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Delivering Hope

For Many Seniors, Meals on Wheels Is More Than a Meal — It’s a Lifeline by REBEKAH PIERCE Meals on Wheels of Polk County offers locals more than just a meal. It offers a lifeline, and not just to the people receiving the meals. Established as a support network for our Polk County communities, the…
Opioid Addiction: Do You Know the Signs?

by RYAN MILEJCZAK Sponsored by Central Florida Health Care Opioid addiction is one of the biggest concerns here in the U.S. right now. It has affected people across our nation and right here in Central Florida. Central Florida Health Care’s Dr. Amber Popovitz-Gale, a licensed clinical psychologist, has worked extensively with patients struggling with opioid…
Pop Quiz!

Osteoarthritis Can Be a Real Pain in the Joint It’s common for most people to experience pain from time to time, especially as we get older; but if you’re experiencing pain and stiffness in your joints, like your hands or knees, then you may be experiencing osteoarthritis. It’s the most common type of arthritis, but…

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…