tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86671994429571523502024-02-20T13:18:21.345-08:00Cataract & LASIK Blog NW Indiana Eye & Laser CenterNorthwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center, Valparaiso for LASIK, Cataract, Lens Implants, Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.comBlogger406125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-9066347108078492242022-06-12T23:47:00.003-07:002022-06-12T23:47:31.084-07:00Viagra & Vision Problems<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivvvYCLgjzWaHgRi-_D_ZuvzGZIGYFC3GwOWdTWUCiDvCZQiImlP8Rgc067ZY1ZOMmDiGMnZj8QH9pznnC2c2PBQUCHWwpbKZ-Zn6S_tiwuroLbNg1XAFgvZ-KD0Q2DcMVzNDaapt3HVhnTTdSffUYu6EFIbIceM9W-j__43v-BaO4Y5EeBzTceN0/s1200/NWI-Viagra%20Vision%20Problems-1662804514.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivvvYCLgjzWaHgRi-_D_ZuvzGZIGYFC3GwOWdTWUCiDvCZQiImlP8Rgc067ZY1ZOMmDiGMnZj8QH9pznnC2c2PBQUCHWwpbKZ-Zn6S_tiwuroLbNg1XAFgvZ-KD0Q2DcMVzNDaapt3HVhnTTdSffUYu6EFIbIceM9W-j__43v-BaO4Y5EeBzTceN0/s1200/NWI-Viagra%20Vision%20Problems-1662804514.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivvvYCLgjzWaHgRi-_D_ZuvzGZIGYFC3GwOWdTWUCiDvCZQiImlP8Rgc067ZY1ZOMmDiGMnZj8QH9pznnC2c2PBQUCHWwpbKZ-Zn6S_tiwuroLbNg1XAFgvZ-KD0Q2DcMVzNDaapt3HVhnTTdSffUYu6EFIbIceM9W-j__43v-BaO4Y5EeBzTceN0/s1200/NWI-Viagra%20Vision%20Problems-1662804514.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivvvYCLgjzWaHgRi-_D_ZuvzGZIGYFC3GwOWdTWUCiDvCZQiImlP8Rgc067ZY1ZOMmDiGMnZj8QH9pznnC2c2PBQUCHWwpbKZ-Zn6S_tiwuroLbNg1XAFgvZ-KD0Q2DcMVzNDaapt3HVhnTTdSffUYu6EFIbIceM9W-j__43v-BaO4Y5EeBzTceN0/s320/NWI-Viagra%20Vision%20Problems-1662804514.jpeg" width="320" /></a></blockquote><br /><br />Did you know that in high doses the erectile dysfunction medicine Viagra can cause vision problems? Recent reports in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2020.00067/full">Frontiers in Neurology</a> relayed that Sildenafil, sold under the brand name Viagra is considered safe for men with erectile dysfunction, but at high doses the drug can have lasting effects on vision. The men in this study took the drug without prescription and at the highest recommended dose: 100 milligrams. All of the men experienced vision disturbances ranging from light sensitivity and blurriness to colorblindness and blue-tinted vision. The symptoms continued long after the drug’s desired effects wore off and in some cases lasted as long as three weeks. <br /><br /><b>What We Know </b><br /><br />Viagra boosts blood flow by turning off an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 5. But in the process, the drug also meddles with a related enzyme in retinal cells. At high doses, experts say, this could permanently damage the retina. Side effects most often emerge in men with other underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart conditions. Erectile dysfunction drugs are tied to <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-ischemic-optic-neuropathy">ischemic optic neuropathy,</a> a sudden and permanent vision loss caused by interrupted blood flow to the optic nerve. This in fact is most common in men with high blood pressure or heart conditions. <br /><br />While the report raises concerns, experts do not recommend discarding the drug. One key takeaway: Only use ED medicine under medical supervision, and at a prescribed dose!. Also, purchase the drug from a trusted source. Counterfeit drugs, often sold online, are not regulated by the FDA and may not meet quality and safety standards. Call us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.<br />Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-3100386281396670812022-06-12T23:43:00.004-07:002022-06-12T23:43:49.165-07:00Eye Drops for Droopy Eyelids<div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEaHmGmAHbn_9hBnSmAMAKT9eX0ZKz33ruMVeSKq06jG4UbfKlosmdXV8LDLbUv8FMULuDfvbC8cUAj9WfjSTiLXZACNbXGSDCcl1BS7IZ2iZujs_T8B_PiJ4KzxOqC7cvp1kiIPqDFE3A8M8RrB8sZIRoigMS5eYmtaK1u4e8lsg3BR0UV2nuqLO/s1200/Droopy%20Lids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEaHmGmAHbn_9hBnSmAMAKT9eX0ZKz33ruMVeSKq06jG4UbfKlosmdXV8LDLbUv8FMULuDfvbC8cUAj9WfjSTiLXZACNbXGSDCcl1BS7IZ2iZujs_T8B_PiJ4KzxOqC7cvp1kiIPqDFE3A8M8RrB8sZIRoigMS5eYmtaK1u4e8lsg3BR0UV2nuqLO/s1200/Droopy%20Lids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEaHmGmAHbn_9hBnSmAMAKT9eX0ZKz33ruMVeSKq06jG4UbfKlosmdXV8LDLbUv8FMULuDfvbC8cUAj9WfjSTiLXZACNbXGSDCcl1BS7IZ2iZujs_T8B_PiJ4KzxOqC7cvp1kiIPqDFE3A8M8RrB8sZIRoigMS5eYmtaK1u4e8lsg3BR0UV2nuqLO/s1200/Droopy%20Lids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEaHmGmAHbn_9hBnSmAMAKT9eX0ZKz33ruMVeSKq06jG4UbfKlosmdXV8LDLbUv8FMULuDfvbC8cUAj9WfjSTiLXZACNbXGSDCcl1BS7IZ2iZujs_T8B_PiJ4KzxOqC7cvp1kiIPqDFE3A8M8RrB8sZIRoigMS5eYmtaK1u4e8lsg3BR0UV2nuqLO/s320/Droopy%20Lids.jpg" width="320" /></a></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Did you know that there is a prescription eye drop to help droopy eyelids? It is estimated that 10-12% of adults have a droopy eyelid, but many don’t know it’s considered a disorder, or that it can be treated. Droopy eyelid occurs when <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/eye-muscles">muscles that keep the eye open</a> lose function with age. It can affect one or both eyes. As the <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/eyelid-4">eyelid</a> droops, the opening of the eye constricts and vision can become impaired. Until now, the only way to treat ptosis was to have eyelid surgery. Ptosis eyelid surgery is usually only performed in severe cases of droopy eyelids. Recently a once a day prescription eye drop, called Upneeq, became available to help with droopy eyelids. The <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/eye-drops-kinds-recommendations">prescription eye drop</a> provides an alternative to <a href="https://youtu.be/1_iN6KnrX5U">surgery</a> and off-label drugs, the only options for fixing droopy eyelid until now. Upneeq works on a muscle that elevates the eyelid. It causes that muscle to contract, allowing the eyelid to open 1-2 millimeters wider than before treatment. Upneeq doesn’t work for people who have droopy eyelid due to excess skin, saggy eyebrows, or underlying <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries">eye injury</a> or nerve problems. The drug is not a treatment for congenital ptosis and has not been studied or approved for children born with droopy eyelids. <br /><br />If you or someone you know suffers from droopy eyelid please schedule an appointment so we can evaluate your individual case and help determine if Upneeq or another treatment option might be right for you. Call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-60281099825705861122022-05-02T12:23:00.000-07:002022-05-02T12:23:05.323-07:00Sunglasses Are A Must!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI78viecoGNwMAE6tKCie9qjtNP0wJ0hwICp2I-7th2n1UycT7N7bdwy40A-6uATR9LdD7RrXN2oQyjsc2_tG0rCnux1x3vjS-99DztluW2VnvYuCH17wSppmv-vqfg6__ctrp7d4A1od08CRLWUACxs4j9KXe5q9XkuXtDZNoXQ3n13PJt8ed9XK/s1200/NWI-Sunglasses%20Are%20A%20Must-1040542234.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI78viecoGNwMAE6tKCie9qjtNP0wJ0hwICp2I-7th2n1UycT7N7bdwy40A-6uATR9LdD7RrXN2oQyjsc2_tG0rCnux1x3vjS-99DztluW2VnvYuCH17wSppmv-vqfg6__ctrp7d4A1od08CRLWUACxs4j9KXe5q9XkuXtDZNoXQ3n13PJt8ed9XK/s320/NWI-Sunglasses%20Are%20A%20Must-1040542234.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>Did you know that sunglasses are a “must wear” item! The skin around the eye is delicate, and an area of some of the thinnest skin on the body making it more susceptible to damage. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can damage not only the skin, but also the cornea, lens and other parts of the eye. Specifically UV damage can cause solar keratitis-an inflammation of the cornea, cataracts and even eyelid skin cancer. Sunglasses help to prevent skin cancer around the eyes and good shades also guard against vision loss as if you wear sunglasses, you decrease your risk over your lifetime of cataract formation. Invest in fashion-bigger is better! But, be sure to choose sunglasses that offer broad spectrum coverage, specifically protection against UVA and UVB rays. Be stylish and be safe! Learn more about UV eye protection & sunglasses at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-20887992927672679592022-04-18T13:51:00.000-07:002022-04-18T13:51:10.779-07:00Retina Problems & Bladder Medication?