In recognition of Red Rock City Lifestyle’s “Love Local” themed issue, we reached out to Dr. Tushina Reddy of Shepherd Eye Center, a locally owned and operated ophthalmic practice that loves locals, to find out why we should all take care of our beloved – sometimes taken for granted – eyesight.
Tushina A. Reddy, M.D.
Ophthalmologist
Shepherd Eye Center
Tushina Reddy, M.D. received her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School, Inteflex Program, which combined both undergraduate and medical school training. She then completed two years of residency training in Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan Hospital, followed by a residency in ophthalmology at the University Hospital of Cleveland-Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Reddy specializes in cataract and refractive surgery and is a diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology (Board Certified), a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, and the Clark County Medical Society.
Tell us about Shepherd Eye Center.
Shepherd Eye Center has proudly cared for the eyes of Southern Nevada for more than 50 years. What Dr. John Shepherd started as a solo clinic in 1968 has now grown to become the largest ophthalmic practice in Nevada, with 18 physicians, five offices, and nearly 200 employees. The doctors of Shepherd Eye Center are at the forefront of technological advancement. Services include routine eye exams, the treatment of eye diseases, and surgical options for conditions including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, muscle imbalance, cataracts, and corneal conditions. The Shepherd Eye Surgicenter is state-licensed, Medicare-approved, and accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc.
What do you specialize in?
I am a board-certified general Ophthalmologist and specialize in cataract and refractive surgery.
What do local patients mean to you?
As a local doctor working in a locally owned practice, local patients are the backbone of the practice. They are the ones who support the business and help keep it running. I have a personal connection to them, as we are members of the same community, and I take pride in providing them with high-quality medical care. Local patients also help create a sense of community within the practice, which is an important aspect of providing healthcare.
What does perfect eyesight mean?
Perfect eyesight is the ability to see clearly without the aid of glasses or contact lenses. It means having a visual acuity of 20/20, which is the standard measure of normal vision. For me and my patients, perfect eyesight is an important aspect of overall health and well-being. It allows people to engage in activities and experiences without being limited by their vision and can positively impact their quality of life. For my patients, achieving and maintaining perfect eyesight is often a top priority, and I strive to help them achieve that goal through high-quality care and treatment.
Some people might take their eyesight for granted. What would you say to them?
Our eyesight is one of the most important senses, and it allows us to engage in the world around us in a visual way. It is important to take care of our eyes and to have regular eye exams to ensure that our vision is as good as it can be. I also remind people that many eye conditions and diseases do not have symptoms in the early stages, so it is important to have regular checkups to catch any potential problems early on. Finally, I often encourage people to wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could potentially damage their eyes, such as playing sports or working with machinery.
What are your top 3-5 tips for your patients on how to protect their eyesight?
1) Have regular comprehensive eye exams. This is the best way to catch any potential eye problems early on and to ensure that your vision is as good as it can be.
2) Wear protective eyewear when necessary. This includes wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and wearing safety glasses or goggles when engaging in activities that could potentially damage your eyes, such as playing sports or using power tools.
3) Take care of your overall health. Many chronic conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can have an impact on your eyesight. By taking care of your overall health, you can help protect your eyes as well.
4) Avoid smoking. Smoking can increase your risk of developing eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
5) Eat a healthy diet. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect your eyes and maintain good vision. Some specific nutrients that are important for eye health include vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.