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Garlic & Diabetes

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Can You Eat Garlic If You Have Diabetes?

Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH — Written by Daniela Ginta — Updated on May 29, 2020

The basics

People who have diabetes are unable to produce enough insulin or use the insulin their body does produce in an efficient manner. This can affect your blood sugar levels. It’s important to monitor what you eat to keep your blood sugar levels as steady as possible.

One way to do this is by checking the glycemic index (GI) score of each food. The GI shows how much a certain food can increase your blood sugar levels. GI helps with the planning of daily meals and avoiding high-carbohydrate combinations. A low GI is between 1 and 55 and high is 70 and above.

It’s important to know that natural foods, such as garlic, though not rich in carbohydrates, can influence blood sugar levels.

What are the benefits of eating garlic if you have diabetes?

Most adults can safely consume garlic. For some people, taste, odor, or spiciness can be an issue.

Traditionally, garlic has been recommendedTrusted Source to help reduce high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Garlic consumption may also reduce the incidence of heart disease, a condition that affects approximately 80 percent of people with diabetes.

A 2006 study found that raw garlic might help reduce blood sugar levels, as well as reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. This is particular interest, as diabetes increases a person’s risk of atherosclerosis-related inflammation.

Though this is still under investigation, a 2014 review of studiesTrusted Source also supported the idea that regular garlic consumption may help lower blood sugar levels.

Garlic is also a good source of vitamins B-6 and C. Vitamin B-6 is involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Vitamin C may also play a role in maintaining blood sugar levels.

In general, garlic has been shownTrusted Source to:

  • improve the health of the cardiovascular system by reducing the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood lipids
  • decrease blood pressure
  • have an anti-tumor effect
  • prevent cancer cell growth
  • have a strong antibacterial and antifungal effect

Risks and warnings

Garlic is quite potent both in taste and odor. Although it’s generally safe to eat, you may experience minor side effects. This includes:

  • heartburn
  • gas
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea

You may be more likely to experience side effects if you eat raw garlic.

If you’re taking blood-thinning medications, consult your doctor. Garlic consumption may amplify the effects of these medications.

How to add garlic to your diet

If you don’t mind the taste, add a couple of finely chopped garlic cloves to your salads or potato salad. There isn’t a standard dosage for eating garlic, so feel free to add garlic whenever a recipe or snack allows.

If you prefer a less strong odor and taste, look for garlic greens, which are young plants, and garlic scapes, which are curly shoots that appear as the plant matures. They’re available at farmers markets and local produce stores during the spring season. Both have a milder flavor. You can chop them and mix them in salads, dips, and savory spreads.

It’s recommended that you let chopped garlic sit for at least 5 minutes to allow allicin, one of the herb’s main components, to be at its highest concentration. This may enhance the herb’s potential health benefits.

What about garlic supplements?

If you find the taste of raw garlic too offensive or are unable to have it as often as you’d like, you may want to try supplements. Look for aged garlic extract or other garlic extracts that contain allicin.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing supplements:

  • Consult with your doctor before adding supplements to your regimen. They can help you determine whether this is the best option for you.
  • Always buy from a reputable manufacturer that doesn’t use heat processing. This can destroy the active compounds in the garlic, which provide the most health benefits.
  • Avoid completely odorless products. They’re likely stripped of the sulfur compounds that give the characteristic smell and are responsible for some of its possible health benefits.

The bottom line

You can use garlic to improve the taste and quality of meals. Consuming it may also help you maintain better levels of health. For best results, consume garlic regularly in moderate amounts. Cooking garlic lowers its potential therapeutic qualities, so be sure to use fresh and raw garlic in your dishes. Supplements are also an option, but you should consult with your doctor before using them.

23 Top-Notch Lunch Ideas for People with Diabetes

Figuring out what to eat for lunch every day can be challenging, especially for people with diabetes.

Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious, healthy, and easy-to-prepare options that can help round out your diet and keep blood sugar levels steady.

Here are 23 healthy and delicious lunch ideas for people with diabetes.

1–6. Full meals

1. Burrito bowl

Burrito bowls are delicious and easy to tailor to your taste buds by adding your favorite ingredients.

To keep the carb content low, try using mixed greens as your base instead of rice, and top with beans, salsa, and grilled veggies.

You can also throw in some chicken, ground beef, or tofu to boost the protein content, which may support better blood sugar control (1Trusted Source).

2. Turkey veggie wrap

Wraps are convenient, customizable, and portable, making them a great choice for lunch.

Turkey veggie wraps, in particular, are high in protein and feature a variety of fiber-rich vegetables, which can slow the absorption of carbohydrates to stabilize blood sugar levels (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

Be sure to opt for whole wheat or low carb wraps and fill up on nutrient-dense ingredients, such as hummus, tomatoes, lettuce, and bell peppers.

3. Tuna salad

Tuna salad is a healthy, high protein meal typically made with ingredients like tuna, celery, onions, and mayonnaise (3Trusted Source).

You can make it at home and boost the protein content by trading mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Or, add more fiber with veggies like carrots, radishes, or tomatoes.

Pair your tuna salad with some whole wheat crackers for a simple lunch to enjoy at home, work, or school.

4. Stuffed bell peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are often filled with meat or beans, mixed veggies, and whole grains like brown rice, couscous, or quinoa.

By choosing high protein and fiber-rich ingredients for your filling, you can easily make it a healthy, diabetes-friendly meal.

Lean sources of protein like ground beef or ground turkey are great choices, along with nutritious veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, garlic, and onions.

5. Chicken fajita bowl

A chicken fajita bowl can be a healthy, flavorful lunch for people with diabetes.

They’re easy to prepare in advance and typically feature several foods high in protein and fiber that help keep your blood sugar levels in check, including chicken, brown rice, and veggies.

Be sure to pack on the vegetables to maximize the potential health benefits and top it off with a bit of salsa, avocado, or cilantro.

6. Buddha bowl

Buddha bowls are popular meals consisting of small portions of several different foods, typically plant-based proteins, veggies, and whole grains.

Not only can you mix and match the ingredients to add more protein and fiber to your diet, but you can also make it ahead for a simple and convenient meal to enjoy during the workweek.

Edamame, sliced avocado, quinoa, broccoli, red cabbage, cucumber, sweet potato, tofu, and carrots can all be great additions to your Buddha bowl.

7–10. Grains

7. Brown rice

Brown rice is considered a whole grain, meaning that it contains all three parts of the wheat kernel.

Some studies show that eating more whole grains could be linked to improved blood sugar control (4Trusted Source).

Brown rice is also rich in fiber, which can slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream to prevent spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels (2Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

Try pairing brown rice with stir-fried veggies and a lean protein source for a healthy and delicious lunch.

8. Quinoa

In addition to its high fiber content, quinoa is one of only a few available plant-based complete proteins. That means it contains all nine of the essential amino acids your body needs to obtain from food sources (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).

It also has a low glycemic index, which is a measure of how much certain foods affect your blood sugar levels (8Trusted Source).

Quinoa salad can be a simple and nutritious lunch option for people with diabetes. It’s easy to customize using whichever ingredients you have on hand, such as chickpeas, feta, cucumber, tomato, beans, avocado, onion, or bell pepper.

9. Whole grain tortillas

Not only are whole grain tortillas versatile and delicious, but they can also be a great addition to your lunch if you have diabetes.