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisivGpkCPdJaG49rMrdJbTwiuuQL3ruQLnoYlKG8Xo-R1-GiycEGp56tEP6mm05HDNVqJVxbu1hjMcQi7Xcm6t26vvEjDl4iaB1OcRzVvUcnb4qfeSjzpaAq5cgMWv3Ce_oFMtGigKgkhHz3jA9PeYhYgkO-fiTspKjeSTRuGLIAE63Za1e1YXYuN6/s1200/Torn%20Retina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisivGpkCPdJaG49rMrdJbTwiuuQL3ruQLnoYlKG8Xo-R1-GiycEGp56tEP6mm05HDNVqJVxbu1hjMcQi7Xcm6t26vvEjDl4iaB1OcRzVvUcnb4qfeSjzpaAq5cgMWv3Ce_oFMtGigKgkhHz3jA9PeYhYgkO-fiTspKjeSTRuGLIAE63Za1e1YXYuN6/s320/Torn%20Retina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>Did you know that the common bladder medication Elmiron (Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium) prescribed for Interstitial Cystitis may be associated with retinal damage? Interstitial Cystitis causes chronic pain in the bladder and pelvis area for more than 1 million people in the United States. Elmiron is the only FDA-approved pill to treat it-but we now know that this medication may be toxic to the macula, or central area of the retina. It is recommended that if you are taking this medication, you should have a screening for retina damage at least once a year even if you show no signs of damage. If you show any signs of damage your eye doctor will need to alert your Urologist or Ob/Gyn that it might be necessary to discontinue the medication. The good news is that if identified early, the damage may be mitigated by stopping the medication. In the late-stage, toxicity can mimic late-stage dry atrophic age-related macular degeneration and result in permanent vision loss. <br /><br />If you or someone you know has been taking Elmiron for Interstitial Cystitis please schedule an appointment for an eye exam today at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-18955503619369165562022-04-11T11:12:00.008-07:002022-04-11T11:15:04.763-07:00More NFL Players Wear Protective Visors More players in the National Football League (NFL) are using visors to protect their eyes than ever before, despite visors being optional. That's according to new research published in <a href="https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00080-4/fulltext#%20">Ophthalmology</a>, the journal of the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology.</a> Visors shield players' eyes from injury. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/a/nfl-preview-2019/visors">Tinted visors</a> offer added protection from the sun. About 41% of defensive players and 24% of offensive players wore visors during the 2019-2020 season, the report found. Linebackers, running backs and defensive backs were much more likely than other positions to wear a visor. The study examined all 32 teams in the NFL. <br /><br /><b>Ophthalmologists Urge NFL to Make Visors Mandatory </b><br /><br />Sport-related eye injuries can be devastating and career-ending. Over the past five seasons, 16 NFL players sustained eye injuries ranging from eye gouges to <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/orbital-fracture-diagnosis-treatment">fractures of the bone around the eyes</a>, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-corneal-abrasion">corneal abrasions</a> and cuts to the eyelid, the study revealed. Because so many players are already using visors and because visors don’t hinder performance the ophthalmologists who authored the study urge the NFL to take a stronger stand on visor usage. Athletes on college, high school or community football teams should also wear visors, the authors note. Amateur leagues may not have access to the same equipment and resources that NFL players do, which could result in more significant eye injuries. The Academy has categorized football as a sport with a moderate risk of eye injury and <a href="https://www.aao.org/clinical-statement/protective-eyewear-young-athletes">recommends the usage of a polycarbonate eye shield or visor for protection</a>. If you need help with selecting protective eyewear schedule an appointment at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>.<br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-29239797480883833582022-03-28T12:57:00.000-07:002022-03-28T12:57:11.193-07:00Casual Wine Drinkers Less Likely to Get CataractsA glass of wine a day may keep the doctor away, according to <a href="https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/drinking-wine-may-help-protect-against-cataracts">a new study</a> from Moorfield’s Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and University College London. The study was published in Ophthalmology and showed people who drank low to moderate amounts of alcohol were less likely to need <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery">cataract surgery</a>. Reviewing data from 490,000 volunteers, research suggested that low to moderate wine drinkers in particular were the least likely to develop cataracts compared with nondrinkers and drinkers of other types of alcohol. This study is the largest of its type to date. <br /><br /><b>What Are Cataracts? <br /></b><br />A <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts">cataract</a> is when your eye's natural lens becomes cloudy. Proteins in your lens break down and cause things to look blurry, hazy, or less colorful. Treatment includes surgery, where the cataract is removed and replaced with a clear <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/cataracts-iol-implants">artificial lens</a>. <br /><br /><b>What Is Considered Moderate Drinking? </b><br /><br />Moderation was a key takeaway from this research. People who drank more than the suggested amount on a daily basis had about a 6 percent higher risk of cataract surgery compared to people who drank low to moderate amounts of alcohol. Moderate drinking was defined as about 6.5 glasses of wine a week. <br /><br /><b>Is Wine Good For Eye Health? </b><br /><br />Previous studies have also suggested that <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/diet-nutrition">red wine and diets rich in antioxidants</a> may prevent cataract development. Cataract development may be due to gradual damage from oxidative stress during aging. The fact that the findings were particularly evident in wine drinkers may suggest a protective role of polyphenol antioxidants, which are especially abundant in red wine. However, researchers remind the public that drinking alcohol regularly is also linked to many serious chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, and that this study does not suggest excessive drinking or drastic lifestyle changes. <br /><br />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 at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-40709755804750397752022-03-17T06:02:00.000-07:002022-03-17T06:02:00.038-07:00Are AMD & Cataract Surgery Compatible?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh_j2ZrBOYxny9xfWCGnm3CMv7OWiDgVuemfRIr6z9T-ezuO0eo6SHKD-MuIyq-awTRVFTNa4JlM5jyYV27v0avpRQdSD7lV_DhKF_7YhY6xg9w0jk_Q-McexDvr3Gw6TzfydWV_R0PUKodHwkWuTABzc-i8CMjRQsb8VBHgLXecaM0uZQ9HKh1llvO=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh_j2ZrBOYxny9xfWCGnm3CMv7OWiDgVuemfRIr6z9T-ezuO0eo6SHKD-MuIyq-awTRVFTNa4JlM5jyYV27v0avpRQdSD7lV_DhKF_7YhY6xg9w0jk_Q-McexDvr3Gw6TzfydWV_R0PUKodHwkWuTABzc-i8CMjRQsb8VBHgLXecaM0uZQ9HKh1llvO=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)</span></a> is a frustrating
condition that diminishes your ability to see detail clearly. When you combine
AMD’s loss of central vision with the </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/symptoms/blurriness-2"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">blurriness</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> from </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">cataracts</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">, you have a recipe for significant vision
loss. Can you have </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">cataract surgery</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> to restore some clear vision if you
have macular degeneration? The answer is probably yes, but there are some
factors that need to be considered first.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Which Condition Impacts
Your Vision Most: Cataracts or Macular Degeneration?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Before recommending
