Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey

Michigan's Leading Eye Care Physicians

Workplace Eye Wellness

Grosinger, Spigelman, Grey Workplace Eye Wellness March 2019

March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and it is a great time to learn more about protecting your vision while on the job. Almost 25,000 Americans rush to emergency rooms for a workplace eye injury each year. More than 2,000 suffer an eye injury daily. That translates to nearly one million U.S. citizens who have lost vision and over $300 million in lost wages, workman’s compensation, and medical costs.

How to Protect Your Eyes At Work

The risk to your vision will vary based on your occupation. The construction industry currently claims one of the highest injury rates per the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Common causes include:

  • Hazards created by nearby coworkers
  • Windy or dusty conditions that cause particles to enter the eye
  • Exposure to arcs and flashes from welding
  • Hammering metal which launches metal slivers or nail rebounding
  • Wood, metal, dust, drywall, cement, or slag contacting the eye

Safety Starts with Following the Rules of Safety

Every worksite should have rules of safety to protect the vision of all. Engineering controls should be in place that includes machine guards that can catch particles. Welding curtains are also necessary to shield eyes from arc flash.

Administrative measures should also be in place. This includes having off-limits areas that are only accessible to employees who must be there to complete specific tasks. Finally, always wear proper protective eyewear. If you do receive an eye injury, go directly to the emergency room.

Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians in Bloomfield Hills to schedule an appointment.

Does the Zika Virus Effect the Eye?

Zika Virus

The Zika virus has made headlines in recent years. The disease was reported in 86 countries as of February 2018. Mosquitos carrying the virus transmit it to humans. It can also be spread through sex, blood transfusion, or from a pregnant mother to her unborn baby. There is currently no vaccine.

Zika Virus Symptoms

Most patients will notice no symptoms or only mild effects. These commonly include:

  • Muscle pain
  • Red eyes
  • Joint pain
  • Headache & fever
  • Rash

Zika deaths are very rare. Most patients don’t need to go to the hospital. The symptoms usually subside after several days to a week. That being said, Zika infection can cause a birth defect known as microcephaly as well as other serious brain conditions. It’s also linked to stillbirth and miscarriage.

Zika Virus & Your Eyes

Adults may notice mild redness, watery eye, lid redness, or eye pain. The effects are much more concerning for children. Developmental and structural issues have been identified in babies that were infected.

Every infant should be given an eye exam as well as routine check-ups as they grow. Early intervention can make a big difference.

If you have questions about how the Zika virus can affect your eyes, contact us. We would be happy to schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist to help you learn more and keep your eyes healthy.

Is It Possible to Prevent Glaucoma?

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease that harms the optic nerve. Increased intraocular pressure causes damage to the nerve, which is responsible for transmitting images to your brain. If it continues untreated, it can cause permanent blindness in as little as a few years. There are no early symptoms, which means that you may have glaucoma and not know it yet.

Eye Exams Are the Best Glaucoma Prevention

Early detection is essential to preserving your vision. That means the best prevention is regular eye exams. If you are under age 40, then you should visit your eye doctor once every two to four years. That should increase to once every one to three years if you have no underlying medical issues between the ages of 40 and 54. Patients ages 55 to 64 should go every two years, and those over age 65 should schedule exams annually.

Other Factors That Can Prevent Glaucoma

There are other things you can do to help prevent glaucoma. Along with regular exams, you can also maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Studies have shown that moderate exercise like jogging or walking three or more times each week can lower your risk.

An injury can cause traumatic glaucoma. Always wear proper protective gear when engaging in sports or working in high-risk areas.

Risk increases in individuals who are over age 40, have a family history of glaucoma, have poor vision, take steroid medications, or have diabetes.

How Can I Protect My Eyes From Glaucoma?

The best way to begin protecting your eyes from glaucoma is to schedule your next eye exam. An ophthalmologist can determine your risk and make recommendations that are based on your health status and individual needs. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey located conveniently in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan to book your glaucoma screening.

How Has LASIK Surgery Improved Over the Years?

Eye Michigan LASIK Surgery Improvements

LASIK, or laser eye surgery, is a procedure that’s used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and other vision errors. It can reduce a patient’s reliance on prescription contact lenses and eyeglasses. This procedure has been around for years and has seen significant improvements in methods and technology.

Better Tools Mean Better LASIK Results

One of the biggest advancements in LASIK is the introduction of improved tools. An excimer laser and microkeratome were originally used to cut a corneal flap. The Kremer Exciser Laser was approved by the FDA in 1995. This tool was equipped with eye-tracking technology that vastly improved efficacy and safety.

