C are great because Vitamin C helps repair and grow new tissue cells when cells are damaged (by fried foods, tobacco smoke and the sun’s rays, for example.) Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, such as oranges, tangerines, grapefruit and lemons. Lots of other foods offer vitamin C, including peaches, red bell peppers, tomatoes and strawberries. 

​These antioxidants can prevent or at least delay age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, according to the Age-Related Eye Diseases Study (AREDS).

Vitamin E is found in avocados, almonds and sunflower seeds.   Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids from cold-water fish (salmon, tuna, sardines, halibut and trout) can help prevent diseases and  dry eye symptoms.   Beans and zinc protect your retina from damage, and these are some great options: Black-eyed peas, kidney beans and lima beans, along with oysters, lean red meat, poultry and fortified cereals.

Eating healthy foods sometimes falls behind in our list of priorities, but it is important to remember why it is so important! Maintaining the health of your eyes and reducing risk of disease are only a few smart choices at the supermarket away!

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms or haven’t had a comprehensive eye exam recently, call (818) 882-9300 or click this link to schedule an appointment with our experienced eye doctors!

​
References: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/fabulous-foods-your-eyes

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What You Need to Know About Myopia (nearsightedness)

11/23/2020

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What is myopia?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a fairly common eye focusing disorder, not an eye disease. This means people with myopia do not necessarily have unhealthy eyes, but rather, their distance vision is blurry because their eyes don’t focus light directly on the retina.

When the eye is longer than normal or has a cornea that is too steep, light rays focus in front of the retina instead of on it, and myopia results. The retina is the back surface of the eye and is where light rays are converted into electrical signals your brain can understand. 

In the case of myopia, light is not focused directly on the retina, so your brain perceives blurry vision.

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Does myopia increase the risk of eye diseases?
Unfortunately, high degrees of myopia are associated with several eye diseases.
4x increased risk of glaucoma
2-5x increased risk of cataract
​4-16x increased risk of retinal detachment

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These are some of the reasons why it is important to have an annual comprehensive eye exam, especially for children. 

At Optometrics of Chatsworth, we can test visual acuity of young children even before they can read by using pictures. Infant eye exams between 6-12 months are recommended, and comprehensive eye exams for ALL CHILDREN should begin at ages 3 to 4. Any child who hasn’t had a full eye exam from an optometrist is due to one!
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Give us a call at (818) 882-9300 to ask any questions! If needed, our experienced optometrists will consult with parents and children about specific myopic risks and discuss myopia management options.

Who gets myopia? Myopia is commonly inherited, which means children of myopic parents may have myopia as well. 

For children, myopia is often discovered between ages 8 to 12 years old, and their degree of myopia may worsen during teenage years when the body grows rapidly. Between ages 20 to 40, there is usually little change, but myopia can also occur in adults.

Other factors including use of digital devices and frequent, prolonged near work can also contribute to developing myopia.
​
Is myopia management effective? There have been several advancements in myopia management technology, including orthokeratology (ortho-k)

According to the American Ophthalmology Association, 
“MiSight lenses are the first FDA-approved contact lenses for controlling myopia progression in children. These soft, disposable lenses can be prescribed to children as young as 8 years old. The lenses are worn during the day and discarded at night.”  

​ To get the full benefit, children must wear their MiSight lenses six days a week, for 10 hours a day, until they are teenagers. The lenses are hard to handle, though, and young children with small eyes can sometimes find it difficult to insert and remove them. Like all contact lenses, MiSight lenses pose a risk for infection. Good contact lens hygiene can lower this risk.”

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Orthokeratology (aka GVSS aka Gentle Gentle Vision Shaping System, aka Overnight Vision Correction)
​

Similarly to how braces re-position teeth, ortho-k uses a rigid, gas-permeable contact lens to reshape the cornea (the front part of the eye). These lenses are worn while you sleep, and for some people, it reshapes the cornea enough to correct their vision for the next day, eliminating the need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

​

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According to the AAO, “Multiple studies suggest that Ortho-K lenses may also slow the eye’s growth. That’s why they are frequently prescribed off-label for pausing myopia’s progression. Larger clinical trials are underway to gain FDA approval for this use.”