cataract surgery, your cataract surgeon will want to find out whether most of
your vision loss is caused by the cataract or by the AMD. Some people who have
a lot of damage to their </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/retina-103"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">retina</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> from macular degeneration won’t see much or any
vision improvement from cataract surgery. Your ophthalmologist will examine
your retina and take photographs to assess its condition. They will also take a
look at how cloudy your </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/lens-9"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">lens</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> is to see how much
vision the cataract may be blocking. And before recommending cataract surgery,
your surgeon will check your vision to see if a change in your </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/glasses"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">eyeglass</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> prescription or even </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/low-vision"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">low vision</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> magnifiers may be enough to see better.
Having cataract surgery with AMD may not restore your ability to do up-close
tasks, such as reading. Removing the cataract will allow more light to enter
the eye, but that may not be enough for good central vision. We need a clear
lens and a healthy retina for sharp vision.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Does Having Cataract
Surgery Make Macular Degeneration Worse?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Depending on the </span><a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">type of AMD</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> you have, the answer is not fully known
at this point.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">If you have the “dry” form
of AMD, there is no evidence that cataract surgery will make your AMD worse.
However, if you have the “wet” form, it is not clear if cataract surgery will
negatively affect your macular degeneration. Cataract surgery causes
inflammation inside the eye, which in theory could make wet AMD worse. However,
results of multiple </span><a href="http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/857108"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">studies</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> have been
inconsistent, so we don’t know for sure if cataract surgery worsens wet AMD.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Fortunately, for those
struggling with the double whammy of vision loss from both AMD and cataracts,
studies have shown that cataract surgery can improve vision in those who are
candidates for the procedure. You and your eye doctor can discuss your options
for achieving better sight.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or someone
you know is over 65, please schedule regular eye exams for common senior eye
problems such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration (AMD) so you can
maintain eye health and vision.<span style="background: white;">
Schedule an </span>eye exam at </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest Indiana Eye &
Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit </span><a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-decoration-line: none;">Northwest
Indiana Eye & Laser Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest Indiana Eye &
Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso,
Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</span></p><br /><p></p>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-46244178211647881592022-02-08T12:30:00.002-08:002022-02-08T12:30:34.796-08:00AMD Facts to Know<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNGv9mrHjYJhN2UT64daDOIFh38H5ou30zhv5h3bX_NXVk_aNcg54u2Ciyaw7wI_uNirzcEqZcrD3Ieo0-84okW9d62m-YBg9nP_-FAGeaEI7Fj5OeI43rv8FcUINAnKA_KCukLjfZbC8vYnGtjE1eqBOZ0AeNY9DnsNzPye834pj9oylQURk8cVFM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNGv9mrHjYJhN2UT64daDOIFh38H5ou30zhv5h3bX_NXVk_aNcg54u2Ciyaw7wI_uNirzcEqZcrD3Ieo0-84okW9d62m-YBg9nP_-FAGeaEI7Fj5OeI43rv8FcUINAnKA_KCukLjfZbC8vYnGtjE1eqBOZ0AeNY9DnsNzPye834pj9oylQURk8cVFM" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><br />Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in seniors. The disease harms central vision and limits a person’s ability to read, write and recognize faces. Older Americans who are unaware of the disease may be putting themselves at risk. The good news is that they can protect their sight with routine eye exams and some lifestyle changes. New treatments and protective steps can help people with AMD avoid vision loss. Here are some facts we think you should know:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The early warning signs of macular degeneration are subtle and easy to miss</li></ul>In the earliest stages of AMD, you may not notice any <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-symptoms">changes to your eyes or vision</a>. But at the same time, an early diagnosis allows for timely treatment. So how can you be sure to catch the disease early without obvious symptoms? The best defense is to get a <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/eye-exams-101">comprehensive eye exam</a>, even if you don't need glasses or contacts. The American Academy of Ophthalmology urges adults with no symptoms to have an eye exam at least by age 40. After age 65, it's important to get an exam every one to two years. But don't wait until age 40 if you notice problems with your eyesight or have eye discomfort.<br /><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Family history shapes your risk of macular degeneration</li></ul><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21865200">If you have a close family member with AMD, you have a greater risk of getting the disease</a>. Before your next eye exam, <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/family-reunions">speak with your family about their eye health history</a>. Catching AMD early could better your chances of saving your sight.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>You can't reverse vision loss from macular degeneration, but you can save your remaining vision</li></ul>Fifteen years ago, there was little that we could do to stop AMD from stealing people's vision. The most advanced form of disease, called <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration">"wet" AMD</a> because it causes fluid to leak from blood vessels in the eye, often caused blindness. Thanks to major advances in treatment, such as the use of <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-treatment">anti-VEGF drugs</a>, fewer people are going blind.<br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Vitamins can slow macular degeneration (in some cases)</li></ul>If you have AMD, you may have heard that the <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/areds2-study-results-amd-supplement">AREDS 2 vitamin formula</a> can help slow the disease. Clinical trials show that these <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/vitamins-amd">vitamins for AMD</a> can help with intermediate or advanced AMD in one eye. Trials have not shown that they prevent AMD in people who do not have the disease.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Smoking increases your risk of age-related macular degeneration</li></ul>Many studies have found that smoking cigarettes can increase risk of AMD. Smoking also increases the speed at which the disease worsens. If you smoke, you are twice as likely to get AMD compared with a nonsmoker. The good news is that <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/smokers">stopping smoking</a> is the best action you can take to lower your risk of AMD. People who quit smoking 20 years ago have the same risk of AMD as people who have never smoked.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Daily vision checking at home is effective at monitoring AMD progression</li></ul>The Amsler grid is a simple chart that people with dry AMD can use at home to check for changes. All you have to do is look at it once every day! <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-low-vision">Learn how to use the Amsler grid</a> to track progression and risk of AMD-related vision loss.