The first femtosecond laser was approved in the U.S. in 2001. This became the preferred tool for LASIK. It came with better vision improvement and a lowered risk of complications. It’s cleaner, more precise, and can also be used in cataract surgery.

Wavefront LASIK was approved two years later. This method included evaluating the characteristics of the patient’s eye. It allowed doctors to provide a customized procedure with 3D mapping.

What Does the Future of LASIK Surgery Look Like?

LASIK surgery has improved by leaps and bounds over the past two decades. It was the most popular elective surgery by 2010. Approximately 95% of patients who had LASIK reported satisfaction with the results.

As tools and methods continue to improve, so will the appeal and reliability of LASIK. If you are interested in better vision without glasses or contacts, then this might be a good choice for you. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey to schedule a consultation for LASIK.

Am I at Risk for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is the world’s leading cause of permanent blindness. There are currently over three million people in the United States that are living with glaucoma.

Each person’s risk will vary based on several factors. Genetics will play a role. Studies have indicated that over 50% of glaucoma is hereditary. If your sibling has the condition, then you may be as much as 10 times more likely to develop it as well. Talk to your family to learn more about genetic risks and to ensure that everyone keeps a regular eye exam schedule.

Other factors that can raise your glaucoma risk level include:

  • Age 40 or older
  • Asian, Hispanic, or African heritage
  • Diagnosed with high eye pressure
  • Suffering an eye injury
  • Long-term use of steroid medications
  • Corneas with a thin center
  • High blood pressure or poor circulation
  • Diabetes
  • Migraines

Can I Prevent Glaucoma?

It’s not always possible to prevent glaucoma completely, but you can do things to lower your risk. Start with regular eye exams and a healthy lifestyle. Good diet and exercise are essential to prevent many diseases. Also, wear eye protection when engaging in activities like sports or anything that could cause an injury.

How Do I Know If I Have Glaucoma?

The only way to know if you have glaucoma is with a comprehensive eye examination. Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey’s ophthalmologists will measure eye pressure, inspect drainage, test peripheral vision, and assess your optic nerve to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommendation for treatment or ongoing care. Contact our Bloomfield Hills office today to make an appointment.

Macular Degeneration Facts

Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is a common eye condition. It is the primary cause of vision loss in adults over the age of 50. It happens when the central area in the retina deteriorates. At first, most patients experience no vision loss. That will change as the patient progresses into later stages of AMD.

What do you need to know about this common condition?

  • AMD is not curable. That is why it is so important to stay healthy and have regular comprehensive eye exams to watch for signs of this disease.
  • Significant vision loss is usually not noticed until late stage AMD. You could have the disease and not know it.
  • Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD than Hispanic/Latinos or African Americans.
  • Smoking will double your risk of AMD. It is best to avoid this habit altogether or quit if you currently smoke.
  • If your family has a history of AMD, then you have a higher risk of developing the condition.
  • While it is rare, there is a form of macular degeneration that can affect children and teens. This type is known as Stargardt Disease and is caused by a recessive gene.
  • Tests are available that can detect the presence of AMD before symptoms appear.
  • Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, eating a nutritious diet, and regular exercise are believed to lower the risk of AMD.

Have You Been Checked for Macular Degeneration?

If you haven’t been checked for macular degeneration, now is the time to do so. Even if you aren’t in the highest risk age group or you have experienced no changes in sight, you should still have an ophthalmologist examine your eyes. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey located in Bloomfield Hills to make an appointment.

Tips to Prepare for LASIK Eye Surgery

Eye Michigan LASIK Eye Surgery Tips

LASIK eye surgery is very beneficial for people with less than perfect vision. It helps patients see without the aid of glasses or contacts. If you have decided to go this route, then there are a few things you should know before your appointment. The following tips will help you get ready, so you can relax when it’s time for surgery.

  • Plan to Arrive Early

Make sure you give yourself extra time to arrive at your appointment. You should be in the office and ready to go on time. Having some spare minutes will help account for potential traffic or other delays and reduce anxiety of running late.

  • Skip the Caffeine

If you usually drink soda, coffee, or other caffeinated beverages – skip them on your surgery day. It might be best to avoid them the day before as well if caffeine has a strong effect on you. This will allow you to relax when it is time for your LASIK eye surgery.

  • Find a Babysitter for the Kids

No children should be present when you undergo LASIK eye surgery. Going without the little ones will reduce stress and avoid accidental injury during post-op. Make sure you have a trusted babysitter lined up who can watch the kids for you.

  • Have a Responsible Adult Drive You Home

You will feel fine after the procedure, but you will not be able to drive.  Arrange to have a responsible adult there to drive you home and help you get settled in afterward. Your doctor can advise you when it is safe to drive again.

