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A Journey of Hope: Kidney Transplant Surgery Update

Sat, 13 May 2023 17:21:16 GMT

A Journey of Compassion and Renewed Possibilities: Sharing the Gift of Life through Kidney Transplant Surgery

The moment we've been waiting for has finally arrived. After countless tests, scans, and consultations, we are delighted to announce that the kidney transplant surgery will take place soon. Our dedicated office manager, Sabrina, will selflessly donate her kidney to April on Monday, the 15th. We are honored to be part of this remarkable journey and emphasize that patient care remains our top priority, just as Dr. Kish has always taught us.

Gratitude and Inspiration:

Sabrina, who has been an integral part of our office for the past 18 years, considers Dr. Kish her source of inspiration. She is immensely grateful for her mentor and feels compelled to give back by offering April a second chance at life. Witnessing Dr. Kish's unwavering love and compassion for patients over the years made the decision to donate that much easier. Sabrina's journey exemplifies the heartwarming connection between doctors and patients.

The Impact of Kidney Failure:

We have closely followed April's struggle with kidney failure and witnessed the detrimental effects it has had on her eye health and vision. It is important to shed light on the fact that diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the US. As an office, we strongly encourage all diabetics to undergo yearly eye exams and maintain regular check-ups with their primary care doctors. Dr. Kish has stress the importance of self-care to her diabetic patients year after year. Through her journey, she hopes to inspire others and provide a beacon of hope for those battling kidney failure.

A Testament to Organ Donation:

Sabrina's experience with the donor team at Integris Baptist Hospital has been exceptional. She has encountered no pain or complications thus far, and the team has been incredibly informative and supportive in addressing any concerns. We believe it is crucial to shed light on organ donation and highlight the positive experiences individuals like Sabrina have had throughout their journey. By sharing her story, we hope to encourage more people to consider becoming organ donors.

The Surgeons: A Remarkable Team:

Last week, both Sabrina and April had the opportunity to meet the surgeons who will be performing their respective procedures. Interestingly, the surgeons are a father-son duo, with Dr. Shea Samara operating on Sabrina as the donor and Dr. Scott Samara performing the surgery on April as the recipient. The trust placed in this remarkable surgical team by both Sabrina and April reinforces our confidence in their expertise.

The Surgery Day:

On Monday, Sabrina will be the first to enter the operating room, while April will undergo one more round of dialysis before being prepped for surgery. After approximately 5-6 hours, both Sabrina and April are expected to come out of recovery, marking the successful completion of the transplant surgery.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we invite you to join us in celebrating hope, resilience, and the power of organ donation. Sabrina's selfless act and April's determination serve as a reminder that there is light at the end of the tunnel for those battling kidney failure. We will continue to update you on their progress and encourage you to spread awareness about the importance of regular check-ups and organ donation. Together, we can make a difference and change lives.

A Sister's Gift Part 3: Embracing Hope and Overcoming Challenges in the Kidney Transplant Journey

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 01:08:45 GMT

The Continuation of Sabrina's Journey to Be a Kidney Donor for Her Sibling and Raise Awareness about Diabetes

March 1st was a big day for Sabrina. It was the day she went in for the first round of testing after finding out that she was a match to be a kidney donor for her sister April. Sabrina was filled with hope and anxiety as she underwent a series of extensive tests, including labs, urine samples, an EKG, an ultrasound of the kidneys, and a chest X-ray. Depending on the doner's age the requirements of the test may vary. She met with a social worker who explained the process and made sure Sabrina understood what was taking place. Then, she met with an RN/coordinator who walked her through the actual surgery, downtime, recovery time, risks, and how long surgery would last. She was informed that they preferred to take the left kidney if possible, as the right kidney would require a bigger surgery and longer recovery time. Ultimately the doctors would check both kidneys to see which was the healthiest and leave the donor with the healthiest of the two.

Next, Sabrina met with the living donor advocate who performed the same tasks as the others but was from a separate team to make sure Sabrina was okay and fully understood the process. The benefits of being a live donor were not lost on Sabrina. She knew that by giving her sister a second chance at life, she was also giving her a better quality of life.