In fact, one large whole grain tortilla contains nearly 7 grams of fiber to help keep blood sugar levels steady (9Trusted Source).

For an easy lunch, add your favorite spread, like hummus or tzatziki, to a whole grain tortilla with some fresh veggies and your choice of protein.

10. Whole grain pasta

Whole grain pasta can be a healthy alternative to refined flour pasta, especially if you have diabetes.

Compared with regular pasta, whole grain pasta contains more than twice as much fiber per cooked cup (140 grams) (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).

In one small study, whole grain pasta was also more effective at reducing hunger and promoting feelings of fullness than refined pasta (12Trusted Source).

For the best results, load up on the veggies and include a good source of protein with your pasta, such as chicken, salmon, ground beef, or legumes.

11. Chicken

Chicken is jam-packed with protein, providing nearly 24 grams per 3-ounce (85-gram) serving (13Trusted Source).

One review of 13 studies reported that following a high protein diet could reduce insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes, which could potentially improve blood sugar control (14Trusted Source).

Chicken is also easy to add to a variety of recipes and can be grilled, baked, roasted, or stir-fried.

12. Tuna

Often found in convenient cans, packets, and pouches, tuna can be a healthy lunch option, high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

In one study, consuming a high protein, low glycemic index diet supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids improved blood sugar control and decreased belly fat in 30 people with type 2 diabetes (15Trusted Source).

You can easily add tuna to pasta, salad dishes, wraps, sandwiches, and casseroles for a healthy weekday lunch.

13. Turkey

Turkey boasts a good amount of protein in each serving, with almost 25 grams in just 3 ounces (85 grams) (16Trusted Source).

It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those who are looking to lose weight.

Sliced turkey is perfect for wraps, pitas, and sandwiches. You can also try adding ground turkey to pasta dishes, taco salads, rice bowls, or homemade burger patties.

14. Tofu

With 14 grams of protein in each 1/4-block (81-gram) serving, tofu is an excellent plant-based protein source for people with type 2 diabetes (17Trusted Source).

In fact, soy protein may benefit both blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity (18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source).

Additionally, because it easily absorbs the flavor of the foods you pair it with, tofu is an incredibly versatile ingredient. Try adding it to veggie bowls, curries, soups, salads, or sandwiches for an easy make-ahead lunch.

15. Eggs

Although eggs are a beloved breakfast staple, they can also be a great addition to your midday meal.

Though research has turned up conflicting results, several studies have found that regularly eating eggs could improve blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity for people with type 2 diabetes (20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source).

Eggs are also versatile. For instance, hard-boiled eggs can bump up the protein content of salads and sandwiches, while scrambled eggs work well in wraps, veggie skillets, or rice dishes.

16–20. Fruits and veggies

16. Spinach

Rich in fiber, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet (22Trusted Source).

It also contains beneficial compounds like thylakoids, which have been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, improve blood sugar control, and support feelings of fullness in human and animal studies (23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source).

Plus, there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy spinach for lunch that go beyond salads. For example, try adding it to curries, soups, pasta dishes, or wraps. You can also sauté spinach and sprinkle it with some salt, pepper, and garlic for a simple side dish.

17. Apples

Apples are high in fiber and have a low glycemic index, making them a great dietary addition for people with diabetes (26Trusted Source, 27).

In fact, one small study found that eating an apple before a rice meal reduced the subsequent increase in blood sugar levels by 50%, compared with a control (28Trusted Source).

Apples can be enjoyed in place of dessert to help satisfy your sweet tooth. For example, try pairing them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some nut butter. Alternatively, add sliced apples to chicken salads, grilled sandwiches, or even quesadillas for extra flavor.

18. Broccoli

Broccoli is highly nutritious, boasting nearly 3 grams of fiber in each cup (91 grams) (29Trusted Source).

It may also help stabilize blood sugar levels. For instance, one small study in 13 adults found that eating cooked broccoli alongside mashed potatoes reduced blood sugar and insulin levels more than eating mashed potatoes alone (30Trusted Source).

For a healthy lunch, try pairing roasted broccoli with brown rice, grilled chicken, and other veggies like zucchini, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.

19. Grapefruit

Grapefruit has a unique tart, tangy flavor, perfect for bringing a refreshing zing to your lunch.

It also has a low glycemic index and has been shown to support healthy blood sugar and insulin levels in some animal studies (31Trusted Source, 32Trusted Source).

Try making a tasty side salad for lunch by pairing fresh grapefruit with arugula, sliced avocado, cucumber, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Note that if you’re taking statins such as simvastatin (Zocor), lovastatin (Altoprev), or atorvastatin (Lipitor), it’s advised to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice.

20. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, and vitamin K (33Trusted Source).

It’s also low in carbs and can be easily added to recipes in place of high carb ingredients like rice, flour, or potatoes.

Additionally, cauliflower makes a great side dish and can be roasted, boiled, or steamed.

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Headaches and your eyes

How a Headache Can Affect Your Eyes and Vision

By Troy Bedinghaus, OD  Medically reviewed by Diana Apetauerova, MD on September 08, 2020

Have you ever had a headache that affected your vision? Sometimes a headache can cause pain around your eyes, even though the headache is not associated with a vision problem. On the other hand, a headache may be a sign that your eyes are changing and that it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Although headaches are rarely a medical emergency, a severe one should not be ignored or minimized.

headaches and vision
Verywell / Luyi Wang

Headaches That Affect Vision

Vision problems can sometimes be the consequence of a headache. This is especially true with migraines and cluster headaches.

Migraine Headache

A migraine headache can cause intense pain in and around your eyes. A migraine aura resembling flashing lights, a prismatic rainbow of lights or a zig-zag pattern of shimmering lights often precedes the actual headache. The aura typically lasts around 20 minutes.

Some people who experience a migraine aura never develop the actual headache, making the diagnosis of the visual disturbances difficult.1 Migraines can also cause tingling or numbness of the skin. People with severe migraines may experience nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity. Medications, certain foods, smells, loud noises, and bright lights can all trigger a migraine headache.An Overview of Migraine With Aura

Cluster Headache

Cluster headaches are severe headaches that occur in clusters and typically cause pain around the eyes. The pain often radiates down the neck to include the shoulder. Other symptoms include:

Cluster headaches may occur daily for several months at a time followed by a long period with no headaches. It is not known what causes cluster headaches, but they are clearly one of the most severe headaches one can experience.

Vision Problems That Cause Headaches

On the flip side, vision problems can cause headaches when you either overwork the eyes or struggle to maintain focus. By correcting the vision problem, you can often resolve the headache.

Eye Strain

Simply overusing the focusing muscles of your eyes can cause eye strain and headaches. This is an increasing problem in our high tech world

Small-screen texting and web browsing can easily cause eye strain, in part because the words and images on a computer screen are made up of pixels and do not have well-defined edges. The eyes cannot easily focus on pixels, so they must work harder even if an image is in high-resolution.2 When the eye muscles become fatigued, a headache can develop around or behind the eyes.

Farsightedness

Adults and children with uncorrected farsightedness (hypermetropia) will often experience a frontal headache (also known as a “brow ache”). If you are farsighted, you may find it difficult to focus on nearby objects, resulting in eye strain and headaches. As you subconsciously compensate for your farsightedness by focusing harder, the headaches can become worse and more frequent.

