Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitor injections such as Lucentis® and Eyelea® are now considered the best treatment option for Diabetic Macular Edema. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a significant cause of vision loss in patients with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. According to a study in the American Journal of Ophthalmology reporting an analysis of multiple studies on Diabetic Maculopathy published between January 1, 1985 and July 31, 2013, although laser photocoagulation has been the standard treatment for DME for nearly 30 years, there is increasing evidence that better outcomes can be achieved with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitor injections. In fact, the number of patients with DME gaining an improvement of seeing an additional 10-15 letters on the eye chart was at least 2 times greater for those patients treated with the VEGF inhibitor injections as compared to being treated with laser treatments. Thus, the researchers concluded that VEGF inhibitor therapy is superior to laser photocoagulation for treatment of moderate to severe visual impairment caused by DME.

If you or someone you know has diabetes and is concerned about their risk of Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) or Diabetic Retinopathy, it is critical that they have regular dilated eye exams at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center , Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Diabetic Retinopathy Eye Exams & Tests

Eye exams for diabetic retinopathy need to be thorough dilated eye exams of the retina and when necessary include advanced testing such as retinal photography, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in order to really document how the retina and it’s blood vessels are functioning. Depending on the severity and the risk of progression of each patient’s diabetic retinopathy we will advise them of the frequency and intervals for their exams. But, patients with diabetes need to know that it is terribly important to keep their appointments.

Vision loss from diabetes and especially catastrophic vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented with early detection, diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center , Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

Prevent Blindness America has designated November as National Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. Although there is no cure for diabetic eye disease, annual dilated eye exams for diabetes patients are essential to help slow the progression of the disease. Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults 20-74 years of age with almost 8 million people ages 40 and older who have diabetic retinopathy, a potentially blinding eye problem.

Preventing Vision Loss from Diabetic Retinopathy
Vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented if it's caught early and treated in time. More than one third of those diagnosed with diabetes do not adhere to vision care guidelines recommending a dilated eye exam every year. As part of Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month we are urging people with diabetes to have a dilated eye exam every year. The longer a person has diabetes, the greater his or her risk for developing diabetic retinopathy. However, diabetic retinopathy does not only affect people who have had diabetes for many years, it can also appear within the first year or two after the onset of the disease.

In addition to having regular eye examinations and testing at the direction of your eye doctor, patients can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease by not smoking, controlling their cholesterol and lipid profile and blood pressure, restricting alcohol consumption, as well as working to eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fish, fruit and green leafy vegetables and exercising.

If you or someone you know has diabetes or even elevated blood sugar levels they should work to prevent diabetic eye disease and problems with regular eye exams at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center , Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Improve Diabetic Eye Exam Compliance

We are hopeful that when diabetic patients understand that while there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, with careful management of risk factors such as blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, moderation of alcohol consumption and routine exercise along with regular annual dilated eye exams, the potential vision loss from diabetes and associated diabetic eye problems can be minimized. BUT-this requires that patients do their part and keep a strict schedule and compliance with their eye doctor’s recommendations for diabetic eye exams and testing.

Research on Diabetic Eye Exam Compliance

Researchers reporting in the journal Ophthalmology, identified and studied variables that help to predict adherence with annual eye examinations using the Compliance with Annual Diabetic Eye Exams Survey (CADEES). This new questionnaire was designed and structured to measure patient beliefs and understanding related to diabetic retinopathy and the need for annual eye examinations.

Factors Influencing Diabetic Eye Exam Compliance
A number of factors seemed to influence diabetic patient compliance with annual eye exams. First, patient understanding and beliefs concerning whether insurance covered most of the eye examination cost was considered very influential. Next, whether it was difficult to schedule or physically get to an eye exam appointment also had a meaningful impact on eye exam compliance. Then, whether patients had been counseled and told to make obtaining an eye examination a top priority as well as whether they had been previously told that they had signs of diabetic retinopathy were also important in whether patients attended their diabetic eye exams. In addition, clinicians can also have a positive impact on diabetic patient compliance with eye exams counseling newly diagnosed patients as well as those with uncontrolled blood glucose more diligently on the importance of annual eye examinations and discussing and helping patients remove perceived barriers and misconceptions.

If you or someone you know has diabetes they need to have regular annual dilated eye exams to prevent vision loss from diabetic eye diseases and problems. Please share this information with anyone you know who is diabetic and ask them to contact Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center , Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Corneal Specialists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Eye Injury from Airbags in Car Accidents

Even though airbags are part of the passenger safety system in your car, a recent report in Survey of Ophthalmology suggests that the incidence of eye injury and facial trauma from airbags is actually increasing. Why is this be happening?

About Airbags & Eye Injury
Airbags were originally designed as a supplemental safety system to seatbelts-not a replacement for seatbelts in order to help protect your head during high impact frontal collisions and crashes. Because airbags are supplemental-NOT replacements, it is still critical that all passengers use seatbelts even if your car has airbags in the front, back and sides of the passenger cabin. What you need to know is that seatbelts restrict and prevent you from being thrown forward forcefully and colliding with the rearward inflating airbags as they are deployed during a car accident. Airbag deployment and passenger collision with airbags has been reported to cause eye injuries including corneal abrasions, alkali burns and the serious effects of eye compression such as retinal tears, retinal and vitreous hemorrhages, retinal detachment and even cataracts. SO-the message is clear. For eye protection and safety in motor vehicle accidents, all occupants of cars should wear safety belts at all times even if your vehicle has airbags!

