Newsom Eye

A Look at Eye Disease: Macular Degeneration

The macula is the region at the center of the retina that allows for the observation of very fine detail.  In patients with macular degeneration, the cells of the macula slowly die, resulting in slow, progressive loss of vision.  Because this condition is degenerative, symptoms occur gradually and can affect one or both eyes.  Symptoms of macular degeneration can include:

• The need for increasingly bright light to read or perform other activities.
   
• Increasing blurriness of images or printed words.
   
• Difficulty recognizing faces.
   
• Changes in the intensity of colors.
   
• Changes in the perceived sizes of objects.
   
• A blurred, hazy, or blind spot in your central field of vision.
   
• The appearance of people or geometric shapes in your field of vision that are not there (in advanced cases).

If you notice changes in your central vision or your ability to see fine detail becomes impaired, consider seeking treatment from the experts at Newsom Eye.  Schedule a consultation with our experienced Tampa eye care specialists today by calling (813) 908-2020.

Dry Eye Relief with Permanent Punctal Plugs

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common eye disorder that occurs when the glands surrounding the eye do not produce enough tears or produce low-quality tears.  The most common symptoms of dry eye include burning, stinging, or irritation of the eyes, as well as feelings of sandiness or grittiness in the eyes.

In this video from Newsom Eye, you can observe the placement of permanent punctal plugs, small medical devices that prevent the drainage of tears from the eye.  Permanent punctal plugs are placed when a patient responds positively to the placement of temporary plugs. 

Do you suffer from the symptoms of dry eye syndrome?  If so, consider scheduling a consultation with the leading eye care experts of Tampa at Newsom Eye.  Contact Newsom Eye today at (813) 908-2020!

5 Eye Disorders That Can Lead to Irritated Eyes

Eye redness and irritation is a very common problem.  If you are experiencing the burning or itchiness that is characteristic of irritated eyes, you may be wondering what is causing your symptoms.  Below are five common disorders that can lead to irritated eyes.

1. Blepharitis:  A mild infection of the eyelash follicles, blepharitis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that is normally found on the skin.  Patients suffering from this condition will often have red, crusty eyelids and experience burning, itching, and swelling of the eyelid margin.

2. Dry eye syndrome:  The tears secreted by the various glands surrounding the eyes are essential for the hydration and protection of the eye and the maintenance of visual acuity.  When these tears are not produced in adequate quantities or are of poor quality, the burning, stinging, and redness of dry eye syndrome can result.  Blepharitis can also contribute to dry eye syndrome by breaking down part of the tear film that protects the eyes.   

3. Conjunctivitis:  Also called “pink eye,” conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, or the mucous covering the white part of the eye.  Conjunctivitis is often accompanied by a gritty feeling in one or both eyes, redness, discharge, and irritation.

4. Corneal ulcer:  A corneal ulcer is an open sore that forms on the clear covering of the eyeball, called the cornea.  Most corneal ulcers occur as the result of a fungal, viral, or bacterial infection.  Patients with this condition will feel as if there is something in their eye, experience severe pain, and possibly suffer from blurred vision.

5. Eye allergies:  Many men and women suffer from seasonal allergies, or hypersensitivity reactions to pollen, dust, animal dander, or mold.  These substances, called allergens, can lead to tearing, irritation, burning, and itching of the eyes.

Do not continue to suffer from the symptoms of irritated eyes—find a solution today with the help of Newsom Eye.  As experts in the field of eye care, our physicians are dedicated to helping patients maintain visual acuity and achieve optimal visual health.  If you would like to schedule a consultation, contact our Tampa practice today at (813) 908-2020.

Tampa Radio Legend Jack Harris Visits Newsom Eye Tomorrow!

Local radio icon Jack Harris, FOX News Radio 970 WFLA, will come to Newsom Eye tomorrow morning for an interview with Dr. Newsom and to check out the Newsom Eye facility first hand. After conducting business together on Jack’s show, he and Dr. Newsom became friends and an invitation was extended to Jack to visit Newsom Eye and Tampa Surgery Center anytime.  Being extremely interested in Dr. Newsom’s Bladeless Laser Surgical techniques, he decided to take advantage of the good doctor’s generous offer and to also bring a video crew to document the event for his website and his many listeners.

Jack will arrive at Newsom Eye’s Tampa facilities on Thursday morning at 10:30 AM.  He and Dr. Newsom are quite eager to spread the word about the importance of quality eye care and Dr. Newsom’s revolutionary Bladeless Laser Surgical techniques.  We will be posting more information as it becomes available, but contact Newsom Eye at (813) 908-2020 with any questions, and be sure to tune into 970 WFLA’s AM Tampa Bay from 5-9 AM!

Your Guide to the Different Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that is responsible for more cases of blindness in the United States than any other vision disorder. There is not yet a cure for glaucoma, but it can be treated using various techniques that halt the progression of vision loss. The condition may vary depending on the sub variety that manifests itself within the eye—either open or narrow angle glaucoma. In either case, the optic nerve is subject to damage due to fluid buildup in the eye that can raise eye pressure and irritate the delicate structure of the nerve. Newsom Eye is a group of eye care specialists that can help you regardless of the type of glaucoma you may have or are developing.  Below are some important differences between open angle and narrow angle glaucoma to be aware of:

• Open angle: About 90% of glaucoma cases are of the open angle variety. This condition has a slow progression and does not often present physical signs other than gradual vision loss. It is caused by a gradual clogging of the drainage systems within the eye, which eventually builds up pressure by preventing liquid from leaving the eye. Tests performed during standard eye exams check theintraocular pressure of your eyes and identify damage to the optic nerve so that the condition can be diagnosed when it is present.
• Narrow angle: Narrow angle glaucoma is one of few ocular conditions requiring emergency treatment. It has an incredibly fast progression caused by the closure of the angle between the iris and cornea. This blockage keeps liquid in the eye that quickly damages the optic nerve tissue. One can go blind within hours or days due to narrow angle glaucoma, but there are signs that will alert you to get medical attention immediately. Headaches, eye pain, pressure, and redness of the eye may all be present when this condition develops.

For more information about glaucoma and its treatment, visit Newsom Eye in Tampa, Florida. We are a state-of-the-art eye care facility in Tampa, and are dedicated to giving you a the absolute best in eye care and information.  Schedule a consultation to assess your vision on our website or call (813) 908-2020.