Vision Matters - car on highway with black-gray blur around it depicting low vision from macular degeneration.

Vision Matters: A Closer Look at February’s AMD Awareness Initiatives

by ArticlesBlog

This month is designated as National Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Low Vision Awareness Month. Millions of people in the United States are living with a visual impairment that can significantly impact the quality of life for millions of Americans aged 60 and above. Current statistics reveal that an alarming 1.6 million Americans are grappling with the effects of AMD.

AMD is a disease that blurs the sharp, central vision you need for straight-ahead activities and tasks such as reading and driving. The disease affects the macula; the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail.

Dr. Bissell is a member of the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists. He has been specially trained in low vision to help patients suffering from AMD. Using low-vision glasses and devices can help you manage the condition by enhancing your remaining vision using magnification, filters, and prisms. The biopic telescopic glasses magnify and make distant objects more visible. Think of them like miniature binoculars in your eyeglasses above your line of sight.

For those with low vision, the quality of their vision interferes with their ability to perform everyday activities. Tasks such as reading the mail or a book are challenging. Other obstacles include activities such as shopping, cooking, writing, driving and even the ability to enjoy a movie or television. Besides those difficulties, low vision results in anxiety and frustration when people lose their vision as well as visual independence.

Understanding AMD:

AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As AMD advances, it can lead to a loss of this crucial vision, impacting daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Two main types of AMD exist: dry AMD, characterized by the accumulation of drusen, and wet AMD, marked by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula.

Identifying Risk Factors:

Several risk factors contribute to the development and progression of AMD, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proactive management. Some key risk factors include:

  • Age: The risk of AMD increases with age, particularly for individuals over 60.
  • Genetics: A family history of AMD can elevate the risk for developing the condition.
  • Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant modifiable risk factor, with smokers having a higher likelihood of developing AMD.
  • Race and Gender: Caucasians and females are reported to have a higher prevalence of AMD.
  • Cardiovascular Health: Conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol can contribute to AMD risk.
  • Nutrition: A diet lacking in certain nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, may increase the likelihood of AMD.

Regular comprehensive eye examinations, particularly for those over 60 or with a family history of AMD, can aid in early diagnosis and intervention. Lifestyle modifications, including adopting a healthy diet rich in nutrients, quitting smoking, and managing cardiovascular health, can contribute to reducing the risk of AMD.

Dr. Bissell states, “It is one of the most rewarding experiences to watch someone regain the ability to read a book, watch TV or walk safely down a sidewalk without fear of injury.” Low Vision appointments last longer than regular appointments due to the additional time needed to test various telescopic prescription lenses. The glasses are not covered by insurance with costs starting at $500. It’s a small price to pay for independence. Live life to the fullest. To learn more about low vision services, call our office at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening and Saturday appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.

Macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD)- is a medical condition which may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field. Diagnosis in Opthalmology.

Low Vision Awareness

by ArticlesBlog

February is national age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision awareness month. AMD is the leading cause of low vision and blindness in Americans age 60 years and older and affects 1.6 million Americans. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the rates of AMD are expected to reach “epidemic proportions”. AMD is a disease that blurs the sharp, central vision you need for straight-ahead activities and tasks such as reading and driving. The disease affects the macula; the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail.

The most common causes of low vision in the USA are macular degeneration, followed by glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. For those with low vision, the quality of their vision interferes with their ability to perform everyday activities. Tasks such as reading the mail or a book are challenging. Other obstacles include activities such as shopping, cooking, writing, driving and even the ability to enjoy a movie or television. Besides those difficulties, low vision results in anxiety and frustration when people lose their vision as well as visual independence.

What are the risk factors?

  • Age: Affects more than 2 million Americans over 50 years old. The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration in the USA is around 6% when 65 and almost 20% when 75 years old.
  • Genetics: Family history (many genes being studied)
  • Smoking: Increases your risk for progression
  • Other eye conditions: hyperopia and light-colored iris
  • Systemic diseases associated: hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease
  • Gender: women are more likely to be affected than men
  • Race: Caucasian
  • UV light: no significant proven risk but caution and sunglasses advised.

Low Vision care is a unique method of care because it considers your personal life and favorite activities, not only the extent of your visual difficulties. Low Vision specialists work closely with each patient to determine the best visual aids and devices to improve their quality of life.

Dr. Bissell is a low vision specialist and has undergone extensive training at the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS). People with low vision have a diminished ability to engage in their daily tasks, whether around the house or elsewhere. The goal in treating patients with low vision is to help them remain independent and do the things they love and enjoy through the use of customized vision aids and devices.

Various types of advanced technology include microscope and telescope lenses that improve upon the individual’s prescription lenses and magnify them far beyond the capability of standard lenses. These can be used in combination with other technologies to expand a patient’s environment for those living with low vision caused by eye diseases.