If you or someone you know has questions about eye injury from car crashes or accidents or more specifically from airbag impact, please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine affiliated ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Tips for Halloween Contact Lens Safety

Halloween contact lens safety should not be taken lightly when it comes to decorative contact lenses. Decorative contacts or “fashion” contacts can really be fun as part of your costume since they let you change your eye color and even look “spooky’ or “devilish”-but they don’t correct vision. Because they don’t correct vision, people sometimes tend to treat their use casually rather than as the medical devices that they are.

Facts & Tips for Halloween Contact Lens Eye Safety

• Decorative contact lenses are not cosmetics or “over the counter” merchandise. They are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Places that advertise them as cosmetics or sell them without a prescription are breaking the law.
• They are not “one size fits all.” An eye doctor, either an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, must measure each eye to properly fit the lenses and evaluate how your eye responds to contact lens wear. A poor fit can cause serious eye damage, including;

1. a scratched cornea
2. a corneal infection
3. pink eye conjunctivitis
4. decreased vision
5. blindness

• Places that sell decorative lenses without a prescription may give you few or no instructions on how to clean and care for your lenses. Failure to use the proper solution and care regimen to keep contact lenses clean and moist can lead to infections.
• Where NOT to Buy Decorative Contact Lenses

1. street vendors
2. salons or beauty supply stores
3. boutiques
4. flea markets
5. novelty stores
6. Halloween stores
7. record or video stores
8. convenience stores
9. beach shops
10. Internet (unless the site requires a prescription)

These are not authorized distributors of contact lenses, which are prescription devices by federal law.

How to Buy Decorative Contact Lenses Safely. Get an eye exam from a licensed eye doctor, either an ophthalmologist or optometrist, even if you feel your vision is perfect to make sure your eyes are healthy enough to wear contacts. Get a valid prescription that includes the brand name, lens measurements, and an expiration date. But don’t expect your eye doctor to prescribe anime, or circle, lenses. These bigger-than-normal lenses that give the wearer a wide-eyed, doll-like look have not been approved by FDA. Buy the lenses from a seller that requires you to provide a prescription, whether you go in person or shop online. Follow directions for cleaning, disinfecting, and wearing the lenses, and visit your eye doctor for follow-up eye exams. See your eye doctor right away if you have signs of possible eye infection including:

1. redness
2. eye pain that doesn’t go away after a short time
3. decrease in vision

The safe and effective use of contact lenses-whether decorative or not-requires proper fitting and education about their care to prevent the potential for serious eye problems from becoming a reality. If you or someone you know wishes to learn more or be fit with any type of contact lenses-including decorative contacts-please schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine affiliated ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Does a Mediterranean Diet Help Dry Eye?

The risk of developing many health problems including cardiovascular disease, cancer, Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease have been shown to be reduced by eating a traditional Mediterranean diet. Certain diet supplements such as Omega 3 Fatty Acids-which are found in the Mediterranean diet-have also been found to be helpful for dry eye symptoms and problems. The question that has been asked is whether simply eating a Mediterranean diet can help dry eyes.

Research on Eating a Mediterranean Diet & Dry Eye
Researchers reporting in the journal Cornea, tried to determine whether eating a Mediterranean diet could provide help for dry eyes. They had patients fill out the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire and the Dry Eye Questionnaire and then evaluated the quality and quantity of the tear film along with the blood level of Vitamin D for each patient. The final results suggested that eating a Mediterranean diet was not associated with an improvement in dry eye symptoms and complaints but higher vitamin D levels had a small but favorable effect on dry eye syndrome symptoms.

So, while the Mediterranean diet itself doesn’t directly reduce dry eye symptoms, it does seem to be an eating plan that can help promote health and prevent disease for your whole family.

If you or someone you know suffers from dry eyes or needs help for dry eye symptoms please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center , Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Corneal Specialists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Children’s Eye Problems & ADHD

Sometimes when children do not see well they can seem to have certain behavioral problems that may even appear to mimic the behaviors of kids with ADHD/ADD. Researchers reporting in the journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus (AAPOS) studied the possibility that there was an association between ADHD/ADD, uncorrected refractive-errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism-and visual acuity. They performed a carefully matched and controlled study that included a group of children with a known diagnosis of ADHD/ADD according to the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV-TR), along with another control group who were age-matched. The researchers examined both groups for uncorrected visual acuity for distance and near, cycloplegic refraction-an eye test to measure uncorrected refractive error with eye drops, ocular motility or eye movement and binocular function. Their results showed that ADD/ADHD children had similar visual acuity at distance and near and refractive errors as normal subjects. Eye movement and the ability to use both eyes together as well as focusing ability were also found to be similar in both groups and thus might not contribute to ADD/ADHD. They concluded that there was really no relationship between children’s eye problems and ADHD/ADD.

If you or someone you know has ADHD and is concerned about any effects of vision problems, refractive errors or decreased visual acuity please schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Laser Pointers & Eye Injury Risk?

You might be surprised to learn that certain laser pointers may actually pose a risk of eye injury if you do not use proper precautions. Laser pointers are often used at meeting presentations, in the classroom or lecture halls and are even used in children’s toys. Knowing this should alert you to be careful as the greater a laser pointer's output power, the more likely it will cause serious eye injuries. Understanding the safety of that laser pointer in your desk drawer or in your kid's hand isn't always obvious but we can share some information that may be useful.