In conclusion, about 42% of Americans now have myopia, so the growing myopic epidemic is not leaving anytime soon. If you live in Northridge, Chatsworth, or surrounding Valley areas, call (818) 882-9300 to schedule an appointment with our eye doctors, who are happy help with any eye care needs (including myopia management!)

References
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/myopia-nearsightedness https://www.allaboutvision.com/contacts/orthok.htm  https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/misight-orthok-atropine-myopia-nearsighted-child 

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Diabetic Eye Diseases

11/1/2020

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The American Academy of Ophthalmology designated November as Diabetic Eye Disease month to “encourage those with diabetes to take proactive steps” and defend themselves against diabetes-related vision loss. 
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The AAO states diabetes is “a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively to control blood sugar (glucose) levels.” Even though glucose is an important energy source for the body’s cells, too much glucose in blood for a prolonged time can damage many parts of the body, including the small blood vessels in the eyes and the heart.

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How does diabetes affect my eyes?
High blood sugar (aka blood glucose) can cause swelling in your eye tissues and damage blood vessels in your eyes.

Short term, high blood sugar is not likely to cause vision loss. 
- Blurry vision can happen when people change their diabetes care routine or medicines because high blood sugar can change fluid levels or cause swelling in the parts of your eye that helps you focus. 
- This kind of blurry vision is temporary, and goes away when glucose levels return to normal.

However, if your blood glucose stays high over time, it can cause lasting damage to the blood vessels in your eye, which has significant consequences. 
-  Damage can begin during prediabetes (blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes)
- Most serious diabetic eye diseases begin with blood vessel problems.

What are Diabetic Eye Diseases?
​

Diabetic eye disease = “a group of eye problems people with diabetes may face as a complication of diabetes, all of which can lead to blindness if left untreated.” (NIH - National Eye Institute)

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Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the blood vessels in the retina)
- High blood sugar can cause blood vessels in the eye’s retina to swell, leak fluid, or close off completely. If new, fragile blood vessels grow, they can also leak blood into the back of the eye and block vision. 
- There are often no symptoms until severe damage has already occurred, so it is important to have regular dilated eye exams to detect problems early on.
​- Diabetic macular edema (swelling on the retina) is the primary cause of vision loss associated with diabetic retinopathy.

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Cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye)
- The lens in the eye helps focus light onto the retina to produce clear images. However, if the lens becomes cloudy, things look blurry, hazy or less colorful. It can be like looking through a foggy or dusty car windshield.
​- Aging is the most common cause of cataracts, but other causes include diabetes and spending a lot of time in the sun without UV protection.

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Glaucoma (damage to the optic nerve)
- Fluid in the eye typically empties through a drainage system. However, if fluid does not flow out of the eye properly, pressure can build up in the eye. High pressure damages the optic nerve, which is where visual information travels from the eye to the brain.
- This can lead to irreversible loss of vision.

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How to Manage Diabetic Eye Diseases

The National Institute of Health (NIH) suggests the following steps to manage diabetic eye diseases and keep your eyes healthy. The following is a short summary, and for more information, talk to your health care professionals and read the full article.

- Manage your diabetes ABCs.
A for A1C test: The A1C test measures your average blood glucose level over the past 3 months
B for Blood Pressure
​C for Cholesterol (you should ask your health care team what your goals should be for these values)
s for Stop Smoking: Smoking and diabetes narrow your blood vessels, which makes your heart work harder. E-cigarettes are not a safe option either.

- Follow your diabetes meal plan. 
- Make physical activity part of your routine. 
- Take your medicine. 
- Check your blood glucose levels. 
- Work with your health care team. 
- Cope with your diabetes in healthy ways. 
These steps also lower the risk for heart attacks and stroke.

