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*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious medical condition that affects the skin and mucous membranes, often triggered by medications or infections. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for SJS is crucial for both awareness and timely intervention. Here we delve into the intricacies of SJS to provide valuable insights into its complexities. Causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Medication Triggers: The majority of SJS cases are triggered by medications, most commonly antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is essential to be aware of potential drug reactions and consult with healthcare professionals about any concerns. Infections: Infections, particularly viral infections like herpes, can also serve as triggers for SJS. Understanding the importance of addressing infections promptly can contribute to preventing the onset of this severe condition. Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Skin Rash and Lesions: One of the hallmark symptoms of SJS is a widespread skin rash that often begins with red or purple spots and progresses to blisters. The skin may peel off, resembling a severe burn. Mucous Membrane Involvement: SJS affects mucous membranes, leading to painful sores in areas such as the mouth, eyes, genitals, and respiratory tract. This involvement can result in difficulties with eating, breathing, and speaking. Flu-like Symptoms: Individuals with SJS may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and general malaise. Recognizing these symptoms alongside [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition known for its acute impact on the skin and mucous membranes. While the immediate consequences are well-documented, the long-term effects of SJS on vision often linger as silent challenges, significantly affecting the quality of life for survivors. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the enduring impact of SJS on vision and explore some strategies for managing these long-term effects. Understanding the Persistence of Vision Challenges  Corneal Scarring and Visual Disturbances: One of the enduring effects of SJS is corneal scarring, resulting from severe inflammation during the acute phase. This scarring can cause visual disturbances, including blurred or distorted vision and vision loss. Chronic Dry Eyes and Discomfort: SJS often leads to chronic dry eyes, a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This ongoing dryness can result in discomfort, irritation, pain, and a gritty sensation, significantly impacting daily activities. Navigating the Long-Term Vision Challenges Specialized Eye Care: Individuals who have experienced SJS should prioritize regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist specializing in the management of SJS-related complications. These specialists can monitor the progression of vision challenges and recommend tailored interventions. Management of Dry Eyes: Chronic dry eyes require consistent management to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. PROSE Treatment: PROSE treatment uses [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Dry eye syndrome in children is a common but often overlooked condition that can cause discomfort and affect their overall well-being. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, blurry vision, and potential damage to the eye surface. Signs of Dry Eye Syndrome in Children Children with dry eye syndrome may experience a range of symptoms, including: Redness and Irritation - One of the most common signs of dry eye syndrome in children is redness and irritation in the eyes. This can cause discomfort and may lead to increased rubbing of the eyes. Sensitivity to Light- Children with dry eye syndrome may also be more sensitive to light, which can impact their ability to concentrate and participate in outdoor activities. Blurred Vision - Dry eyes can lead to blurred vision, making it difficult for children to focus on tasks such as reading or using electronic devices. Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome in Children Several factors can contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome in children, including: Screen Time - Excessive screen time, whether it's from computers, smartphones, or tablets, can lead to reduced blinking and contribute to dry eyes. Environmental Factors - Exposure to dry and dusty environments, as well as indoor heating or air conditioning, can also contribute to dry eye [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and in severe cases, vision disturbances or even vision loss. Understanding the impact of dry eye syndrome on vision quality is important for maintaining long-term vision health. The Effects of Dry Eye Syndrome on Vision Quality When the ocular surface is not adequately lubricated, visual disturbances can occur. Dry eye syndrome can result in blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty focusing. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and using digital devices. If left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to corneal damage, potentially resulting in permanent vision impairment. Managing Dry Eye Syndrome for Optimal Vision Quality  Effective management of dry eye syndrome is crucial in maintaining optimal vision quality. Incorporating regular eye examinations and seeking professional guidance from an eye care doctor can help mitigate the impact of dry eye syndrome on vision quality. Management strategies may include the use of: artificial tears prescription medications lifestyle modifications specialty lenses, such as PROSE and scleral lenses The Importance of Addressing Dry Eye Syndrome  Ignoring the symptoms of dry eye syndrome can have detrimental effects on vision quality and overall eye health. By acknowledging and [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but severe condition that can have devastating consequences on various aspects of health, with vision being particularly vulnerable. Understanding the intricate relationship between Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and vision is crucial for both awareness and proactive management. In this overview, we look at the profound impact of SJS on vision and explore potential long-term consequences. Vision Threats Posed by Stevens-Johnson Syndrome  Corneal Damage: One of the most significant threats to vision in individuals with SJS is the potential for corneal damage. The delicate corneal tissue may be affected during the acute and chronic phase of the condition, leading to pain, inflammation, and vision impairment. Conjunctivitis and Ocular Surface Disease: SJS often manifests as severe conjunctivitis, with inflammation of the mucous membranes in the eyes. Prolonged inflammation can contribute to ocular surface disease, impacting the stability of the tear film and exacerbating dry eyes. Symblepharon Formation: In some cases, the adhesion of the conjunctiva to the cornea, known as symblepharon formation, can occur. This complication will frequently result in worsened symptoms, put you at risk of further damage to the ocular surface, and may be a sign of progressive disease. The Role of Medications in Vision Complications Medication-Induced Eye Damage: Medications implicated in triggering SJS can directly impact the eyes, leading to a range of complications. The inflammatory response triggered [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. What is Dry Eye Syndrome? Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes are unable to maintain a healthy layer of tears. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, blurry vision, and in some cases, potential damage to the eye surface. It's important to understand potential causes of this condition to effectively manage and prevent it. Environmental Factors  Environmental factors such as dry climate, windy conditions, or exposure to smoke and dust can contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome. These elements can lead to increased evaporation of tears, leaving the eyes dry and uncomfortable. Aging and Hormonal Changes  As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, including hormonal fluctuations. These changes can affect the production of tears, leading to a higher risk of developing dry eye syndrome. Additionally, women are more prone to experiencing dry eye symptoms due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or the use of oral contraceptives. Digital Eye Strain  With the increasing use of digital devices, many individuals experience symptoms of dry eye syndrome due to prolonged screen time. Staring at screens for extended periods can reduce the frequency of blinking, resulting in dry, uncomfortable eyes. Medical Conditions and Medications  Certain medical conditions such as ocular GVHD, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, diabetes,  rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders among others can contribute to the development of [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options.  When considering LASIK eye surgery, it's important to be well-informed about potential complications that may arise. By being aware of these complications, you can make an informed decision and better prepare yourself for the procedure. Dry Eyes  Dry eyes are a common side effect of LASIK surgery. It typically improves within a few months, but for some people it may persist longer. Artificial tears and prescription eye drops can help alleviate the discomfort. Glare and Halos  Another potential complication is seeing glare and halos around bright lights, especially at night; this occurs due to changes in the way light is processed by your eyes after LASIK surgery. While most people adapt to these visual disturbances over time, in some cases, they may persist. Discuss this with your surgeon during the consultation to understand your personal risk level. Under-Correction or Over-Correction  Although LASIK is a highly effective procedure, there is a chance of under-correction or over-correction of your vision. Under-correction or over-correction both result in blurry vision and the need to still use glasses or contact lenses for all or some activities. These conditions can often be rectified through enhancement surgeries or by using corrective lenses, such as scleral lenses. Regressive Vision Changes As we age, our vision naturally changes. LASIK surgery does not prevent the natural aging process of the eyes. Over time, [...]