Laser Pointer Eye Safety
The single most important fact to know is that as power increases above five milliwatts, the time margin for safe exposure decreases and permanent eye and skin damage can occur quickly. However, the output power of laser pointers is not always easy to determine or even clearly marked. Laser pointers often lack appropriate labeling or are even mislabeled, and accurate testing of individual pointers by consumers just isn’t possible. What we know for sure is that even the briefest exposure to high-powered blue handheld laser products can cause serious eye injuries!

Laser Pointer Eye Injury Study Results
Researchers reporting the results of a study in the journal Ophthalmology, found that if a laser with less than five milliwatts of output power is directed at someone's eye, that person can blink or turn away without suffering an eye injury. However, the natural protective mechanisms of the eye, which is the blink reflex, is ineffective against lasers with an output power greater than five milliwatts, and severe retinal damage may occur, even after momentary exposure.

Here's what the FDA advises:

• Never aim or shine a laser pointer at anyone.
• Don't buy laser pointers for your children.
• Before purchasing a laser pointer, make sure it has the following information on the label:
• a statement that it complies with Chapter 21 CFR (the Code of Federal Regulations);
• the manufacturer or distributor's name and the date of manufacture;
• a warning to avoid exposure to laser radiation; and
• the class designation, ranging from Class I to IIIa. Class IIIb and IV products should be used only by individuals with proper training and in applications where there is a legitimate need for these high-powered products.

The problem is that many laser pointers lack labels or have inaccurate labels and the researchers found that 60 percent of the sampled laser pointer products that the FDA tests are overpowered compared with what the label says. Those pointers may be powered in the 10s or 100s of milliwatts!

How do you know if your laser pointer is overpowered?
Ideally, consumers could only choose to buy a laser pointer knowing that it is less than five milliwatts. But- this isn’t possible based on the poor labeling and compliance. The FDA says that if you have a laser pointer that isn't labeled or if you don't trust the labeling, consider the following information carefully:

• If the pointer is small and runs on button batteries, its output probably is less than five milliwatts.
• If it's pen-sized and runs on AA or AAA batteries, it's likely to be more powerful and may exceed five milliwatts.
• If it's flashlight-sized and runs on a cluster of AA or AAA batteries or runs on lithium batteries, it likely exceeds five milliwatts.
• Pointers sold with battery chargers probably drain their batteries quickly and are likely to be overpowered.
• Some pointers are sold with a removable cap that spreads the beam into a pattern. If used without the cap, the beam becomes a single beam that could exceed 5 milliwatts.
• Look for keywords that sellers might use to indicate a pointer is highly powered without saying that it's over five milliwatts: powerful, bright, ultra, super, military, military grade, super bright, high power, ultra bright, strong, balloon pop, burn, burning, adjustable focus, lithium battery, lithium powered.
• Look for videos or photos that show the laser burning, melting, balloon popping or show a bright, well-defined beam of light.
• Look for purchaser comments on websites that tout the brightness or power of the product.

Blue & Violet Laser Pointers Are the Most Dangerous!

Blue and Violet laser pointers are the most dangerous because the human eye actually is less sensitive to blue and violet. So, while a person would react quickly to a red or green laser, that person may not blink or turn away as fast from an equally powerful blue or violet light, creating a greater likelihood of injury.

If you or someone you know is concerned about laser pointer use and eye safety, please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Lifestyle Choices for Eye Health & Vision

Each of us has a responsibility to make good lifestyle choices in order to preserve our eye health and vision. There are a list of some simple, basic actions you can take to maintain your eyes and sight. Here a few tips…
 
Have Regular Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams
Making sure to schedule regular dilated eye health and vision exams-at intervals your eye doctor recommends- is the first step to maintaining eye health and good vision. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment when necessary allows us to find eye diseases, conditions and problems so that we can address them before they are sight threatening. Many eye diseases do not have early warning signs, but signs and symptoms can be identified during a comprehensive dilated eye exam.
 

Know Your Family History of Eye Problems
Many eye health and vision problems and eye diseases tend to run in families. This suggests that if an eye disease is present in any family member it may put you at greater risk of that eye problem. This is particularly the case for eye diseases such as glaucoma and age related macular degeneration (AMD). Stay abreast of the eye diseases and conditions as they exist in your family, AND BE SURE TO TELL US ABOUT THEM WHEN YOU COME IN FOR AN EYE EXAM.
 
Nutrition and Diet Affect Eye Health & Vision
Make sure to pay attention to what you eat and try to include a steady diet of foods high in important nutrients that support good vision, such as the following:

• Vegetables: collard greens, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes and dark, leafy greens, such as kale and spinach

• Nuts: sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts

• Fruits: strawberries and blueberries

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: tuna, halibut and salmon

• Beans: chickpeas, kidney beans and legumes

Watch Your Weight & Exercise
Being overweight exposes you to a greater risk of diabetes. In fact there is an epidemic of diabetes in the U.S. today. Diabetic eye problems include a greater risk of glaucoma, cataracts and sight threatening diabetic retinopathy. Exercise-even moderate amounts of daily exercise reduce your risk of developing MANY eye diseases and problems.
 

Wear Protective Eyewear
Eye injury prevention is relatively easy-if you wear the appropriate protective eyewear when taking part in sports or home activities that expose you to risk. It is estimated that some 90% of eye injuries can be prevented by taking a minute to review the need for protective eyeglasses before doing home projects, trimming branches or shrubs, using saws, tool or weed whackers-and on and on. In addition, when spending time outdoors or near the water, wear sunglasses designed to block out 99 to 100 percent of the sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays.
Be smart and be safe.
 
