Podcast
The Eye-Q Podcast
Hosted by Dr. Rani Banik · EN
Join Dr Rani Banik, America's Integrative Neuro-Ophthalmologist, as she explores the brain-eye connection. Learn about the latest technologic advancements in vision and brain health, and discover how science intersects with a holistic approach based on nutrition and lifestyle. Raise your Eye-Q about all things eye and brain-related!
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 080: Living Blind: Independence, Advocacy & Thriving with Vision Loss
2w ago00:24:40Tap to summarizeWhat does everyday life really look like when you're born with severe vision loss?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rani Banik, MD speaks with her patient, Milica Milić, who lives with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). Milica shares her remarkable journey—from childhood diagnosis to becoming a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living.Together they discuss early signs of congenital vision loss, navigating school and work, self-advocacy, assistive technology, Braille, orientation and mobility, and how people with blindness can build fulfilling, independent lives.Whether you have low vision, know someone who does, or simply want to better understand life through a different perspective, this conversation is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and hope. In this episode you'll learn:• What is Leber's Congenital Amaurosis• How blindness affects everyday life• Why self-advocacy is one of the most important life skills• How families can better support children with vision loss• Practical strategies for thriving—not just surviving—with blindnessAbout My GuestMilica Milić is a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living. Diagnosed with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), she combines her lived experience with professional expertise to help children with visual impairments build confidence, independence, and life skills. She also mentors young adults with vision loss, helping them navigate education, careers, and daily living. Connect with Dr. Rani Banik, MD🌿 Website: https://www.drranibanik.com🛍 Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik▶️ Subscribe for weekly videos on eye health, nutrition, brain health, and integrative medicine.#Blindness #LowVision #LebersCongenitalAmaurosis #EyeHealth #VisionLoss #Accessibility #NeuroOphthalmology #EyeQPodcast #DrRaniBanik
Transcribe →Episode 079: Eye on Eye Stroke: New Treatment for Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
3w ago00:27:56Tap to summarizeCan an eye stroke be treated? What causes sudden vision loss in one eye? And what should you do if it happens?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews retina specialist Dr. Gareth Lema about central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), commonly known as an eye stroke.Dr. Lema explains the difference between retinal artery occlusions and retinal vein occlusions, why sudden painless vision loss is always a medical emergency, and how new hospital protocols are changing the way certain patients are treated.Together, they discuss:• What causes an eye stroke• The warning signs that require immediate medical attention• Why every minute matters after sudden vision loss• A breakthrough treatment using clot-dissolving medication (TPA) for selected patients• How OCT imaging is helping doctors diagnose eye strokes faster• The link between eye stroke, carotid artery disease, heart disease, and brain stroke• The cardiovascular workup every patient should receive• Lifestyle habits that support healthy blood vessels and may reduce future stroke risk, including nutrition, exercise, blood pressure control, and proper hydrationIf you or someone you love experiences sudden painless vision loss, this episode could help you recognize an emergency and seek care quickly.Gareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.About My GuestGareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.https://profiles.mountsinai.org/gareth-lemahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/garethlema/https://www.facebook.com/GLRetina/https://www.instagram.com/garethlemamdphd/Connect with Rani Banik, MD🌐 Website: https://www.drranibanik.comShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrRaniBanikInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanikFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC
Transcribe →Episode 078 Eye on the Corneal Abrasions, Ulcers & Keratoconus
4w ago00:28:14Tap to summarizeWhat should you do if you scratch your eye? Can contact lenses cause blindness? What exactly is keratoconus?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews cornea specialist Dr. Amita Vadada about some of the most common and potentially serious conditions affecting the cornea, the clear front window of the eye.They discuss corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers, contact lens safety, keratoconus, corneal cross-linking, and the warning signs that require urgent medical attention.In this episode:• What is a corneal abrasion?• How long do corneal scratches take to heal?• When is an eye injury an emergency?• What causes corneal ulcers?• Why are contact lens wearers at higher risk?• Can you shower or swim in contact lenses?• What is keratoconus and who gets it?• How does corneal cross-linking work?• Can keratoconus be prevented?Dr. Vadada also explains the latest advances in treatment and shares practical tips to help protect your vision.Dr. Amita Vadada is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and cataract surgeon whose expertise includes corneal disease, corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, ocular surface disease, and keratoconus management. She is also the founder of Keralogic MD and is passionate about patient education and innovation in eye care.About My GuestDr. Amita Vadada is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and cataract surgeon whose expertise includes corneal disease, corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, ocular surface disease, and keratoconus management. She is also the founder of Keralogic MD and is passionate about patient education and innovation in eye care.