There are often no warning signs of diabetic eye diseases or apparent vision loss when damage first develops. A comprehensive, dilated eye exam helps eye doctors find and treat problems early, which is so important because preventative treatment before extensive damage occurs can be very effective (Diabetic Retinopathy treatment is 95% effective in preventing severe vision loss when detected early!)

Especially for those with diabetes, make sure not to miss your yearly eye exam. Call our office (818-882-9300) to book an appointment with our experienced doctors, we welcome new patients!

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/diabetic-eye-disease
https://www.aao.org/newsroom/observances
https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/nehep-pdfs/DED_SM_Toolkit_Evergreen.pdf
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Why are Watery Eyes a Symptom of “Dry Eye”?

9/1/2020

2 Comments

 

According to the American Optometric Association, Dry Eye is a condition where a person does not have enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. ​

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Symptoms of dry eye include:
- Irritated, gritty, scratchy or burning sensations
- Feeling as if there is a foreign object in the eye
- Excess watering (This is the body’s response to eye irritation) 
- Blurred vision
- Advanced dry eye can cause damage to the front of the eye resulting in impaired vision


Causes of dry eye can be grouped into two main categories:

1.) Insufficient Quantity of Tears from decreased tear production or increased tear evaporation.

​Decreased Tear Production due to 
- Aging Certain medical conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid problems + more)  
- Certain medications (antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants + more) 
- Laser eye surgery - symptoms of dry eyes related to this procedure are usually temporary 
​- Tear gland damage from inflammation or radiation

Increased Tear Evaporation due to
- Wind, smoke or dry air
- Blinking less often (tends to occur when you're concentrating - reading, driving or working at a computer
*See our
“Digital Eye Fatigue” post to learn more!)

​- Eyelid problems

Some of these situations that exacerbate dry eye can be avoided.
- Avoid air blowing in your eyes. (fans, air conditioners)
- Add moisture to the air. (humidifier)
- Consider wearing wraparound sunglasses or other protective eyewear. 
- Take eye breaks during long tasks. Take periodic eye breaks. Close your eyes for a few minutes. Or blink repeatedly for a few seconds to help spread your tears evenly over your eyes.
- Be aware of your environment. The air at high altitudes, in desert areas and in airplanes can be extremely dry. When spending time in such an environment, it may be helpful to frequently close your eyes for a few minutes at a time to minimize evaporation of your tears.
- Position your computer screen below eye level. This helps you avoid opening your eyes as wide to view the screen, which may help slow the evaporation of your tears between blinks.
​- Stop smoking and avoid smoke.  Use artificial tears regularly. (for chronic dry eye cases)

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However, in the next category we will explain how for some cases, there are serious underlying causes of dry eye that need treatment from an optometrist.



2.) Insufficient Quality of Tears  *fortunately, this can usually be treated successfully by our optometrists

Imbalanced tear composition can cause increased tear evaporation. The tear film has 3 layers: 
-  Inner mucus layer (helps tears evenly spread on the whole eye surface)  
- Middle watery layer (hydrates the eye and washes away foreign particles)
- Outer oily layer (prevents other layers from evaporating too quickly)

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​Problems with any of the layers can cause dry eye. For example, if the oily layer is not properly produced, then the tear film will evaporate much more quickly than normal, tears won’t be able to do their job and dry eye symptoms can result.


Two conditions that can affect the oily layer of tears include blepharitis and MGD (meibomian gland dysfunction).
​

Blepharitis describes inflammation of the eyelids. Overgrowth of bacteria on eyelids causes this inflammation, which can inhibit the function of the meibomian glands and prevent the oily layer of tears from being properly produced.

Treatment: BlephEx is a painless in-office procedure that removes the bacterial biofilm that accumulates on eyelids and eyelashes in only 6-8 minutes and helps your eyes produce proper tears again.
​

Watch this Animation to learn more about BlephEx and blepharitis ​


MGD (Meibomian Gland Dysfunction) occurs when the meibomian glands (where the oil component of tears are produced) are clogged with dried or solidified tears.