Stop Smoking
Not only does smoking cause a host of cardiovascular and systemic vascular problems, but smoking is now recognized as increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and, all of which could lead to vision loss. We also now know that if you do smoke, there is considerable benefit in stopping!
 

Avoid Computer Eyestrain
CRT or video display terminals used for computers are well known to expose you eye fatigue, headache and more troubling-dry eye problems. When working on the computer or using a smartphone or tablet, practice the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eyestrain-that is, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for about 20 seconds. If you have any sensation of dryness, grittiness or “something in your eyes”, use an eye surface lubricant or eye drop to replenish your tears.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about lifestyle choices to maintain eye health and vision please schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine affiliated ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. 

School Eye Exams for Birmingham Kids

For the kids in Birmingham heading back to school, having a current eye exam is an important part of back to school readiness that parents should include in their “Back to School Checklist”. Children use their eyes and vision as critical tools in their learning process which is visually demanding given the intensity of reading, writing and computer use in school. Further, good vision and eye health are important for playing sports and computer games on tablets after school! What parents need to know is that it is not uncommon for childrens’ vision to change during their school years and development. Regular eye exams can detect these changes or any eye problems that might hinder their academic performance, ability to enjoy recreation and really their overall well being. The most frequent eye problems we find in school age kids are the common vision problems of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. 

Sometimes, not having clear vision in the classroom can even lead to the undeserved perception of a behavioral problem or attention problem. What we know is that kids are often unable to verbalize that they have a vision problem as they just don’t recognize it. That is why your child should have a complete eye exam at least once every two years or more frequently if specific problems or risk factors exist, or if recommended by your eye doctor. The earlier a vision problem is detected and treated, the more likely treatment will be successful.

If you or someone you know would like to schedule a children’s exam for children at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham please do so by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is a leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Eye Migraine: What is It?

An “eye migraine” which is known medically as an ocular or ophthalmic migraine can be a disturbing end even frightening event. Most of the time, when patients think of think of the word “migraine” they immediately assume that it has something to do with a headache-but this may not necessarily be the case. Not infrequently, patients who are otherwise healthy tell us that about once or twice a month they see these strange pulsing images in both eyes-both with their eyes open and closed! Sometimes they tell us that these pulsing images start out small and increase in size, last for 10-20 minutes and even cause their vision to become blurry. These episodes actually describe what we know to be an ocular Migraine-a migraine without a headache! What patients are experiencing is the aura that many sufferers have before the onset of a classic migraine headache. An ocular or ophthalmic migraine often includes zigzag lines, colored lights or flashes of lights expanding to one side of your vision over perhaps 10 to 30 minutes.

If you experience these symptoms, in order to be sure that this is not a sign of a more serious problem, you should consider scheduling an evaluation and eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision. Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine affiliated ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. 

Eye Injury Facts & Myths

Did you know that according to a survey by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, only 35 percent of people say that they always wear protective eyewear when performing home repairs or maintenance and even less wear protective eyewear while playing sports? This is troubling because studies show that by wearing proper protective eyewear it is possible to prevent 90 percent of the eye injuries that occur!

• Who is more likely to have an eye injury-men or women? Men!
• Are eye injuries more common on the job or at home? Nearly half of all eye injuries occurred in the home! In fact more than 40 percent of eye injuries were caused by projects and activities such as home repairs, yard work, cleaning and cooking. More than a third of injuries in the home occurred in living areas such as the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living or family room.
• More than 40 percent of eye injuries every year are related to sports or recreational activities.
• Eyes can be damaged by sun exposure, not just chemicals, dust or objects.
• Among people who have had eye injuries, more than 78 percent of people were not wearing eyewear at the time of injury!

If you or someone you know is concerned about eye injury and wants to learn more about preventing eye injuries and protective eyewear, please feel free to contact us at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Do I Have Pink Eye Conjunctivitis?

Many patients call us Alabama Eye & Cataract Center and are hoping that we can tell them over the phone whether their red, itchy eyes are because they have “pink eye” of conjunctivitis. The fact is that without coming in for an external eye exam it is difficult if not impossible to tell. But when you do come in, the doctors certainly know what to look for. There are a number of signs and symptoms that help us determine if you have “pink eye” or conjunctivitis.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

If you have a bacterial infection causing pink eye conjunctivitis, you will usually have very red eyes. You may find crusting on your eyelids that can make them stick together as well as a heavy, pus-like discharge from your eyes that may be greenish at times. This infection may spread to both eyes.

Viral Conjunctivitis

If you have a viral conjunctivitis we often will find a very red, swollen eye, crusty eyelids and a more watery discharge. This discharge can also have strands of mucus or white, ropy strands. While many cases of viral pink eye infect only one eye, this infection can also spread to the other eye.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

If you have an allergic conjunctivitis and your allergies are causing your conjunctivitis, it will often look similar to viral conjunctivitis. Your eyes will be red and tearing. However, they will also be itchy. It is likely you may have a stuffy, runny or itchy nose as well.

Treatment of Pink Eye Conjunctivitis

For most types of pink eye conjunctivitis the treatment is basically supportive. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections but do work well in treating bacterial conjunctivitis. Regardless of the cause, it is important to minimize exposure of others by washing your hands frequently and throwing away used tissues. Do not share towels or pillow cases. Consider staying home from work or school until you are symptom-free for 24 hours. If you are a contact lens wearer, you should discontinue their use and stick with glasses until your infection clears. Then start with a fresh pair of lenses and a clean lens case.

