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For him: Taking time to take care of yourself

Local Doctors (and Dads) Share How to Open the Door to a Longer, Healthier Life Fatherhood has many joys, but the stress of being a leader, provider, problem-solver, fix-it man, encourager, chauffeur, and disciplinarian can take a toll. In the long run, cutting stress and making a commitment to your health will help improve your…
Outdoor safety tips for summer

Just in Time for Fireworks and Grilling Season According to the American Pyrotechnics Association’s National Council on Firework Safety, each year in the United States, fireworks cause 20,000 fires and almost 10,000 people are injured from activities related to fireworks. On average, four people die from their injuries each year. What is extremely eye opening…
A campaign to help those with hearing loss

How the ‘Loop Florida’ Initiative Will Create Better Quality Hearing for those in Need “Loop Florida” is a phrase that you will be hearing more often from now on. On April 17, the Loop Florida initiative was officially launched. Spearheaded by the Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center with participation by the Hearing Loss Association, Lakeland…

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…