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Something to Smile About

Annual No-Cost Dental Clinic Coming to Lakeland in May by JULIE BUTTERFIELD Although all three of her stepdaughters have beautiful smiles, Skylar Fuller noticed they were smiling with their mouths closed in family photos. That’s not how someone with a great smile like theirs should pose for photos, she remembers thinking. They were using Mom…
Unlock Your Golden Years

The Secret to Healthy Aging Is Hidden in the Basics Everybody wants the scoop on how to live a long and healthy life. In light-hearted tales, we often hear seniors swear that it was their love of chocolate or daily glass of wine that was the key. We wanted advice that was a bit more…
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…

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…
Aortic Dissection: Diagnosis and Management

In the June article, we discussed aortic dissection, its symptoms, and its classification. Let’s discuss other aspects now. Aortic dissection is most commonly diagnosed when the patient presents with tearing chest or back pain that is unrelenting and associated with severely elevated blood pressure. Other signs indicative of various important organs not getting enough oxygen/blood…
Hindsight Is 20/20, so Prioritize Eye Safety Now

by TERRANCE HAFNER, O.D. The eyes are one of the most important organs in our body, allowing us to see and experience the world around us. It is crucial to prioritize eye safety to prevent any potential injuries or long-term damage. In this article, we will explore various safety measures and practices that can help…