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Eating certain foods may cut your risk of macular degeneration</li></ul>Studies have shown that <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/fish-vitamin-d-rich-foods-amd">foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids</a> are good for eye health. Studies link eating these foods with a reduced risk of AMD-but not when taken as supplements. Other nutrients that help eye health include lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc and vitamin C.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Exercise can help protect your vision as you age</li></ul>Many studies show <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/exercise-eyes-vision-4">getting regular exercise can benefit your eyes</a>. One study found that exercising three times a week reduced the risk of getting wet AMD by 70%. Studies also show that <a href="https://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(17)30218-0/abstract">exercise reduces the risk of all stages of AMD</a>.<br /><br />If you or someone you know is over 65, please schedule regular eye exams for common senior eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration (AMD) so you can maintain eye health. Please call us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354. </div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-85844105564770507422022-01-31T12:23:00.001-08:002022-01-31T12:23:50.869-08:00Time for Glaucoma Testing! Glaucoma is a disease that damages your eye’s <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/optic-nerve-3">optic nerve</a>. It usually happens when fluid builds up in the front part of your eye. That extra fluid increases the pressure in your eye, damaging the optic nerve. This is the most common type of glaucoma called Primary Open Angle Glaucoma. This type of glaucoma is painless and causes no vision changes at first so it is important to have regular eye exams and testing-especially if you are over 40 or someone in your family has glaucoma! <br /><br />The only sure way to diagnose glaucoma is with a complete eye exam. A glaucoma screening that only checks <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/eye-pressure">eye pressure</a> is not enough to find glaucoma. During a glaucoma exam, your eye will: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Measure your eye pressure-called tonometry. </li><li>Inspect your eye's drainage angle-called gonioscopy. </li><li>Examine your optic nerve for damage with a special lens </li><li>Test your peripheral (side) vision-called visual field testing. </li><li>Take a computer measurement of your optic nerve-called OCT. </li><li>Measure the thickness of your cornea-called pachymetry. </li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikBWjGOpDkBxn8TOgPOyALmU4dae3JiORiBP2bNYJFi0B-Mmiarjo-3ExTIcb0xJMDZrFuwAKyH0-nsayeVJwZfzjFEflrIj_245Mp7-qdbAYZsXW22Zp_gLbwlk1HlzJwZbflj9kIEsNHZnZ8v7ynrcV_UChHMwrjLUbnzlI0n6Kt7D7en7BjgMJi=s1200" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikBWjGOpDkBxn8TOgPOyALmU4dae3JiORiBP2bNYJFi0B-Mmiarjo-3ExTIcb0xJMDZrFuwAKyH0-nsayeVJwZfzjFEflrIj_245Mp7-qdbAYZsXW22Zp_gLbwlk1HlzJwZbflj9kIEsNHZnZ8v7ynrcV_UChHMwrjLUbnzlI0n6Kt7D7en7BjgMJi=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />These tests are part of your complete eye exam with glaucoma testing and give your doctor the necessary information to provide early detection and diagnose glaucoma. With early detection, diagnosis and treatment vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented. <br /><br />If you or someone you know has not had recent eye exam with glaucoma testing please schedule one at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-22067664919387595232022-01-20T13:37:00.000-08:002022-01-20T13:37:07.513-08:0010 Tips to Reduce Vision Loss from Glaucoma Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss in America. While early detection, diagnosis & treatment can slow its progression, there is no permanent cure. Lifestyle factors can influence eye pressure, which is a major risk factor for the disease. Here are some lifestyle tips that can actually help minimize the risk of losing vision from glaucoma: <br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Exercise regularly. A recent <a href="https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/another-reason-to-exercise-protecting-your-sight">study</a> showed that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity appear to have a 73 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. This is because blood flow and pressure inside the eye may change with exercise, which may affect glaucoma risk.</li><li>Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially green, leafy ones. One <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/2480455">study</a> showed that people who ate more leafy vegetables have a 20 to 30 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. Why? Nitrates in green vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and help regulate pressure inside the eye. </li><li>Drink coffee in moderation. Better yet, drink tea instead of coffee. A <a href="http://bjo.bmj.com/content/early/2017/11/25/bjophthalmol-2017-310924">study</a> published last month showed that people who consumed at least one cup of hot tea daily had 74 percent decreased odds of having glaucoma compared with those who did not consume hot tea. A little coffee is fine, but excessive caffeine intake is not ideal. One study found that drinking 5 or more cups of caffeinated coffee increased the risk of developing glaucoma. How can tea help? Antioxidants and the flavonoids contained in tea may improve the body’s ability to prevent the harmful effects of free radical damage. </li><li>Consider taking a magnesium supplement. <a href="http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/112067211002000118">Studies</a> suggest that an adequate intake of dietary magnesium may be beneficial for patients with glaucoma. Why? Magnesium improves circulation and seems to have a beneficial effect on glaucoma patients’ vision. However, another <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3374099/">study</a> suggests that too much magnesium may be associated with an increased risk of glaucoma. </li><li>Brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly. A recent <a href="http://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(16)30663-7/abstract">study</a> showed that tooth loss may be linked to increased glaucoma risk. This is because periodontal disease may trigger an inflammatory response that can contribute to glaucoma. </li><li>Don’t smoke. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5228680/">Studies</a> indicate that smoking cigarettes increases the risk of glaucoma, and has an overall negative impact on eye health. </li><li>Maintain a healthy body weight. <a href="http://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(16)30487-1/abstract">Studies</a> show that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) are at increased risk for diabetes, and having diabetes puts people at risk of glaucoma. Having a too low BMI is also associated with increased glaucoma risk.</li><li>Avoid inverted postures in yoga. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4689525/">Studies</a> show head-down positions can increase eye pressure and are not recommended for glaucoma patients. There are plenty of yoga exercises that don’t have this effect. </li><li>Avoid neckties. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1771792/">Researchers</a> say that a too-tight necktie may increase the risk of glaucoma by increasing blood pressure inside the eyes.