Toyota Super Bowl Commercial

Even if one is not an avid football fan, the Super Bowl is a social event that is a great excuse to get together with friends and enjoy some good eats. However, for any optometrist, one commercial was the most inspirational part of the Super Bowl event. 2022 Toyota Big Game Commercial: Brothers Extended Cut | Start Your Impossible

As an optometrist, giving a patient the news that they are losing their vision with a poor prognosis is one of the things we dread the most. Stargardt's is one of the conditions we dread telling a patient about.

What is Stargardt disease? Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disease occurs when fatty material builds up on the central area of the retina, the macula — the part of the retina needed for sharp, central vision. Vision loss usually starts in childhood. However, some with Stargardts don’t have vision loss until adulthood. Unfortunately, there’s no treatment for Stargardt disease, but as one can see in the Super Bowl Toyota commercial one can make the most of their remaining vision.

What are the symptoms of Stargardt disease?

The most common symptom of Stargardt disease is a slow loss of visual acuity in both eyes. Some experience central vision loss more rapidly than others. Other symptoms may include:

• Gray, black, or blurry spots in the central vision

• Sensitivity to glare

• Needing more time for your eyes to adjust between light and dark places like when one goes in and out of a movie theater

• Color vision changes

• Some with Stargardts may also lose their side (peripheral) vision
   

What causes Stargardt disease?

Stargardt disease is usually caused by a problem with a gene called ABCA4. This gene affects how your body processes vitamin A. Vitamin A helps make a protein that reduces fatty material. Without the proper gene, the material is allowed to build up and damage sensitive cells. This results in a loss of central vision. Stargardt disease is inherited or a genetic disease, which means it gets passed down from parents to kids.

How will a visit to Monarch Bay Optometry check for Stargardt disease?

• We will check for Stargardts as part of a retinal evaluation. The exam could include a dilation with eye drops and/ or a retinal photo.

• Color vision testing. Stargardt's can cause loss of color vision, so we might also test your color vision. If there is color vision loss, Enchroma may help

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT). This test uses light waves to take a detailed picture of your retina.

• Genetic testing. We might refer a patient for a genetic test to confirm the diagnosis.
   

What's the treatment for Stargardt disease?

There is currently no treatment for Stargardt disease. However, there are other things one can do to prevent further vision loss:

• Proper UV protection: Wear a hat and high-quality polarized sunglasses 

• Proper nutrition may include high-quality supplements. However, don’t think more is better. Do not take dietary supplements with more than the daily recommended amount of vitamin A.

• Don’t smoke cigarettes and seek a smoking-free environment
   

Living with vision loss can be life-changing. The great news is that the doors are still open for inspirational accomplishments like those achieved by Brian and Robin McKeever

Author: Dr. Kris Kobayashi, O.D.

Dr. Kobayashi completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She then earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern California College of Optometry. Dr. Kobayashi has specialized training in Low Vision and hospital-based optometry.  She obtained her license to utilize pharmaceutical agents in the state of California in 1997.

Dr. Kobayashi is married to Randy and has two beautiful children.  She enjoys traveling and fine dining.