Low Vision Patients Benefit from E-Readers

Several reports have shown patients with low vision benefit from use of E-readers and tablets. Low vision is the phrase applied to patients with decreased vision, 20/70 or worse, that cannot be corrected with conventional glasses or contact lens. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy are common conditions leading to low vision. Low vision aids including video magnifiers (CCTVs) increase magnification and contrast. However the cost of these units may prevent access for some patients. As mobile tablets continue to improve, low vision patients can benefit from the adjustable magnification and contrast features on these tablets. For example, when patients with AMD used Apple’s iPad compared to traditional print, patients were noted to have increased reading speeds and quality of life. There may be an initial hesitation to introduce mobile tablets to elder patients with AMD as a result of unfamiliarity with such products; however these tablets may significantly help with reading tasks. Of course, for anyone having undiagnosed vision loss or low vision, prompt evaluation by an eye care provider is essential to address potentially treatable eye disease.

Chirag V. Patel, MD

Nutrition and the Eyes

There are certain nutrients that can help keep the eye healthy and prevent eye disease.

Some of these include:
Omega 3 fatty acids- Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in fish or taken as a supplement.  Fish high in omega 3 include sardines, salmon, tuna, and mackerel.  Omega 3 fatty acids can help improve dryness in the eyes.  The can also decrease the risk and progression of macular degeneration.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin- These are important nutrients found in green leafy vegetables or can be taken as a supplement.  Lutein and Zeaxanthin can reduce the risk of macular degeneration and also slow down its progression.

Vitamin C - An antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables.  Vitamin C can lower the risk of cataract formation.

Zinc- Zinc is found in food sources such as oysters, tofu, wheat germ, and beef.  Zinc has been shown to protect eyes against macular degeneration and night blindness.

Jennine Lutz, O.D.

March is National Nutrition Month

March is the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 40^th Anniversary of celebrating National Nutrition Month. Omega-3s are an important component of your nutritional diet. If you are not eating a diet high in omega-3s then a supplement should be considered in order to maximize its health benefits.

Dr. Michael Gross, CMO and Executive Vice President, of Physician Recommended Nutriceuticals reinforced the benefits of omega-3s in a recent newsletter, citing the results of several studies.

The New England Journal of Medicine most recently reported results involving 7,500 men and women aged 55 to 80. All study subjects were free of heart disease at the start but where in a high risk category. At the end of a 5 year study, the group that consumed the Mediterranean diet which is high in omega-3s had a 30 percent lower risk of major cardiovascular problems compared to those consuming a low-fat western diet. ⁽¹⁾

There has long been a correlation between fish consumption and reduction in risk of cardiovascular disease including heart failure. In October 2012, data was released supporting the use of long-chain omega-3 supplementation improving clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure. A randomized, placebo controlled study with 1,203 patients with chronic heart failure were giving long-chain omega-3 supplementation which raised the EPA and DHA levels by 43%. This increase in EPA levels was associated with a decrease in inflammatory markers and disease severity. ⁽²⁾

The correlation between Omega-3 supplementation and the reduction in systemic inflammation was also supported in the February 2013 JAMA Ophthalmology, High CRP Level Predict Risk of Eye Disease. This report revealed that high levels of the pro-inflammatory marker C- reactive protein (CRP) predicted an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). ⁽³⁾ Omega-3s reduce systemic inflammation.

If you would like to find out more about the benefits of omega-3s, Physician Recommended Nutriceuticals and the variety of Omega-3 supplements available, please visit the product page on our website at http://www.matossianeye.com/site/omega-supplements.htm.

(1) New England Journal of Medicine, February 2013; (2) European Journal of Heart Failure, 2010; 12:338-347; (3) JAMA Ophthalmology, 2013; DOI: 10.1001

Winter Sports, Health Eyes

UV Blocking Contact Lenses

As you know, ultraviolet (UV) exposure can have detrimental effects on the eyes. Chronic UV exposure has been associated with eyelid cancer, pinguecula, pterygium, cataracts, and macular degeneration.  Many people are unaware that there are UV blocking contact lenses available.  These lenses have been on the market for over ten years.  Sometimes sunglasses fail to provide adequate protection because UV light is reflected and can come in from above and below the sunglasses, as well as the sides.  Contact lens wearers can increase their level of UV protection by wearing UV blocking contacts and sunglasses, therefore the entire eye and skin around it is protected.  UV blocking contacts are a great option for young patients who are going to be wearing lenses for many years.  UV blocking contacts are available as daily, weekly, and monthly lenses.   

Jennine Lutz, O.D.