Visual Wellness

Genetic Testing for Macular Degeneration - by Dr Jennifer Carter

2012-01-04T13:31:00.000-05:00

He stood over 6 feet and closely resembled Billy Graham. From the time I entered Optometry school, my grandfather's question to me was "have you found a cure for macular degeneration yet?" As he said this, his eyes appeared to be focused over my shoulder. But in reality, he was using his peripheral vision to see my face. He had learned to compensate for his loss of central vision from age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

If he were still here, he would be amazed at the progress made in diagnosing and treating AMD. At West Georgia Eye Care we are pleased to offer a genetic test which is 99.9% accurate in determining the chances of developing wet AMD. A swab of cells is taken from the cheek to detect certain genetic markers that are known to be indicators for vision loss. These markers are then analyzed along with smoking history to determine the risk of losing your sight.

Early detection and treatment lead to better visual outcomes. The ability to determine levels of risk associated with macular degeneration is invaluable. Macular degeneration cannot be reversed, however vision loss associated with the devastating disease can be delayed if we are aware of your risk.

I sometimes sit back and think what a difference genetic testing would have made for my grandfather. He was nearly blind when he passed away. If he had known his risk years ago and had a personalized program to manage his disease, I believe a more aggressive management would have been chosen. Genetic testing is a small piece of the puzzle, but a very important factor that can help preserve vision. Please call our office at (770) 834-0212 with any questions or concerns regarding genetic testing or age-related macular degeneration.

Protect Your Eyes ... with Vitamins

2012-01-04T13:20:00.000-05:00

Click here to see a Video

Most likely from the time you were old enough to remember, you were told to take your vitamins. Not only do they protect your bones, lower cholesterol, and improve brain development, vitamins also protect your eyes. One of our most recommended vitamins at WGEC is Fortifeye. The family of Fortifeye vitamins includes Complete Plus, Macular Defense, and Super Omega-3 fish oil.

Complete Plus contains Lutein and Zeaxanthin, both proven to be beneficial for the eyes. Macular Defense has the same ingredients as Complete Plus but is three times stronger and was developed initially for macular degeneration patients. It is now recommended for smokers, extreme athletes, and patients taking lots of medications. Super Omega-3 fish oils were designed to aid the dry eye patient. This supplement can be taken alone or in combination with Complete Plus or Complete Macular Defense.

During your visit to our office, we can recommend the most beneficial vitamin for you.

The Optomap Makes an Appearance on Dr Oz

2011-11-02T13:54:00.002-04:00

In 1990, a 5 year-old boy named Leif went blind in one eye because a retinal detachment was detected too late for treatment. He had eye exams yearly but conventional testing was uncomfortable. His father designed the Optomap in order to make retinal examinations more comfortable and accurate. Recently, Dr Oz featured the Optomap on his show.

At West Georgia Eye Care, we pride ourselves on being able to properly evaluate your eyes with the latest technology available in order to ensure your eyes are healthy and free of disease. A thorough screening of the retina is critical to verify that your eye is healthy. Dilation is the conventional method of examining the retina and is still very useful. With dilation, only 10-15% of the retina can be viewed at one time. In addition, dilation leaves you with light sensitivity and blurred near vision for several hours. The Optomap, on the other hand, is able to capture 80% of the retina in one image. It is quick, painless, and typically does not require dilation drops.

The Optomap is the preferred method of viewing the retina at WGEC. In one snapshot we are able to view the optic nerve, macula, and blood vessels of the back of the eye. The retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be viewed directly. So in addition to eye diseases, signs of other diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can be detected by viewing the retina. Request an appointment today for your complete eye health examination.

Why Can't I Keep My Glasses Clean?

2011-10-24T10:31:00.002-04:00

Have you ever wondered why your glasses are so hard to keep clean, or why your lenses keep getting fine scratches on them? It could be the way that they are being cleaned.

We recommend specific methods to care for your eyewear. First, when cleaning your lenses you should only use recommended spray solutions given to you by your eye care professional. We use a spray that can be used directly on the lenses and cleaned off with a soft cloth. The soft cloth that comes in the case with your eyewear can also be used alone to wipe off the occasional smudge or fingerprint.

