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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:
What is congenital scoliosis?
A:
Congenital scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that you are born with. This type of scoliosis accounts for about 15-20% of all scoliosis cases, and can be noticed at the time of birth by a pediatrician or physician, or in some cases may be identified on an ultrasound when the baby is still in utero.
Q:
What is a lumbar discectomy?
A:
A lumbar discectomy is a type of back surgery. The surgery is done using a small incision so that the nerves that are being pressed upon can be exposed and the cause of the pressing (i.e., a disc) can be removed. The surgery has a good success rate and patients are usually able to move around a few hours following the procedure. You can ask your doctor if you have questions about this procedure and your specific back pain.
Q:
When should an atrial fibrillation patient stop taking their blood thinner?
A:
If you are experiencing a bleed from your gut or large volume bleeds are times when you should visit hospital, and at that time your blood thinner may have to be stopped for a short period of time in order to control the bleeding. Minor bleeds such as bruises that you find on your skin or cuts that won’t heal as quickly, or minor oozes for example while you’re brushing your teeth are not reasons to stop taking your blood thinner.