If you or someone you know is concerned about having a pink eye conjunctivitis, please schedule an external eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is a leading eye care center in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Cataract Risk with Obesity

High Body Mass Index (BMI) with obesity or even being overweight is known to be an increased risk factor for a number of diseases and conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, a range of other cardiovascular diseases and joint and orthopedic problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal weight with a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5-<25 kg/m², excess body weight as BMI of 25-<30 kg/m², and obesity as BMI of ≥30 kg/m^2.

Until now, any relationship between BMI and risk of cataract development has been controversial and not completely obvious.

Research on BMI & Cataract Development

 By using Meta Analysis and powerful statistical methods researchers found that being overweight or obese were significantly associated with an increased risk of cataracts, especially those called “posterior subcapsular cataracts” which typically cause the greatest vision decline. This relationship was independent of sex, alcohol intake, diabetes and hypertension.

If you or someone you know is concerned about cataracts and being overweight or even obese based on Body Mass Index (BMI) please share this information with them and ask them to schedule a cataract evaluation at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visit Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/MichelsonLaserVision to schedule an appointment.

Alabama Eye & Cataract is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. who perform Laser Cataract Surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

Cornea Specialists on Eye Safety for July 4th

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center cornea specialists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. offered important advice on fireworks eye safety for the July 4^th holiday. In general the best way to enjoy the fireworks this July 4^th, is to leave their use and display to professionals trained and prepared to handle pyrotechnic displays. Eye safety is pretty critical with fireworks displays as we know that eye injuries are the second most frequent injury we see from emergency room each July 4^th weekend. Especially for children, the best defense against kids suffering severe eye injuries and burns is to not let kids play with any fireworks. Do not purchase, use or store fireworks of any type. Attend only authorized public fireworks displays conducted by licensed operators, but be aware that even professional displays can be dangerous. However, if an eye accident does occur, there are a few things you should know:

• Do Not Rub the Eye.
• Do Not Attempt to Rinse. Out the Eye. This can be even more damaging than rubbing.
• Do Not Apply Pressure to the Eye Itself-but DO protect the eye from further contact with any item, including the person’s hand.
• Do NOT Stop for Medicine! Over-the-counter pain relievers will not do much to relieve pain. Aspirin (should never be given to children) and ibuprofen can thin the blood, increasing bleeding. Take the person to the emergency room at once.
• Do NOT Apply Ointments or Drops. They may not be sterile and may make the area around the eye slippery and harder for the doctor to examine.

Once you are seen in the emergency room please feel free to have them call Alabama Eye & Cataract Center at 205-930-0930 as we always have an eye doctor “on call” to provide consultation and continued care for you.

If you or someone you know wishes to learn more about fireworks eye safety, please share this information with them and ask them to schedule an appointment at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Early Cataracts May Predict Cancer Risk

For patients who develop cataracts at an early age-under 55-it is important to note that there has been an association between the early onset of cataracts and the potential risk for developing cancer. This is thought to be due to the fact that early onset cataract is linked to insufficient antioxidative activity in one’s metabolism-which is also a known factor for increasing the risk of cancer.

Dr. Michelson and Dr. Hall

Research of Early Onset Cataracts & Cancer

Researchers reporting the journal Cancer Science, looked at the risk of cancer after being diagnosed with early onset cataract. The researchers examined claims from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of patients with early onset cataract, aged 20-55 and also compared it to a group of the same age range without cataracts. By using powerful statistical analysis they found that the overall incidence rate of all cancers was 2.19 times higher in the early onset cataract group as compared to those without cataracts.  Further they were able to analyze where these patients were at greatest risk of developing cancer and found head and neck areas highest, followed by liver cancer and then breast cancer. This study suggests that patients with early onset cataract are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with cancer in subsequent years.

If you or someone you know is concerned about early cataract development or needs a regular eye exam where do a routine cataract screening and exam, please share this information with them and ask them to schedule an appointment at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. who perform Laser Cataract Surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

High Dose Vitamins & Cataracts

Adding vitamins to your daily diet is a common way to make sure that you are meeting the necessary requirements for overall health. In some cases, people choose to take very high doses of vitamins to hopefully avoid some health problems. A question that is often asked is whether taking vitamins is good or bad for your risk of developing cataracts?

Research on High Dose Vitamins & Cataracts

A study in the American Journal of Epidemiology evaluated the risks and benefits of taking high dose supplements of vitamins C and E and low-dose multivitamins with the risk of developing age related cataract. This study looked at any associations of high-dose supplements of vitamins C and E and low dose multivitamins with the risk of age related cataract in a group of 31,120 men who ranged in age from 45–79 years of age. Their results suggest that the use of high dose-but not low dose-single vitamin C or E supplements may increase the risk of age-related cataract. The risk may be even higher among older men, corticosteroid users, and long-term users.

If you or someone you know takes high doses of vitamins or is concerned about their risk of cataracts please schedule an eye exam and cataract evaluation at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. who perform Laser Cataract Surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

Stop Smoking to Avoid Cataracts

It is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control that more than 42 million people in the United States are smokers. Cataracts are a major cause of vision loss in seniors and affect more than 24 million Americans over the age of 40. Now we know that there is a marked association between smoking and cataract development.