If you do not have access to your cleaning cloth and spray cleaner, a special mixture of soap and water can be used to rinse your glasses clean while you are at home or on the go. Just make sure that the soap that you are using does not have a moisturizer in it. It will not harm your lenses, but it will leave a greasy film that will be hard to remove. Also, stay away from abrasive materials when wiping your lenses clean or drying them. Something soft like a cloth diaper is best to use when there is no cleaning cloth.

Lastly, consider the environment that you are in most of the time. If you are working in a dusty environment, you should keep your cleaning cloth away from the dust that can attach to your cleaning cloth and cause fine scratches on your lens. If you don’t have to wear your glasses all the time, remember that the best protection for them is in their case.

For more information on eyewear maintenance, or for a demonstration please stop by our office or watch our Youtube video on proper cleaning methods.

How to Pass Your Eye Exam

2011-09-28T11:05:00.000-04:00

Which is better one or two, three or four? For some, these words cause a sudden panic and what might be called, test anxiety. The pressure to get the "right" answer can be overbearing at times, but an eye exam should not be stressful. Here are a few tips to help you get through your next examination without breaking a sweat.

At West Georgia Eye Care our goal each day is to make all patients feel at home while providing great care. Rule number one for a great exam is to relax. At WGEC, the Optomap Retinal Evaluation is typically the first test you will encounter; the purpose of the Optomap is to obtain an image of the retina. In other words, we're taking a picture, so open your eyes wide and say "cheese". Retinal detachments along with other retinal disease can be diagnosed with the help of the Optomap.

Rule number two is relax. The next several tests will make measurements of your eyes to help determine your prescription, among other things. All you have to do is look at an image in a machine. Easy, right?

The last part of the examination is determining your prescription and evaluating your eye health. The doctor will use all the information from the previous tests to fine-tune your prescription. Your eyes will be evaluated on how well they focus and work together. During this portion it is important to keep your eyes relaxed, don't try to make your eyes focus on the letters. So the answer to "which is better", is the lens that is clearest to you. There is no "right" answer.'

As doctors, prescribing glasses and contact lenses is important, but your eye health is without a doubt, the biggest concern. Your eyes will be carefully examined from the front of the cornea to the optic nerve and macula in the back of the eye. Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are just a few things that can be diagnosed when evaluating eye health. After reviewing all findings, any questions you may have will be answered. Then it is time to have some fun and select glasses or contact lenses.

Hopefully, this will help to ease your test anxiety and make your next eye exam at West Georgia Eye Care a breeze.

Contact Lens Solution

2011-07-29T11:39:00.002-04:00

Finding the right contact lens solution can be tricky. There are various solutions on the market that are for the different types of contact lens made today. Many stores create their own brand of solution and deceive you into thinking that it is name-brand. This video shows some of the solutions I recommend to my patients and how to properly care for your lenses.

Welcoming Dr. Carter

2011-07-04T11:03:00.000-04:00

I have enjoyed getting to know and work with Dr. Carter. She already feels at home, and she has only been with us for a month. Dr. Carter is making a great impact at West Georgia Eye Care. I thought you would enjoy seeing this from her. Share with your friends.

Soft Contact Lens

2011-07-01T15:08:00.000-04:00

This video is about soft contact lens. I have explained the different kinds of lens that are available at West Georgia Eye Care such as toric, multifocal, disposable and extended wear lens. More videos are to come that go into depth about the various lens available.

Welcome Dr. Carter

2011-06-15T08:53:00.001-04:00

We are happy to announce the addition of Jennifer Carter, O.D. to the professional staff at West Georgia Eye Care. Her clinical experience and compassionate methods add yet another component to the available services from our team.

We are so lucky to find a provider like Dr. Carter for this community. She has a great deal of experience with all aspects of eye care. Dr. Carter has co-managed surgical cases, worked with children who have vision related learning issues and fit every type of contact lens. She is a genuine, caring doctor that truly listens to your needs and makes recommendations that fit your life.

To make an appointment CLICK HERE

Types of Contact Lenses

2011-05-19T10:07:00.001-04:00

There are three different types of contact lenses. The first lens is a soft contact that is the most common and can be fitted on patients with an astigmatism and a bifocal prescription. The second type of lens is a hard contact. This is a traditional lens that is hard and more difficult to fit and are for patients with special situations. The third contact lens is a hybrid lens. This is a lens that has a soft contact and a hard contact together. The hard lens is in the center and the soft lens is on the outside.

