EYE CENTER OF TEXAS BLOG

Macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic eye disease associated with aging that gradually destroys central vision. Itʼs one of the leading causes of legal blindness and vision impairment in older Americans. AMD affects central vision, but not peripheral vision – therefore, it doesn’t cause total blindness. The progression of AMD can be slow or rapid, but the deterioration of central vision generally occurs over a period of a few years.
Pain is not associated with AMD, but if you experience any of the following conditions Call the Eye Center of Texas at 713-797-1010 and make an appointment with Dr. Suarez right away:

•Straight lines appear wavy;

•Difficulty seeing at a distance:

•Decreased ability to distinguish colors;

•Inability to see details, such as faces or words in a book;

•Dark or empty spots block the center of your vision.

Although the exact cause of macular degeneration is unknown, several studies have shown the following are more at risk:

•People age 50 and older;
•People with hypertension;
•People who smoke;
•People with a family history of AMD.

There are two types of AMD: “dry” and “wet”: The “dry” form of macular degeneration occurs in approximately 90 percent of those with AMD. Studies have found that high levels of zinc and antioxidants play a key role in slowing the few specific forms of “wet” macular degeneration. Early detection and treatment are the best defense against losing your vision. If you are at risk for macular degeneration see Dr. Ting Fang Suarez at the Eye Center of Texas for a complete exam. Low vision rehabilitation resources
are available to help you preserve your quality of life and maintain maximum independence.

The National Eye Institute's Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that taking a specific high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc significantly reduces the risk of advanced AMD and its associated vision loss. More information available at our website: http://www.eyecenteroftexas.com/retina.html#link6

They say 50 is the new 30, but those bifocals are a dead giveaway you’re over 50. The ReSTOR lens can restor your vision - no more bifocals or reading glasses! Dr. Edward Wade is one of the top 10 ReSTOR surgeons in the country. Call the Eye Center of Texas at 713-395-1515 to find out more about the ReSTOR Lens or check us out at www.eyecenteroftexas.com

If you have cafeteria/flex dollars through your company - LASIK is a great way to spend your these dollars and get GREAT vision!

Just last week a recent patient of the Eye Center of Texas told me..."LASIK is the best thing I've ever done...I only wish I had done it years ago! It's worth every penny and the best investment I've ever made".

Don't wait...call the Eye Center of Texas today and schedule your FREE LASIK evaluation.

Last night the Eye Center of Texas hosted a Black Bag & Botox Benefit...supporting the Houston Chapter of Dress for Success. Dress for Success provides professional attire, support and career development tools to help women thrive in work and life. This is a great organization and if you would like to learn more...check out this 2 minute video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9qiIkk5ayo

You and your closet can help disadvantaged women dress for success!

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is the most common cause of ocular discomfort. It happens when the tears produced by the eyes are insufficient in moisture, lubrication, and other features which usually protect and replenish the eye. Dry eyes may also be worsened by environmental aspects such as dry weather, wind, and computer use. People with dry eyes often feel discomfort in a variety of ways including redness, burning, tearing, and a gritty foreign body sensation. In addition, patients often complain of intermittent blurring of vision. DES can be sporadic for some patients, but in others it is a chronic, irritating ocular disease.

How Do Tears Prevent Dry Eyes?
Tears are a major protective agent for the eyes. Tears not only wash away dust from the eyes, but also soothe the eyes, provide oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, as well as help defend against eye infections by removing microorganisms that can colonize in the eyes. Tears are composed of three distinctive layers. The outer lipid section consists of an oily film that counters evaporation and keeps the eye moistened. The middle region is made of mostly water that moisturizes the eyes as well as some nutrients and proteins that assist in limiting eye infections. The inner coating contains mucous that allows the tear film to spread and reduces evaporation from the eye. Each layer is vital to the health of the eye and many reasons exist which can cause an imbalance in tear quantity, quality, and consistency which can lead to dry eye syndrome.

Dry Eyes Treatment Options
Dry eye treatments will vary depending on the cause and the level of dryness. Many people can use artificial tears, gels, or ointments that simulate the action of normal tears. These products can provide temporary relief to the eyes and are excellent choices for episodic or mild dry eye patients. For patients with more chronic disease marked by moderate signs and symptoms, a new medication called RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion is available by prescription. This FDA approved eye drop is the only medication proven to make more of the patient’s own tears. It helps the eyes to produce more natural tears which are great for dry eyes evoked by aging and other reasons for deficient tear production. Another treatment step is the use of punctual plugs. These plugs block the drainage of tears and conserve them in the eyes longer. There are temporary and permanent plugs which are easily inserted into the tear ducts. Sealing the drainage system can also be done surgically. This method prevents tears from draining from the eyes and keeps the eyes moisturized. Contact lens wearers will often find eye drops effective especially if the lenses are removed prior to adding the rewetting drops. Primarily strenuous activities on the eyes often require a break or lots of blinking to bolster the prevention of dry eyes.