</li></ul>Have regular eye exams including glaucoma testing, especially if you have a family history of the condition. <a href="http://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(16)31042-9/abstract">Researchers</a> have recently identified certain genes that increase the risk of glaucoma. Those <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-risk">at higher risk of glaucoma</a> include people of African descent, people with diabetes, and those with a family history of glaucoma. You are at increased risk if you have a parent or brother or sister with glaucoma. <br /><br />The key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma is early detection, diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is over 40, or has other glaucoma risk factors please schedule a glaucoma eye exam at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Center Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-61777074465110676362021-12-13T06:57:00.000-08:002021-12-13T06:57:21.454-08:00Cataract Surgery Improves Driving Safety<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiC2rGqDvb_Yo5X480eSpBIkptFNTuPgZcbxsqwQpJa8z6HognD71a4sxTrCayErzYeu6A-t1qqO8b75sczMSAMAEJRWEMX0MRxAeqW_SKZtI9lp-tbKbs6XO5B7l1_mO29Z86foj-FNv1rcZjxLpj2Q-pCp8t5XGHekF5gzgM2IeCDA3QsKY9eqkc2=s1200" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiC2rGqDvb_Yo5X480eSpBIkptFNTuPgZcbxsqwQpJa8z6HognD71a4sxTrCayErzYeu6A-t1qqO8b75sczMSAMAEJRWEMX0MRxAeqW_SKZtI9lp-tbKbs6XO5B7l1_mO29Z86foj-FNv1rcZjxLpj2Q-pCp8t5XGHekF5gzgM2IeCDA3QsKY9eqkc2=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Did you know that cataract surgery actually improves driving safety? The ability of<a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts"> cataract</a> surgery to restore sight is well known. Patients say they’re stunned by the vibrancy of color after surgery and the improvement in night vision. Depending on the type of lens implant (IOL) selected to correct your vision after cataract surgery many patients no longer even need to wear glasses, reading glasses or bifocals after cataract surgery. Researchers reporting at a recent meeting of the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a> used a driving simulator to test patients’ vision before and after cataract surgery. They found that near misses and crashes decreased by 48 percent after surgery! While visual acuity-how well you see the eye chart-is quickly measured after cataract surgery, it’s an incomplete assessment of how visually able you might be to drive.<br /><br />Cataract surgery appears to improve quantity of vision, or visual acuity, as well as contrast sensitivity leading to better night vision and improving drivers’ safety on the road. <br /><br />These results highlight the importance of timely cataract surgery in maintaining safety and continued mobility and independence in seniors. If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptom such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please schedule a cataract evaluation. Call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-91558274430157466782021-12-07T11:30:00.003-08:002021-12-07T11:30:30.712-08:00Cataracts & Diabetes: Facts You Might Not KnowDid you know that having diabetes increases your risk of developing cataracts faster and earlier in life? The crystalline lens in your eye is nourished by the Aqueous Humor-the clear fluid that circulates in the front of the eye behind the cornea. The Aqueous Humor actually provides oxygen and glucose for the health of the crystalline lens. If you have diabetes and not maintaining good stable blood glucose control, the crystalline lens can become cloudy and less transparent, eventually forming a cataract and making things appear blurry, faded and even appearing with a yellow tinge. This is yet another reason diabetics should work to maintain a healthy lifestyle and blood sugar control. <br /><br /><div>If you or someone you know has diabetes and experiences changing vision or is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving please call and schedule an eye exam at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.faccebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-56806107301898995632021-11-30T06:22:00.002-08:002021-11-30T06:22:38.914-08:00Types of Cataracts: Facts You Might Not Know<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKeoy_g1ilnMKurssfaIeZSzXtu-DjjWbd1wStH9urLGAxuiHWsvZ6SlynEPFYUiDoN0LCkbjsXOkrL980d1ikyEEsRChbiOWbriUAdWAcl4g-evLIS5q5hSWFexhz5prbrg6u2PNDzIE/s1200/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKeoy_g1ilnMKurssfaIeZSzXtu-DjjWbd1wStH9urLGAxuiHWsvZ6SlynEPFYUiDoN0LCkbjsXOkrL980d1ikyEEsRChbiOWbriUAdWAcl4g-evLIS5q5hSWFexhz5prbrg6u2PNDzIE/s320/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Did you know that there is more than one type of cataract? The most common type of <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-cataracts">cataract</a>, typically found in people over 40, forms mainly in the center of your eye’s crystalline lens and is called a <b>nuclear cataract</b>. Another type of cataract is called a <b>cortical cataract</b> which is a wedge-shaped clouding that develops at the edge of the lens instead of the center. Yet another type, called a <b>posterior capsular cataract</b> generally forms at the back of the lens, blocking light rays from reaching the retina. You should know that posterior capsular cataracts usually develop faster than nuclear and cortical cataracts. But all three types can be corrected with cataract surgery to remove them, and then your vision corrected with lens implants. Your cataract surgeon can recommend different types of lens implants so that your eyeglass prescription for distance vision and astigmatism are corrected at the same time as your cataract surgery, and many people can even have their need for bifocals or reading glasses greatly reduced or eliminated with lens implants as well. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-51517048434792537152021-11-22T08:06:00.003-08:002021-11-22T08:06:41.020-08:00Concerned About Cataracts?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStpKaLCOG8Wp5tmFRTOdEjxkddLNBKCgSKcamjcGZmg9kAELUAH11axz6skM5fIzxk5CxOKe22wCaCZV6dA_COXmYL0efDqHl9_QkmMP9bG39goNpaNtXwKOUXr_ysPU686grTsgaU20/s1200/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStpKaLCOG8Wp5tmFRTOdEjxkddLNBKCgSKcamjcGZmg9kAELUAH11axz6skM5fIzxk5CxOKe22wCaCZV6dA_COXmYL0efDqHl9_QkmMP9bG39goNpaNtXwKOUXr_ysPU686grTsgaU20/s320/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>Cataracts are one of the most common senior eye problems we hear about. There are many myths and misunderstandings about cataracts and cataract surgery that sometimes cause unnecessary concern. Here are some facts to help you put your mind at ease: <br /><br />>Cataracts are quite common affecting more than 24 million Americans over 40 and by age 80 half of all Americans have cataracts or have had cataract surgery to get rid of cataracts. <br /><br />>Cataracts often start slowly and at first, you may not notice that you have a cataract. But over time, cataracts can make your vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful and you may have trouble reading or doing other everyday activities, especially driving at night! <br /><br />>Vision problems from cataracts can almost always be corrected with cataract surgery & lens implants to restore your vision. <br /><br />>Most people having cataract surgery can have the cataract removed and their eyeglass prescription for distance vision and astigmatism corrected at the same time, and many can even have their need for bifocals or reading glasses greatly reduced or eliminated as well. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is experiencing cataract symptoms such as cloudy foggy vision, glare or difficult night driving and would like to learn more about cataract surgery & lens implants please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso Way, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA29.5719418 -98.60393161.2617079638211557 -133.7601816 57.882175636178843 -63.447681599999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-29502970652491196502021-11-16T12:57:00.000-08:002021-11-16T12:57:09.894-08:00What is a Retinal Tear or Torn Retina?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoGq-0vQxdVu6DITBDBGgY4kuXpRFvJ32FXP5zm6h96hpxAloYslIKfOVlOiG9YYroHYTbeshthM0CCVNdHyhygajN3wCP8waubS0ej_Vb4SDX2DAllLyJztClNSM1QBNIKXOpYOH5B4/s1200/NWI-What+is+a+Retinal+Tear-1277802895.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoGq-0vQxdVu6DITBDBGgY4kuXpRFvJ32FXP5zm6h96hpxAloYslIKfOVlOiG9YYroHYTbeshthM0CCVNdHyhygajN3wCP8waubS0ej_Vb4SDX2DAllLyJztClNSM1QBNIKXOpYOH5B4/s320/NWI-What+is+a+Retinal+Tear-1277802895.