Glioblastoma Awareness Day-19 July

 GLIOBLASTOMA 

July 19, 2023, marks Glioblastoma Awareness Day. More than 14,000 Americans are expected to receive a diagnosis in 2023, with a five-year survival rate of about 7%, according to the National Brain Tumor Society.

SYMPTOMS:

Symptoms may depend on where in the brain the tumor is located.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons says the warning signs include:

• Persistent headaches
• Double or blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in mood and personality
• Changes in ability to think and learn
• New onset of seizures
• Speech difficulty

The exact cause of glioblastoma is unknown — most patients don’t have a family history or identifiable risk factors. 

There is no cure for glioblastoma, and treatment is difficult since the cancer grows tentacles into the brain rather than forming a solid mass that doctors can target and remove. The disease and its harsh treatments can affect cognition, mood, behavior and every function of the body

Regular eye exams especially at the onset of any vision difficulties can help with early detection and therefore early treatments. It’s always comforting to know that some of the symptoms above can be unrelated to Glioblastoma, and can be less serious and treatable. Our office uses the latest technology to diagnose eye disease, and we can direct you to the best possible care.

Don’t hesitate to call and get an appointment 

(909)596-6756  2443 Foothill LaVerne CA 91750 (909) 982-0100  1637 Mountain Ave Upland CA 91784 #drkennethboyerOD #drbrianboyerOD #eyewear #sunglasses #glioblastomaawarenessday www.drboyeroptometrist.com

 

JULY is Ultraviolet Safety month (UV)

Studies show that long-term exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of cataracts and growths on the eye, including cancer.

UV rays reflected off sand and water can cause eyes to sunburn, potentially resulting in temporary blindness in just a few hours. In support of UV Safety Month this July, our office reminds our patients and friends of the importance of shielding eyes from the sun’s harmful rays with 100% UV-blocking sunglasses and broad-brimmed hats.

Here are some tips:

• Don’t focus on color or darkness of sunglass lenses: Select sunglasses that block UV rays. Don’t be deceived by color or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the price tag or how dark the sunglass lenses are.
• Check for 100 percent UV protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 100 percent of UV-A rays and UV-B rays.
• Choose wrap-around styles: Ideally, your sunglasses, either the lenses of the frame, should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun’s rays can’t enter from the side.
• Wear a hat: In addition to your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect your eyes.
• Don’t rely on contact lenses: Even if you wear contact lenses with UV protection, remember your sunglasses
• Don’t be fooled by clouds: The sun’s rays can pass through haze and thin clouds. Sun damage to eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summertime.
• Protect your eyes during peak sun times: Sunglasses should be worn whenever outside, and it’s especially important to wear sunglasses in the early afternoon and at higher altitudes, where UV light is more intense.
• Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can lead to solar retinopathy, damage to the eye’s retina from solar radiation.
• Don’t forget the kids: Everyone is at risk, including children.
• Protect their eyes with hats and sunglasses. In addition, if possible, try to keep children out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

In addition to the proper safety eyewear, regular eye exams for early detection and treatment of eye conditions and diseases are essential to maintaining good vision at every stage of life.

(909)596-6756  2443 Foothill LaVerne CA 91750 (909) 982-0100  1637 Mountain Ave Upland CA 91784 #drkennethboyerOD #drbrianboyerOD #eyewear #sunglasses www.drboyeroptometrist.com