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HealthChoicesFirst
How Glaucoma is Diagnosed and Treated
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. Glaucoma is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, in which damage to the eye (optic) nerve can lead to loss of vision and even blindness.
Understanding cataract development and treatment
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye over time as people age. Cataracts often develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. The only treatment is to have the effected lens replaced through surgery.
Refractive Laser Eye Surgery and the Technologies Now Available
Refractive eye surgery is the term used to describe surgical procedures that correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Surgery can eliminate the need for prescription eyeglasses and/or contact lenses.
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Learn from the experts
Q:
Why does heart disease risk increase with age?
A:
The risk of heart disease increases as our bodies age, primarily due to changes in the blood vessels which make the heart work harder. As we age and our arteries begin to harden, the heart has to compensate for this by pumping harder which can cause increased blood pressure and increase the chance of developing heart disease. See your family physician for regular check-ups to ensure you understand your heart disease risk status.
Q:
What are the advantages of valve replacement done with a catheter?
A:
The main advantages to valve replacement done by catheter is the hospital stay is generally shorter, the recovery is typically faster, and there is less risk of bleeding. The procedure brings a lower risk of infection as well since the chest wall is not opened, as in traditional valve replacement surgery. Your surgeon will review with you the surgical options for your valve replacement procedure.
Q:
Why are diabetes rates rising?
A:
We are seeing more and more people diagnosed with diabetes, and it has a lot to do with today's lifestyle. Children are sitting around more rather than being active outdoors, and this leads to higher obesity rates among younger people. We are also eating less nutritious foods, which adds to the risk of diabetes. As important as it is to recognize signs of diabetes in adults, we should be looking closely at the lifestyle patterns of children to protect them from developing diabetes at their young age.