Treatment: MiBoFlo Thermoflo is a device that uses thermoelectric radiation (heat) and gentle massage to liquify dried up or viscous tears. This allows previously obstructed meibomian glands to function properly again, which relieves dry eye symptoms.

Watch this Animation to understand the significance of MGD ​


Dry eye complications include eye infections, damage to the eye surface, and decreased quality of life, so it is important to have a comprehensive eye examination if you experience any of these symptoms. Call to schedule an appointment at our office, where we have the latest technology available to diagnose and treat dry eye.
​

To learn more about Risk Factors for dry eye, how dry eye is diagnosed, and even more information, check out our website!

References: 
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863 
ttps://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/blepharitis-and-dry-eye-a-common-yet-complicated-combination https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/blepharitis https://mibomedicalgroup.com/products/ https://theeyesolution.myalcon.com/theeyesolution/eye-health/eye-conditions/symptoms-causes-and-relief-for-dry-eyes/ 
​
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Digital Eye Fatigue Since COVID-19

8/18/2020

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If you feel like your screentime has dramatically increased in recent months, you are not alone. A Forbes.com article published in March 2020 revealed that Internet use increased up to 70% because of COVID-19. Since classes, work meetings, and even spending time with loved ones have switched to online video calls, it is easy to imagine how endless hours of screen usage can cause harm, especially to your eyes. To face this new reality, it has become increasingly important to protect your eyes from digital eye strain.

Are you experiencing Digital Eye Strain?
​(Common Symptoms)

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Digital Eye Strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), describes many eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, or cell phone use. Common symptoms include:
  • eyestrain
  • headaches
  • blurred vision
  • dry eyes
  • neck and shoulder pain
  • loss of productivity

Computers are an integral part of our lives. According to the American Optometric Association, here are some actions you can take to prevent digital eye strain and still effectively accomplish all of your computer-related goals.

Preventative Solutions

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Prevent dry eyes by consciously blinking more often
  • Why? - Studies found that while staring at a screen, the number of times people blink decreases to only a half or a third as much as they normally blink. Every time you blink, you refresh and clean your eyes by covering them with a fresh film of tears. 
  • Solution - Remind yourself to consciously blink and take regular breaks by following the 20-20-20 rule! (every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break to focus on something 20 feet away) You can also repeatedly blink during your break to further provide relief for your eyes.​​

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Decrease blue light exposure
  • Why? - Blue light contributes to eye strain, disrupts our circadian rhythm and interferes with sleep.​
  • Solution - Limit screen time at night and add blue light coatings to glasses. In the evening, turn on “Dark Mode” or “Night Mode,” which can be found in the Settings of most devices.

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Create an ergonomic desk setup
  • Why? - Long hours of typing with bad posture can cause neck, shoulder, or back pain.
  • Solution - Sit about 25 inches (arm’s length) away from the screen and position the screen below eye level. 


Adjust your screen settings
  • Why? - As opposed to reading a printed page, your eyes work harder to read from a computer screen because there is typically less contrast between the letters and the background. Glare and reflections on the screen add additional difficulties.
  • Solution - Use a matte screen filter to reduce glare, increase the contrast on your screen, and decrease the screen brightness to match your surrounding level of light. 

​
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam to fix any uncorrected  vision problems
  • Why? - If your vision is not properly corrected for the specific viewing distance of your computer screen, you may need to tilt your head or bend towards the screen in order to see it clearly. This can result in an uncomfortable sitting posture and cause neck, shoulder, or back pain. Even minor vision problems can significantly decrease your comfort while viewing a computer.
  • Solution - Call 818-882-9300 to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors for a comprehensive eye exam. 