*This article is a guideline only and is not be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Post-LASIK ectasia is a rare but serious complication that can affect individuals who have undergone LASIK surgery. It is essential to understand the long-term effects of this condition and take proactive steps to maintain visual health. Understanding Post-LASIK Ectasia  Post-LASIK ectasia refers to the progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to distorted vision. This condition typically manifests several months or even years after LASIK surgery. While the exact causes of post-LASIK ectasia are not fully understood, certain risk factors, such as pre-existing corneal abnormalities or excessive tissue removal during the procedure, may contribute to its development. The Long-Term Effects Post-LASIK ectasia can have significant implications for an individual's visual health in the long run, including: Visual Distortions: Due to the irregular shape of the cornea caused by ectasia, individuals may experience visual distortions, such as halos, glare, or double vision. These distortions can impact daily activities, including driving or reading, and significantly reduce quality of life. Reduced Visual Acuity: Ectasia can lead to a progressive decline in visual acuity, making it difficult to achieve clear and sharp vision. Individuals may find it challenging to see objects clearly, both up close and at a distance, even with corrective lenses or glasses. Increased Sensitivity to Light: Post-LASIK ectasia can cause heightened sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. This sensitivity can result in discomfort and [...]

Living with post-LASIK ectasia can be challenging, but with coping strategies and support, you can navigate through this condition more effectively. Here we will explore various ways to manage the impact of post-LASIK ectasia on your daily life and how to seek the support you need to cope with its challenges. *This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Understanding Post-LASIK Ectasia  Post-LASIK ectasia is a rare but serious condition that can occur after undergoing LASIK eye surgery. It is characterized by progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to visual distortions and deterioration. Coping with this condition requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical and emotional aspects. Coping Strategies for Post-LASIK Ectasia  Regular Eye Examinations: Schedule regular visits with your eye care doctor to monitor the progression of post-LASIK ectasia and ensure timely intervention. Regular assessments can help identify any changes in your vision and enable adjustments to your treatment plan. Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Depending on the severity of your post-LASIK ectasia, your eye care professional may recommend corrective eyewear, such as glasses or specialty contact lenses. These can help improve your vision and reduce discomfort caused by this condition. PROSE treatment or scleral lenses are effective at providing improved comfort and vision. Collaborate with Specialists: Seek eye care professionals specializing in post-LASIK ectasia. They can provide valuable guidance and tailor treatment options to your specific needs, [...]

After undergoing LASIK treatment, it is common to experience dry eyes. This discomfort can be bothersome, but with proper prevention and management techniques, you can help to alleviate or manage the symptoms. *This article is a guideline only is and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Understanding Dry Eyes After LASIK  Before diving into prevention and management techniques, let's briefly understand why dry eyes occur after LASIK treatment. During the procedure, the cornea is reshaped to improve vision. According to this peer-reviewed article by Tamimi A, et al.“Although the mechanism involved in post-LASIK eye dryness is not clearly understood, flap creation leads to temporal denervation of the cornea, which causes decreased corneal sensitivity, resulting in this condition.” Prevention Techniques  To minimize the occurrence of dry eyes after LASIK, consider the following prevention techniques: Follow Postoperative Instructions: After LASIK surgery, your eye surgeon will provide specific instructions. Follow them diligently, including proper use of prescribed eye drops and medications. These instructions are designed to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications, including dry eyes. Stay Hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help maintain overall hydration levels, including your tear production. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to prevent dry eyes. Use a Humidifier: Incorporate a humidifier in your living space, especially in dry environments or during winter months. This device adds moisture to the air, preventing excessive evaporation [...]