Given the vital role vision plays in every aspect of life, all optometrists—regardless of specialty—must be able to distinguish between visual problems that can be corrected with conventional interventions and those that cannot. Low vision, which interferes with everyday activities, cannot be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, or other standard treatment approaches. Therefore, it is critical that primary care optometrists understand how to support these patients in their practice, even if their role is limited to assessment and comanagement.
After refractive error, dry eye is almost certainly the most common ocular issue you encounter at your practice. Just consider: 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with dry eye disease (DED) and as many as six million symptomatic individuals may go undiagnosed.1 With an ever-expanding roster of exam techniques and treatment options to consider, formulating a plan to manage such a heavy caseload can be a challenge. How is this pervasive problem addressed in optometric offices across the country? We surveyed our readers to get a glimpse.
Binocular vision disorders are prevalent in patients at all stages of life—from pediatric to geriatric—and especially in patients with developmental disabilities and a history of traumatic brain injury. They can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life and their ability to perform daily tasks. Given the prevalence and symptomatology, all practitioners, regardless of their clinical settings, should be well adept at binocular vision testing and understand what is considered normal—and what suggests a binocular vision dysfunction.
A 58-year-old Black female presented for a comprehensive ocular examination with a chief complaint of poor vision OD after being a passenger in an auto accident, during which she was struck in the face with an airbag. The patient denied any additional ocular history and reported a medical history of hypothyroidism, currently well-controlled with medication. The patient denied having any allergies to medications or environment. She is currently taking levothyroxine, lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide, allopurinol, sertraline and ranitidine.
One of the most exciting aspects of cataract surgery is the continuous innovation in intraocular lens (IOL) technology. There are numerous companies working on the next generation of IOL platforms to improve both quality of vision and quality of life.
You’ve taken the kids for their checkups and scheduled your parents’ doctor visits. You even went along to make sure they understand what was happening.
Nikki Iravani, OD, is always on the lookout for a great marketing tip.
Nine women ODs were honored during the fourth annual Theia Awards of Excellence from Women In Optometry magazine.