Learn More from these source articles:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/markbeech/2020/03/25/covid-19-pushes-up-internet-use-70-streaming-more-than-12-first-figures-reveal/#6d65a0b83104
https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/protecting-your-vision/computer-vision-syndrome
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage
https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/battling-blue-light
​

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Medical Breakthroughs from the Veterans Administrations

6/20/2018

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The Veterans Administration has a long and rich tradition of groundbreaking research and has contributed greatly to the field of medicine. That tradition continues today.
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Dr. Kathy Chriqui, a leading optometrist in Northridge makes a point to stay up to date with the latest developments in optometry and diseases of the eye.  She has been fascinated with some of the VA's more recent advancements in eye health, including the development of retinal implants.

The VA explains the implantable retinal prosthesis study on its website, saying "VA researchers are part of a team, the Boston Retinal Implant Project, working to help patients with visual impairments. One of the team's major projects has been to develop an implantable retinal prosthesis that could restore sight in blinded Veterans and others. In the eye, the retina contains a million nerve cells that transmit image signals to the vision cortex of the occipital lobe in the back of the brain.

"The project uses 'smart' eyeglasses that serve as a camera and a transmitter. The images the camera takes are transmitted to a handheld computer and power pack. The computer processes the images, and a signal is then sent to an antenna encircling the iris of the eye.

The antenna directs the signal into a half-inch-square titanium pack atop the eye that contains a computer chip and electronics. It turns the image into impulses sent to specific electrodes implanted in a thin plastic film placed between the retina and back wall of the eye. Those pulses stimulate the proper retinal nerves to send signals of that image to the brain.

The device was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013. It provides limited eyesight for people with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that causes severe vision impairment due to a loss of cells in the retina. As currently configured, the prosthesis will not help blinded Veterans whose optic nerve or retinal nerve system has been damaged, but research continues.

Also of interest to Dr. Chriqui, is research being conducted at the VA's Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, where experts are working on a number of projects to help blind people and those with low vision to live more independent lives.  Among the most promising projects are:

  • Smartphone app—Researchers at the center are developing a smartphone app that fuses data from the Global Positioning System with data from the magnetic compass, gyrocompass, and accelerometers found in most smart phones. The app will provide highly accurate location information that can help users easily find destinations such as a crosswalk or building entrance.
  • RFID tags--The center is also investigating the use of radio-frequency identification (RFID), the technology that allows people to scan items at a store or drive through a tollbooth with an E-ZPass tag. Researchers are looking at the possibility of placing RFID tags on Braille signs to send information automatically to smart phones that can read the tags. Currently, some Braille signs use low energy Bluetooth transmitters, but the batteries on those must be changed every few years, while RFID tags require no power.
  • HandSight—Center researchers are working on a Department of Defense-funded project called HandSight, in which a tiny camera small enough to embed in a false fingernail is worn by the user and connected to a smart watch. The watch vibrates to signal that the user has placed his or her finger on a line of text.

Scanning the finger along the text activates software that translates the text into spoken output heard on a Bluetooth earpiece. When the user touches an article of clothing, software in the watch recognizes the colors and patterns and helps with coordinating an ensemble.

Dr. Chriqui and the staff at Northridge eye clinic Optometrics would like to thank all those who currently serve in the country's armed forces for their service and to express their gratitude to the many veterans who have given so much to preserve the freedoms we all enjoy today.

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Smoky Eyes

4/18/2018

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When it comes to a woman's makeup, a smoky eye can be very attractive. But with the unusually bad wildfire season that we've had this year, we're seeing a lot of smoky eyes that aren't doing anything for anyone's look!
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The problem isn't just here in California. "There's smoke from Canada, smoke from Idaho, smoke from California and Montana There's smoke everywhere," Greg Svelund, a spokesman for Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality, told NPR in September, when reporter Jane Greenhalgh  reported that, "A quick look at the Environmental Protection Agency's Air Now website shows unhealthy or hazardous air conditions all over the Pacific Northwest and into Northern California, Idaho and Montana."

Conditions were still bad in October, when the Verge.com also reported on the harm smoke could to do people who aren't directly threatened by the wildfires themselves.  "California is besieged by 22 wildfires that have incinerated more than 265 square miles and killed at least 21 people. Smoke and ash blanket the Bay Area in a layer of haze responsible for the worst air quality on record," Rachel Becker wrote on the website's report. "The smoke has prompted local schools to close, and reduced visibility at Bay Area airports so much that flights were delayed, or canceled."