Dr. Bissell states, “It is one of the most rewarding experiences to watch someone regain the ability to read a book, watch TV or walk safely down a sidewalk without fear of injury.” Low Vision appointments last longer than regular appointments due to the additional time needed to test various telescopic prescription lenses. The glasses are not covered by insurance with costs starting at $500. But it’s a small price to pay for independence.

Live life to the fullest. To learn more about low vision services, call our office at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening and Saturday appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.

AMD - Age-related Macular Degeneration and Memory Loss

AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION AND MEMORY LOSS

by BlogUncategorized

February is national Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) awareness month. While there is no cure for Macular Degeneration early detection is key to slowing down vision loss and keeping your sight. Studies have also shown that AMD can have an effect on cognitive functioning. For those that are visually impaired memory is one of the most important things.

Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss. It is caused by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina. The central portion of the retina, known as the macula, is responsible for focusing vision for the eye, allowing us to read, recognize faces or colors, drive and do many day-to-day activities.
While there is no cure for this disease there are treatments to help slow it down. It is important to maintain yearly eye exams for early detection. This disease like so many is very difficult to notice until you have already lost a large portion of your vision.

Lifestyle changes can help lower your risk of developing AMD. Some lifestyle changes might include proper exercise and diet, avoiding smoking, and protecting your eyes from the UV rays of the sun. People that run a higher risk of developing AMD are people who have a family history, race, Caucasians are more likely to develop the disease than African American or Hispanic heritage, and smokers.

There are three stages of AMD:

  1. Early AMD: At this stage, most people do not experience vision loss. The presence of medium-sized drusen (yellow deposits beneath the retina), is usually an early sign your eye doctor looks for.
  2. Intermediate AMD: This is where vision loss may start to be noticed, however it may not be enough to be noticeable. Specific tests will look for pigment changes in the retina and larger drusen deposits.
  3. Late AMD: At this stage vision loss has become noticeable.

Additional factors that may increase your risk are:

  • Smoking. Research shows that smoking doubles the risk of developing AMD.
  • Family history. If your family history includes AMD you are at a higher risk.
  • Ethnicity. AMD is more common in Caucasians than other races.

You have the power to take control of your health. These are some things you can do to help prevent AMD:

  • Exercise Regularly
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in leafy veggies and fish
  • Avoid smoking
  • Maintain proper vitals such as blood pressure and cholesterol.

AMD is best detected by maintaining routine eye exams. Be sure to tell your eye doctor if anyone in your family has or had Macular Degeneration. Often people question why dilation is part of a regular exam. This allows us to look into the back of your eyes for any changes that may be occurring.

While there is no cure for this disease things such as changing your diet and adding proper exercise can help to slow down the loss of vision. You have the power to choose. Take control and choose a healthier lifestyle. Your eyes will thank you for it.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening and Saturday appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.

Age-Related-Macular-Degeneration, Bissell Eye Care

LIVING WITH AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

by ArticlesBlog

Age-Related-Macular-Degeneration, Bissell Eye CareAs you age not only does your wealth of knowledge grow, but also the chances increase that you may develop Age-Related Macular Degeneration or AMD. It is important to maintain not only routine doctor appointments, but eye doctor and dental checkups as we age. Doing so may help you to have a better quality of life as you enter the golden years.

With February being national AMD awareness month we want to educate you on the signs, symptoms and treatments of AMD. Knowing not only what to look for, but also how you can treat AMD will help ease the apprehension of maintaining your routine eye exams.

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss of people above the age of 50. AMD causes damage to the macula, a spot near the center of the retina. This disease blurs the sharp, central vision you need for “straight-ahead” activities such as reading, sewing, and driving. AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail. The rate at which damage can be done can vary. In some people it is a slow process over years. While with others it is more quickly and can also involve both eyes. While Age-related Macular Degeneration does not result in complete vision loss it can interfere with activities of daily living.

Who is more susceptible to developing AMD? Can your lifestyle make a difference as to your chances of developing AMD? As we discussed, people over the age of 50 are most likely to develop this disease.

Additional factors that may increase your risk are:

  • Smoking. Research shows that smoking doubles the risk of developing AMD.
  • Family history. If your family history includes AMD you are at a higher risk.
  • Ethnicity. AMD is more common in Caucasians that other races.
  • You have the power to take control of your health. These are some things you can do to help prevent AMD:

Exercise Regularly

  • Eat a healthy diet rich in leafy veggies and fish
  • Avoid smoking
  • Maintain proper vitals such as blood pressure and cholesterol.

AMD is best detected by maintaining routine eye exams. Often people question why dilation is part of a regular exam. This allows us to look into the back of your eyes for any changes that may be occurring.

While there is no cure for this disease, things such changing your diet and adding proper exercise can help to slow down the loss of vision. You have the power to choose. Take control and choose a healthier lifestyle. Your eyes will thank you for it.