Presbyopia

Around the age of 40, people begin to find it difficult to focus on nearby objects. Near point activities, such as reading or threading a needle, are often difficult to perform because of blurring. This is an unavoidable condition known as presbyopia that affects everyone at some point. Headaches develop as you try to compensate for the lack of focusing power. Reading glasses can often relieve the underlying eye strain.

Occupations requiring close-up work, exposure to sunlight for longer periods of time, and farsightedness were the most common risk factors for presbyopia.3Presbyopia: Close-Up Vision Loss and What to Do About It

Giant Cell Arteritis

Also known as temporal arteritis, giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammation of the lining of the arteries that run along the temple. GCA usually creates a headache that causes constant, throbbing pain in the temples. Vision symptoms occur as a result of a loss of blood supply to the optic nerve and retina. Other symptoms include:

  • Fever, fatigue and muscle aches
  • Scalp tenderness
  • Pain while chewing
  • Decreased vision​

GCA is considered a medical emergency. If left untreated, the condition may cause vision loss in one or both eyes. A delayed diagnosis is the most common cause of GCA-associated vision loss.42:18

What Is a Retinal Migraine?

Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma 

Acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG) is a rare type of glaucoma that causes a sudden onset of symptoms, including headaches. Eye pressure rises quickly in AACG causing increased eye redness, eye pain, and cloudy vision. A mid-dilated pupil (in which pupil dilation is sluggish and incomplete) is one of the most important diagnostic features of AACG.5

Ocular Ischemic Syndrome

Ocular ischemic syndrome (OIS) is a condition that develops due to a chronic lack of blood flow to the eye. This condition often causes a headache, decreased vision, and a host of other signs, including cataracts, glaucoma, iris neovascularization (the development of new weak blood vessels in the iris), and retinal hemorrhage. White spots on the retina indicate a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the retinal tissue.2:18

What Is a Retinal Migraine?

Herpes Zoster

Also known as shingles, herpes zoster is known for causing headaches, vision changes and severe pain around the head and eye. Herpes zoster is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus and affects a single side of the body. A headache usually precedes an outbreak of painful skin blisters.

Herpes zoster around the eyes is serious and requires immediate medical attention (including antiviral medication) to prevent damage to the ocular nerves and eyes. Complications include corneal clouding, glaucoma, and optic nerve atrophy (deterioration).6

Pseudotumor Cerebri

Pseudotumor cerebri is a condition that occurs when the pressure within the skull increases for no apparent reason. For this reason, pseudotumor cerebri is also referred to as Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension (“idiopathic” meaning of unknown origin and “hypertension” meaning high blood pressure).

Pseudotumor cerebri often causes a headache and changes in vision. If left untreated, pseudotumor cerebri can lead to vision loss as the pressure places strain on the optic nerves. Fortunately, while 65% to 85% of people with pseudotumor cerebri will experience visual impairment, the condition is usually transient and will normalize when the hypertension is controlled.

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Extended wear contact lenses: Are they safe?

Want to wake up with clear vision instead of searching for your glasses every time your alarm rings? If so, extended wear contact lenses might be the right choice for you.

In general, contact lenses can be categorized into two types, based on how long they are approved to be worn before being removed:

  • Daily wear (lenses you remove before sleep)
  • Extended wear (lenses you can wear overnight)

So what’s the difference between daily wear and extended wear lenses?

Most extended wear (EW) contacts are thinner than daily wear soft lenses, or are made of silicone hydrogel material. This advanced lens material enables EW lenses to “breathe” better than regular soft (hydrogel) lenses. This is especially important when lenses are worn continuously for extended periods.

Most extended wear soft contact lenses are approved for up to seven days of continuous wear, depending on your eye care professional’s recommendations. Some EW lenses are approved for up to 30 days of continuous wear.

Extended wear gas permeable lenses also are available.

It’s important to note that these are the maximum recommended wearing schedules. Many people cannot tolerate wearing EW lenses for this length of time, and some people’s eyes cannot tolerate any overnight wear of contact lenses.

During your contact lens fitting and follow-up, your eye doctor will advise you whether you can wear EW contacts overnight and how many days of continuous wear your eyes can tolerate.

Risks of extended wear contacts

Research has shown that the risk of eye infections is higher among people who sleep while wearing contact lenses.

Wearing contact lenses continually (day and night) increases this risk because bacteria and other potentially dangerous microorganisms can adhere to the lenses and get trapped between the lenses and your eyes.

These microbes thrive in the warm, moist environment under your contact lenses, especially when your eyelids are closed during sleep. And because contact lenses reduce the oxygen supply to the front surface of your eyes (corneas), your eyes are less able to fight off corneal infections.

Contact lens-related infections can range from an annoying case of pink eye to more serious conditions such as Acanthamoeba keratitis and fungal eye infections that can cause permanent vision loss.

You can order extended wear contact lenses from Eye update Clinic & Optical Supplies by calling: 08107531046 or 08034971582. You can also visit our facility at 01 Ajuwon bus stop off Elliot bus stop Iju Ishaga Ajuwon near Akute Alagbole (Lagos and Ogun residents)

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Foods that lower blood sugar

When a person has diabetes, either their body does not produce enough insulin, or it cannot use the insulin correctly, so glucose accumulates in the blood. High levels of blood glucose can cause a range of symptoms, from exhaustion to heart disease.

One way to control blood sugar is to eat a healthful diet. Generally, foods and drinks that the body absorbs slowly are best because they do not cause spikes and dips in blood sugar.

The glycemic index (GI) measures the effects of specific foods on blood sugar levels. People looking to control their levels should pick foods with low or medium GI scores.

A person can also pair foods with low and high GI scores to ensure that a meal is balanced.

Below are some of the best foods for people looking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

1. Whole wheat or pumpernickel bread

pumpernickel bread
Pumpernickel has a low GI score and fewer carbs than other breads.

Many kinds of bread are high in carbohydrates and quickly raise blood sugar levels. As a result many breads should be avoided.

However, pumpernickel bread and 100 percent stone-ground whole wheat bread have low GI scores, at 55 or less on the GI scale.

Pumpernickel and stone-ground whole wheat breads have lower GI scores than regular whole wheat bread because the ingredients go through less processing.

Processing removes the fibrous outer shells of grains and cereals. Fiber slows digestion and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.

In a 2014 study, researchers reported that spelt and rye both caused low initial glycemic responses in rats. They also found that these ancient wheat types, as well as emmer and einkorn, suppressed genes that promote glucose metabolism

2. Most fruits

Except for pineapples and melons, most fruits have low GI scores of 55 or less.

This is because most fruits contain lots of water and fiber to balance out their naturally occurring sugar, which is called fructose.

However, as fruits ripen, their GI scores increase. Fruit juices also have very high GI scores because juicing removes the fibrous skins and seeds.

A large 2013 study found that people who consumed whole fruits, especially blueberries, grapes, and apples, had significantly lower risks of developing type 2 diabetes.

The researchers also reported that drinking fruit juice increased the risk of developing the condition.

3. Sweet potatoes and yams

Regular potatoes have a high GI score, but sweet potatoes and yams have low scores and are very nutritious.

Some research indicates that the flesh of the sweet potato contains more fiber than the skin, indicating that the whole vegetable could be beneficial for those with diabetes.

