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Dr. Victoria North, MD is an oculoplastic surgeon in Chelmsford, MA specializing in ophthalmic plastic surgery and internal medicine (adult medicine). She graduated from Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons in 2016 and has 8 years of experience. Dr. Victoria North, MD is affiliated with Lowell General Hospital, Tufts Medical Center, MASSACHUSETTS EYE ASSOCIATES PC, NASHUA EYE ASSOCIATES PA, PRATT OPHTHALMOLOGY ASSOCIATES INC, TALLMAN EYE ASSOCIATES PC and TALLMAN EYE BIDCO.
19 Village Square
Chelmsford, MA 01824
Unable to locate address.
260 Tremont Street Biewend Building
Boston, MA 02111
800 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02111
Eye Problems
Millions of people every year have problems with their eyes. Some of the most common eye problems are refractive disorders, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and cataracts.
Refractive disorders happen when the shape of the eye doesn't let allow someone focus very precisely. They might be myopic (nearsighted), hyperopic (farsighted), or have an astigmatism, which is a focus problem caused by the cornea. Refractive disorders can be corrected by glasses or contacts.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. It happens when fluid pressure builds up within the eye and damages the optic nerve. It is treated with medications and surgery.
Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes. The retina is tissue at the back of the eye that is filled with numerous, tiny blood vessels. When diabetes damages these delicate blood vessels, they burst or leak, leading to blind spots and blurred vision. Diabetic retinopathy can be treated with laser therapy and surgery, but often vision cannot be restored.
Macular degeneration is common in older adults. The macula is the central part of the retina and is responsible for crisp center vision. Over time, the cells in the macula begin to die, making central vision blurry. An early symptom of macular degeneration is that straight lines appear wavy.
Cataracts happen when the clear lens in the front of the eye becomes cloudy, making things look blurry or faded. They are extremely common in older people. By age 80, more than half of all Americans will have had a cataract. In early stages, prescription glasses and magnifying lenses can help. As the cataracts get worse, surgery to replace the lens may be the best option.
More than just one of the five senses, the eyes are heavily relied upon to communicate, work, and get around every day. It's important to have regular eye exams for vision stays in good shape for years to come.
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.
When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:
Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.
Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.
Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.
The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.
Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.
Dr. Victoria North, MD graduated from Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons in 2016. She completed residency at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. She is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and has a state license in Massachusetts.
Medical School: Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons (2016)
Residency: Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Board Certification: American Board of Ophthalmology
Licensed In: Massachusetts
Dr. Victoria North, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:
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These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Victoria North, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.
Alcon Vision LLC |
$152
Centurion $28 |
Constellation $19 |
$105 |
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Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc. |
$29
Tecnis 1-piece IOL $29 |
Food and Beverage | $181 |
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Dr. Victoria North specializes in ophthalmic plastic surgery. Her areas of clinical interest consist of thyroid problems, reconstructive surgery, and eye problems. Dr. North graduated from Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons. She trained at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary for her residency. She has received the following distinctions: Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society; Jason Horowitz Clinical Fellow Teaching Award; and Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute Glasgow-Rubin Achievement Award. She is professionally affiliated with Lowell General Hospital and Tufts Medical Center. Dr. North has an open panel in Boston, MA according to Tufts Medical Center.