There will be more on the details of each of these lenses in the future.

Diabetes in the Eye

2011-05-09T13:03:00.001-04:00

Diabetic Retinopathy is a condition where a diabetic persons blood sugar gets too high.

When this happens, the high glucose level starts a series of events which end in damaged blood vessel walls in the retina.
Symptoms may not be present, but can include bluriness, blind spots, or cloudiness.

Stay up to date on your routine eye exams.

Join Us For A Trunk Show!

2011-04-22T10:06:00.003-04:00

Betsey Johnson, Judith Leiber and David Yurman Eyewear Collections

Betsey Johnson has been rocking the fashion industry with her unique and original design for over 30 years and now she brings her signature style to her very own eyewear collection. We are excited about this event and hope that you can join us!

Please join us for an exclusive trunk show.

WEST GEORGIA EYE CARE

THURSDAY, MAY 26TH

10am-7pm

619 Dixie Street, Carrollton

RSVP to:

tiffany@westgaeyecare.com

Spring Fashion

2011-03-28T09:29:00.000-04:00

Spring into Fashion

Now is the perfect time to begin preparing for fashion trends for Spring 2011. That includes your eyewear. Glasses and sunglasses have become the perfect accessory for every aspect of daily life.

With so many styles you can have a distinguished pair for the office, a funky pair for the weekend abd the ever trendy, large sunglasses.

Styles for spring and summer are moving to more of a vintage look for men and women. A vast range of colors with clean lines and a stylish look, look great on everyone.

Kids and teens will enjoy creating a look of their own with frames made just for them, by designers they love. And no look is ever complete without a great pair of "cool shades". Sunglasses are all the rage with larger sizes, unique temples and bright colors.

Come by and visit our Optical Boutique for your personal eyeglass fitting. Our frame stylists will recommend the perfect eyewear to complete your style and have you look, and seeing your best.

Computer Vision Syndrome

2011-03-04T11:14:00.001-05:00

Do you look at a computer screen all day?

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a very real problem for many people who spend hours daily in front of a computer screen. CVS is a temporary condition from focusing the eyes on a computer display for uninterrupted periods of time.

Rearranging your workspace can create a better work environment. Such as a lighted work station, tilting your computer screen away from you, and taking breaks from looking at the computer every 15 minutes. This may simply be all you need to do to reduce eye strain and other vision related problems related to CVS.

Sometimes, a good pair of computer glasses may help you see better at just the right distance needed for viewing your computer screen. These glasses may be prescription lenses measured for your working environment or non-prescription Gunnar glasses. These lenses offer a specialized lens that combine special lens coatings and a unique tine designed to elimiate eye strain and fatigue.

The most common symptoms associated with CVS are:
Eyestrain
Headaches
Blurred vision
Dry eyes
Neck and shoulder pain
These symptoms may be caused by:
Poor lighting
Glare on the computer screen
Improper viewing distances
Uncorrected vision problems

Be Equipped with Sports Eyewear Protection

2011-02-13T09:13:00.000-05:00

Whether you're trading elbows on the basketball court, returning a power serve, or taking a 95 mph fastball, sports eyewear is important. Your sport safety glasses can take your game to the next level no matter what sport you play.

Sports safety eyewear is designed specifically to protect your eyes while playing sports. There is now a wide variety of safety glasses that range in color, size and frame designs.

We recommend that all of our sports eyewear have polycarbonate lenses. The lens is lightweight and shatter resistant. You don't have to wear prescription glasses to wear sport safety glasses.

2011-02-09T09:07:00.000-05:00

Glaucoma Basics

Glaucoma is an eye disease that is often called the silent thief of sight. It is estimated that over 4 million Americans have glaucoma, but only half of those know that they have it. Early stages of glaucoma may present no symptoms at all, and if left untreated can cause permanent blindness. There is no cure for glaucoma. However, proper usage of medications and/or surgery can slow down or prevent further vision loss.

Everyone is at risk for having glaucoma, but certain factors may put you at higher risk:

1. African American race
2. Over 60 years of age
3. A family history of glaucoma

Early detection is key to protecting your vision from damage caused by glaucoma. Our doctors along with the American Optometric Association, recommend an annual comprehensive eye exam to maintain proper eye health.