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><b>What is a Retinal Tear or Torn Retina? </b><br />A torn retina is a serious eye problem that can happen when the retina has a tiny tear or hole that actually tears further, like a rip in a piece of cloth. If not treated right away, a torn retina can lead to an even more serious problem called a detached retina where the retina is lifted away from the back of the eye and puts you at considerable risk of vision loss. <br /><br /><div><b>How Does a Torn Retina Happen?</b><br />When you are young the vitreous gel in your eyes is pretty firm. As we get older, the vitreous gel in your eyes starts to shrink and get thinner. Normally, the vitreous moves around on the retina without causing problems. But, IF the vitreous sticks to the retina it can pull hard enough to actually tear it. When that happens, fluid can pass through the tear and lift it or detach the retina. <br /><br /><b>What Will I See if the Retina Tears?</b><br />When the retina tears, you may suddenly see flashes of light or floaters. Sometimes blood can leak into the vitreous. This is called a vitreous hemorrhage, and it can cause a large number of floaters to appear suddenly. With any sudden onset of flashes of light or floaters you need to be examined right away as a torn retina can quickly cause a retinal detachment and you could lose vision. <br /><br />If you or someone you know experiences sudden flashes of light or floaters please call our office and tell us that you need an immediate appointment. Call us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.<br /></div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-23241460176460532212021-11-10T07:52:00.004-08:002021-11-10T07:52:42.623-08:00Sleep Apnea & Diabetic Eye Problems?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier2XDHtQTOzDCLQGnX0rlUtj2sjbmFcNAJ0KeyfffYt7oV1ZbbKUp9y3nR0gVCwo_zZtGWMsIBeWMgs5Sk4vH1AnNmq7ZUwHUQStPKET2SJtXb8wGYZS0U_sb5IJn9y6wjDLcqLMxXnc/s1080/NWI-Blog-Apnea-%2528ss430205362%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier2XDHtQTOzDCLQGnX0rlUtj2sjbmFcNAJ0KeyfffYt7oV1ZbbKUp9y3nR0gVCwo_zZtGWMsIBeWMgs5Sk4vH1AnNmq7ZUwHUQStPKET2SJtXb8wGYZS0U_sb5IJn9y6wjDLcqLMxXnc/s320/NWI-Blog-Apnea-%2528ss430205362%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>If you have diabetes, did you know that having severe sleep apnea may increase your risk of developing <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-macular-edema">diabetic macular edema</a>, a <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/diabetic-eye-disease">complication of diabetes</a> that can cause vision loss or blindness? Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) also appears to be more difficult to treat in patients with severe sleep apnea according to reports from researchers at the Annual Meeting of the <a href="http://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a>. <br /><br />Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts, disrupting sleep and causing blood oxygen levels to drop. This drop in oxygen appears to unleash a host of changes in the body that may play a role in injuring blood vessels. People with sleep apnea are at risk of developing hypertension, heart attacks, stroke and type 2 diabetes. When people with diabetes have poor control over their blood sugar levels, the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye can become damaged. Sometimes, tiny bulges protrude from the blood vessels, leaking fluid and blood into the retina. This fluid can cause swelling or edema-called Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) in an area of the retina that allows us to see clearly. Researchers believe that sleep apnea may contribute to the development and worsening of diabetic retinopathy by increasing insulin resistance, elevating inflammation and raising blood pressure, all of which can damage the blood vessels at the back of the eye. <br /><br />If you or someone you know is diabetic and especially if you suffer from sleep apnea, please be sure to have an annual eye exam and be tell your eye doctor that you suffer from sleep apnea as it is a risk factor Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). Please call us to schedule a diabetic eye exam at <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-67966559792384872052021-11-01T11:15:00.001-07:002021-11-10T07:49:17.711-08:00Diabetics Need Annual Eye Exams!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuQjUouR7AUD4fUFrr3HNfocAutSHGGVprzo-sQdgrUWtvuDr9HEv6M5Z4JCw4XXkI8mqSyUd-cIQPtv1uJiqlvRBO3MBkhTqMuQg6oiI3_ChZvuUGVnSq6Cm00pbg_St_eNoqJYbDPY/s1080/NWI-blog-eye-exam%2528ss536401498%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuQjUouR7AUD4fUFrr3HNfocAutSHGGVprzo-sQdgrUWtvuDr9HEv6M5Z4JCw4XXkI8mqSyUd-cIQPtv1uJiqlvRBO3MBkhTqMuQg6oiI3_ChZvuUGVnSq6Cm00pbg_St_eNoqJYbDPY/s320/NWI-blog-eye-exam%2528ss536401498%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Diabetes and the related diabetic eye problem of diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause preventable blindness in the United States among adults age 20 to 74. About 1/3 of the 30 million Americans with diabetes have <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy">diabetic retinopathy</a>. With early detection and treatment vision loss from diabetes is preventable! Often, people may not notice vision changes in the disease's early stages. But as it progresses, diabetic retinopathy usually causes vision loss that in many cases cannot be reversed. Even if you don’t notice changes in your vision-diabetics should have annual eye exams. That’s why it’s so important that everyone with diabetes has yearly exams for early detection. But the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still reports that less than 2/3 of people with diabetes undergo their recommended annual dilated ophthalmic examination. We all lead busy lives but diabetics need annual eye exams to prevent vision loss.</div><br /><div>If you or someone you know is diabetic please remind them to have an annual eye exam or call us to schedule a diabetic eye exam at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141215.407945736482269 -122.2173912 67.538243863517721 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-78161619252493587832021-10-25T12:51:00.011-07:002021-10-25T12:56:04.521-07:00Avoid Eye Injury from Halloween ContactsSpooky contact lenses can complete your Halloween costume. But beware of the dangers of illegal costume contact lenses lurking on store shelves and invading online retailers. Though the federal government works to keep illegal and harmful versions of decorative or color contact lenses off the shelves, they can still be purchased at costume shops, gas stations, corner shops and online. Here’s an easy way to tell if your lenses are counterfeit: Can you purchase them without a prescription? If the answer is yes, those creepy lenses are a danger to your vision. <br /><br />That's why the <a href="https://www.aao.org/">American Academy of Ophthalmology</a> is urging people to buy decorative contact lenses only from retailers who require a prescription and sell FDA-approved products. It’s easy to forget that decorative lenses are medical devices, not costume jewelry. They must be prescribed and fitted by an eye care professional, just like regular contact lenses. That's because a poorly fitted contact lens can easily scrape the cornea, the outer layer of the eye, making the eye more vulnerable to infection-causing bacteria and viruses. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21401905">Research</a> shows that people who purchase contacts without a prescription face a 16-fold increased risk of developing an infection. <br /><br />To help ensure you won’t be haunted by a ghoulish and painful contact lens-related eye infection, here are some tips to follow: <br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>See an Eye Care Professional for a Prescription for Costume Contact Lenses. Packaging that claims “one size fits all” or “no need to see an eye doctor” is false. Get properly fitted by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.</li><li>Buy Only FDA-approved Contacts. Buy contacts only from eye care professionals or retailers that require a prescription and sell FDA-approved lenses.</li><li>Never Share Contacts. Sharing contacts can spread germs and bacteria, potentially causing blinding corneal infections and even pink eye.</li><li>Practice Good Hygiene. It is important to follow directions for cleaning, disinfecting and wearing costume contacts. See an eye doctor right away if you notice any swelling, redness, pain or discharge from wearing contacts.</li><li>Limit Wear of Colored Contact Lenses to 4-5 Hours. The dye and less expensive materials used in costume lenses can restrict oxygen flow to the cornea. Less “breathable” lenses are less healthy for the eye. Never sleep in contact lenses, even if you have a prescription.</li><li>Spread the Word About the Dangers of Costume Contacts. Don’t let friends make the mistake of wearing costume contacts without a prescription. It can cost them their vision.</li></ul>If you or someone you know has questions about or needs a fitting for Halloween colored contact lenses please schedule an appointment at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br /><div>Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 851 Eastport Centre Drive, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</div>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-15288325128301967382021-09-27T08:05:00.001-07:002021-09-27T08:05:43.134-07:00Loving Golf More than Ever! <p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Since Dr. Buck removed my
