Evaluating the Key Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery

Evaluating the Key Benefits of LASIK Eye Surgery

Convenient and innovative technological advancements in modern healthcare have allowed patients to explore suitable treatments that improve their quality of life. Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, or LASIK surgery is one such option that helps fix refractive errors and improve vision. Those who suffer from blurry vision or cannot see near and distant objects well can certainly consider getting a LASIK surgery to restore perfect eyesight. Here are the key benefits and factors to consider beforehand.

Convenience
One of the main advantages of getting LASIK eye surgery is the convenience of the procedure. Traditional surgical procedures have many risks and complications that might affect vision in the future. The recovery time for such procedures is also longer when compared to a simple LASIK procedure. LASIK surgery is a quicker and more efficient operation done using computer-powered lasers to correct vision. It is one of the better alternatives for those who don’t want to wear glasses or contact lenses for the rest of their lives. LASIK is generally recommended for moderate refractive errors to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. In over 96% of cases, the procedure can restore even 20/20 vision, including peripheral and night vision.

LASIK corrects multiple vision problems
LASIK eye surgery can correct multiple vision problems with painless and quick procedures. For example, a person with myopia or nearsightedness can see close objects clearly but will have difficulty making out distant objects. Using a laser-guided technique, eye surgeons can correct the light rays to focus on the retina rather than in front of it. Alternatively, for hyperopia, the exact reverse condition, patients can see far objects but have trouble focusing on nearby objects. Laser-guided surgery ensures the light rays fall on the retina and not beyond it to correct this vision problem. LASIK can also correct astigmatism, where near and far vision are both disrupted due to light falling unevenly on the retina.

Cost-effective and minimal risks
Today, the cost of eyewear, prescriptions, contacts, and all other necessary treatments to correct and manage vision is quite expensive. All these costs can be avoided in LASIK surgery with the least amount of involved risk. Nearly 98% of patients qualify for LASIK treatments and can get the procedure done safely. The only exceptions include eye disorders and complications like dry eyes, glaucoma, cataracts, large pupils, eye injuries, inflammation like keratitis or uveitis, and any other progressive eye deterioration.

Recreational benefits
Playing sports or engaging in athletic activities is quite difficult while wearing glasses, but can be really comfortable with contact lenses. The risk of infection and injury is quite high in such cases as well. So, young adults and those who are healthy enough to qualify for LASIK surgery can consider the minimally invasive operation to enjoy enhanced vision for recreational purposes. The risk of allergies and infections from removing and inserting contact lenses can be avoided with this procedure.

Financing options for the surgery
LASIK eye surgery can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000 per eye depending on the ophthalmologist’s prognosis and suitable treatments. Plus, not all insurance providers cover the cost of eye treatments or provide only basic cover for these surgeries. The rest of the expenses have to be paid out of pocket only. Today, many private clinics are offering easy financing options for these procedures. There are several affordable low- or no-interest monthly installment schemes that can be paid off over a fixed tenure. Easy financing procedures and long-term benefits of the surgery are among the key advantages of getting LASIK done.

Shortest recovery time
LASIK eye surgery takes no more than 30 minutes, and it is an inpatient procedure. This means patients don’t have to stay back at the hospital and can be immediately discharged once the procedure is done. LASIK can be done for one or both the eyes at the same time, depending on the preferences of the patient. It is also possible to resume work, studies, or even travel the very next day, as one must only wear protective glasses post the surgery. In addition to protective gear, doctors will prescribe creams, gels, oral treatments, and eye drops to prevent any further complications or infections. LASIK permanently restores corrected vision immediately post-surgery. So, patients don’t have to undergo any elaborate post-surgical rehabilitation when compared to traditional surgery.

Eligible criteria for LASIK eye surgery
Most people can qualify for LASIK surgery subject to the following conditions. Doctors need to ensure patients are fit enough to get the surgery and that there is no underlying health complication that can affect the outcome of vision correction.

Age
Vision stops changing between the ages of 18 and 21 years so, ideally, these are the young candidates chosen for laser refractive corrections. At a youthful age, the body’s immune system is also more active and aids in recovery post-surgery.

Treatable refractive errors
The vision problems should not be something that is triggered by an underlying progressive health condition. LASIK is generally reserved for people who have blurry vision and only those who struggle to see things clearly.

Good eye health
The corneas must be in good condition, and overall, one’s eye health should be favorable to qualify for the procedure. This is essential for speedy recovery post-surgery.

Expectations from LASIK
In most cases, LASIK surgery can restore near perfect vision. But note that there are a lot of factors that can determine the outcome of vision correction, including daily nutrition and lifestyle choices.

LASIK eye surgery, in most cases, is an optional procedure that doctors suggest as an alternative to wearing glasses and contact lenses. If someone is comfortable with traditional ocular devices and is unsure of surgery, it is absolutely fine to get a second opinion. Note that understanding all risks involved is equally important after considering the benefits of such treatments.