Transcribe →Episode 077: Can Autoimmune Disease Affect Your Eyes? Understanding Uveitis with Deep Parikh, MD
Jun 1200:32:47Tap to summarizeCan autoimmune disease affect your eyes?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rani Banik sits down with uveitis specialist Dr. Deep Parikh to discuss uveitis, a potentially sight-threatening form of eye inflammation that is often linked to autoimmune disease.They explore how conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory disorders can affect the eyes, sometimes years before a diagnosis is made. Dr. Parikh explains the warning signs of uveitis, including eye pain, redness, floaters, blurry vision, and light sensitivity, and why early diagnosis is critical to preventing permanent vision loss.You'll learn how eye inflammation is diagnosed, the different types of uveitis, current treatment options, and the role of lifestyle factors, nutrition, stress management, and targeted supplements in supporting overall eye health.✔ What is uveitis and why can it threaten vision?✔ The connection between autoimmune disease and eye inflammation✔ Symptoms that should never be ignored✔ How ophthalmologists diagnose and monitor uveitis✔ Treatment options including steroids and immunomodulatory therapies✔ The role of inflammation in long-term eye health✔ Nutrition and lifestyle strategies that may help support healthy visionIf you have an autoimmune condition, unexplained eye symptoms, or simply want to understand how the eyes reflect overall health, this episode is packed with valuable insights.About My GuestDeep Parikh, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained uveitis specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating inflammatory eye diseases. He works closely with rheumatologists, neurologists, and other specialists to help patients manage complex autoimmune and inflammatory conditions affecting the eyes.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00 What is uveitis?03:00 Different types of uveitis05:00 Autoimmune diseases linked to eye inflammation07:00 Symptoms you should never ignore10:00 How uveitis is diagnosed14:00 Treatment options19:00 Nutrition and supplements25:00 Stress, inflammation, and flare prevention28:00 Warning signs requiring urgent care30:00 Final thoughtsConnect with Dr. Deep ParikhInstagram: @drdeepparikhConnect with Dr. Rani BanikWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanikYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrRaniBanikShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com
Transcribe →Episode 076 Could Vision Loss Be the First Sign of MS? Lyme, Optic Neuritis & Brain Inflammation
Jun 600:21:38Tap to summarizeCould dim vision, optic neuritis, or unexplained vision loss be one of the first signs of multiple sclerosis?In Episode 76 of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rani Banik welcomes Dr. Darin Ingels, ND, a naturopathic doctor, Lyme disease expert, author, and international speaker, for a fascinating conversation on the eye-brain-body connection.Dr. Ingels shares his personal journey with Lyme disease and multiple sclerosis, including how dim vision may have been one of his earliest MS symptoms. Together, Dr. Banik and Dr. Ingels explore how neuroinflammation, autoimmune disease, gut health, mitochondrial function, and myelin damage can affect the nervous system—and why vision changes should never be ignored.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why optic neuritis and dim vision can be early signs of MS• The connection between Lyme disease, MS, and neuroinflammation• How diet and gut health may support autoimmune and neurologic health• Dr. Ingels’ top supplements for neuroinflammation, including omega-3 fatty acids, phosphatidylcholine, and CoQ10• The potential role of lion’s mane mushroom and N-acetylglucosamine in myelin support• Why sleep, movement, and stress reduction matter for brain repair• How hyperbaric oxygen therapy may support mitochondrial function, circulation, and inflammation• What to know about infrared sauna, red light therapy, and heat intolerance in MSThis episode is especially helpful for anyone interested in multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis, Lyme disease, neuroinflammation, autoimmune disease, brain health, natural strategies for MS, and integrative approaches to nervous system repair.Guest:Dr. Darin Ingels, ND, FAAEM, FMAPSWebsite: https://dariningelsnd.comDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your treatment plan, diet, supplements, or therapies.