Reporting the findings of an animal study, the researchers also noted that sweet potato consumption may lower some markers of diabetes.

While there is still no conclusive evidence that sweet potatoes can help to stabilize or lower blood sugar levels in humans, they are undoubtedly a healthful, nutritious food with a low GI score.

People can substitute sweet potatoes or yams for potatoes in a variety of dishes, from fries to casseroles.

4. Oatmeal and oat bran

Oatmeal in a bowl
Oats contain B-glucans, which help maintain glycemic control.

Oats have a GI score of 55 or lower, making them less likely to cause spikes and dips in blood sugar levels.

Oats also contain B-glucans, which can do the following:

  • reduce glucose and insulin responses after meals
  • improve insulin sensitivity
  • help maintain glycemic control
  • reduce blood lipids (fats)

A 2015 review of 16 studies concluded that oats have a beneficial effect on glucose control and lipid profiles in people with type 2 diabetes. Determining the impact of oat consumption on type 1 diabetes requires more research.

Doctors still recommend that people with diabetes limit their consumption of oatmeal because 1 cup contains roughly 28 grams of carbohydrates.

5. Most nuts

Nuts are very rich in dietary fiber and have GI scores of 55 or less.

Nuts also contain high levels of plant proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, and other nutrients, including:

A 2014 systemic review concluded that eating nuts could benefit people with diabetes.

As with other foods in this article, it is best to eat nuts that are as whole and unprocessed as possible. Nuts with coatings or flavorings have higher GI scores than plain nuts.

6. Legumes

Legumes, such as beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils, have very low GI scores.

They are also a good source of nutrients that can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. These nutrients include:

  • fiber
  • complex carbohydrates
  • protein

A 2012 study found that incorporating legumes into the diet improved glycemic control and lowered the risk of coronary heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes.

Avoid legume products that contain added sugars and simple starches, such as those in syrups, sauces, or marinades. These additions can significantly increase a product’s GI score.

7. Garlic

Garlic is a popular ingredient in traditional medicines for diabetes and a wide variety of other conditions.

The compounds in garlic may help reduce blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and secretion.

In a 2013 study, 60 people with type 2 diabetes and obesity took either metformin alone or a combination of metformin and garlic twice daily after meals for 12 weeks. People who took metformin and garlic saw a more significant reduction in their fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels.

People can eat garlic raw, add it to salads, or use it in cooked meals.

8. Cold-water fish

fish on a plate
Cod does not contain carbohydrates and may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Fish and other meats do not have GI scores because they do not contain carbohydrates.

However, cold-water fish may help manage or prevent diabetes better than other types of meat.

A 2014 study included data taken from 33,704 Norwegian women over a 5-year period. The researchers found that eating 75–100 grams of cod, saithe, haddock, or pollock daily reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

However, the researchers were uncertain whether the reduction in risk was a direct result of eating the fish or whether other healthful lifestyle factors, such as exercise, could have influenced the findings.

9. Yogurt

Eating plain yogurt daily may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Authors of a large 2014 meta-analysis concluded that yogurt may be the only dairy product that lowers the risk of developing the condition. They also noted that other dairy products do not seem to increase a person’s risk.

Researchers are still unsure why yogurt helps lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

However, plain yogurt is generally a low-GI food. Most unsweetened yogurts have a GI score of 50 or less.

It is best to avoid sweetened or flavored yogurts, which often contain too much sugar for a person looking to lower their blood sugar levels. Greek-style yogurt can be a healthful alternative.

Other ways to lower blood sugar levels

Eating a healthful, well-balanced diet is key. Additional strategies to help lower or manage blood sugar levels include:

  • staying hydrated by drinking plenty of clear liquids
  • exercising regularly
  • eating small portions more frequently
  • not skipping meals
  • managing or reducing stress
  • maintaining a healthy body weight or losing weight, if necessary

People with diabetes may also need to take medications and measure their blood sugar regularly to reduce the risk of potentially dangerous symptoms and complications.

Speak with a doctor about how to incorporate a healthful diet into a diabetes care plan.

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Eye Diseases in Africa

Blindness is a major public health problem in African because of the sheer number of people so afflicted. Economic survival is a struggle for the average, non-handicapped person in a developing country. The burden of blindness is therefore a major added frustration to the individual’s economic independence and social development.

Eye care delivery has not received much attention in many African countries. Although the need for eye care cannot be denied, it is competing for scarce resources with more compelling problems like high maternal and infant mortality and acute medical and surgical problems.c Ophthalmologists are few and tality and acute medical and surgical problems. Ophthamologists are few and the traditional hospital-based curative ophthalmic practice is expensive to run.

By and large, ophthalmologists, optometrists and hospitals are situated in big cities and towns while more than 80% of the population lives in rural areas and villages.The majority of the population is therefore underserved or not served at all. For every patient who attends the hospital, there are  probably 4-5 needy patients who have not visited the doctor because they are too poor, too far from the hospital or just ignorant of what can be done. Besides, taboos and sociocultural attitudes often discourage patients from using existing modern facilities. Consequently, diseases are usually seen at an advanced stage. These factors, contributing to late presentation, together with inadequate facilities lead to a pool of curably blind as is seen in the cataract backlog in Africa.

The eye diseases seen in Africa are often no different from those encountered in Europe; most of them are treatable or preventable, but their neglect has a devastating effect on vision.

Cataracts are very commonly seen in Africa, accounting for approximately 50% of all cases of blindness. They may be congenital in origin; often due to intrauterine infection like rubella, or metabolic diseases in the child like galactosaemia. Cataracts may also complicate injuries to the eye; but more commonly they are seen in the elderly.

Senile cataracts are known to occur at an earlier age in the tropics, and recent work suggests that severe diarrheoal diseases early in life may be a contributory factor. It will be interesting to see in a few year’s time the effect of oral rehydration therapy on the prevalence of cataracts. The surgical treatment of cataracts is very rewarding, but advantage of this fact is often not taken, due mainly to inadequate facilities and ignorance. Mobile eye units being operated by various non-governmental organizations are now unable to afford the cost of corrective glasses, as is often the case, the improvement in vision is often adequate to enable him to look after himself and move around, thereby ceasing to be a burden on family and friends. Although more cataract operations are now being done, contact lenses and intraocular lens implantations, which have become routine in developed countries, are not usually available in Africa.

Infections of the external eye are very common, notably among which are trachoma, conjuctivitis of the newborn, epidemic haemorrhagic keratocon-junctivitis, corneal ulcers, measles, Keratoconjunctivitis and leprosy. The infection may spread to the inner eye and lead to loss of the eyre. Eye infections may be responsible for up to 25% of all cases of blindness in Africa.

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Bandage Contact Lenses

The Case for Bandage Soft Contact Lenses

A primer on the use of these therapeutic lenses to serve and protect the corneas of our patients.

By Susan Gromacki, O.D., M.S., F.A.A.O.

The concept of a protective eye bandage originated in the first century A.D., when Celsus reportedly applied a honey-soaked linen to the site of a pterygium removal to prevent symblepharon development.1,2 Bandage soft contact lenses were first used  in the 1970s following the development of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) by Otto Wichterle.2 With the recent advances in material technology, today’s bandage contact lenses provide the same benefits as their predecessors—but with enhanced convenience, improved healing and increased corneal health.

