Your Most Precious Gift

Article submitted by Spivack Vision Center.

Good eyesight allows us to continue doing the things that we love. Unfortunately our vision is susceptible to many different kinds of ailments. Below are some of the most common conditions that can reduce the quality your eyesight.

Cataracts
This clouding of the natural lens inside the eye can eventually restrict vision and limit activities. Fortunately, modern technology has transformed cataract surgery into a safe, outpatient procedure with a very quick recovery.

Glaucoma
This "sneak thief of sight", most often caused by excessive pressure inside the eye, gradually degrades vision, often without any symptoms until late in the disease. Advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma allow doctors to control the disease and preserve sight much longer than previously possible. New laser treatments may also reduce or eliminate the need for eye drop medications.

Macular Degeneration
This condition of the retina that disrupts and fades central vision is actually on the increase because people are living so much longer than previous generations. The good news is that tremendous research is being directed toward developing preventions and cures for the different types of Macular Degeneration. Some treatments are even available now.

Dry Eyes
This is certainly one of the most common problems associated with living in our climate. However, it is no longer necessary to suffer with dry eyes. Many types of treatments are currently available.

"What Can I Do?"
The more we learn, the more we find we knew all along. Hereditary factors may increase your risk of having one or more of these diseases. Fortunately, there are some very basic things you can do to reduce that risk:

• Good nutrition: Popeye was right all along! A diet low in fat, high in green vegetables (like spinach) supplemented with a good multivitamin with lots of anti-oxidants will keep your eyes younger and help with some the symptoms of these conditions.
• Ultra-violet protection: Like sunscreen for your skin, sunglasses, (or even clear lenses) with 100% UV protection are vital to your eye health, and will slow the progression of cataracts and macular degeneration.
• See your eye doctor! A regular check-up will detect these conditions early and help speed treatment.

We at Spivack Vision Center wish you a long life of good Vision!