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Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

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Fatty Liver Disease – Foods to Eat and Avoid

Fatty liver disease, also called steatosis, is a common health condition caused by the storage of extra fat in the liver. In most cases, people do not show any symptoms, and it does not cause significant problems or complications. However, some may suffer liver damage due to inflammation. Scarring and liver failure are also possible in rare cases. The good news is that adopting healthy lifestyle changes can help prevent or reverse the condition. Foods to eat Fatty liver causes immense damage to the organ. It prevents it from removing blood toxins and making bile to aid digestion. When the liver cannot function properly and perform these tasks effectively, it might lead to other problems. One way to manage the situation is to follow a healthy meal plan consisting of the following foods: Garlic A staple in almost every household, garlic provides immense benefits for people with fatty liver disease. Research suggests that garlic powder supplements aid in the reduction of symptoms. It also inhibits oxidative stress and inflammation, which is highly beneficial for overall health. Besides these advantages, garlic adds a unique flavor to meals, making it a must-have food. Flaxseeds Researchers have found that people who add flaxseeds to their meals are less likely to develop this health condition. Flaxseed oil is also beneficial. Alpha-linolenic acid, an ingredient found in flaxseed oil, helps combat fatty liver by suppressing lipogenic enzymes and boosting the activity of fatty acid metabolism receptors in the body. Coffee Besides boosting energy, coffee has several other benefits for people with fatty liver. A recent study found that decaffeinated coffee reduces liver damage and inflammation. Another study suggested reduced fat built-up in the liver and improved body metabolism. However, coffee must be had in moderation, as excess can lead to other health problems. Broccoli One of the most nutrient-rich vegetables, broccoli is extremely helpful in managing several disorders, including fatty liver disease. It effectively reduces liver lipid accumulation by promoting lipolysis. This veggie also regulates inflammatory response and delays the condition's progression by regulating the liver macrophage polarity switch. Almond milk Calcium plays a vital role in the prevention of liver disease. Almond milk is a rich source of not only calcium but also vitamin D (required for calcium absorption). Since patients with fatty liver are also at risk for other complications like osteoporosis, drinking up to three glasses of almond milk every day is advised. Green tea Green tea has been acclaimed for its health properties for thousands of years. It possesses several antioxidants, including catechin. Multiple studies have concluded that these antioxidants may help improve fatty liver symptoms. Furthermore, research suggests that green tea extract supplements decrease liver enzymes in patients. Foods to avoid While eating the above foods, patients with fatty liver disease should avoid or eliminate certain others from their nutrition plan. This may aid in maintaining a healthy liver, reverse fat buildup, contribute to liver healing, and maintain overall health. Some foods to be avoided are: Beef Red meats like beef contain high amounts of saturated fats. The American Gastrointestinal Association suggests that an individual with fatty liver disease should avoid saturated fats as much as possible because their intake gradually increases the amount of fat around the organs, including the liver. Instead, one can opt for alternatives like tofu, oily fish, and lean meats to maintain liver health. White bread Refined and processed grains used to make white bread often leave behind a starchy product. White bread also contains added sugar, which is highly harmful to people with fatty liver disease. Moreover, its simple carbohydrates can be easily broken down into sugar and cause further complications in the body. Instead of white bread, one can opt for alternatives like wholegrain bread, quinoa, and rolled oats. Butter Dairy products like butter have been associated with high triglycerides in the liver. Hence, patients with fatty liver disease are suggested to avoid it. Butter is also a source of saturated fat, which increases liver fat accumulation by 40%. Instead of butter, one can opt for other substitutes, such as peanut butter, for the spread. French fries Rich in trans fats, French fries and other fried foods are incredibly harmful to the liver. Research suggests that these fried foods may increase the risk of inflammation and even lead to compromised liver function. An alternative that patients can consider is sweet potatoes. They are filled with beta carotene, fiber, potassium, and vitamin C that help lower inflammation and promote liver repair. Soda Soda, a popular beverage in the country, contains more than 40 grams of added sugar in a single can. Regular consumption of such high amounts of sugar affects multiple bodily functions, including the liver. Too much soda also increases insulin resistance and oxidative stress, which, when combined, increase the delivery of free fatty acids to the liver, thus increasing the risk of fatty liver. Bacon Processed meats like bacon are known to have a negative impact on liver health. The preservatives usually added to them have high amounts of sodium and artificial nitrates that may harm the organ and lead to other complications. This includes high blood pressure, which plays a direct role in liver inflammation and damage. While the above food tips may help patients, one should consult a doctor before changing their nutrition regimen drastically. Those who do not have the condition should be aware of its symptoms to diagnose it as early as possible. Some common signs include nausea, weakness, abdominal pain, and swollen abdomen and legs. This disorder may not cause any problems initially, but its progression may lead to severe liver damage. Hence, patients are advised to go for regular checkups to ensure early detection and treatment.

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Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

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Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

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