Bandage Lens Basics
By definition, a bandage contact lens protects the cornea. Many different lens types can be utilized to accomplish this goal (see tables 1 and 2); however, because of their high oxygen permeability and FDA approval for extended wear, silicone hydrogel soft contact lenses are currently most practitioners’ first choice.

Bandage lenses protect the cornea not only from potential exterior sources of injury, but also from a patient’s own eyelids. The shearing effect created by the lids during the blink can inhibit re-epithelialization and cause pain. Use of a bandage lens facilitates corneal healing in a pain-free environment.

Depending on the patient’s ocular condition, he or she may wear their therapeutic lenses for a period of days to years. They may be utilized for daily or extended wear (see table 2). Because there is generally an underlying disease process precipitating the need for a therapeutic lens, extra caution must be taken to clean and disinfect the lens after wear, keeping in mind that silicone hydrogel lenses tend to deposit lipids more readily than HEMA lenses (see image 1). That said, the addition of a digital rubbing step is necessary for lenses that are used more than once.

It is critical to perform frequent follow-ups for bandage contact lens patients. One reason is that a bandage lens fit, by design, demonstrates less movement than a traditional soft lens fit. The theory is to provide increased patient comfort while preventing the healing epithelial cells from sloughing off due to any mechanical trauma of the lens itself.3 In addition, it is important for the practitioner to be vigilant regarding the detection of signs of microbial keratitis. The compromised cornea—especially when wearing lenses in an extended wear modality—is at particular risk for infection.4

Indications
Bandage contact lenses are indicated for many different reasons, including: protecting the eyes, increasing comfort, facilitating healing and sealing wound leaks. We’ll explore these indications, and others, in more detail in the following paragraphs.

• Protection. Corneal protection is needed in the case of several conditions, including: entropion, trichiasis, tarsal scars, recurrent corneal erosion, post-surgical ptosis and surgical sutures or exposed suture knots.

Recurrent erosions are a typical sequella of epithelial basement membrane (basal lamina) trauma or are secondary to anterior basement membrane dystrophy, anterior basement membrane degeneration or stromal dystrophy. A bandage contact lens is the second line of treatment, after hyperosmotic drops and/or ointment fail.2,5 An added benefit is the enhanced vision provided by the smooth refracting surface of the contact lens, as opposed to an irregular anterior corneal surface.5 Hypertonic saline drops should continue to be utilized concurrently with the lenses.

• Pain relief. The mitigation of corneal pain is another important indication for therapeutic contact lenses. The conditions most in need of this therapy include bullous keratopathy; epithelial erosion and abrasion; filamentary keratitis; and postoperative penetrating keratoplasty.

In bullous keratopathy, endothelial failure results in corneal edema, which in turn creates epithelial blisters that rupture, causing pain, foreign body sensation, and photophobia. A bandage contact lens reinforces the damaged tissues and protects the nerve endings from the abrasive actions of the eyelids. Patients who are awaiting a conjunctival flap or cornea transplant may be fitted with therapeutic lenses for up to 30 days at a time.2
Until recently, pressure patching was the standard of care for treating large epithelial abrasions (see figure 2). With this treatment, the caveat was to refrain from patching contact lens wearers or injuries caused by presumed vegetative matter or false fingernails. The utilization of a bandage contact lens provides protection and healing for all three of these conditions, and it has now supplanted patching as the standard of care. The authors of the Wills Eye Manual caution, however, that prophylactic topical antibiotics should be used concurrently and that daily follow-up care is mandatory.6

1. Therapeutic soft contact lens with 2+ surface coating.

The other advantage of bandage contact lenses over patching is the ability to continue to install topical ophthalmic medications. This is particularly important after a corneal abrasion, erosion, or corneal refractive surgery, which necessitate the frequent installation of antibiotics and/or artificial tears. Some reports caution against the installation of cycloplegic agents (which reduce the pain associated with a corneal abrasion/erosion or after corneal refractive surgery) in bandage CL wearers. The dilating drops can cause the bandage lenses to dry out and become less comfortable, especially overnight, with the end result a potentially decreased healing response.7 On the other hand, bandage contact lenses can be utilized—by design—as vehicles for drug delivery, but the exact way to ensure a consistent dosage is still under investigation.

• Healing. The use of bandage contact lenses to facilitate healing is particularly necessary for the following conditions: chronic epithelial defects, corneal ulcer, neurotrophic keratitis, neuroparalytic keratitis, chemical burns and basement membrane disease.

They also enhance healing following corneal surgery, particularly refractive surgery. They protect the cornea from exposure or from the irritation caused by rubbing the eye as the corneal wounds are healing. Therapeutic bandage contact lenses are a mainstay after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedures, in which the removal of the epithelium leaves an open wound that takes about one week to heal (see figure 3). They are also valuable for the following procedures: laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), laser-assisted subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK), Epi-LASIK, penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK), lamellar grafts and corneal flaps.

2. The use of therapeutic contact lenses has replaced pressure patching as the standard of care for epithelial abrasions such as the one in the image above.

• Sealing. The lenses also may aid in sealing leaky wounds. Serving as a splint or sealant, the lenses can be beneficial after cataract, penetrating keratoplasty or glaucoma filtering surgery.

• Maintenance of corneal hydration. The role of bandage contact lenses in dry eye is controversial. For patients who need to continually instill lubricating drops into their eyes, particularly after refractive surgery, the benefits of using a bandage lens can be great. Other patients who benefit are those who have significant lagophthalmos and subsequent corneal exposure. However, contact lenses are generally contraindicated for dry eye.7

• Structural stability and protection in piggyback lens fitting. Many patients benefit from the utilization of a soft and rigid lens concurrently. The rigid lens provides crisp vision, particularly for irregular corneas, and the soft bandage lens protects the cornea, preventing irritation and abrasions. Examples include elevation differences in the host/graft junction, keratoconus and in the presence of scar tissue.

Contraindications

3. The cornea, one day following PRK.

Each clinician must assess his patient’s condition carefully to determine whether a bandage contact lens is warranted. Interestingly, many of the conditions that require bandage contact lenses (dry eye, infection, inflammation, etc.) contraindicate lens wear in general. In addition, therapeutic contact lenses should not be used in patients who are unwilling or unable to comply with the necessary treatment and follow-up. 

Dr. Gromacki is a diplomate in the Cornea, Contact Lens and Refractive Technologies Section of the American Academy of Optometry. She is Chief Research Optometrist at Keller Army Community Hospital, West Point, New York.

1. Arrington GE. A history of ophthalmology. MD Publishers, New York, New York, 1959.
2. Weiner BM. Therapeutic bandage lenses. In: Silbert JA, ed. Anterior Segment Complications of Contact Lens Wear. Churchill Livingstone, New York, New York, 1994; 455-471.
3. Aquavella JV. Chronic corneal edema. Am J Ophthalmol 1973;(76):201-207.
4. Thoft RA, Mobilia EF. Complications with therapeutic extended wear soft contact lenses. Int Ophthalmol Clin. 1981;(21):197.
5. Chan WE, Weissman BA. Therapeutic contact lenses. In: Bennett ES, Weismann BA, (eds). Clinical Contact Lens Practice, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: New York, New York, 2005: 619-628.
6. Ehlers JP and Shah CP, eds. The Wills Eye Manual Fifth Edition, Wolters Kluwer Health, New York, New York, 2008:15-16.
7. Russell GE. Bandage lenses: new opportunities in practice. Contact Lens Spectrum. 2004(6).
8. Tyler Thompson TT. Tyler’s Quarterly 2011;28(3):32-52.
9. White P. 2011 Contact Lenses and Solutions Summary. In: Contact Lens Spectrum (suppl) 2011;27(7):14.

