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Pop Quiz: Test Your Knowledge on Improving Your Eye Care

They say the eyes are the windows into the soul, and they are also the sense we rely upon the most. Ensuring your eyes stay in tip-top shape includes getting regular eye care. Test your knowledge of the ins and outs of better eye care by taking our quiz, and learn how to make sure…
Local Medical Academies Preparing Students for Health Careers

by CHERYL ROGERS Eighteen public schools in Polk County train students for future careers in healthcare through medical or health science programs. Here’s a look at how some of them have fared. Katya Viegas and Janet Hernandez are heading to medical school. Jesus Jimenez, or J.J., is glad he found an incentive to finish high…
Pop Quiz: Facts and Stats about Immunizations

by ERIKA ALDRICH August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to explore the topic of immunizations around the globe. The efforts to immunize people against debilitating and life-threatening diseases is a global initiative that we are all a part of. Test your knowledge of facts and statistics about immunizations by taking…

Simple Steps for Healthier Vision

by Chelsea Hollier, O.D. May is Healthy Vision Month! Routine eye exams can help your eye doctor prevent, diagnose, and treat vision problems and eye disease in children and adults. In addition, the National Eye Institute recommends several ways to maintain healthy vision. 1. Get an annual dilated eye exam. Having your annual eye exam…
Demystifying the Eyedrop Aisle

By: Daniel Smith, O.D. Many eye disorders can be treated effectively with eye drops and products found over the counter at the local pharmacy and grocery stores. But with so many options on the shelves, finding the right product for your needs can be overwhelming and confusing. Your eye doctor can provide you with specific…
When to Seek Help for Spider, Varicose Veins

Spider Veins vs. Varicose Veins Varicose veins are superficial veins that appear knotty and — unless painful, achy, or inflamed — may not need to be treated. Varicose veins usually become more apparent with age and are the price humans pay for standing erect, as opposed to monkeys who walk on all four legs. Spider…