Research on Smoking & Cataracts

Researchers studying the risk of cataracts among smokers reported in JAMA Ophthalmology found that stopping smoking decreases the risk of cataracts over time. The researchers followed a total of 44,371 men, 45 to 79 years old over a 10 year period and the participants filled out questionnaires on their smoking habits and lifestyles and were then matched with the Swedish National Day-Surgery Register and local records of cataract extraction.

The researchers found that smokers of more than 15 cigarettes a day had a 42% increased risk of cataract surgery compared with men who had never smoked. It also found that men who smoked an average of more than 15 cigarettes a day but had stopped smoking more than 20 years earlier had a 21% increased risk. Thus, they found a positive association between cigarette smoking and cataract surgery in men, with a significant increase of cataracts among smokers compared to those who never smoked. Also, stopping smoking was associated with a statistically significant decrease in risk with increasing time from stopping smoking. Even heavy smokers had some benefit from quitting smoking. Further, a previous study from 2005 detailed the relationship between smoking cessation and cataract risk in women. In this study, they found that after cessation of smoking, cataract risk in women decreased with time. Women who smoked 6 to 10 cigarettes a day but had ceased smoking 10 years earlier, and women who smoked more than 10 cigarettes a day but had ceased smoking 20 years earlier were found to have a relative risk of cataracts not significantly different from women who had never smoked.

Smoking cessation seems to decrease the risk of cataract development and the need for cataract surgery with time, although the risk persists for decades. The higher the intensity of smoking, the longer it takes for the increased risk to decline. These findings emphasize the importance of early smoking cessation and, preferably, the avoidance of smoking altogether.

If you or someone you know is a smoker and is concerned about cataracts please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Google+ or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D. who perform Laser Cataract Surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

Omega 3’s Can Help Dry Eyes

There is general agreement that Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and fish oils reduces mortality from cardiovascular disease including sudden death, cardiac death and myocardial infarction. But, did you know that Omega 3 supplements can also help dry eyes and symptoms of dry eye?

 Research on Dry Eye & Omega 3 Supplements
According to researchers reporting in Clinical Ophthalmology taking dietary supplements that contain a combination of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants can be helpful in the treatment of dry eye symptoms. They looked at the effectiveness and tolerability of dietary supplements containing a combination of Omega-3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants for help for dry eye symptoms and complaints. The researchers wanted to know if the dry eye diet supplements helped scratchy and stinging sensation in the eyes, eye redness, grittiness, painful eyes, tired eyes, grating sensation, and blurry vision. All individual symptoms improved significantly from an average rating of 11.9 to 6.8 after the 12 weeks of treatment indicating that dietary supplementation with a combination of Omega-3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants was an effective treatment for dry eye.

If you or someone you know suffers from symptoms of dry eye or needs help for dry eye symptoms and wants to know more about Omega 3 and antioxidant supplements please schedule an appointment at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Eye Movements May Predict Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is an difficult challenge for patients, caregivers, and physicians. But, we do know that the earlier the detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s the better everyone is able to plan and deliver the compassionate and quality care our loved ones deserve. Now, according to researchers reporting in Investigative Ophthalmology & Vision Science a subtle change in eye movements may provide a useful diagnostic tool for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease.

About Eye Movements

In general, eye movements follow a predictable and reproducible pattern during normal reading, with each eye movement ending up at a fixation point, which allows the brain to process the incoming information and to program the next movements. The researchers found that Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) produces eye movement abnormalities and disturbances in reading with those patients with early AD display abnormal fixation patterns. So we now know that evaluation of eye movement behavior during reading might provide a useful tool for a more precise early diagnosis of AD and for monitoring the progress or stability of Alzheimer’s Disease.

If you or someone you know is concerned about Alzheimer’s Disease please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center at UAB Highlands is a leading eye care center in Birmingham located at 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Eat Fruits to Reduce Risk of Diabetes

Did you know that eating fruit can be helpful in reducing your risk of Type 2 Diabetes? In fact according to researchers from Harvard School of Public Health by eating just 3 servings of fruit per week there is a beneficial effect of lowering the risk for Type 2 diabetes. Further, certain fruits were more closely associated with reduced risk of diabetes-especially blueberries, grapes and apples!

Research on Eating Fruit to Lower Risk of Diabetes

According to this report eating certain whole fruits may reduce the risk for Type 2 diabetes, even though fruit juice consumption may increase the risk for diabetes. Investigators combined data from 3 studies: the Nurses' Health Study of more than 66,000 patients, the Nurses' Health Study II of more than 85,000 patients and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study with over 36,000 patients. The participants in all 3 studies completed questionnaires assessing health and lifestyle factors, including diet, every 2 years. The researchers excluded participants with a baseline diagnosis of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, as well as those who had missing data for fruit or fruit juice consumption or an extremely high or low caloric intake, and those who had an unclear date of diabetes diagnosis. The analysis was adjusted for personal, lifestyle, and dietary risk factors for diabetes. The researchers concluded that every 3 servings of fruit per week were associated with a lower risk for Type 2 diabetes.

If you or someone you know is concerned about their risk of diabetes please call Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham at 205-930-0930, visit Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Cataracts Risk with Osteoporosis By Marc Michelson, M.D.

Most everyone knows that calcium is an important part of bone health and keeping bones strong. In fact calcium plays a key role in the development of osteoporosis, a disease in which bones lose their density, become fragile and are more likely to fracture. But did you know that calcium is also an important factor in cataract formation?

