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Growing Together

Lakeland Officials Say Orlando Health Watson Clinic Hospital Partnership Signals Promising Future by PAUL CATALA It’s a collaboration bringing together one of Central Florida’s most renowned and respected hospitals and top physician-led practices to offer specialized care. Watson Clinic, which opened as Watson Health in 1941, is a multispecialty community clinic with comprehensive primary and…
Rhythm & Resilience

Senior Pair Stays Active and Connected Through Dance by RYAN MILEJCZAKphotos by JESS McDONALD Staying active physically, mentally, and socially can be a challenge for anybody, and even more so for seniors. But for Bartow’s Cynthia Aycock, 65, and Polk City’s Doug Wright, 69, the solution was simple: dance. “I grew up dancing, and my…
Care in the Golden Years

From Assisted Living to Nursing Homes, Finding the Right Fit Is Key by MAGGIE THARP At some time or another, many seniors will reach a point where living on their own isn’t the best choice for their health or happiness. But when seniors and families realize this, it’s not always easy to make the transition…

A Guide to Over-the-Counter Artificial Tears for Dry Eye

by Chelsea Hollier, O.D. Dry eye disease, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, is a prevalent condition characterized by insufficient tear production (aqueous deficient dry eye) or poor tear quality (evaporative dry eye). It affects millions worldwide, leading to discomfort and irritation. Fortunately, over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears provide relief and aid in managing symptoms. Dry eye…
3 Options for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Management

In the previous two columns, I discussed aneurysms that occur in the aorta situated in the chest cavity. In this article, I will explain the various types of treatment options available for those thoracic aortic aneurysms. In general, outcomes favor endovascular repair over open repair as open repair is associated with higher rates of morbidity…
Doc, What Are These Floating Things I Am Seeing?

by DANIELA FERNANDEZ, O.D. Floaters are small specks or particles that float within the vitreous humor, which is the gel-like substance that fills the back portion of the eye. These floaters can appear as dots, circles, lines, or cobweb-like shapes that move or drift around as your eyes move. They are particularly noticeable when looking…