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Ocular Trauma

Eye Injuries

Eye Trauma

Eye trauma refers to damage caused by a direct blow to the eye. The trauma may affect not only the eye, but the surrounding area, including adjacent tissue and bone structure.

There are many different forms of trauma, varying in severity from minor injury to medical emergencies. Even in cases where trauma seems minor, every eye injury should be given medical attention.

What Causes Eye Trauma?

When the eye is hit with blunt force, it suddenly compresses and retracts. This can cause blood to collect underneath the hit area, which leads to many of the common symptoms of eye trauma.

Symptoms of Eye Trauma

Symptoms of eye trauma may include:

  • Pain
  • Trouble seeing
  • Cuts to the eyelid
  • One eye not moving as well 
  • One eye sticks out
  • Blood in the clear part of the eye
  • Unusual pupil size or shape
  • Something embedded in the eye
  • Something under the eyelid that cannot be easily removed

Treatments for Eye Trauma

Every eye injury should be given medical attention; do not touch, rub or try to remove any object in the eye. If the eye has been cut or there is an object in the eye, rest a protective shield – such as a paper cup – on the bone around your eye. Make sure there is no pressure on the eye itself. Seek immediate, professional medical attention.

In minor cases of trauma, such as a black eye from a sports injury, applying cold to the affected area can help bring swelling down, and allow the affected area to heal faster. However, even in cases where trauma seems minor, every eye injury should be given medical attention.

The best way to avoid eye trauma is to prevent it by using protective eyewear while doing things that may put them at risk. Activities include home repair, yard work, cleaning, cooking, and playing sports. In most cases of injury, people report not properly protecting their eyes – which shows that proper precautions may prevent an eye injury.

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Light and your eyes

Explore the latest research regarding bright lights and retina damage, and how to properly protect your eyes.

Parents will often tell children not to stare at the sun. This is good advice, since permanent retinal damage occurs after staring for just a few minutes! This is called solar retinopathy. Lasers and very bright industrial lights can also damage the retina.

Since very bright lights can damage the retina in a short period of time, can long-term exposure to moderately bright light cause retinal damage? The answer is maybe, and why not protect yourself against this possibility?

Research Findings on Bright Lights and Eye Damage

In the Chesapeake Bay Waterman Study, which analyzed fisherman exposed to bright light reflected off the water every day, blue light exposure was found to increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This conclusion, while suggestive, as not definitive, since it is difficult to quantify light exposure in everyday life. 

In experimental mice, bright light does cause permanent retinal damage. If the light has the intensity of sunlight, short exposure times can cause damage. If the light is not quite so bright, chronic exposure over days to weeks can cause permanent damage. This is thought to be due to what is called photo-oxidative damage; the light reacts with the retina to produce molecules that are very reactive and cause damage to surrounding molecules.

If light exposure is a risk factor for AMD, then it would be expected that people with lighter colored eyes, which let in more light, would have a higher risk. Indeed, African-Americans have a much lower risk of AMD than Caucasians. Some studies have suggested that people with blue eyes have the highest risk.

Some experimental mice and even a particular breed of dog have genetic mutations that make their retinas extremely sensitive to light; permanent retinal damage can be caused by light levels that would not harm animals with normal retinas. Analogously, people with AMD, Stargardt disease, or retinitis pigmentosa may be more susceptible to retinal light damage than people with normal retinas.

How Can I Protect My Eyes from Bright Lights?

The simplest way to protect against possible retinal light damage is to wear sunglasses and a hat. The sunglasses should have dark tint. If you hold the glasses up to a light, the light coming through the lenses should appear grey, brown, or yellowish brown—not blue, which is probably the most damaging light wavelength. If picking ready-made sunglasses in a store, choose the ones that transmit the least light (but only wear them if you can still see well enough).  If ordering custom sunglasses, ask the optician for a very dark tint. Polarization will also decrease the amount of light coming through sunglasses and helps reduce glare. UV protection helps protect the lens inside the eye against cataracts. Since UV light is blocked by the lens inside the eye it is the visible light that can harm the retina. 

Since it is thought that blue light can damage the retina, ophthalmologists can now offer blue-blocking lens implants when performing cataract surgery. While these may be helpful, the same effect can be achieved by wearing sunglasses.

Are Indoor Lights Damaging to the Eyes?

Could indoor lights be harmful? It is prudent to use the amount of light you need to read or perform activities of daily life, but there is no reason to exceed this amount with very bright lighting. When choosing light bulbs, those with the “warm” color spectrum, favoring reds and greens over the “cool” blues, are typically more comfortable for reading and may be safer. Energy-efficient LED bulbs come in warm or full spectrum varieties. As with most things in life, light is good, in moderation

–

Joshua Dunaief, MD, PhDScheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania

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Transposition of ophthalmic lenses

Transposition

by Andrew Othuke Akpeli

Introduction / definition

According to Efe (2012) transposition as the process of changing a lens prescription from one form to another equivalent form without  changing the value i.e. it is also  to rewrite the expression of its power without actually changing its value. It can also be define as the act of converting the prescription of an ophthalmic lens form a sphere with minus cylinder form to a sphere with plus cylinder form or vice vise. Example – 3D sphere – 2D cylinder axis 180 transpose to – 5D sphere + 2D cylinder axis 90 prescription consists of the sphere, cylinder and the axis. The sphere correct hyperopic and myopia, the cylinder corrects the amount of astigmatism and the axis shows where the stigmatism correction is located.

Types of transposition

Flat Transposition

Toric transposition

Flat transposition: This is the process of transposition whereby the cylinder power and spherical power is separated by 90. The flat transposition is use in the dispensing laboratory.

Toric transposition: This is the process of transposition whereby the cylinder power and spherical power is not separated by 90. The toric transposition is use in the production laboratory.

Lens prescription

Lens prescription can be written in any of this form

  1. Plano cylinder
  2. Sphero cylinder
  3. Cross cylinder

Plano cylinder: This has one surface plane and the other, either + or – cylinder eg (plano x 0.50DCx180)

Sphere cylinder:  This has one surface spherical and the other cylindrical eg +0.75DS -1.00DC x 50

Cross cylinder: This has one surface a cylinder and other another cylinder eg +1.50DCx180/0.75DCx90

Rules of transposition

  1. Transposition of sphero-cylindrical prescription from plus to minus cylinder (or vice versa)

Rules

Step 1: New spherical power: add the power of the sphere to the power of cylinder (algebraically) of a given prescription

Step 2: New cylindrical power: change the sign of the cylinder (plus or minus to the opposite sign) with same power.

Step 3: New axis: add or subtract 90 from the given axis (depending on which value is higher) i.e. if is below 90, add 90 to it but if is above 90 subtract 90. Let us now apply this rule to a specific sphero – cylindrical prescription.

  1. Given + 1.00DS – 1.00DC x 90

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From the on set, it is important to note that this prescription has been written in minus cylinder from. To convert it to plus cylinder form, we apply the rules as follows.