Now Sabrina has to wait until the following week for the results. She is hopeful that everything would come back normal, so she can move on to round two, which involves meeting with the surgeons and getting a CT of the kidneys before receiving final approval for the transplant.

But this journey is not just about Sabrina and April. It is also about shedding light on the importance of controlling diabetes, which was the number one cause of April's renal failure. Here at our office, Dr. Kish and her team pride themselves on educating their patients and providing thorough diabetic eye exams with state-of-the-art equipment. Every diabetic should be receiving a diabetic eye exam once a year, including dilation and scans of the retina. Diabetes is the number one cause of blindness in the United States, and Sabrina knew that firsthand.

April's journey has been a difficult one. A year before her renal failure started, she had begun experiencing vision changes. She stated that she was seeing a large spot that looked like a flamingo. Scans were ran and confirmed what she saw (as shown above). She was seen and diagnosed with diabetic hemorrhages, and Dr. Kish evaluated her and sent her to a retina specialist. However, albinism made treatment more complicated. Shots were the initial treatment, but lasers wouldn't work in her case because there was no pigment to laser to help with the bleeds. Dr. Shaw performed a few surgeries to help keep April's vision. However, a few months later, more symptoms started to arise other than vision issues. During the pandemic, April began to retain fluid, leading to multiple doctor visits and hospitalizations. After many tests and hospital stays, the diagnosis was finally confirmed: April was in renal failure. Sabrina watched her sister struggle, with over 50 pounds of fluid on her body and extended stays in the hospital for dialysis.

The first round of the donor process was filled with many emotions and thoughts for Sabrina. The entire team at Integris had helped answer all of her questions and put everything into perspective. Sabrina found that for her, the end result of giving her sister not only a shot at a normal life but also giving her children more years with their mom was what mattered most. While she would always be there for her sister and her children, she would never replace her, and that made the potential sacrifice all the more meaningful.

As Sabrina awaite for the results, she couldn't help but feel emotional. She is hopeful for the next steps in the process and remaine committed to the potential life-saving gift she could give her sister. She knows that this is just the beginning of a long journey, but she is determined to see it through to the end. She will do whatever it takes to give her sister the gift of life, continuing the legacy of love and sacrifice that only sisters can understand.

Diabetic Eye Exams

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:00:05 GMT

Are Diabetic Eye Exams Necessary?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.

That's why it is important for people with diabetes to have regular eye exams, also known as diabetic eye exams. These exams can detect the early signs of diabetic retinopathy and allow for prompt treatment. During a diabetic eye exam, the doctor will dilate the pupils and examine the retina to look for any signs of damage. This may include leaking blood vessels, swelling, or the growth of new blood vessels. The doctor will also photographs and run scans on the retina to document any changes over time.

If diabetic retinopathy is detected early, it can often be treated with laser therapy, which can help to slow or even stop the progression of the disease. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to prevent blindness.It's important to note that diabetic eye exams are not just for people who have already been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy. In fact, people with diabetes should have regular eye exams starting at the time of their diabetes diagnosis and at least once a year thereafter.

In conclusion, diabetic eye exams are a critical tool for preventing blindness in people with diabetes. Early detection and treatment can help to preserve vision and improve the quality of life for those affected by this serious complication of diabetes. So if you have diabetes, it is important to schedule regular eye exams to protect your vision.

A Sister's Gift Part 2: Continuing the Legacy of Love and Sacrifice

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 23:11:08 GMT

"The Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood: A Story of Devotion and Love through Kidney Donation"

As sisters, Sabrina and April have shared countless memories and experiences. But for Sabrina, there's one journey that holds a special place in her heart - donating a kidney to her sister. She has been on this journey for what feels like an eternity, and it's been a true display of the unbreakable bond of sisterhood.

One of the most critical moments in the transplant process is the cross-match results. It's the moment that determines if the donor and recipient's blood samples are compatible. For Sabrina, waiting for the results was the hardest part of the journey. The uncertainty and anticipation made her feel like she was on a rollercoaster of emotions.

