Unfortunately, as we age our eyes and vision change just like the rest of our body. It is vital to keep up with your vision health to detect eye disease and help prevent blindness. As we get older, we are more at risk for eye diseases including cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, corneal disorders, and retinal disorders. [Read more…] about Your Aging Eyes
10 Tips for Healthy Eyes
Sometimes we neglect our eyes, even though they are an essential part of our bodies and allow us to view the world. Here are some things you should be doing to help maintain the health of your eyes. [Read more…] about 10 Tips for Healthy Eyes
Eyelash Facts
Eyelashes protect our eyes from dirt and debris, as well as contain sebaceous glands at the base that lubricates and protects from dryness and irritation. The lifespan of an average eyelash is three to five months, opposed to the rest of your hair which lasts two to four years. Eyelashes are the thickest hair on the human body. Most people have between 150-250 individual lashes on the top of the eyelid and between 50-100 on the lower lid. Eyelashes grow in uneven rows, 5 to 6 on top and 3 to 5 on the bottom.
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
This week has been especially hot here in Michigan. Besides drinking plenty of water, slathering on sunscreen, and finding shade, remember when enjoying the outdoors, it is important to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses with UV protection and a broad brimmed hat.
May Is Healthy Vision Month
Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey promote the importance of healthy vision. We are open for emergency eye care and telemedicine visits. If you have a change in your health or vision and are unsure if it warrants a visit, please contact our office to discuss.
20/20 in 2020
A great way to start off the new year in a new decade is to make an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. Eye exams are critical to catch many eye diseases as well as some other diseases that have gone undiagnosed, such as diabetes. The sooner you are evaluated and diagnosed, the quicker you can be treated to reduce your chance of losing your sight. Don’t put it off. Schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist at Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey today!
Improving Patient Care: Advancements in Ophthalmology
The medical industry is constantly looking for ways to improve the care offered to patients. This is especially true in ophthalmology. New technologies and methods provide better results. How has eye care changed over the past years?
Easier Cataract Surgeries
Cataract surgery is a common procedure. The concept behind cataract removal began in 1750. 200 years later, Sir Harold Ridley performed the first successful lens implant, despite fierce criticism. Today, we have phaco techniques and implants that are tiny, making the lens much easier to put in.
Accurate Equipment
Accuracy makes an enormous difference in any medical procedure. The more accurate a doctor can be, the lower the risk of complications. Previously, patients would be measured preoperatively. Today, we have computer programs that generate precise measurements. This data lowers the potential for human error.
Advancements in ocular imaging are also being used in ophthalmologists’ offices across the country. Optical coherence tomography nearly eliminates the need for visual field testing.
Glaucoma Shunts
By using an intraocular shunt device, ophthalmologists can eliminate the need for eye drops. This surgery uses a flexible tube with an attached silicone drainage pouch. The device is installed in the eye to help drain fluid or aqueous humor. The shunt reduces pressure by around 25% on average.
Medical technology will continue to improve as we make new discoveries and improve old ones. The most important thing you can do to take care of your eyes is to visit an ophthalmologist. Routine check-ups can reveal problems before they become a bigger concern. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Bloomfield Hills offices today to schedule your eye examination.
What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk of Eye Disease?
Eye disease can completely change a person’s life. The term refers to any condition that affects the eyes. These can include cataracts, optic nerve disorders, retinal disorders, and macular degeneration. Some are brought on by other conditions, like diabetes. Others could be directly related to the choices we make.
While we can’t do much about genetics, we have total control over our lifestyle choices. What choices can you make that will help lower your risk of developing eye disease in your lifetime?
- Watch Your Weight – Being overweight will increase your risk of diabetes and other problems. These can cause vision loss and glaucoma. Staying fit will keep your risk for many conditions at a minimum.
- Enjoy a Healthy Diet – A healthy diet is necessary to nourish the body – including your eyes. Eat foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as dark, leafy vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid Smoking – Researchers have found a link between smoking and age-related macular degeneration. Don’t smoke or stop if you already started. Also avoid coming in contact with second-hand smoke.
- Manage Health Conditions – If you are diagnosed with a chronic condition like multiple sclerosis, hypertension, or diabetes, manage it as best you can and see a doctor regularly. This will help reduce damage to the eyes.
- Wear Eye Protection – Always wear recommended safety gear when participating in sports or activities that have a higher risk of impact or injury. Also, remember to put on your UV-blocking sunglasses when you go outside, even on cloudy days.
- Get Regular Eye Exams – Your ophthalmologist will monitor your vision and identify changes before they become bigger issues.
Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey in Bloomfield Hills to schedule an exam and learn more about reducing your risk of eye disease.
Best Wishes on Thanksgiving
Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey extends warm wishes on Thanksgiving to all of our valued patients, family and friends.
Our doctors and staff are thankful to serve Bloomfield Hills and the surrounding area as a leader in eye care and vision health. Whether you stop in for a routine checkup, or trust us and our expertise for a needed surgery or procedure, we are appreciative to have you in our extended family of patients. This time of the year is so special to us, and we hope you take time to cherish the people in your lives like we try to do every day.
Why Is It Hard to Focus When I Read Now That I’m Over 40?
Our bodies change as we age. Those changes extend to our eyes. It’s important to understand what is happening so you can learn how to overcome the challenges of growing older.
Seeing After Age 40
Many adults notice diminished eyesight by the time they reach their early to mid-40s. This usually causes problems when seeing objects that are close by, like when reading a book or newspaper. This condition is known as presbyopia.
You may be able to adapt by holding your reading material farther away from your face. Some adults may need prescription glasses. You may be at a higher risk for developing presbyopia if you:
- Have a family history of macular degeneration or glaucoma
- Were diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes
- Work in a field that is visually demanding
- Take medications for anxiety, depression, arthritis, thyroid issues, or high cholesterol
Signs of Age-Related Eyesight Changes
The number of symptoms and level of severity will vary from one patient to the next. The following, lists common signs that your eyesight changes are age-related:
- Difficulty viewing things that are close to you
- Difficulty with glare, especially when driving at night
- Difficulty distinguishing different shades of color
- Dry or irritated eyes with less tear production
- Need more light to see well
Signs Your Vision Problem Isn’t Age-Related
Just because you are over age 40 doesn’t mean your vision change is age-related. Seek medical advice right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Vision that fluctuates in clarity
- Seeing floaters or spots
- Loss of peripheral or side vision
- Images viewed appear distorted
Even if you suspect your changes are related to age, you should still talk to an ophthalmologist. It is important to make sure there are no other underlying causes and recommend the best way to address the problem. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Bloomfield Hills offices now to schedule your eye exam.