Research on Calcium, Osteoporosis & Cataract Risk

Researchers reporting in the journal Clinical Ophthalmology evaluated an association between cataracts, cataract surgery and osteoporosis. Their findings were interesting in that age, female sex, higher socioeconomic class, smoking, chronic renal failure, hyperthyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases are all associated with an increased prevalence of osteoporosis. Then, through careful statistical modeling they also found that these factors and osteoporosis are ALL associated with an increased prevalence of cataracts. Thus, they concluded that osteoporosis is associated with the presence of cataracts which may be related to calcium imbalance, hormonal abnormalities, and even a shared genetic predisposition.

If you or someone you know is concerned about osteoporosis and their risk of cataracts, please schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center is located at UAB-Highlands in Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205, and is staffed by UAB Medicine Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Ocular Melanoma Information

Did you know that Ocular Melanoma (OM) is the most common form of cancer that occurs in the eye?  The facts and information may be surprising, but every year, approximately 2,500 American adults are diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma (OM), an aggressive malignant cancer that starts in the pigment cells that produce eye color. Most often it tends to occur in people with light skin pigmentation and with lighter blue or green eyes and who are over age 50. However, OM also can occur in individuals of every race and at any age.  OM is a silent killer because for about 50 percent of individuals diagnosed with OM, the cancer may is fatal as it quickly metastasizes and spreads to other parts of the body. There are no early warning signs and in many cases Ocular Melanoma is diagnosed during a routine eye exam-further supporting the need to have regular scheduled eye exams. Once OM has developed, some people may experience blurred vision, a change in the shape of the pupil, flashing lights in their vision, loss of vision in the affected eye or a dark spot on the iris.

Ocular Melanoma Causes & Risks

Researchers have found that people with OM tend to have certain gene mutations, which could suggest there is a strong genetic component to the disease. However, they have not concluded that these abnormalities are the cause or whether there is a clear mechanism of genetic transmission. They believe there may be a connection between the development of OM and prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial light, such as from tanning beds, but there is not significant research confirming this link either.

If you or someone you know is concerned about the risk of Ocular melanoma (OM) please be sure to schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is a leading eye care center located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine eye doctors Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

UAB Excellence Award to Marc Michelson, M.D.

The UAB National Alumni Society honored Marc Michelson, M.D. with the UAB Excellence in Business Top 25 Class of 2015 Award. Dr. Michelson is the Founder and Medical Director of Michelson LaserVision, Inc. and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, P.C., located at UAB Highlands on the medical center campus.

“On behalf of myself and my staff who work to make every patient visit, every LASIK treatment, and every laser cataract surgery and lens implant procedure a pleasant experience with great clinical results, we want to say thank you,” shared Dr. Michelson. “UAB has been an integral part of the fabric and culture of the eye care we have provided in Birmingham for more than 30 years. Being part of the UAB community started with being educated and trained right here as a medical student, then an ophthalmology resident and continuing as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the UAB School of Medicine. I have thoroughly enjoyed not only the patient care, but also the opportunity to participate in resident teaching, research, and implementation of new and innovative technologies. These opportunities have motivated me to continually bring advanced eye surgery techniques and technology for vision correction, such as Bladeless LASIK and laser cataract surgery, right into our facilities at Alabama Eye and Cataract Center, P.C. and Michelson Laser Vision, Inc. at UAB Highlands,” explained Dr. Michelson.

The UAB National Alumni Society has chosen Dr. Michelson to receive the UAB Excellence in Business Top 25 Class of 2015 award.  This award program is designed to identify, recognize, and celebrate the success of the top 25 UAB alumni-owned or UAB alumni-operated businesses.

To learn more please call Alabama Eye & Cataract Center at 205-930-0930, or Michelson laser Vision at 205-969-8100 or visit Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or Michelson Laser Vision or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center and Michelson Laser Vision in Birmingham are located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

Visors Help Avoid Hockey Eye Injury

Hockey is a popular sport among those who like to watch sports and is even more popular among middle school, high school and college athletes. Eye injury is a series risk among hockey players and it requires that parents and players take some precautions based on research presented at Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The researchers found that wearing visors could cause a four-fold decrease in the risk of eye injuries. The researchers, based at the University of Toronto and Harvard Medical School, examined data from The Sports Network (TSN) and The Hockey News annual visor survey over the last 10 seasons from 2002 to 2013 in the NHL. The data clearly demonstrated that the risk of eye injury is 4.23 times higher for players who do not wear a visor.

The study also found that the majority of eye injuries are caused by being hit by the puck (37%) or struck by a high stick (28%) or by a fight or scrum (18%), while the researchers could not identify the cause of injury for 17%. Interesting, players without visors had a more aggressive style of play, measured by penalty minutes, hits and fights in a case-control study. There was also a weak, but positive correlation between eye injuries and penalty minutes.

As hockey players develop, grow and get stronger their games and playing style become faster and more intense, and the risks continue to increase-thus it is important to maximize protection. Since the majority of hockey injuries are accidental in nature, it is not good enough for players to try to be more cautious. This study strongly supports the common sense notion that wearing visors goes a long way to decreasing injuries among hockey players.

If you or someone you know plays hockey please share this information with them to help them decrease their risk of hockey eye injury, or please feel free to contact  Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is a leading eye care center located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Ophthalmologists & Corneal Specialists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Eye Infection: What You Should Know!

Almost everyone has experienced red, itchy eyes and wondered what it was. It can be confusing because the symptom of allergies or dry eyes or a more serious condition, such as an eye infection can be similar. Here is an overview of allergies and dry eye as compared to an eye infection.