But the wait was finally over, and Sabrina received the call she had been praying for. The cross-match results were negative, which meant that her blood samples were compatible with her sister's. This was a life-changing moment for Sabrina - the possibility of a successful transplant was now closer than ever.

Sabrina was overwhelmed with emotion, knowing that her sister would have the chance to receive a new lease on life. The thought of seeing her sister healthy and happy was all she could ever want. She cried tears of joy and relief, and she felt like all the sacrifices she had made were worth it.

Sabrina knows how challenging it can be to wait for cross-match results, but with a positive outcome, the future is bright. Sharing the news with her family was a moment of joy, and they all looked forward to the next steps in the transplant process.

Sabrina's journey as a kidney donor has been a true display of sisterly devotion and love. The wait for cross-match results was a rollercoaster of emotions, but with a positive outcome, Sabrina and her family can now look forward to a brighter future. Sarbina’s unwavering dedication to her sister is a testament to the unbreakable bond of sisterhood, and it's a reminder that the love between siblings can conquer all.

A Sister's Gift: One Woman's Journey of Donating a Kidney to Save Her Sibling

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 18:36:34 GMT

Our practice manager’s journey as a living kidney donor

It's not every day that someone decides to donate a kidney to a loved one, but for our manager Sabrina, it was a decision made without hesitation. Her sister April has been a patient of our practice for a long time and we've been following her case closely. April has albinism and type 2 diabetes, which played a major role in her kidney failure. She's a young mother of six children who she recently adopted as a foster mom, and she has a lot of life left to live.

Today, we're starting the process to see if Sabrina and April are a match for the kidney transplant. Bloodwork, here we go. It's going to be a long journey, but we're excited to share our stories with you and bring awareness to the effects of diabetes and the benefits of organ donation.

April's case is unique and the medical process will be a little bit more difficult due to her albinism, but we're hopeful that the transplant will be successful. The hope is that it will give April a second chance at living a normal life, and we'll be there every step of the way to support her.

Follow us on this journey as we share updates, challenges and the emotional journey of becoming a donor. We want to bring awareness to the importance of organ donation and show how it can change someone's life.

Dyslexia

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 18:31:55 GMT

Can Vision Therapy Help With Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a person's ability to read, spell, and write. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition, and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. While dyslexia is primarily a neurological disorder, research has shown that visual processing skills can also play a role in the symptoms of dyslexia.

Enter vision therapy , also known as visual training. Vision therapy is a treatment approach that uses a series of eye exercises and activities to improve visual skills and abilities. A vision therapist, also known as a developmental optometrist, will work with an individual to develop and improve visual skills that may be impacting their reading and learning abilities.

One of the main ways that vision therapy can help with dyslexia is by improving visual processing skills. Visual processing skills are the abilities that allow us to understand and interpret what we see. They include skills such as visual memory, visual spatial relationships, and visual tracking. These skills are important for reading and writing, and when they are weak or underdeveloped, they can contribute to the symptoms of dyslexia.

A vision therapist will work with the individual to develop and improve visual processing skills through a variety of activities and exercises, such as eye-tracking exercises, visual memory exercises, and visual motor integration activities. These exercises are designed to strengthen the visual system and help the brain better process and interpret visual information.

Another way that vision therapy can help with dyslexia is by addressing any underlying visual problems such as binocular vision disorders or visual perception issues. These visual problems can make it difficult for the individual to maintain clear and stable vision while reading, which can contribute to the symptoms of dyslexia. Our vision therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify any underlying visual problems and develop a treatment plan to address them.

It's important to note that vision therapy should not be considered as a standalone treatment for dyslexia. It is best used in combination with other interventions such as phonological training, and multisensory approach.

In conclusion, vision therapy can be a valuable tool in the treatment of dyslexia. By working with a vision therapist to develop and improve visual processing skills and address any underlying visual problems, individuals with dyslexia may be able to improve their reading and learning abilities. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have dyslexia, it is important to consult with a specialist such as a neuropsychologist, or a reading specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Then, schedule an appointment with with our vision therapist. They will come up with a treatment plan to help improve reading and learning abilities.