Rule 1: (new spherical power); (+1.00) + (1.00) = plano

Rule 2: (new cylindrical power) change the cylinder sign with same value = +1.00DC

Rule 3: (new axis) add or subtract 90 (depending on which value is greater) i.e if is below 90, add 90 to it but if it is above 90 subtract 90. 90 + 90 = 180. Therefore, the transposed plus cylindrical form of a given prescription is plano + 1.00DC x 180

  1. Given -2.00DS + 1.50DC x 45

To transpose this prescription from plus to its minus cylindrical form we apply same rules as follows:

Rule 1: (new sphere power) – 2.00 + 1.50 = – 0.50DS

Rule 2: (new cylinder power) change the cylinder sight with the same power -1.50DC

Rules 3: (New axis) i.e if is below 90, add 90 to it but if is above 90 subtract 90 45 + 90 = 135

Thus, the transpose form of this prescription into its minus cylindrical form is equivalent to :- 0.50DS – 135

Transposition of sphero-cylinders into cross cylinders

A sphero-Cylindrical prescription can be broken down into two cross-cylinder that it was originally made of this form of. This form of transposition is also guided by its set of rules

Rules

Rule 1. (1st Cross-Cylinder): Take the spherical power of a given sphero-cylinder prescription and write this as a cross cylinder with its axis 90 away from the axis of a given sphero-cylindrical prescription.

Rule 2. (2nd cross-cylinder) add the spherical and cylindrical power of a given sphero-cylindrical prescription and write this as cross cylinder with its axis same as the axis of the sphero-cylindrical prescription.

Rules 3. (both cross-cylinder) combine the two cross cylinder obtain from rule 1 and rule 2 above as the equivalent cross cylinder for the sphero-cylindrical prescription.

 The follow are some examples to illustrate the application of the rules

  • Given -4.00DS – 0.50DC x 90

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Rule 1. (1st cross-cylinder) -4.00DC x 180

Rule 2. (2nd cross-cylinder) -4.50DC x 90

Rule 3. (3rd cross-cylinder) +4.00DC x 180/-4.50DC x 90

  • Given: -1.50DS + 0.75DC x 45

Rule 1. (1st cross-cylinder) -1.00DC x 135

Rule 2. (2nd cross-cylinder) -0.75DC x 45

Rule 3. (3rd cross-cylinder) +1.50DC x 135/-075DC x 45

Transposition of 2 cross-cylinder into sphero cylinder

Rule 1: (sphere power) take either power of the 2 cross-cylinders as spherical power of the new sphero-cylinders as spherical power of the new sphero-cylinderical prescription.

Rule 2: (cylindrical power) subtract the power of the cylindrical chosen as sphere from the power of the second cross-cylinder and make this the cylinder of the new sphero-cylinder

Rule 3: (axis) take the axis of the cross-cylinder that was not chosen as sphere power as axis of the new sphero-cylinderical prescription

The following are some examples to illustrate application of the rule

  1. Given: +2.00DS x 180/+1.00DC x 90

Rule 1. (sphere power) + 2.00DS

Rule 2. (cylindrical power) +1.00 – (+2.00) = -1.00DC

Rule 3. (axis): 90

Therefore, the sphero-cylindrical prescription is: +2.00DC – 1.00DC x 90

  1. Given: -1.00DC x 135/-3.00DCx45

Rule 1. (sphere power) -3.00DS

Rule 2. (cylindrical power) -1.00 – (-3.00)

-1.00 + 3.00 = +2.00

Rule 3. (axis): 135

Therefore. The sphero-cylindrical prescription is: -3.00DC + 2.00DC x 135

Toric transposition

A toric lens is practical same as a cylindrical lens. By these design the surfaces of toric lenses are more curved (or bent) than the surfaces of cylindrical lenses. But unlike the flat cylindrical lens prescription, the toxic prescription will indicate the various curves that have been incorporated during the process of production to arrive at a particular prescription. This explain why a toric lens prescription have the following three parts

  1. The base curve (BC)
  2. The cross curve (CC)
  3. The sphere curve (SC)

To produce a particular prescription from a lens blanks these three components with their different powers will be generated in the factory. This process is called surfacing

Since most of the physical properties of toric lenses are similar to cylindrical lens and vice versa. This means that given a specific toric lens prescription, the sphero-cylindrical prescription of equivalent power can be deduced from it by applying the following rules.Related Topic  procreteconstruction 3 people Job Vacancy in Australia

Rule 1 (sphere power) = base curve + sphere curve

Rule 2 (cylinder power) = cross curve – base curve

Rule 3 (axis) same as axis of cross curve

The following example is meant to illustrate the application of those rules:

Rule 1 (sphere power): +2.00 + (-3.00) = -1.00DS

Rule 2 (cylinder power) +4.00 – 2.00 = +2.00DC

Rules 3 (axis) = 180

Sphero-cylindrical prescription: -1.00DS + 2.00DC x 180

Importance of transposition

After an optometrist has done a refraction for a patient, the optometrist takes the prescription to the optician and the lens prescription is given to be + 1.00DS-2.00DC x 180 and the optician check the stocks of lens available and founds that (+1.00DS – 2.00DC x 180) prescription is not in stock, what the optician need to do is to transpose the prescription.

+1.00DS – 2.00DC x 180

– 1.00DS + 2.00DC x 90.

So instead of the optician finding it as a problem of getting + 1.00DS-2.00DC x 180 the optician simply go for -1.00DS + 2.00DC x90 it makes dispensing cylindrical lenses easy instead of keeping your patient  waiting or ordering for more lenses when unknowing to you it is your stock.

Conclusion

In conclusion, transposition is important because it helps and optician to get an equivalent (same) prescription for a given prescription. It is also important for an optician to be acquitted with the knowledge of transposition. An optician should not be ignorant of keeping a patient waiting or placing an order for a cylindrical lens prescription when there is an alternative form of that prescription in stock, all you need to do is to transpose.

References

Efe Odjimogho, O.D. FNCO (2012). In laboratory manual, senior lecturer optometry department faulty of life science, university of Benin.

Mr. Nsubuisi Igboekwe (2013). Ophthalmic workshop dispensing lab ii

San Francisco, American Academy of ophthalmology 2011-2012

Allied Health on the job training kit 2011

Dallas American Health Association Academy of ophthalmology 2011 (Revised as appropriate)FacebookTwitterEmailWhatsAppPinterest

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What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 Diabetes

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong disease that keeps your body from using insulin the way it should. People with type 2 diabetes are said to have insulin resistance.

People who are middle-aged or older are most likely to get this kind of diabetes. It used to be called adult-onset diabetes. But type 2 diabetes also affects kids and teens, mainly because of childhood obesity.

Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes. There are about 29 million people in the U.S. with type 2. Another 84 million have prediabetes, meaning their blood sugar (or blood glucose) is high but not high enough to be diabetes yet.

Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be so mild that you don’t notice them. About 8 million people who have it don’t know it. Symptoms include:

  • Being very thirsty
  • Peeing a lot
  • Blurry vision
  • Being cranky
  • Tingling or numbness in your hands or feet
  • Fatigue/feeling worn out
  • Wounds that don’t heal
  • Yeast infections that keep coming back
  • Feeling hungry
  • Weight loss without trying
  • Getting more infections

If you have dark rashes around your neck or armpits, see your doctor. These are called acanthosis nigricans, and they can be signs that your body is becoming resistant to insulin.CONTINUE READING BELOW

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

Your pancreas makes a hormone called insulin. It helps your cells turn glucose, a type of sugar, from the food you eat into energy. People with type 2 diabetes make insulin, but their cells don’t use it as well as they should.

