image of a smartphone magnifying app and a video magnifier on a national Geographic magazine
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Smartphone Magnifying App vs Video Magnifier. Which is better for those with low vision?

Choosing between a video magnifier and a smartphone magnifying app for low vision individuals involves weighing factors such as portability, magnification needs, cost, and customization preferences. Before making a decision, it’s crucial to evaluate these aspects to find the best solution While both magnify, each has advantages and disadvantages. Considerations are: Magnification: Video magnifiers typically…

illustration of woman sleeping with CPAP mask

How Sleep Apnea Affects Eyesight

Obstructive sleep apnea has been associated with floppy lid syndrome, glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, retinal vascular occlusion, central serous retinopathy, papilledema, and exacerbation of diabetic retinopathy.Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep-induced breathing disorder characterized by the dangerous cessation of breathing. This condition is often linked to a range of health issues such…

Should You Get a Genetic Test for Macular Degeneration?

Should You Get a Genetic Test for Macular Degeneration?

Individuals diagnosed with mild to intermediate macular degeneration might benefit from genetic testing to assess their risk of progressing to the more severe and vision-threatening advanced form of the condition. Patients often ask, “My mother/father had macular degeneration. Is it hereditary? Will I develop it too? What steps should I take?” These are crucial inquiries….

an aging eye

3 Best Supplements for Prevention of Macular Degeneration

The AREDS formula, lutein and zeaxanthin, and resveratrol stand out as the most recommended eye supplements for optimal eye health and the prevention and progression of AMD. Patients are always asking which vitamin supplements should they be taking to insure they can maintain good vision into old age. I will discuss here several eye vitamin…

large green iris of the insight into low vision book

Acceptance, Adjustment, and Adaption to Vision Loss

The key to living with vision loss is Acceptance, Adjustment, and Adaption. It is a step-wise process to living your best life. Acceptance, Adjustment, Adaption Acceptance of disease or disability is the most difficult.. Those of us with degenerative eye disease may deny, make excuses for not seeing, or avoid situations that demand we accept…

image of eyeglasses on an Amsler grid

How To Monitor For Progression of Macular Degeneration

The Amsler grid has been the standard self-monitoring test for the progression of eye disease, but there are apps and a home device that can help detect vision changes.  Self-monitoring is important for: 1. Those at risk for developing a sight-threatening eye disease, 2. early detection of changes due to eye disease; and 3. monitoring…

How Paleo, Vegetarian, and Gluten-free Diets Can Affect Eye Health

How Paleo, Vegetarian, and Gluten-free Diets Can Affect Eye Health

3  diets, Paleo, vegetarian, and gluten-free, which eliminate certain foods, how they may impact eye health. Deprived of an adequate amount of basic nutritional building blocks results in defects of function, premature aging, disease, and decreased energy reserves. What ever effects the body, has an impact on the eyes.  Eating can be enjoyable, least we…

Meso-Zeaxanthin: The Third Carotenoid for Macular Health

Meso-Zeaxanthin: The Third Carotenoid for Macular Health

Studies have shown that it is not just lutein and zeaxanthin that provide support to the retina, but there is a third carotenoid, meso-zeaxanthin that needs to be present for optimum anti-oxidant effect. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin  are characterized as he yellow pigment concentrated in the macula of the retina and collectively are called macular…