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T10:15:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

Many of us make New Year's resolutions, but have you thought about making one for your eyesight? Vision is our most treasured sense so we must do everything that we can to preserve and protect it. What better way to start the year off than having your annual eye exam?

The American Optometric Association recommends that everyone have a comprehensive eye exam annually to detect any vision changes and eye disease in its early stages.

Our comprehensive eye exam includes a complete evaluation of your vision and eye health. After your exam, our doctors can recommend the best solution for you. Whether it's the latest technology in contact lenses or a personalized pair of glasses, we have options for every member of your family.

Floaters Not Dangerous .... Usually

Floaters can come in all shapes and sizes and are usually harmless. However, if you begin to experience several floaters accompanied by flashes of light it could be a sign of something more serious.

Floaters have been described as looking like cobwebs, bugs, specks, or dark spots in your vision.

Floaters are caused by the breakdown of the jelly like substance that makes up the inside of the eye. This can occur in the aging process, eye injuries and certain eye diseases.

Flashes of light, a veil or curtain over your vision, or more floaters than usual could be a sign of a retinal detachment. If untreated, it can lead to blindness.

If you experience any of these symptoms, don't panic, just call our office at 770-834-0212. If you get a recording, leave an emergency message (Option 1) and the doctor on call should reply soon.

The Joy of Missions

2010-12-27T14:19:00.000-05:00

I have had the opportunity to go on medical mission trips in the past. I must say that these trips are extremely rewarding for me. There are many people who have truly committed their lives to providing mission opportunities. It is an honor to work beside the organizers and medical professionals who make these trips part of their routines.

But more than that, seeing the people who need help, and are grateful for whatever you can give. The need is incredible in other parts of the world. Did you know that most of the world’s functional blindness could be “cured” with a pair of glasses, but there is no way to get them? I always enjoy these opportunities and hope to have another soon.

Do You Know How Well Your Child Sees?

2010-12-27T08:56:00.000-05:00

You may have been told that your child has 20/20 vision after a vision screening at school or pediatrician's office, but did you know that they can still have a vision problem? Eighty percent of learning is achieved visually and 1 in 4 school age children has some form of vision problem that can hinder academic performance. In fact, most children that are living with an undiagnosed vision problem will not complain because they don't know what "normal" vision is supposed to look like.

When should my child have an eye exam? The American Optometric Association recommends that a child have his or her first eye exam between 6 months and one year of age and then again at the age of three. When school begins, eye exams should be conducted every year to maintain proper eye health and development.

Are Cataracts slowing you down?

2010-12-03T08:47:00.000-05:00

Did you know that nearly 5.5 million people in the U.S. suffer from cataracts that interfere with their vision? A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye that tends to 'grow' gradually, so changes in vision may not be noticeable at first.

The term "age-related" is usually paired with cataracts, which is a little misleading. You don't have to be a senior citizen to get cataracts. A cataract can affect anyone no matter age, race, or gender. They may have several causes, which include:

Smoking
Diabetes
Eye Injuries
Medication

Cataract surgery is the most common form of surgery in the United States. However, in the early stages of cataracts they can be managed by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. As the cataract advances it may affect the quality of your life. When this occurs it is time to consider surgery.

Your eye sight is precious. Early detection and treatment of any eye disease or impairment is important. We recommend yearly eye exams to insure preservation of your vision. To find out if you or someone in your family has cataracts schedule an exam today.

Dry Eye Syndrome

2010-11-27T08:38:00.000-05:00

If eyes are not properly lubricated they may feel itchy, scratchy, and irritated. Dry eye syndrome affects approximately 10-14 million Americans, mostly over the age of 40.

In addition to a lack of tear production, dry eye can result from inadequate levels of moisture on the surface of the eye. This is caused by situations that dry out the tear film. These situations can include dry air from air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions such as smoking, high altitude or pollution.

There are three layers of your tear film:
The mucin layer is the thinnest and its purpose is to coat your eye and to spread the moisture of your tears evenly across the eye.
The water layer is made up of a saltwater solution. It is the largest and thickest layer, and its purpose is to ensure that your eye remains moist.
The outer lipid layer is made up of lipids (oils). Its purpose is to prevent the watery middle layer from evaporating.