Transcribe →Episode 075: Dr. Harsha Reddy: One Eye Doctor's Global Mission
May 2900:39:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with Dr. Harsha Reddy about oculoplastics, surgical training, medical education, and global ophthalmology. We discuss how eye care can restore function, confidence, and dignity, and how his nonprofit Lokana brings exams, glasses, and surgical access to remote tribal communities in India.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Harsha Reddy is an associate professor of ophthalmology at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, an oculoplastic surgeon, and residency program director. He is also the founder of Lokana.org, a nonprofit supporting eye care access for underserved tribal communities in India. He is working on a documentary film, Eternal Trees, Eternal Mountains, to help preserve and share their stories.- - - - -Social Handles:Website: https://www.drharshareddy.com/- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#- - - - -Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 074: Eye on Brain Tumors: When Vision Changes Signal Something Deeper
May 2200:30:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with neurosurgeon Dr. Raj Shrivastava about how brain tumors can sometimes show up through vision changes, headaches, hormone symptoms, or loss of smell. We discuss benign skull-based tumors, pituitary tumors, when to seek care, why guided testing matters, and how modern neurosurgery now focuses on effective treatment with quality of life in mind.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Raj Shrivastava is a neurosurgeon at Mount Sinai in New York City who specializes in benign skull-based tumors and complex neurologic conditions. Through his work with patients whose symptoms may involve vision, hormones, smell, or brain health, he brings a thoughtful and reassuring perspective to The Eye-Q Podcast's mission of helping listeners understand the deeper connections between eye health, brain health, and overall wellness.- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 073: Eye on Overwhelm: How to Reclaim Your Power at Any Stage of Life
May 800:35:03Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Risa Ryger to explore how our beliefs, mindset, and emotional awareness shape the way we navigate midlife and beyond. We talk about the difference between reinvention and expansion, how to identify limiting beliefs, and why resilience is about bending, not breaking. This conversation offers a powerful reminder that growth, clarity, and meaningful change are always available to us.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Risa Ryger is a clinical psychologist, international speaker, and founder of 93% Consulting. She is the creator of the Self-Owned Mindset, a framework designed to help individuals reclaim their identity, expand their potential, and create meaningful change. Through her work, speaking engagements, and “Disruptive Conversations” series, she empowers women to challenge limiting beliefs and step fully into who they are.- - - - -Social Handles:Website: https://www.drrisaryger.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-risa-ryger-69a47a21/- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 072: Eye on Dry Eye: Addressing the Root Cause Using Latest Treatment Approaches
May 100:29:44Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with Dr. Jennifer Tsai about dry eye through a clinical, root-cause lens. We discuss how dysfunction in the tear system drives symptoms, why conventional treatments often fall short, and how newer approaches like IPL, radiofrequency, and regenerative therapies are shifting how we manage dry eye for more sustained results.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Jennifer Tsai is a New York City-based optometrist and founder of Line of Sight, a practice specializing in advanced dry eye management and ocular surface disease. She is also the creator of iGenic, a lid hygiene line focused on supporting long-term ocular health. Through her clinical work and educational platforms, she emphasizes root-cause diagnosis and modern treatment strategies in eye care.- - - - - Dr. Jennifer Tsai, ODWebsite: https://www.drjennifertsai.com/ Instagram: https://www.drjennifertsai.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjenandjuice- - - - - Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 071: Refractive Surgery: LASIK, PRK, SMILE, ICL, and Refractive Cataract Surgery
Apr 2400:36:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sonny Goel to break down the world of refractive surgery, from LASIK and PRK to newer options like SMILE and implantable lenses. We explore how these procedures work, who qualifies, and what risks patients need to understand before making a decision. If you've ever considered vision correction, this conversation will help you see the full picture.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Sonny Goel is a leading refractive surgeon based in Baltimore, Maryland, with decades of experience performing advanced vision correction procedures. He specializes in LASIK, SMILE, and lens-based surgeries, and is known for his patient-focused approach and commitment to using the latest technologies to improve visual outcomes. His work has helped thousands achieve greater independence from glasses and contact lenses.- - - - -Dr. Sonny Goel, MDWebsite: https://goelvision.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoelVisionYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaVK8KsWVwDQV7etLu8UP2AInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonnygoelmd/- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
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