General Ophthalmology

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Flashes and Floaters

Flashes and floaters are symptoms of the eye that commonly occur as a result of age-related changes to the vitreous gel. When we are born, the vitreous is firmly attached to the retina and is a thick, firm substance without much movement. As we age, the vitreous becomes thinner and more watery, and tissue debris that was once secure in the firm gel can now move around inside the eye, casting shadows on the retina.

Flashes in vision occur as a result of pressure on the retina in the back of the eye, and causes patients to see flashing lights or lightning streaks. Floaters occur when fibers move across the vitreous and into your field of vision, causing patients to see specks, strands, webs or other shapes as the fibers cast shadows on the retina. These spots are most visible when looking at a plain, light background.

Although flashes and floaters are common, especially as we age, it is important to see your doctor, as they may indicate a retinal tear or hole. Dr. Keamy can distinguish between harmless flashes and floaters, and those that may require treatment for an underlying condition. Most flashes and floaters will become less noticeable with time as patients adjust their vision. Although these floaters are harmless, it is important to continue to receive regular eye exams to ensure that any permanent changes to your vision do not occur.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the United States. A simple, painless eye exam can detect the disease. With early detection and treatment, glaucoma can usually be controlled and blindness prevented.

Glaucoma can affect anyone from newborn infants to the elderly. It has been estimated that up to 3 million Americans have glaucoma. At least half of those people do not know they have it because glaucoma usually has no symptoms. People who are at a greater risk for glaucoma usually have the following conditions:

• At least 45 years old without regular eye exams
• A family history of glaucoma
• Abnormally high eye pressure
• African descent
• Nearsightedness
• Diabetes
• Previous eye injury
• Regular, long-term use of cortisone/steroid products

To detect glaucoma, Dr. Keamy will test your visual acuity, test your visual field, and the pressure in your eye. If you are a glaucoma suspect or have glaucoma, Keamy Eye & Laser Centre also has an OCT, one of the most sophisticated instruments in detecting and following glaucoma. You will likely need to be dilated to get a view of your nerve. Photographs of your optic nerves will also be taken. Regular and complete eye exams help to monitor the changes in your eyesight and to determine whether you may develop glaucoma.

Treatment to control glaucoma includes medications in the form of either eyedrops or pills, laser surgery and conventional surgery.

Nutritional Supplements

Experts disagree on which nutrients can prevent eye disease or reduce vision loss, and there are many studies being conducted to help us learn more about the relationship between vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and eye health. The general consensus is that the same things that are good for your body are good for your eyes: a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, drinking at least six glasses of water a day, regular exercise, and avoidance of cigarette smoke.

Much of the research that has already been conducted points to the benefits of vitamins and antioxidants, specifically beta carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese and lutein. The National Eye Institute's recent Age-Related Eye Disease Study found that about one-fifth of patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) enjoyed a decreased risk of vision loss after taking high levels of zinc and antioxidants. The study did not find a correlation between these nutrients and the prevention or amelioration of cataracts, but others are more optimistic and recommend multivitamins as preventative measures for cataracts, dry eye and glaucoma.

Lutein is found in the macula, but it is not produced by the body. It can be found naturally in high concentrations in dark green and leafy vegetables, including spinach, collard and mustard greens, chicory, escarole, kale, lettuce, Swiss chard and turnip greens. Eating five or more servings per week (at least ½ cup per serving, cooked or raw) of these vegetables may reduce the risk or slow the progression of AMD. Patients taking the anticoagulant medication Coumadin should consult their doctors before increasing the amount of leafy greens they eat.

Optical Services

Keamy Eye and Laser Centre introduces its boutique optical shop run by our new optician Philip Meuse. Calvin Klein, Coach and Nike, Brendel, and Humphrey offer some of the most fashionable sunglasses and prescription frame styles around. Philipp brings over 25 years of experience in fitting and selecting the right pair of frames and lenses.

There is indeed something for everyone to satisfy all ages and tastes.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.