Treatment of Dry Eye
There are many treatment options for Dry Eye. The best option depends on the severity of your Dry Eye, age, lifestyle, medications and overall health. Some options are:
Hot Compresses and Lid Scrubs used daily
A high quality fish oil capsule, such asFortifeye, which contains Omega 3 fatty acids keep the tear production system healthy.
Lubricating Drops, like Systane Ultra can help moisten the eyes.
RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion is the only prescription eye drop to help increase tear production
Temporary or permanent punctal plugs. An in office procedure for more severe cases.

Our exams always include an evaluation of the tear film and testing for Dry Eye.

Cataracts

2010-11-24T17:52:00.000-05:00

Today’s cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures that can be done to correct your vision. Compared to just a years ago advances in cataract surgery have really come along way.

All cataract surgeries now are completed with an Intraocular Lens (IOL) implanted into the eye. New advances allow people to be corrected with Multifocal implants which corrects the distance and near vision or something called a Toric IOL which corrects any astigmatism that the patient may have.

Cataracts are a part of the normal aging process and affect us all. In school, I learned that anyone who lives long enough will get cataracts. Today’s vision requirements are so advanced that many people are opting for cataract surgeries with mild cataracts because of the large impact that a small vision impairment can have on your life. I’m excited about what the future holds in working with our talented and experienced cataract surgeons.

New Personalized Lenses From Zeiss

2010-11-15T16:44:00.000-05:00

There has been an amazing amount of technology that has come out of progressive lenses in the last ten years. Right now, I am most excited about the newest type of progressive lens, called the Zeiss Individual Lens. Each lens is not even designed until a patient’s prescription has been decided. It takes into account not only the prescription but also the type of frame, the tilt, wrap and shape of the frame. It also factors in the facial features of the person wearing it. All of the studies have shown that this will be one of the biggest advancements in progressive lenses since they were first invented. I am excited that we are able to offer this. Click here to see our latest newsletter article about these fantastic lenses.

New ZEISS Individual™ Lenses Precisely Personalized For Your Best Vision Possible

2010-11-02T08:29:00.000-04:00

Personalized products are everywhere. You can buy custom M&Ms in your favorite colors with a picture or personal sentiment. Clothing companies like Levi Strauss and Lands' End provide custom designed jeans.

Computers and cell phones allow you to personalize your home pages and applications. In healthcare, financial services and insurance, highly personalized plans are now the norm, not the exception.

What if you could have eyeglass lenses made just for you?

You can, with Zeiss Individual. ™ Individual lenses are precisely personalized for you, the glasses you select and how those glasses fit your face.

Did you know that your vision is affected by how your nose and cheekbones position your lenses? Taking precise measurements results in more precise vision. Zeiss Individual™ lenses take into account the distance from your eye to the back of the frame, the angle of the frame and the shape of the frame in relation to your face.

Think of it as the difference between buying clothes "off the rack" versus clothes made by a tailor. The tailor takes extensive measurements so that the clothes fit you precisely. When you buy something off the rack, it is designed to fit numerous people within a certain size range. While it might fit you well, it won't fit exactly and may require additional tailoring for a perfect fit.

Ask our staff about Zeiss Individual™ lenses and find out how you can have your best vision.

Find Relief from Itchy, Dry Eyes

2010-10-20T16:41:00.019-04:00

Recently Dry Eye has become one of the most common eye diseases that we see. Why do I think we are having this dramatic increase? It is because of several factors:

- Age and medications - People are living longer and taking more medicines. Both of these factors contribute to eye dryness.

- Air Pollution - As the number of cars on the road increase, so does the amount of pollutants and eye irritants in the air that can dry out the moisture levels in your eyes.

- Energy efficient homes - Since our homes are now better insulated, they tend to have less humidity in the air, contributing to tear evaporation.

- Better Awareness - More people are talking about dry eye and know that it is important to mention their symptoms to their eye doctor.

My first treatment of choice for dry eye is a high quality Fish Oil capsule daily (it has to be high quality), hot compresses on your eyes every evening and lubricating drops for comfort. If you are doing these and still have dry eye symptoms of scratchy, painful or watery eyes, it is time for a visit.