About the author: John D. Bissell, owner of Bissell Eye Care and Tri-State Low Vision Services, offers comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family, ocular disease detection and treatment, eye glasses, sun glasses, active wear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. He has undergone specialized training for treatment of low vision by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists utilizing customized telescopic eyeglasses, prisms and telescopic implants for patients who qualify. The practice accepts most types of vision and health insurance plans.

TECHNOLOGY OFFERS HOPE TO LOW VISION PATIENTS

by ArticlesBlog

Staying abreast of breakthroughs in technologies present a lifeline for those diagnosed as having low vision. Many people ask “what now” when they are first diagnosed with a low vision causing disease. What is considered low vision? Low vision describes significant visual impairment that cannot be corrected fully with glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery.

While there are several different causes for low vision, having an annual eye exam may help to prevent some types of progressive diseases. Breakthroughs in technology continue to offer hope to restore sight to people who suffer from the diseases that cause low vision. We previously shared information on implants and prescription telescopic glasses. eSight is one of those companies that is helping to bring vision back to people who suffer from low vision.

eSight is eyewear that is made up of 2 different components. The headset houses a high-definition camera, OLED screens, and technologies used to simultaneously capture and display real-time video feeds. The controller is the brains of the eSight eyewear. It is responsible for processing the video that is being taken by the headset and simultaneously converting it pixel by pixel into a real time video that is displayed on the OLED screens that are kept in the headset. It is also where the batteries are contained that power this new cutting edge technology.

While it may look like a 3D game of the future, these glasses work by capturing the video, processing it and then displaying the video on the screens contained in the headset. They are designed to fit over and work with your current prescription glasses, and help by magnifying everything that is seen by the camera and projecting it onto the two screens located in the headset.

Creativity throughout the development process has allowed the user the ability to adjust the headset lenses tint level depending on the light setting in which you are using the eSight glasses.

The cost of the eSight component is around $15,000 and is available in Canada and the US. There are fundraising programs available that the company can help you with. eSight does not raise funds for their patients, but guides them in the steps to tell their particular story and ask for financial support to purchase the glasses.

While these glasses will not make everything crystal clear, or completely overcome the side effects of having a low vision causing disease, they do help to make life just that much easier by allowing the user the ability to better see the world. The technologies in this device may be enough to make a major difference in a person’s life allowing them the gift of independence.

About the author: John D. Bissell, owner of Bissell Eye Care and Tri-State Low Vision Services, offers comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family, ocular disease detection and treatment, eye glasses, sun glasses, active wear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. He has undergone specialized training for treatment of low vision by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists utilizing customized telescopic eyeglasses, prisms and telescopic implants for patients who qualify. The practice accepts most types of vision and health insurance plans.

MACULAR DEGENERATION, FAITH AND HOPE

by ArticlesBlog
Macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD)- is a medical condition which may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field. Diagnosis in Opthalmology.

Many people have a vision loss that is not correctable with typical eyeglasses or contact lenses. They’ve lost some vision and are unable to see well enough to participate in activities that are important to them – activities of daily living such as reading, driving, safely walking down a sidewalk and enjoying a sunset. These people are said to have low vision. Eye diseases like macular degeneration, Stargardt’s Disease, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, are among the many causes of low vision. Some people have been told that they are legally blind.

Low Vision Optometrists trained through the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS) use telescopic glasses to help improve vision loss. With the use of telescopic glasses, they often are able to improve vision and the lives of those affected with vision loss.

There is a wonderful article in Guidepost magazine of how these glasses worked for a set of twins who suffered from Stargardt’s disease (juvenile macular degeneration) since they were teens. The article “Double Vision” by Karen Young shared the journey that Karen and her twin sister, Sharon had with Stargardt’s disease since they were teenagers.

Their progressive vision loss caused them to change their college and career plans. They remained positive and were sustained by their faith and live very full lives. Both married and have children. A friend told them of a low vision optometrist who prescribed low vision reading glasses. “For the first time in thirty years we could read” says Karen.

As a trained IALVS Optometrist, it is one of the most rewarding experiences to watch someone regain the ability to read a book, watch TV or walk safely down a sidewalk without fear of injury. Low Vision appointments last longer than regular appointments due to the additional time needed to test various telescopic prescription lenses. The glasses are not covered by insurance with costs starting at $500. But, it’s a small price to pay for independence.

These sisters are experiencing a better quality of life and have new goals in mind as a result of their low vision glasses. If you know of someone who suffers from vision loss that isn’t correctable with typical eyeglasses, we may be able to help. To learn more about low vision, visit Tri-State Low Vision – a division of Bissell Eye Care or call 1-855-552-2020.

About the author: John D. Bissell, owner of Bissell Eye Care and Tri-State Low Vision Services, offers comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family, ocular disease detection and treatment, eye glasses, sun glasses, active wear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. He has undergone specialized training for treatment of low vision by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists utilizing customized telescopic eyeglasses, prisms and telescopic implants for patients who qualify. The practice accepts most types of vision and health insurance plans.