cataracts my golf game has gotten so much better!! I had kept putting off
having the surgery for some time and finally my wife convinced me to have it
done.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I wish I wasn’t so stubborn
because my vision is wonderful now and I can see so clearly now.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I didn’t realize how bad my vision was until
I had it fixed! Dr. Buck did a great job!”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or 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 </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">please
call </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">at</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at
219-464-8223, or visit </span><a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-decoration-line: none;">Northwest
Indiana Eye & Laser Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest Indiana Eye &
Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana
46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</span></p>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-47670583334049112152021-08-23T07:33:00.001-07:002021-08-23T07:33:19.791-07:00Eye Problems in Autistic KidsDid you know that the risk and prevalence of certain eye problems is greater in kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects an estimated 1.85% of children in the United States and is increasing in prevalence. For quite some there was the suspicion that kids with ASD might be at greater risk for certain eye disorders such as amblyopia, strabismus, optic neuropathy, nystagmus and even retinopathy of prematurity. Recently researchers reporting in the <a href="https://www.ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(20)30485-2/fulltext">American Journal of Ophthalmology</a> reviewed data from over 10 million children and found the prevalence in non ASD kids to be 3.5% and in ASD kids 12.5%. They concluded that ASD kids had about three times the likelihood of having these eye problems and suggested further studies to understand if the severity of the ASD might be related to the eye problems. <br /><br />If you or someone you know has a child with ASD it would be important to schedule an eye exam. Please call Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-79650402051434907262021-08-11T10:30:00.000-07:002021-08-11T10:30:03.459-07:00Sunglass Myths & Eye Damage Prevention <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPrN4XYKDPkO9RHyVNSQqFOy60iPJBpg2v9Zz9kWlQQHreavaIbN6Dz6Y_ZZPoSPx7Z-mTIUByTEjjVPNDMokxjzHQe6k5BmubH5iyIFxuTRYHkAIDUadr3XF7zaJfLMHUZCL3L2_jrs/s1200/NWI-Sunglass+Myths-381764155.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPrN4XYKDPkO9RHyVNSQqFOy60iPJBpg2v9Zz9kWlQQHreavaIbN6Dz6Y_ZZPoSPx7Z-mTIUByTEjjVPNDMokxjzHQe6k5BmubH5iyIFxuTRYHkAIDUadr3XF7zaJfLMHUZCL3L2_jrs/s320/NWI-Sunglass+Myths-381764155.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Did you know that too much sun on unprotected eyes increases the risk of eye disease? The good news is that prevention is simple: Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. But there are a lot of common myths about sunglasses and eye health. Here is some information to help debunk the myths and provide tips to promote smart eye health choices.<p></p><b>Myth #1: Sunglasses are Only for Sunny Days</b><br /><b> False. </b>UV light gets through clouds and haze. Regardless of the season, sun exposure can increase the risk of developing cataracts, growths on the eye and cancer. Sun reflecting off ice and snow can also lead to <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/photokeratitis-snow-blindness">photokeratitis</a>, a painful eye condition sometimes referred to as snow blindness. <br /><br /><b>Myth #2: Babies and Children Don’t Need to Wear Sunglasses<br /> False. </b>Children are just as susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays as adults. Start them on healthy habits early. <br /><br /><b>Myth #3: Cheap Sunglasses Don’t Offer Protection<br /> False.</b> Sunglasses don’t have to cost a lot of money to provide adequate eye protection. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective as more expensive options. Labels can sometimes be confusing. Some indicate sunglasses offer 100 percent protection from UVA/UVB radiation, others offer 100 percent UV 400 protection. Both block 100 percent of the sun’s harmful radiation. <br /><br /><b>Myth #4: Size Doesn’t Matter<br /> False. </b>The more coverage sunglasses provide, the less sun damage inflicted on the eyes. Consider oversized sunglasses or wraparound-style glasses, which can help cut down on UV light entering the eye from the side. Wraparound glasses may also protect against dry eye due to the wind. <br /><br /><b>Myth #5: Polarized Lenses Offer More Sun Protection <br /> False.</b> Polarized lenses do not block more radiation; however, they can cut down on glare reflecting off cars, water or pavement, which can make activities such as driving or boating more enjoyable. <br /><br /><b>Myth #6: Darker Lenses Offer More Sun Protection <br /> False.</b> The darkness of the lens isn’t indicative of protection. Make sure the label on the lens says 100% UV-blocking. <br /><br /><b>Myth #7: Tinted lenses offer more Sun Protection <br /> False.</b> Amber, green and grey lenses do not block more of the sun’s harmful rays. However, tinted lenses do offer increased contrast for those who play sports, making a softball or a golf ball easier to see. <br /><br />Your eyes need protection from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays just like your skin. Sunglasses are your prescription for eye health. They are effective, inexpensive, and provide protection year-round. Schedule an appointment to select and be fit with fashionable sunglasses to look good and protect your eyes! Call us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-72622461433397029872021-08-05T07:53:00.001-07:002021-08-05T07:53:55.805-07:00Astigmatism Lens Implants & Cataract Surgery <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmpPOu1X8xl6YlsY-pbYq09purhu6t64xqnRaeE-14kz2fICn_EptkSa-i4N0TdyV0PXjOnkI_y1Us4gYWJAQ3qKEGahKKebQ5j_LECT4lrneWEwzgWfLZB2PebM3XNdqP9sNKyQMpkA/s1200/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmpPOu1X8xl6YlsY-pbYq09purhu6t64xqnRaeE-14kz2fICn_EptkSa-i4N0TdyV0PXjOnkI_y1Us4gYWJAQ3qKEGahKKebQ5j_LECT4lrneWEwzgWfLZB2PebM3XNdqP9sNKyQMpkA/s320/Types+of+Cataracts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>If you have astigmatism, and need cataract surgery, it is likely that your cataract surgeon will recommend a toric lens implant to correct your vision. A recent study reported in the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Journal of Refractive Surgery</a> suggested that the best results of astigmatism cataract lens implants was achieved by performing the cataract surgery using the femtosecond laser as a laser cataract surgery procedure. The laser procedure allowed for better marking of the axis of the astigmatism correction adding to the precision of the final results.<br /><br />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 us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-81596594511766122222021-07-21T07:31:00.000-07:002021-07-21T07:31:08.484-07:00Look on the Bright Side after Cataract Surgery<p><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">“My cataracts had gotten so bad that I felt like I was