The main health concerns associated with the smoke this year's abundance of wildfires is producing are related to our lungs and hearts.  "For people who have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart conditions, just breathing this noxious air can be dangerous," Becker reported.

"If there's smoke in the atmosphere, it affects the whole body," Sarah Henderson, professor of public health at the University of British Columbia, told Verge.com. "The basic message is that forest fire smoke is not good for you."

Environmental irritants like smog, dust, mold, pollen, pet dander and, of course, smoke, can also irritate your eyes, though. "If you are allergic to any of these substances, they are even more likely to make your eyes burn," the website AllAboutVision.com reports.

To get relief from burning irritated eyes, AllAboutVision.com – a website established in 2000 to provide consumers with an unbiased source of trustworthy information on eyehealth and vision correction options – has some recommendations:

"If you are an allergy sufferer," they say, "your doctor may prescribe specific eye drops that can minimize the burning you might usually experience during allergy season These drops differ from oral allergy medicines, which can sometimes cause eyes to burn by drying them out.

"If a household product gets in your eyes and causes burning, the first thing you should do is check the product label for specific instructions. In many cases, you will be able to safely rinse your eyes to alleviate the burning sensation.

"Cool compresses gently applied over your closed eyelids also can help soothe burning eyes."

Experts agree that the best way to avoid the risks that come with the smoke is to remain indoors.

"Close all windows and doors unless it's really hot," Dr. Gopal Allada, a pulmonologist and critical care specialist at Oregon Health & Science University, told NPR. "And use the recirculate button in your car or on your air conditioner, so you are not bringing in new particulate matter."

Dr. Ann Thomas, a preventive medicine specialist with the Oregon Health Authority, which has published a pamphlet on the health effects of wildfire smoke, told NPR that those without air conditioning might want to consider spending time in a library, mall, or community center that does.
Thomas also told NPR that the standard dust mask available at the drugstore won't offer much protection. "It may keep out the large pieces of ash, but it also may cause you to inhale more deeply, and it won't filter out the microscopic particles that can get into your lungs," Greenhalgh  explained. "An N95 mask can filter out 95 percent of smoke particles, but only if it's fitted properly and dirty air doesn't leak around the sides."
The good news is that symptoms caused by the smoke should go away when the air clears.  If you continue to suffer from burning eyes, it might be a sign of a more serious condition.  Don't take chances with your precious eyes!  Optometrists in Northridge and throughout the western regions impacted by wildfires and smoke have seen an uptick in calls and in cases of patients complaining of dry, irritated eyes.

 Dr. Kathy Chriqui, one of those optometrists in Northridge, CA, has been able to draw on her training and experience to offer relief to patients. If you have questions or concerns, the staff at Northridge eye clinic Optometrics of Chatsworth says don't hesitate to call. 
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Study Finds Safety and Accuracy Issues with Glasses Purchased Online

3/26/2018

23 Comments

 
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​The American Optometric Association (AOA) teamed up with the Optical Laboratories Association and The Vision Council to look into the online market for prescription eyewear. According to the AOA, the study found a disturbing number of problems with prescription compliance and impact resistance. In fact, almost half of the eyeglasses tested in the study (the AOA reports the number at 44.8 percent) didn't have the correct prescription strength or presented problems with safety.

The study analyzed 200 pairs of glasses that had been ordered from 10 different websites. The lenses were analyzed based on a number of criteria, including measurement of sphere power, cylinder power and axis, add power (if specified), separation of distance of optical centers and center thickness. The AOA reports that in some cases, single vision lenses were delivered instead of the bifocals that had been ordered. In other cases, specific lens treatments were either added to an or were left off.