Talk About LASIK Eye Surgery with an Ophthalmologist

Find out if LASIK is the best option for you by speaking to a professional. Our ophthalmologists, Drs. Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey are available to evaluate your vision and recommend the best corrective treatment for you. Call us today to learn more about preparing for and undergoing corrective eye surgery.

The Importance of a Retina Examination

Eye Michigan Retina Examination

Regular checkups are just as important for your eyes as they are for the rest of your body. Even if you notice no changes or problems, there may be a condition developing that will require treatment. The best way to monitor for these issues is by scheduling regular eye doctor visits which should include a retina examination.

What Is a Retina Examination?

A retina examination lets your ophthalmologist look at the structures found at the back of the eye. Your pupils are dilated beforehand. Your eye doctor will shine a bright light and look through a microscope to assess the optic nerve, retina, and blood vessels. The process is comprised of four parts.

  • Dilating the Eyes – The first thing your eye doctor will do is dilate your eyes with drops that cause the pupil to widen. This allows more light to enter and provides a clear view of the inside.
  • Tonometry Test – Tonometry measures pressure inside the eye. This helps your ophthalmologist look for signs of glaucoma. A puff of air is blown directly into the eye or a pressure-sensitive tip is positioned near or up against the eye.
  • Visual Field Test – This test measures the entire scope of vision. That includes the center and peripheral fields. One eye is tested at a time. Modern testing devices will also track the patient’s ability to maintain a straight-ahead gaze.
  • Visual Acuity Test – This test involves reading an eye chart. This is the most well-known of all eye tests.

What Can a Retina Exam Diagnose?

A retina exam can diagnose conditions like hypertension, diabetic retinopathy, detached retina, and macular degeneration. Some problems are not accompanied by obvious symptoms, making a test necessary for early detection. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians today to schedule your retina examination.

Safe Toys and Celebration Month

How Can Your Grandchild’s Toys Affect Their Vision?

December is an exciting time for families across the United States. Many celebrate religious holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah. It’s a big time for toy shopping as well. That’s why it is the perfect time to observe Safe Toys and Celebration Month.

The toys your grandchild plays with can present a risk to their vision. Some playthings are not as safe as others. That’s because they may contain parts or edges that could hurt your little one – including their eyes. Every parent and grandparent should keep this in mind when buying kids gifts this year.

10 Tips for Buying Eye-Safe Toys This Holiday Season

The following tips can help you choose the safest toys for every child on your gift list this holiday season.

  • Avoid toys with sharp edges or components
  • Avoid projectile toys like dart or pellet guns
  • Only choose toys rated for your child’s age group
  • Buy the necessary safety gear to go with items like sporting equipment
  • Read toy warning labels before you buy
  • Avoid toys with pointed ends like plastic swords and guns
  • Laser pointer toys can cause blindness if misused
  • Do not buy aerosol string because the chemicals used can cause eye irritation
  • Buy playground equipment that is in new condition and intended for your child’s age group
  • Be careful when browsing budget or off-brand toys because these tend to be less sturdy

Keep your loved ones safe over the holidays season.

Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Wishes You a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

What Causes High Intraocular Pressure?

Eye Michigan High Intraocular Pressure

Intraocular pressure is the term used to describe the fluid pressure inside an eye. This is measured using tonometry, which provides readings in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

Sometimes pressure in the eye becomes excessive, leading to a condition known as ocular hypertension. You may notice no symptoms, which is why it is so important to schedule regular eye examinations to check for changes in pressure. A reading of 21 mmHg or more is usually considered higher than normal.

Causes of High Intraocular Pressure

Various problems can lead to high intraocular pressure. The best course of treatment will depend on the root cause of the condition.

  • Excessive Fluid Production – The aqueous is the clear fluid inside the eye. It is produced by the ciliary body and moves between the iris and cornea. If too much is produced, it will increase pressure within the eye.
  • Inadequate Fluid Drainage – Inadequate drainage of fluid can also cause ocular hypertension. The fluid that moves through the eye eventually drains through the trabecular meshwork, which is found where the iris and cornea meet. If it doesn’t drain properly, it can cause imbalance and build pressure in the eye.
  • Eye Injury and Trauma – Any trauma inflicted on the eye can affect the aqueous. The effects may not be noticed until months later, which is why all injuries should receive treatment right away.
  • Medications – Some medications can cause high intraocular pressure, including steroids prescribed for asthma.

A condition like corneal arcus or pigment dispersion syndrome can also change the pressure in the eye. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan for an appointment to measure your intraocular pressure and check for conditions like glaucoma.

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