X-Factor USA finalist, Lyric Da Queen, is known for her signature eye patches. But the patch isn’t just a fashion accessory. In 2008, her right eye turned grey and she lost her vision. Doctors diagnosed her with keratoconus and just weeks later, the same thing happened with her left eye.
What is keratoconus? The cornea is the clear dome-shaped central part of the front surface of the eye. Fibers of protein called collagen help the cornea maintain its dome shape. But if those fibers become weak, the cornea begins to bulge and takes on a cone shape. This deflects lights on its way to the retina, causing distorted vision.
Back to Lyric Da Queen, she had a cornea transplant in 2010 that was successful but then reinjured the eye in 2012. Surgeons stitched the cornea back into place but her iris and lens were gone, leaving that eye blind. The day of the surgery, she got a callback for X-Factor USA. The surgeon cautioned her that she needed to stay in the hospital for a week for the eye to heal, but Lyric didn’t want to give up the opportunity of a lifetime; she discharged herself the next day and boarded a plane to go to the callback. She wore an eyepatch over her eye, which she was ashamed of and devastated about, but the judges loved the unique look and symbolism of it and with her mom’s customized eye patches, they ended up becoming her trademark and part of her identity.
Keratoconus appears to be hereditary and, if you have it, your children should start getting tested beginning at age 10. It appears that people with some medical conditions, such as certain allergies, are more susceptible to the disease. It could also be related to chronic eye rubbing, but many times, there is no injury or disease to explain the bulging that occurs.
Your eye doctor may notice symptoms of keratoconus in an eye exam, but some signs to look for are:
- Sudden change of vision in just one eye
- Double vision when looking with just one eye
- Objects both near and far looking distorted
- Bright lights looking like they have halos around them
- Lights streaking
- Seeing triple ghost images
To confirm the presence of the bulging of the cornea, the doctor will need to measure the curvature of the eye, of which there are several methods. If you do have keratoconus, solutions include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and — in extreme cases — removing the cornea and stitching in a donor cornea into place.
originally published on February 2, 2014 by the American Optometric Association
http://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/how-ods-can-help-fight-the-rise-of-measles
A recent measles outbreak—believed to have direct links to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park—has health officials and health care providers on high alert.
“The evidence is clear that vaccinations save lives and reduce suffering.”
The disease outbreak, while concentrated in California, has affected 84 people in 14 states since January 1, 2015, according to the latest CDC data.
Preparing physicians for a measles outbreak
With measles cases on the rise, optometrists should know the signs and symptoms associated with the disease.
The most common ocular complication associated with measles is bilateral nonpurulent keratoconjunctivitis, according to David Ardaya, O.D., member of the California Optometric Association (COA).
Other early signs of measles include fever, buccal rash consisting of white spots, and the classic red, spotted rash that covers the body. Dr Ardaya adds that, in rare cases, ocular signs can extend to retinopathy including edema—both macular and nerve—as well as optic atrophy.
“Optometrists should look for measles-related systemic symptoms in viral conjunctivitis patients,” says Dr. Ardaya, referring especially to ODs located in California.
The AOA has also created a toolkit that member ODs can use to educate their patients about conjunctivitis and the importance of good hygiene practices.
Emphasizing the importance of vaccinations
David Redman, O.D., COA Legislation-Regulation Committee chair, believes many people who choose not to vaccinate their children are misinformed. He encourages his patients to talk to him about immunizations, so he can dispel any misinformation they may have heard.
When speaking to parents and caregivers of children and young adults, Dr. Redman calls immunizations “the single most important health-promoting intervention we can perform as health care providers and they can perform as parents and caregivers.”
The World Health Organization’s strategy to eliminate measles includes a recommendation that all unvaccinated children receive the Measles Containing Vaccine (MCV) between 9 and 12 months of age as part of routine health services.
A second dose of MCV is suggested at 15 to 18 months of age or at school entry, because a single dose MCV will leave people unprotected and will not prevent large outbreaks.
As of January 21, 2015, the California Department of Public Health reported that vaccination status had been documented for 34 of the confirmed cases in the state—with 28 of the 34 being unvaccinated.
“As part of the overall health care team, optometrists should continue to advocate for parents and caregivers to have their children vaccinated,” Dr. Redman says.
Dr. Ardaya agrees. “The best time to inquire about immunization status is during our case history. As a father of two young children, I realize this can be a touchy subject, but the evidence is clear that vaccinations save lives and reduce suffering.”
In regards to the measles vaccination specifically, Dr. Ardaya suggests ODs educate patients on the importance of receiving two doses.
“Having two doses can reduce the chance of infection to one percent,” he adds.
In addition, Dr. Redman noted that the COA would continue to support legislation that would give optometrists the authority to administer vaccines.
Are you considering getting contact lenses? There are all kinds of things to consider…Hard lenses, soft lenses, disposables, daily disposables, etc. So which one is right for you and which are safest or easiest to take care of? Take a look at our optometrist’s take on it (Dr. Dave Ardaya) and then speak to your eye care professional to figure out what’s right for you.
For over 50 years, Golden Optometric has been the community eye care Center of Excellence. Consistent technological investment–a cornerstone of our practice–allows our doctors and staff to practice at their best, giving you state-of-the art care. Now, with the addition of Dr. Jacob Khoubian, a UCLA Jules Stein trained ophthalmologist, our practices have expert cataract surgery and consultative services included in our office. All Golden Optometric doctors have advanced certification to treat glaucoma and many have residency experience, which means you are getting the most qualified and experienced professionals providing your care. With evening and weekend appointments and on-line scheduling through www.goldenoptometric.com, your next exam is easy to make.
Technology, extended office hours, great doctors and staff, AND a huge eyewear selection are only a few reasons to schedule your appointment today.
Anna Sui Eyewear
Drawing inspiration from Anna Sui’s fashion and accessories, Anna Sui Eyewear incorporates the same fanciful details that have defined the brand since it’s beginning including the signature rosebud, Anna’s favorite butterfly motif and classic fretwork design. Anna herself has always been known for her signature eyewear style and loves incorporating sunglasses and optical frames into her head-to-toe looks, both on and off the runway.
Hackett London and Hackett Bespoke eyewear
The “Hackett” collection presents a range of styles in contemporary designs. Sporting a choice of masculine styles in a collection that offers both metal and plastic frames, each is available in a choice of colours. The result is smart and very wearable, yet always with a twist that lifts them out of the norm!
‘Hackett Bespoke’ Men’s Glasses and Eyewear
The “Hackett Bespoke” collection has been created with more classic styles and is inspired by Hackett’s “Bespoke” tailoring service. There are many subtle details in the collection, echoing the spirit of bespoke. The “Hackett Bespoke” collection also offers hi-tech polarized and multi coated lenses.
Congratulations to Dr. David Ardaya, for being named “Young Optometrist of the Year” and the great article that appeared in the Whittier Daily News, San Gabriel Tribune,and Pasadena Star. The best Doctors are here at Golden Optometric!
Read the full article
Dr. David Ardaya named Young Optometrist of the Year
Young Optometrist of the Year, David Ardaya, OD
