In this inaugural edition of “This Caught My Eye,” Ophthalmology Advisor and Optometry Advisor offers ophthalmic and optometric influencers the opportunity to share some of the studies, news, and views they’re reading across the internet.

Here, New York State-based optometrist and science writer Cheryl Murphy, OD, scours social media feeds and shares her curated reading list. These links highlight new findings and celebrate the value of everyone who works in an eye clinic.

No Pressure

The lamina cribrosa curve changes after reductions in intraocular pressures, even in patients with normal tension glaucoma; and the younger they are, the more it changes, according to:

https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2778503

Drink Up!

While coffee can be dehydrating, it and other caffeinated beverages do not necessarily increase your risk of dry eye!

A Real Eye-Opener

An ocular health scare gave a writer a new perspective on life and the silent, sometimes hidden, struggles we all face. Read about his journey in this New York Times Opinion article.

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/15/opinion/blindness-friendship.html

Tech Savvy

Working with a well-trained tech can make you feel like you’ve assembled a “dream team” of productivity. The American Optometric Association (AOA) stresses the importance of Paraoptometric Technician Certification as the scope of optometry continues to grow.

https://www.aoa.org/news/practice-management/perfect-your-practice/the-impact-of-paraoptometric-certification

Hubble in Trouble

I am a firm believer in taking the time to try different contact lenses until you find the one that is right for each unique patient based on your measurements and calculations, a detailed patient history, their subjective performance opinion of the comfort and vision of the lenses, and what we as clinicians see upon careful evaluation and/or follow-ups. It saddens me to think that some companies are doing what I consider a disservice to the public, which can also turn into something dangerous to their eye health.

https://www.aoa.org/news/advocacy/federal-advocacy/hubble-contacts-slapped-with-35-million-penalties-restrictions-and-supervision

Pandemic Leaves Some Shortsighted

Eye care professionals have seen studies that reflect an increase in myopia, especially in children these past 2 years. Some representatives are calling on the CDC to finally acknowledge and help combat the issue.

https://www.patientsafetytoday.com/bipartisan_house_coalition_petitions_centers_for_disease_control_for_update_on_childhood_myopia_prevention

An Eye for Art

Recently, on Instagram, I found an eye doctor who is not only an optometrist and professor but also an artist. After splurging on some pins I simply could not pass up, I have also developed an appreciation for her drawings and other artwork, which are kind of goth, punk, and optometry intertwined. She also makes eye anatomy coloring books.

Check out her store on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/theanatomicaleye/

And her Instagram: https://instagram.com/theanatomicaleye

Cheryl G. Murphy, OD, practices at Sachem Eye Care, affiliated with Lion Eye Group, in Lake Ronkonkoma, New York. She also serves the eye care community as a science and medical writer.

To inquire about submitting your own curated list of links, please contact Bill Kekevian at [email protected]