Children's Eye Exam

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:56:14 GMT

Is it important for your child to have an eye exam?

It is important for children to have regular eye exams to ensure that their vision is developing properly and to detect any potential vision problems early on. During a children's eye exam, the eye doctor will evaluate the child's vision, eye alignment, and eye movement and check for any signs of eye disease or other problems. The doctor may use a variety of tests, including visual acuity tests, eye muscle tests, and eye chart tests, to assess the child's vision. If the child is old enough, the doctor may also ask them about their reading habits, screen time, and any vision-related problems they may be experiencing. In some cases, the doctor may also dilate the child's pupils to get a better view of the back of the eye. Following the eye doctor's recommendations for follow-up care and treatment is important if any problems are detected during the exam.

Here are some common topics related to children's eyecare:

Importance of regular eye exams: It is important for children to have regular eye exams to ensure that their vision is developing properly and to detect any potential vision problems early on.

Common vision problems in children: Some common vision problems that can affect children include nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and amblyopia (lazy eye). These problems can often be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or vision therapy.
Protecting children's eyes: There are steps parents can take to help protect their children's eyes, such as making sure they wear protective eyewear during sports and other activities, limiting screen time, and teaching them to take breaks when reading or working on the computer.
Eye injuries in children: Children are more prone to eye injuries than adults, so it is important to take precautions to prevent them. This may include wearing protective eyewear during sports and other activities, keeping the home and play areas free of sharp objects, and being cautious around chemicals and other hazardous materials.
Managing vision problems in children: If a child is diagnosed with a vision problem, it is important to follow the eye doctor's recommendations for treatment and follow-up care. This may involve eyeglasses or contact lenses, vision therapy, or other interventions.

Here are some common topics that might be covered during a children's eye exam:

Visual acuity : This is a measure of how well the child can see. The eye doctor will use a chart with letters or symbols of different sizes to test the child's distance vision and may also use a chart with smaller symbols to test their near vision.
Eye muscle function: The eye doctor will check the child's eye muscles to make sure they are working properly and that the eyes are aligned correctly. This may involve having the child follow a moving object with their eyes or cover one eye and read a paragraph.
Eye health: The eye doctor will examine the child's eyes for any signs of eye disease or other problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or a detached retina. They may use a special light to examine the front and back of the eye.
Prescription for eyeglasses or contacts: If the eye doctor determines that the child needs eyeglasses or contact lenses, they will provide a prescription for these.
Recommendations for follow-up care: The eye doctor may recommend additional tests or follow-up appointments if any problems are detected during the exam. They may also provide recommendations for managing vision problems, such as reducing screen time or using eye drops.

What You Need to Know About IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Treatments

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:25:25 GMT

Here are some things you may want to know about IPL treatments.

IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments are a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses high-intensity pulses of light to improve the appearance of the skin. IPL treatments can address various concerns, including:

uneven skin tone
sun damage
age spots
rosacea
visible blood vessels.

They can also stimulate collagen production, which can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

IPL treatments are generally well tolerated, with minimal discomfort and side effects. Some patients may experience redness, swelling, or a mild sunburn-like sensation after treatment, but these side effects usually resolve within a few days. Results from IPL treatments may vary. Some people may notice an improvement in their skin after just one treatment, while others may need multiple treatments to achieve the desired results. It is important to have realistic expectations and to follow the recommended treatment plan recommended by your provider.

Who is a not candidate for IPL?

