How to Prevent Keratoconus from Stealing Your Teen Years

Keratoconus Treatment Beverly Hills, CA

Being a teenager can be challenging enough on its own, so finding out that you have keratoconus while you are still in high school only adds to your stress. Roughly 1 in 400 people are affected by keratoconus, with most of these patients developing the symptoms during their teenage years. In other words: you are not alone.

Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler is an internationally recognized ophthalmologist who specializes in the treatment of keratoconus. He has found amazing success treating teenage patients, helping them to avoid serious vision loss and lead normal lives. Read more

Intacs and Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus Provide Better Quality of Life

Intacs & Corneal Cross-linking Treatment Beverly Hills, CA

Known as “The Keratoconus Guru,” Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler is the author of three books about keratoconus. Throughout his career, he has pioneered advancements in the field of ophthalmology to better treat his patients diagnosed with this debilitating condition. In this blog, he explains how two of the best procedures — Intacs and corneal cross-linking — can help people with keratoconus to lead much better lives. Read more

Common Misconceptions about Keratoconus

Keratoconus treatment in Beverly Hills

Keratoconus is a disorder that causes the cornea to bulge out into a cone-like shape and leads to blurry, distorted vision. Although the affliction occurs often enough to keep Dr. Brian busy with keratoconus patients, it is still rare enough that the general population does not have a firm understanding of what keratoconus is.

Allow Dr. Brian to correct some of the misinformation about this condition: Read more

Benefits of Fortified LASIK®

Fortified LASIK in Los Angeles

LASIK is a very safe procedure. However, some prospective patients are concerned about potential complications of refractive surgery, and opt out entirely. That is understandable — your vision is nothing to mess around with! Fortunately, Dr. Brian has developed Fortified LASIK, a form of the procedure that is even safer, in turn giving patients the confidence to finally pull the trigger.

Benefits of Fortified LASIK include: Read more

7 Things You Could Do To Avoid Eye Strain At Your Desk Job

1. Sitting too close to your computer screen, Obvious right?

guy on laptop

We do this without realizing it, but staring at a screen so close can result in eye fatigue, dryness and blurry vision. Staring closely at the screen, tires out our ciliary muscle which controls the eye lens to focus.

2. Out with the old in with the new!

trendy glasses

Glasses that is, old prescription glasses are harmful. Getting custom computer glasses give your eyes the greatest lens power and a clear wide field view,  eliminating any excessive focusing effort.

3. Not the brightest bulb in the box

bright light bulb

Excessive overhead lighting is not needed while on the computer. Lighting should not be any brighter than your screen. Make sure contrast controls and brightness are properly adjusted on your monitor.

4. Sit up tall

women sitting with back pain

Eye level should be at the top of your monitor, Hips and back should go as far back as they can go in the chair feeling fully supported. Moving forward to the edge of the computer chair while aligning your back will also ease back muscles.

5. High resolution flat panel screen

old flat computer screen

Old monitors are low resolution and cause strain on the eye, upgrading to a newer one will cause less eye fatigue. The monitor should not be tilted put position in front of ones face.

6. The closer the mouse the better

mac mouse and keyboard

Having the mouse close to your reach keeps you from leaning forward and closer to the screen. Viewing distance should be an arms- length away, and the keyboard should be placed so your arms hang vertically.

7. Its OK to blink

eye blink

Blinking relieves your eyes cleaning it out and flushes fresh tears. Set aside some time to do a couple of blinking exercises by blinking ten times into each direction. For more effective results, your eyes should be relaxed while closing. Avoid tight lid squeeze.

Alleviate Dry Eyes During The Fall

dry-eye-symptoms

As the leaves change colors and fall quickly approaches, the air gets drier causing the eyes to dry out. Dry eyes is a common condition that is suffered by many people around the world. One of the main causes of Dry Eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. Meibomian gland dysfunction causes a blockage of your meibomian gland, and causes inflammation causing discomfort, and irritability in the eye.Tear-flow imbalance, age, side effects from certain medicine can also be common reasons for dry eyes.

For those who have chronic dry eyes there are many treatments available to help you to reduce symptoms, even in some cases fix the problem.

Below are a few treatment options available and symptoms of dry eyes.

 

Symptoms

  • Reddening of the eyes
  • Irritation
  • Increased rubbing
  • Burning sensations
  • Stinging
  • Watering
  • Foreign body sensation
  • Excessive blinking
  • Excessive eye rubbing

 

Treatments for Dry Eyes:

Artificial Tears & Eye Drops

There are several over the counter drops or artificial tears that will allow you temporary relief from dry eyes. This solution is only a temporary fix. Being evaluated to find the underlining cause of your dry eyes is very important.

Temporary Punctual Occlusion

This also a temporary fix if the ducts in the eye are draining too much the plugs can close the ducts to allow some relief. It is also used to determine if this would be a good permanent fix for your dry eye condition.  If so than permanent plugs can be added or non-dissolving punctual occlusion.

LipiFlow

Lipiflow, which is an FDA approved treatment is a non-invasive, 12 minute spa-like treatment that cleans out the clogged oil glands using heat.Most patients describe the procedure as a “mini- facial” for the eyelids.

 

 

9 Brain Foods to Power You Through The Day

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Studies have shown that fueling the brain in the morning helps you think, act and learn. Being alert and awake in the morning can often be difficult without a little boost, but incorporating these foods in your diet with give you the brain power and nutrients to do just that.

1. Whole Grains

whole grain oatmeal

Whole grains release glucose into the bloodstream keeping you mentally alert throughout the day. Brown cereals, and grainy bread supply energy as well. The benefits of fiber, vitamins and minerals help improve your overall health.