"Nearly three out of 10 (29 percent) pairs had at least one lens that failed to meet the required prescription, a problem typically found and corrected when ordered through and delivered by an optometrist," the AOA says. "Nearly one-fourth (23 percent) of the lenses failed impact resistance testing, which highlights a major safety issue."

The safety concerns regarding children's eyewear purchased online should be of particular concern to parents. "Children's glasses performed even worse, with 29 percent failing impact testing," the AOA reports.

The study was professionally conducted under the direction of researchers: 10 people were each asked to order two pairs of glasses from one of the top 10 online optical vendors. Each order included one pair of prescription children's glasses and one pair of prescription eyeglasses for adults. The frame styles selected fell in the midrange for prices. A variety of frame materials, lens styles and prescriptions were included in the study. 

Despite the popularity of the websites used in the study, only 154 pairs of glasses out of the 200 ordered were received.

The takeaway is pretty clear. When it comes to shopping for prescription eyeglasses online, caveat emptor – buyer beware!

"Ordering a pair of glasses online is not as easy as purchasing a pair of blue jeans or theater tickets," the AOA says. "Every pair of eyeglasses must be custom-fitted to not just comfortably suit your face but also to meet your particular prescriptive needs. In short, you, your optometrist and your optician must work together to ensure a proper fit."

And, as the AOA reminds us, "There's also a lingering question about the quality and safety of prescription eyewear ordered online."

Think about it – if almost half of the products you ordered from a particular website weren't exactly what you ordered or didn't live up to the product's safety claims, would you still shop there?  Well, as researchers discovered, 44.8 percent of prescription eyeglasses ordered online as part of the study contained an inaccurate prescription or didn't meet safety standards designed to protect the eyes.

Online shopping is great for a wide range of products. In the past, something that might have required you to spend a day driving from store to store, can now be found online with a few clicks. Fortunately, when it comes to prescription eyeglasses, it's easy to find a wonderful array of styles to fit every face and every budget – from a simple unassuming frame to the Ray Ban Clubmaster celebrities adore - without turning to the Internet.

Dr. Kathy Chriqui, a popular optometrist in Northridge, offers her clients a professionally staffed optical shop, fully stocked with the latest looks in fashion eyewear from the country's leading brands. Stop by and check out wall after wall of frames and let our opticians help you find the perfect frames.
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Diabetic Retinopathy

3/12/2018

1 Comment

 
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​As we reported in our last post, there are no early warning signs for diabetic eye disease, which is a leading cause of blindness. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), early detection and treatment are key. That means, if you have diabetes, you should be sure to have a dilated eye examination at least once a year.
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If you or someone you love has diabetes and has not had an eye examination in the past year, we encourage you to call Dr. Kathy Chriqui, a respected optometrist in Northridge for a complete eye exam. 

Diabetic eye disease includes: 
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  • Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
  • Cataract: Clouding of the lens of the eye.
  • Glaucoma: Increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that leads to optic nerve damage and loss of vision.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common form of diabetic eye disease – it is also a leading cause of blindness in American adults. Changes in the blood vessels of the retina are the underlying cause. "In some people with diabetic retinopathy, retinal blood vessels may swell and leak fluid," the NEI explains. "In other people, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. These changes may result in vision loss or blindness."
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Unfortunately, there are often no symptoms in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. You won't feel any pain and you may not even notice changes in your vision until thedisease has progressed. "Even in more advanced cases, the disease may progress a long way without symptoms," the NEI says. "This symptomless progression is why regulareye examinations for people with diabetes are so important."

Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels inside the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. And, as the NEI reminds us, "A healthy retina is necessary for good vision."

According to the NEI, between 40 to 45 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some stage of diabetic retinopathy. Both those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at risk for the disease. Women with diabetes who become pregnant should be especially concerned.  "To protect vision, every pregnant woman with diabetes should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam as soon as possible," the NEI says. People who have had diabetes for a long time are also more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy.

Dr. Chriqui, a trusted eye doctor in Northridge, CA, has the necessary training and experience to provide screening for diabetic retinopathy. She can also talk to you about treatment to help prevent its progression.

