Fall Allergy Season is Here

Fall allergy season is almost here and that means red itchy eyes for many of us.  Fall and Spring are typically the worst time of year for eye allergies in Florida, but allergy sufferers can be affected any time of year.  In addition, indoor allergies from dust mites and animal dander can present a year round problem.  Avoidance of allergens is recommended, however it is not always practical (see link below).  Fortunately there are other steps you can take to make your eyes more comfortable. (more…)

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Questions and Misconceptions about Cataracts

Questions and misconceptions about cataracts abound.   Below I’ve answered some of the most common questions and misconceptions about cataracts and cataract surgery.

Q. What is a cataract?

A. A cataract is what we call the natural human lens when it gets cloudy.  Like a camera, the eye uses a lens system to focus light.  When the lens gets cloudy it is like getting a smudge on the lens of a camera.  No matter how much you try to focus the camera the image remains cloudy.  Likewise, when you develop a cloudy lens in the eye, at some point a change in glasses won’t be able to overcome the cloudiness. (more…)

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Am I a Good Candidate for Lasik Eye Surgery?

lasikLASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a safe and effective eye surgery used to correct refractive errors, improve your vision and reduce your need for contact lenses and prescription eye glasses. During Lasik surgery, a trained eye surgeon uses a laser to reshape the cornea of your eye (a clear covering that protects your eye from damage and helps your see clearly) and correct your vision. Most people are good candidates for this surgery, but Lasik surgery may not be suitable for everyone. More specifically, Lasik surgery may not be effective if you have severe refractive errors, especially if you have been diagnosed with myopia and presbyopia (i.e. nearsightedness) up to -12D, hyperopia (i.e. farsightedness) up to +6D and astigmatism up to 6D.

Why? Well, it is very difficult, if not impossible, for most ophthalmologists and eye surgeons to rectify severe refractive errors. It is also important to note that although, (more…)

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