 

2. Blueberries

Blueberries

Consumption of this antioxidant filled fruit is essential for improving memory and brain function. Studies have showed that the antioxidants in the berries interact with aging neurons improving cell signaling.

3. Caffeine

caffine

This antioxidant helps fight inflammation that can lead to many chronic conditions, arthritis and certain cancers. Caffeine also helps with concentration and memory. It boosts short-term memory.

4. Spinach

spinach

 Green leafy vegetables are loaded with lots of nutrients that help skin, hair, iron, and provide protein. There has been studies that suggest this low calorie vegetable have a lower rate of cognitive decline compared who those who ate less.

5. Avocados

avocado

This fiber filled food has multiple benefits, improving vascular health and blood flow. Avocado is a high fat food, containing oleic acid that reduces inflammation and benefits effects on genes linked to cancer.

6. Beets

beets

Beets are useful in blood flow to the brain. The naturally- occurring nitrates and potassium help the nerve and muscle function. Beets also contain high amounts of anti-inflammatory agents.

7. Dark Chocolate

dark chocDark chocolate has caffeine content that is antioxidant rich. It contains flavonoids, a class of antioxidant that helps boost blood flow, brain health and regulating cholesterol and blood pressure.

8. Garlic

garlic

Not only does garlic boost immune system and control cholesterol, the organosulfar compound diminishes glioblastoma cells which is a type of tumor cell.

9. Lentils

lentils

 

This legume is high in protein, fiber and vitamin B. Folate decreases levels of amino acids that may impair brain functioning. Lentils also carry oxygen throughout your body which increases energy production and metabolism.

Back To School Eye Care Tips for Kids

Young Medical Professional Checking the Eyes of Young Boy (8-10)With kids busy running to class, staring endlessly at computer screens, studying or training hard for their school’s athletics program, thinking about maintaining good eye health and safety may not be a top priority in their minds. By taking the time to teach them a few important safety tips, parents can ensure their kids will be able to focus on what really matters: education.Below are a few of the most important things to remember:

1. Get your child an eye exam before school starts: Problems with your children’s vision can be detected through a routine eye exam. It’s important to correct these issues, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness before they create more serious complications such as difficulty learning or the development of recurrent headaches.

2. Kids should wash their hands regularly: According to a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control, more than 164 million school days are missed due to the spread of infectious diseases. Three million of those missed days are the direct result of acute conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. It’s important to remind your children to wash their hands regularly and avoid touching their eyes as much as possible.

3. Ensure children wear protective eyewear when playing sports: Most eye injuries among kids aged 11 to 14 occur while playing sports, with nearly 35,000 incidents per year according to the National Eye Institute. Protective eyewear, such as goggles or a helmet-mounted eye/face shield, can drastically reduce the risk of serious eye injury. As parents, a great way to help is by setting a good example whenever you participate in sports.

4. Encourage kids to give their eyes a rest: With the school year in full swing, your children will likely be spending a lot of time with their nose stuck in books or staring at the computer screen. Over time, this can cause eye strain, headaches, blurred vision or even nearsightedness. Remind your children to give their eyes a rest every 20 to 30 minutes. It’s a good idea to minimize glare where they are working, as this can force the eyes to work harder than need be.

5. Purchase your children high E-SPF glasses: A lot of activities that kids participate in after school exposes them to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Over time, UV exposure can lead to a host of problems for the eyes, including the early development of cataracts. By purchasing protective, high E-SPF prescription glasses or sunglasses for your child, you’ll foster and encourage their good eye health years to come.

If at any time you suspect your child may be having vision issues, please consult your family eye doctor.

 

6 Foods That Contain Vitamins For Your Eyes

Below is a list of Green Lutein filled food known for protecting eye health. Next time you are at the grocery store remember to incorporate these into your diet!

1. Kale

kale

1 cup raw

Kale is beneficial to prevent cataracts and macular degeneration. Kale contains lutein and zeaxanthin which strengthen the retina. Out of all 20 carotenoids (plant pigments) found in the human blood zeaxanthin and lutein is found in the visual system, reducing glare and enhancing contrast.

2. Turnip Greens

collard greens

½ cup cooked

Turnip greens provide antioxidant and protective light- filtering functions. They are a part of the cruciferous vegetable family containing lutein and zeaxanthin. Turnip greens are also a preventative against mascular degeneration and cataracts.

3. Collard Greens

collard greens

½ cup cooked

Collard Greens is an excellent source of lutein and antioxidants. This green is loaded with vitamin A, that helps fight dry eyes, damaged night vision and degeneration of your eyes.

4. Spinach

spinach

1 cup raw

Protects the eyes from age related macular degeneration and cataracts stored in the macula. The macula is part of the retina that blocks the eye from harmful light. The lutein and zeaxanthin absorb blue light.

5. Broccoli

broccoli

1 cup cooked

Repair eyes from radiation, aids with macular degeneration and cataract prevention. 1 cup of broccoli is equivalent to 2,015 micrograms, lutein and zeaxanthin per serving. Vitamin B2 is a top source for riboflavin contained in broccoli also which helps your eyes adjust to light changes.

6. Brussels Sprouts

brussel sprouts

1 cup cooked

 Filters our harmful blue light rays increases protection against UV light damage. Brussel sprouts also contain vitamin A which supports mucosa skin and eye health. They also help aid in retinal damage, macular degeneration and age- related macular degeneration.

So that we may provide you the very best in patient care, please complete the form below with as many details as you are comfortable.