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Pop Quiz: Handwashing Is the Best Defense, but Are You Doing It Right?

Amidst the information being released concerning COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, is a gem that will serve you well far into the future: proper handwashing procedures. Study after study has shown that properly washing your hands is one of the best defenses against any virus, bacteria, or germ. If you want to prevent being…
Specialized Care

Chapters Health System, Bartow Regional Medical Center Open Palliative Care Clinic by MARY TOOTHMAN In partnership with Chapters Health System, Bartow Regional Medical Center has opened a palliative care clinic in Bartow. Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The provision of palliative care…
The State of Florida Issues COVID-19 Updates

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The State of Florida is responding to COVID-19. In an effort to keep Florida residents and visitors safe and aware regarding the status of the virus, the Florida Department of Health will issue this update every day, seven days per week. Governor Ron DeSantis is in constant communication with Florida Division of Emergency Management Director…

Warning! Certain Eye Drops Could Cause More Harm Than Good!

Bill Corkins, O.D. When the FDA approves eye drops, the drops are required to have a preservative added. Most people think a preservative makes the eye drops last longer, which it does not. If I am instilling an eye drop in my eye and I accidentally touch the tip of the bottle to my eyelashes,…
Common Causes of Mesenteric Ischemia

Acute mesenteric ischemia patients are typically older and present with severe pain in the tummy, which is out of proportion to the examination. The patient subjectively describes pain in the tummy that is very severe but there is minimal tenderness elicited on physical examination. Other features will be elevated white blood cell count and acidosis…
Seeing Red? We Aren’t Talking About Love!

by ANISA PATAIL, O.D. February is here, and Valentine’s Day is around the corner! We see red hearts everywhere as a sign for the holiday, but let’s talk about what red eyes are a sign for. There are several conditions that can cause this very common finding. Depending on the symptoms you’re experiencing, and the…