Please don't wait until you have symptoms! By then, the disease will have progressed.
 "If you have diabetic retinopathy, at first you may notice no changes to your vision," the NEI says. "But over time, diabetic retinopathy can get worse and cause vision loss.Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes."

We'll say it again, because it is so important: An annual eye exam is essential when it comes to protecting the eyesight of those with diabetes. "Your eyes should be dilated during the exam, which means eyedrops are used to enlarge your pupils," the NEI clarifies. "This dilation allows the eye care professional to see more of the inside of your eyes to check for signs of the disease."

The National Eye Health Education Program says that early detection is more important now than ever. That's because for the first time in decades, new treatments have been introduced that are even more effective.

"Laser surgery and appropriate follow-up care can reduce the risk of blindness by 90 percent," the NEI says. "However, laser surgery often cannot restore vision that has already been lost, which is why finding diabetic retinopathy early is the best way to prevent vision loss."

Why take chances? If you or a family member has diabetes, call Optometrics, the Northridge eye clinic people know and trust, and schedule an appointment with Dr. Chriqui.

Northridge optometrist Dr. Chriqui received her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern California College of Optometry. She practiced in Beverly Hills for 10 years before relocating to the Valley over 20 year ago. She also served as a staff doctor at the Southern California College of Optometry and was on staff at Cedar Sinai Medical Center for more than 25 years. 

She is affiliated with the American Optometric Association, the California Optometric Association, the Los Angeles County Optometric Society and the San Fernando Valley Optometric Society.
1 Comment

Diabetic Eye Disease

2/26/2018

0 Comments

 
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If you or someone you love suffers from diabetes, in addition to the other challenges the disease presents, you should be concerned about the risk for diabetic eye disease. 
Diabetic eye disease is a term that encompasses a group of eye problems that people with diabetes may face as a complication of this disease. Each of these diseases has the potential to cause severe vision loss or even blindness.
 Diabetic eye disease includes: 

  • Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
  • Cataract: Clouding of the lens of the eye.
  • Glaucoma: Increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that leads to optic nerve damage and loss of vision.
 
Diabetic eye disease is a leading cause of blindness and, as the National Eye Institute (NEI) points out, often there are no early warning signs. To reduce the risk of vision loss or blindness from diabetic eye disease, it is essential to find and treat the disease early. That means if you have diabetes, you should be sure to have a dilated eye examination at least once a year.

The numbers are discouraging - by 2030, an estimated 11 million people will have diabetic retinopathy. However, there is good news. According to the NEI, newer and better treatments for diabetic retinopathy are now available. You can ask Northridge optometrist Dr. Kathy Chriqui what treatment would be best for you or your loved one.
"Think of all the beautiful things you wouldn't see if you lost your sight," the NEI says. Early detection, timely treatment and appropriate follow-up care are the only ways to prevent vision loss. In addition to an annual dilated eye exam, the NEI also recommends that people with diabetes keep their health on TRACK:

    Take your medications.
    Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
    Add physical activity to your daily routine.
    Control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
    Kick the smoking habit.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common form of diabetic eye disease, and is a leading cause of blindness in American adults. Unfortunately, there are often no symptoms in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. You won't feel any pain and you may not even notice changes in your vision until the disease has progressed. "Even in more advanced cases, the disease may progress a long way without symptoms," the NEI says. "This symptomless progression is why regular eye examinations for people with diabetes are so important".

If you have diabetes, you are also at risk for cataracts and glaucoma. According to the NEI, people with diabetes develop cataract at an earlier age than those without diabetes. Fortunately, surgery can be used to successfully treat cataracts.
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The risk for developing glaucoma is nearly twice as high in people with diabetes as in other adults. And, as with diabetic retinopathy, the longer you've had diabetes, the greater your risk of getting glaucoma. Treatments also exist for glaucoma. Dr. Chriqui can discuss the options with you, which include medications, laser surgery and conventional surgery, at her Northridge eye clinic.
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