IPL treatments are not suitable for everyone. People with certain skin conditions, such as active acne, open wounds, or a history of skin cancer, may not be candidates for IPL treatment. It is important to discuss your medical history and goals with a qualified provider before undergoing treatment. Some other factors that may make a person not a candidate for IPL include:

Very dark skin : IPL is not recommended for individuals with very dark skin, as the high-energy light used in the treatment may be absorbed by the melanin in the skin, leading to increased risk of side effects such as hyperpigmentation.
Active skin infections or rashe s: IPL should not be performed on individuals with active skin infections or rashes, as the treatment may exacerbate these conditions.
Accutane use : Individuals who have recently taken or are currently taking the medication Accutane should not undergo IPL treatment, as the treatment may increase the risk of side effects such as scarring.
Pregnancy: IPL is generally not recommended for pregnant women, as the safety of the treatment during pregnancy has not been established.
Antibiotics use: It is generally not recommended to undergo IPL treatment while taking antibiotics because antibiotics can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and other environmental factors, and using IPL in combination with antibiotics may further increase the risk of sun sensitivity and skin irritation.
Retin-A/Retinoid use: It is generally not recommended to undergo intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment while using retinoids, such as Retin-A because it can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and other environmental factors, and using IPL in combination with retinoids may further increase the risk of sun sensitivity and skin irritation.

One of the best things about IPL treatments is that they are a non-invasive, non-surgical way to improve the appearance of the skin. Unlike more invasive procedures, such as plastic surgery or laser resurfacing, IPL treatments do not require anesthesia, incisions, or downtime. This makes them a popular choice for people who want to improve the appearance of their skin without the risks and recovery time associated with more invasive treatments.

Overall, the best thing about IPL treatments is that they can help improve the appearance of the skin and give people a more youthful, radiant, and healthy-looking appearance without the need for surgery or significant downtime. Give us a call at 405-573-9166 or schedule online today!

Digital Eye Strain?

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 17:04:04 GMT

What is digital eye strain?

Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common issue among individuals who spend a significant amount of time using electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. Prolonged use of these devices can lead to symptoms such as:

Headaches
Dry eyes or excessively watery eyes
Eye fatigue
Blurry vision and sometimes double vision
Aching, sore or tired neck, shoulders, or back
Increased light sensitivity
Trouble concentrating
Difficulty keeping eyes open
Twitching eyes

The increasing use of electronic devices in our daily lives has made digital eye strain a widespread problem. In fact, a recent survey found that more than 70% of individuals who regularly use computers at work experience symptoms of digital eye strain.

One of the main causes of digital eye strain is the blue light emitted by electronic screens. This type of light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than other colors, and it can penetrate the eye more deeply. As a result, exposure to blue light can cause damage to the retina and contribute to the development of age-related macular degeneration.

People often blink less while using their phone, tablet, or computer. Similar things happen while reading, except books, don’t traditionally emit their own light. Most people view their device screens while holding it too close to their faces or at less than ideal angles. LED monitors and other illuminated devices contribute to eye glare. And often, monitors are poorly calibrated, so there isn’t enough contrast to easily read or see.

How to managing digital eye strain?

Many of the symptoms of digital eye strain can seem minor. If you’re unsure if you have digital eye strain, try a few of these simple adjustments:

Take screen time breaks
Increase monitor distance
Try the 20-20-20 rule
Apply eye drops recommended by your eye doctor
Wear blue-blocking glasses

This helps exercise the eyes and gives your eyes a break from up-close focus. Also, don’t forget to blink your eyes to keep them lubricated. You may want to consider using eye drops to help restore moisture in your eyes.

Finally, consider your working and screen environment. The ambient lighting and your ergonomic alignment all make a difference. Choose soft, full-spectrum light. Harsh overhead lighting may worsen the effects of your computer screen time.

Position your monitor, so you don’t need to crane your neck to view it. The screen should be 4-5 inches below eye level to encourage a healthy posture. Use a high-resolution, anti-glare monitor when possible. Adjust the contrast, colors, and resolution to make it a little easier on the eyes.

If you are experiencing these, please discuss your symptoms and screen use with your eye doctor. Also, keep current with your eye examination to rule out other causes of these symptoms. If eye strain is the issue, your optometrist may suggest computer eye strain glasses or lifestyle changes that reduce the discomfort and impact of your screen time.

See your eye doctor for a thorough assessment if symptoms continue or worsen. Your optometrists can suggest visual exercises and other options to relieve symptoms.

How we can help here at Nicole M. Kish OD PC

Here at Nicole M. Kish OD PC, we have the experience and equipment necessary to diagnose and often treat the eye conditions detailed above.