Eyecare Experts

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is now the #1 cause of blindness in adults over 55, and most people don’t realize they’re at risk until it’s too late.

In this episode, the Eye Care Experts, Dr. Troy Bell, Dr. Gene Terrezza, and Dr. Stephanie Montgomery, break down what macular degeneration really is, the difference between dry and wet AMD, cutting-edge monitoring technology, and what you can do today to protect your central vision. If you or a family member is over 50, has a family history of macular degeneration or glaucoma, or wants to stay proactive about long-term eye health, this episode is essential listening.

In this latest episode of Eyecare Experts, Dr. Troy Bell and Dr. Gene Terrezza are joined by Dr. Stephanie Montgomery to discuss the vital connection between eye and heart health in honor of American Heart Month. The panel explains why routine dilated eye exams play a major role in detecting serious systemic heart conditions, including high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. They also explain that the eyes often provide early warning signs of hypertension, cholesterol issues, and blood flow problems, sometimes before patients experience other symptoms. Watch or listen to this episode to learn why preventive eye care can protect both your vision and your overall health.

In this episode of our Eyecare Experts, Dr. Troy Bell and Dr. Gene Terrezza are joined by Dr. Stephanie Montgomery, who serves patients in the Fairhope and Foley offices.

The pod kicks off with Dr. Montgomery sharing her background and experience in optometry, her passion for pediatric eye care and treating eye disease, and how the practice provides full-scope services across multiple locations. Dr. Terrezza also provides detailed information on Doctors with a Heart, a community outreach initiative that offers free eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, medications, and follow-up care to low-income, uninsured individuals. The episode wraps up with updates from Dr. Bell on parking access for the Palafox office during the downtown Pensacola renovations.

As we begin 2026, we’re looking back at the most-watched, most-talked-about episodes of Eyecare Experts from 2025! From women’s health and dry eye relief to Cortical Visual Impairment, contact lens innovation, and sun safety, these are the top 5 episodes that sparked meaningful conversations and delivered expert insight you don’t want to miss.

• No.5 - Understanding Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) - https://www.terrezzaoptical.com/post/episode-32-cortical-visual-impairment
• No. 4 - Sun, Sand & Sight: Protecting Your Eyes This Summer - https://www.terrezzaoptical.com/post/episode-29-sun-sand-and-sight
• No. 3 - Let’s Talk About Dry Eyes - https://www.terrezzaoptical.com/post/episode-25-lets-talk-about-dry-eyes
• No. 2 - Women’s Hormones & Eye Health - https://www.terrezzaoptical.com/post/episode-24-womens-hormones-eye-health
• No. 1 - Contact Lens Health Week: Innovations, Tips & Expert Advice - https://www.terrezzaoptical.com/post/episode-31-contact-lens-health

As we move into colder months and viral infections become more common, Dr. Bell, Dr. Terrezza, and Dr. Sahawneh discuss the impact of shingles on your eye health. Together, they review the key symptoms to watch for, how this condition is diagnosed, treatment options, vaccine considerations, and when it’s crucial to call your eye doctor. If you’re experiencing eye discomfort or think something may be “stuck” in your eye, this episode offers the guidance you need.

In this episode, Dr. Troy Bell and Dr. Gene Terrezza welcome back Dr. Hannah Sahawneh to discuss geographic atrophy (GA). A progressive form of dry macular degeneration, GA is gaining more public awareness thanks to new research, new treatment options, and increased media attention. Together, our providers discuss what GA is, the importance of early detection, progression based on risk factors, the latest diagnostic tools, new FDA-approved treatments and more. This episode is full of helpful insights straight from the experts on how to navigate GA effectively.

In this episode of the Eyecare Experts podcast, Dr. Troy Bell and Dr. Gene Terrezza welcome back Dr. Hannah Sahawneh to take a closer look at how everyday habits can impact your eye health. From the dangers of smoking, vaping, and poor nutrition to the vision-saving benefits of antioxidants, good sleep, and a balanced lifestyle, this conversation uncovers the powerful link between your daily choices and long-term eye health. Whether you’re worried about macular degeneration, cataracts, or want to keep your eyes healthy for life, this episode is packed with practical insights everyone should know.

In this episode of Eyecare Experts, Dr. Troy Bell and Dr. Gene Terrezza sit down with returning guest Dr. Ian Bellard to explore how certain medications and medical treatments can affect your eyes. From diabetes drugs and GLP-1 medications to cancer therapies and other systemic prescriptions, the doctors explain what patients should know to protect their vision while managing their overall health.