Understanding Dry Eye Disease and Its Treatments Dry, Itchy Eyes?
Your eyes are powerful little organs that allow you to perceive the world around you, so living with consistently dry eyes can make life miserable. Learn more about dry eye disease, and find out how relief is possible. Why do tears matter? Your tears are one of the best defenses your eyes have against harmful dust, allergens, and other unknown substances. Tears clean and lubricate your eyeballs should any debris get in, but when you don’t produce enough tears, your eye is more vulnerable to harm and strain. What is dry eye disease? Dry eye disease occurs when the eye fails to produce enough tears, or when tears that are produced evaporate too quickly. With the prevalence of cellphones and technology, dry eyes are becoming more common. The
reason is simple: Light is a strain on your eyes, and the more you stare at a screen, the more your eyes need adequate lubrication. Research has found that when we stare at screens for long periods of time, we blink less, causing our eyes to dry out faster. But your dry eyes could also be a symptom of medications, aging, diabetes, hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, and eye surgery side effects. How do I know if I have it? No one is immune to dry eyes, but for years, optometrists couldn’t accurately diagnose the severity of the condition. Dry eye disease is one of the most common eye diseases, and it is frequently misdiagnosed. But new technology is making it easier to diagnose. Stirling Eyecare’s TearLab Technology involves one small touch in the corner of your eye to collect a small tear sample for testing. Optometrists get fast and accurate answers with this simple, noninvasive test. How do we treat it? Depending on the severity of your condition, your optometrist has a variety of options they can prescribe to you. Treatments include over-the- counter and prescription eye drops, tear savers, special contact lenses, and nutritional supplements.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic dry eyes, find out how Stirling Eyecare can help by calling (724) 285-2618.
Peanut Butter and Berry
French Toast
Have a Laugh
Ingredients:
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8 slices brioche, 1/2-inch thick 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
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2 cups cornflakes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 large eggs
2 cups mixed berries
1/8 cup heavy cream 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, to sprinkle Maple syrup, for serving
Directions: 1. On a large baking sheet lined with wax paper, place 4 slices of brioche and spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each. Cover with remaining slices, creating sandwiches. 2. In a pie plate, beat eggs with cream and vanilla. In another, coarsely crush the cornflakes. 3. Lightly soak sandwiches in the egg mixture, then dredge in cornflakes, pressing to adhere. Return to baking sheet. 4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted and up to temperature, add sandwiches, cooking on one side until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes. 5. Return sandwiches to baking sheet, add remaining butter, and repeat on other side. 6. Top sandwiches with berries, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve with maple syrup. www.StirlingEyeCenter.com • 1
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