looking through a dirty window all of the time.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">What a difference having cataract surgery has been.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I can see so clearly and colors are so bright
and vibrant!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Thank you Dr. Buck!”</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or 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 </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">please
call </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">at</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at
219-464-8223, or visit </span><a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-decoration-line: none;">Northwest
Indiana Eye & Laser Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest
Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street,
Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354. </span></p>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Knox, IN 46534, USA41.2958751 -86.625013912.985641263821158 -121.7812639 69.606108936178856 -51.4687639tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-5337726394490952612021-07-08T09:07:00.003-07:002021-07-08T09:07:51.081-07:00Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement Risks<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCJeyyMGHxMl8616v4w7GxRwy5vQLPLJWExHL0JBcAJqbfhXgSMlEywI_cNMK9lh_SXkx0zwe7BO5TKJIzMJRQHLaqVhXBVBeNCN3gcr8iXipmncFk_PYg7jm7xFnNBhq6mtzUwqu9Io/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCJeyyMGHxMl8616v4w7GxRwy5vQLPLJWExHL0JBcAJqbfhXgSMlEywI_cNMK9lh_SXkx0zwe7BO5TKJIzMJRQHLaqVhXBVBeNCN3gcr8iXipmncFk_PYg7jm7xFnNBhq6mtzUwqu9Io/" width="320" /></a></div><br />Did you know that eyebrow and eyelash enhancement treatments performed in salons can have risks you should be aware of? Having your eyebrows and eyelashes treated in a salon may seem like an easy way to enhance your look, but microblading, eyebrow lamination, eyelash lifts and tints can have risks to know about.<p></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 0in;"><b>Types of
Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement</b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">Eyebrow & Eyelash </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/skin-care/a25983744/what-is-eyebrow-tinting/"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Tinting</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">: During
this 15-minute procedure, semi-permanent dye is painted onto the eyebrows
or eyelashes to make them appear thicker, darker and fuller. The color
lasts for about three to six weeks.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.elle.com/beauty/a37438/semi-permanent-eyebrow-microblading/"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Eyebrow Microblading</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">: Microblading
is also known as eyebrow tattooing, micro feathering or micro shading
where a permanent pigment is tattooed into the skin using a needle mounted
on a small handheld tool. The effects last for years.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.allure.com/story/brow-lamination-trend-photos"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Eyebrow Lamination</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">: This is a
chemical treatment, takes less than 1 hour and does not involve needles or
semi-permanent dye, but rather a perming cream is brushed into the
eyebrows to allow the hair to be sculpted into a more desirable shape. The
procedure effects last for several weeks.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.today.com/style/eyelash-perms-bigger-brighter-eyes-no-makeup-required-t74201"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Eyelash Perm:</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"> During
an eyelash perm the lashes are coated with an adhesive and curled around
rollers. Chemical solutions are then applied to the lashes to create a
long-lasting curl with the effects lasting one to two months.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/style/beauty-products/a31027825/what-is-a-lash-lift-and-tint/"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Eyelash Lift:</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"> An
eyelash lift, often combined with an eyelash tint, involves combing
eyelashes to a silicone shield and holding them there with adhesive while
a chemical lotion is applied to break down the protein in each eyelash and
encourage it to grow upward instead of outward. The results last about six
to eight weeks.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Risks of
Eyebrow & Eyelash Enhancement</b></p>
Eyebrow and eyelash enhancements pose eye health risks because they are so close to the eye. These treatments could cause problems with the eyes and affect vision, especially since there is a risk of sensitivity due to repeated exposure during the treatments. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productsingredients/products/ucm137241.htm">The Food and Drug Administration</a> (FDA) has not approved any color additives for permanent dyeing or tinting of eyelashes and eyebrows. The agency says permanent eyelash and eyebrow tints and dyes have been known to cause serious eye injuries, including blindness. Despite issuing warnings, the FDA cannot regulate salons. That job falls to state and local governments, which can have different rules. There are no set standards for eyelash and eyebrow tinting and it can be hard to judge how safe it is. Even if the FDA were to approve dyes for tinting, it would still be possible to get infections and <a href="https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies">allergic reactions</a>, so FDA approval alone does not automatically make the procedure guaranteed totally safe. If you have a reaction to any type of hair dye or cosmetic, you should contact your health care provider as well as schedule an appointment to see us if it involves your eyelashes, eyelids or delicate tissue around your eyes. Call us at Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit <a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/">Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center</a>, or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser">Facebook</a>. <br /><br />Northwest Indiana Eye & Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8667199442957152350.post-66286232015480854422021-06-28T09:19:00.001-07:002021-06-28T09:19:18.295-07:00Swim & Jet Ski Glasses Free<p><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">“I wasn’t going to go through one more summer
wearing glasses. I just graduated college and I am a lifeguard for the summer
until I get my forever job.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have been
an avid swimmer my entire life and I was determined to get rid of glasses and
contacts for good. Thankfully I was a candidate and had LASIK done right before
summer and I have been enjoying swimming and Jet Skiing all summer long!”</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you or 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, </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">please call </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest Indiana Eye &
Laser Center at 219-464-8223, or visit </span><a href="http://www.nwindianaeyeandlaser.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-decoration-line: none;">Northwest Indiana
Eye & Laser Center</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">, or </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/nwindianaeyeandlaser"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Northwest Indiana Eye &
Laser Center offices are located at 502 Marquette Street, Valparaiso, Indiana
46383 and 1003 South Edgewood Drive, Knox, Indiana 46354.</span></p>Dr. Scott Buck, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08343749658024112718noreply@blogger.com0Valparaiso, IN, USA41.4730948 -87.061141213.162860963821153 -122.2173912 69.783328636178851 -51.904891199999994