About Allergies & Dry Eyes

Symptoms of Allergies or Dry Eye

• If you work at a computer for an extended time or have allergies to products or airborne substances, you may experience dry, red or irritated eyes. 
• Generally allergies and dry eye affects both eyes.
• Treatment options usually include resting your eyes or using over-the-counter or prescription eye drops, as would be recommended by your eye doctor. 

About Eye Infections

Symptoms of Eye Infections

• Eye infections occur when bacteria, fungi or viruses attack any part of your eye, including the surface, the membrane lining of the outer eye and inner eyelid or interior portions or the soft tissue of the eyelid.
• Infections inside the eye or in the soft tissue of the eyelid are the most dangerous and if left untreated, the condition may spread throughout the eye.
• Symptoms usually include redness, pain, discharge, watering and sensitivity to light which usually occurs only in one eye. If you experience these symptoms you should immediately contact Alabama Eye & cataract Center at 205-930-0930 and schedule an appointment.

Types of Eye Infections

• Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) is a common infection that is highly contagious.
• Viral Keratitis can be simply related to a respiratory virus or cold or more serious infection such as Ocular Herpes that occurs when exposed to the Herpes Simplex Virus.
• Fungal Keratitis is a corneal infection from a fungus commonly found in organic matter such as soil, leaves or branches of a tree.
• Acanthamoeba Keratitis is a corneal infection caused by a parasite that attacks the eye more often in individuals wearing contact lenses and swimming in pools, lakes, ponds, hot tubs or streams who are at increased risk for contracting this infection.
• Trachoma is not something we see in Birmingham but is found in underdeveloped countries. Typically Trachoma infects the inner eyelid along with eyelashes touching the area can infect the cornea and cause permanent blindness.
• Endophthalmitis is a serious infection inside the eye due to a penetrating eye injury or complication following eye surgery and if left untreated, may lead to blindness.

Preventing Eye Infections

• If you experience symptoms associated with an eye infection, contact Alabama Eye & Cataract Center immediately. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of permanent blindness.
• To avoid eye infections, wash your hands throughout the day, especially if you are near an individual with a red eye or other signs of infection. Contact lens wearers should follow care and handling instructions provided by their eye doctor.

If you or someone you know is concerned about having an eye infection of any type of experiences symptoms of an eye infection schedule an appointment at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is a leading eye care center located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Ophthalmologists Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.

Eye Safety to Prevent Injury

Being aware of some practical eye safety information can be very helpful in preventing eye injury. Prevent Blindness America reports that 2.4 million eye injuries occur each year, with nearly 1 million resulting in some degree of vision loss. About 90 percent of these injuries are avoidable, when the right eye protection is worn, reports the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

The most common eye injuries are:

• Cuts or scrapes from flying objects, such as metal and wood chips, that become embedded in the eye
• Burns from steam, infrared light or splashes of chemicals, grease or oil
• Infections from contaminated substances, such as splashes of blood or respiratory droplets or other products on fingers that are used to touch or rub the eyes

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires workers to use eye and face protection whenever there is a reasonable probability of injury that could be prevented with proper equipment, such as goggles, face shields or safety glasses. The best way to avoid eye injury in the workplace or from household chores, activities and tasks is to wear proper protective eyewear. If you have questions or need assistance with protective eyewear selection or fitting please call Alabama Eye & Cataract Center at 205-930-0930. Should you or someone you know have the misfortune of experiencing an eye injury please visit the nearest emergency room where the physician can call our office as we always have a doctor on call for emergencies.

If you or someone you know wishes to learn more about how to prevent eye injury, schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & Cataract Center are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205

Gentler Cataract Surgery with Lasers

At Alabama Eye & Cataract Center, Corneal Specialists Drs. Michelson & Hall provide cataract evaluations and consultation for patients who might need either routine or complex cataract surgery as well as for patients who have had cataract surgery elsewhere and for a number of reasons their corneas may not clear as fast as they would like or they don’t see as crisply as they would like. Generally, these people had a bit more fragile corneal tissue that could have really benefited by have the most gentle cataract procedure possible.

 

Dr. Michelson

According to researchers reporting in the Journal of Refractive Surgery, laser cataract surgery does indeed allow for a gentler cataract surgery procedure. While there is really no difference between manual cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery in uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, surgically induced astigmatism, and corneal aberrations, the laser cataract surgery was gentler on the cornea as it caused less loss of fragile endothelial cells and less corneal swelling from the cataract surgery. Also, the amount of time required for the more intense parts of the cataract surgery procedure-chopping, fragmenting and removing the cataract are significantly lower with the laser cataract surgery.

There is little doubt that laser cataract surgery gives Drs. Michelson & Hall the ability to deliver a gentler cataract surgery that is easier on the cornea and the delicate internal structures of the eye. Really, anyone with a concurrent eye condition such as diabetic retinopathy, fragile corneal tissue, glaucoma or thinning retinal tissue should have laser cataract surgery as it allows us to reduce the energy required to break apart and remove their cataract.

If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts, laser cataract surgery or lens implants, or needs a cataract evaluation, please schedule an eye exam at Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930, visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or http://www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.

Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in Birmingham is a leading eye care center located at UAB-Highlands, 1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 and staffed by UAB Medicine Corneal Specialists & Cataract Surgeons Marc Michelson, M.D. and Tyler Hall, M.D.