At first, your pancreas makes more insulin to try to get glucose into your cells. But eventually, it can’t keep up, and the glucose builds up in your blood instead.

Usually, a combination of things causes type 2 diabetes. They might include:

  • Genes. Scientists have found different bits of DNA that affect how your body makes insulin.
  • Extra weight. Being overweight or obese can cause insulin resistance, especially if you carry your extra pounds around your middle.
  • Metabolic syndrome. People with insulin resistance often have a group of conditions including high blood sugar, extra fat around the waist, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • Too much glucose from your liver. When your blood sugar is low, your liver makes and sends out glucose. After you eat, your blood sugar goes up, and your liver will usually slow down and store its glucose for later. But some people’s livers don’t. They keep cranking out sugar.
  • Bad communication between cells. Sometimes, cells send the wrong signals or don’t pick up messages correctly. When these problems affect how your cells make and use insulin or glucose, a chain reaction can lead to diabetes.
  • Broken beta cells. If the cells that make insulin send out the wrong amount of insulin at the wrong time, your blood sugar gets thrown off. High blood sugar can damage these cells, too.

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Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors

Certain things make it more likely that you’ll get type 2 diabetes. The more of these that apply to you, the higher your chances of getting it are. Some things are related to who you are:

  • Age. 45 or older
  • Family. A parent, sister, or brother with diabetes
  • Ethnicity. African American, Alaska Native, Native American, Asian American, Hispanic or Latino, or Pacific Islander American

Risk factors related to your health and medical history include:

Other things that raise your risk of diabetes have to do with your daily habits and lifestyle. These are the ones you can do something about:

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Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis and Tests

Your doctor can test your blood for signs of type 2 diabetes. Usually, they’ll test you on 2 days to confirm the diagnosis. But if your blood glucose is very high or you have many symptoms, one test may be all you need.

  • A1c. It’s like an average of your blood glucose over the past 2 or 3 months.
  • Fasting plasma glucose. This is also known as a fasting blood sugar test. It measures your blood sugar on an empty stomach. You won’t be able to eat or drink anything except water for 8 hours before the test.
  • Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). This checks your blood glucose before and 2 hours after you drink something sweet to see how your body handles the sugar.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Managing type 2 diabetes includes a mix of lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle changes

You may be able to reach your target blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone.

  • Weight loss. Dropping extra pounds can help. While losing 5% of your body weight is good, losing at least 7% and keeping it off seems to be ideal. That means someone who weighs 180 pounds can change their blood sugar levels by losing around 13 pounds. Weight loss can seem overwhelming, but portion control and eating healthy foods are a good place to start.
  • Healthy eating. There’s no specific diet for type 2 diabetes. A registered dietitian can teach you about carbs and help you make a meal plan you can stick with. Focus on:
  • Eating fewer calories
  • Cutting back on refined carbs, especially sweets
  • Adding veggies and fruits to your diet
  • Getting more fiber
  • Exercise. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity every day. You can walk, bike, swim, or do anything else that gets your heart rate up. Pair that with strength training, like yoga or weightlifting. If you take a medication that lowers your blood sugar, you might need a snack before a workout.
  • Watch your blood sugar levels. Depending on your treatment, especially if you’re on insulin, your doctor will tell you if you need to test your blood sugar levels and how often to do it.

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Medication

If lifestyle changes don’t get you to your target blood sugar levels, you may need medication. Some of the most common for type 2 diabetes include:

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Even if you change your lifestyle and take your medicine as directed, your blood sugar may still get worse over time. That doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong. Diabetes is progressive, and many people eventually need more than one drug.

When you take more than one drug to control your type 2 diabetes, that’s called combination therapy.

You and your doctor should work together to find the best mix for you. Usually, you’ll keep taking metformin and add something else.

What that is may depend on your situation. Some drugs control blood sugar spikes (your doctor may call this hyperglycemia) that come right after meals, for instance. Others are more effective at stopping drops in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) between meals. Some may help with weight loss or cholesterol, as well as your diabetes.

You and your doctor should talk about any possible side effects. Cost may be an issue as well.

If you take medication for something else, that will need to be factored into any decision.CONTINUE READING BELOW

You’ll need to see your doctor more often when you start taking a new combination of drugs.

You might find that adding a second drug doesn’t bring your blood sugar under control. Or the combination of two drugs might work only for a short time. If that happens, your doctor might consider a third noninsulin drug, or you may start insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes Prevention

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you lower your risk of diabetes.

  • Lose weight. Dropping just 7% to 10% of your weight can cut your risk of type 2 diabetes in half.
  • Get active. Thirty minutes of brisk walking a day will cut your risk by almost a third.
  • Eat right. Avoid highly processed carbs, sugary drinks, and trans and saturated fats. Limit red and processed meats.
  • Quit smoking. Work with your doctor to keep from gaining weight after you quit, so you don’t create one problem by solving another.

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Type 2 Diabetes Complications

Over time, high blood sugar can damage and cause problems with your:

  • Heart and blood vessels. You’re up to five times more likely to get heart disease or have a stroke. You’re also at high risk of blocked blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and chest pain (angina).
  • Kidneys. If your kidneys are damaged or you have kidney failure, you could need dialysis or a kidney replacement.
  • Eyes. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the backs of your eyes (retinopathy). If this isn’t treated, it can cause blindness.
  • Nerves. This can lead to trouble with digestion, the feeling in your feet, and your sexual response.
  • Skin. Your blood doesn’t circulate as well, so wounds heal slower and can become infected.
  • Pregnancy. Women with diabetes are more likely to have a miscarriage, a stillbirth, or a baby with a birth defect.
  • Sleep. You might develop sleep apnea, a condition in which your breathing stops and starts while you sleep.
  • Hearing. You’re more likely to have hearing problems, but it’s not clear why.
  • Brain. High blood sugar can damage your brain and might put you at higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Depression. People with the disease are twice as likely to get depressed as people who don’t have it.

The best way to avoid these complications is to manage your type 2 diabetes well.

  • Take your diabetes medications or insulin on time.
  • Check your blood sugar.
  • Eat right, and don’t skip meals.
  • See your doctor regularly to check for early signs of trouble.

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Build Your Health Care Team

There are many medical professionals who can help you live well with diabetes, including:

  • Endocrinologists
  • Nurses
  • Registered dietitians
  • Pharmacists
  • Diabetes educators
  • Foot doctors
  • Eye doctors
  • Dentists

10 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Diabetes

If you were recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, ask your doctor these questions at your next visit.

  1. Does having diabetes mean that I am at higher risk for other medical problems?
  2. Should I start seeing other doctors regularly, such as an eye doctor?
  3. How often should I test my blood sugar, and what should I do if it is too high or too low?
  4. Are there any new medications that I could use to help manage my diabetes?
  5. Does diabetes mean I have to stop eating the foods I like best?
  6. How can exercise make a difference in my diabetes?
  7. If I’m overweight, how many pounds do I have to lose to make a difference in my health?
  8. Are my children at increased risk for the disease?
  9. What is the importance of diet in diabetes?
  10. Do I need to take my medications even on days that I feel fine?