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!
31episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 065: The Hidden Vision Problems Caused by Concussions
Mar 1300:13:17Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I explore how concussions can disrupt the brain’s visual system—even when the eyes themselves appear healthy. I walk through the most common post-concussion vision symptoms, including reading difficulties, light sensitivity, eye discomfort, and double vision. I also explain why many eye exams appear normal despite real symptoms and how an integrative approach can support recovery at the brain and cellular level.- - - - -About the Host:Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.- - - - -Rudrani Banik, MDShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dr.ranibanik?si=uK9KmwckEAUG3EzNInstagram: 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 064: Catching a Hidden Brain Tumor: The Eye Exam That Changed Everything
Mar 600:42:11Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I sit down with my patient, Mev Markashi, to unpack how subtle brain fog, fatigue, and "jiggling" vision led to the discovery of a large meningioma. We talk through the shock of diagnosis, her 12-hour craniotomy and residual tumor near the optic nerve, and the months of fear and healing that followed. Her biggest message: listen to your body and prioritize eye exams after 40.Erratum: Approximately 1-2% of the population may have an undiagnosed brain tumor, such as a meningioma, NOT 15-20% as mentioned in the podcast. - - - - -About the Guest:Mev Markashi is a registered nurse and healthcare leader who shares her personal patient journey after developing papilledema and vision instability that ultimately led to an MRI diagnosis of a large meningioma. Following a craniotomy and tumor resection, she navigated months of recovery—managing double vision, fear, and gradual neurological healing—before returning to work and eventually launching her own LLC, allowing more control over her schedule while continuing her work in healthcare operations and compliance.- - - - -Rudrani Banik, MDShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dr.ranibanik?si=uK9KmwckEAUG3EzNInstagram: 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 063: Macular Degeneration Part 3: Supplementation & The AREDS Formulation
Feb 2700:32:02Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down the landmark AREDS and AREDS-2 studies and explain why these formulations, while groundbreaking at the time, are now incomplete. I discuss what they actually showed, why they only reduce progression risk by about 25%, the missing nutrients modern research highlights, and the potential dangers of high-dose zinc. Most importantly, I share how to choose a smarter, more personalized approach to protecting your vision.- - - - -About the Host:Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.- - - - -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 062: Macular Degeneration Part 2: Integrative Approaches
Feb 2000:31:46Tap to summarizeIn Part 2 of my macular degeneration series, I break down the root cause cascade behind AMD—oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, inflammation, and abnormal blood vessel growth. I share practical strategies you can start using now, including UV protection, carotenoid-rich foods, omega-3s, red light therapy, and movement. This episode is about taking action before vision loss becomes irreversible.- - - - -About the Host:Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.- - - - -Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: 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.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 061: Macular Degeneration Part I: Macular Degeneration 101
Feb 1300:30:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I walk you through the foundations of macular degeneration. We explore retinal anatomy, the role of the macula and fovea, what drusen are, and how dry and wet AMD develop over time. I also explain why vision loss can occur without early symptoms, how to detect changes at home, and which risk factors matter most—so you can protect your central vision before irreversible damage occurs.Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 060: Eye on Macular Degeneration - Prevention and Treatment Options
Feb 600:35:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with leading retina specialist Dr. Avnish Deobhakta about macular degeneration. We break down dry versus wet AMD, why genetics and lifestyle both matter, and how new treatments—from supplements to injections and light therapy—are changing outcomes. This conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical steps to protect vision at every stage.Dr. Avnish Deobhakta is a retina specialist and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration and other retinal diseases, and is deeply involved in education, research, and advancing modern approaches to preserving vision.Avnish Deobhakta, MDLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avnish-deobhakta-36989a134/ Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Transcribe →Episode 059: Glaucoma Part 4 – How Diet, Lifestyle, and Sleep Influence Glaucoma
Jan 3000:36:19Tap to summarizeIn this final episode of the glaucoma series on The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rudrani Banik focuses on the role of nutrition, lifestyle, and emerging therapies in protecting optic nerve health. She explains how diet, hydration, exercise, sleep habits, and carefully selected supplements can help reduce oxidative stress, support mitochondrial function, improve blood flow, and slow glaucoma progression—empowering patients with tools they can use at home.Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.Products for Glaucoma PreventionHooga Pro 300 Red and Infrared Light TherapyPillow with Face Cut Outs Home Blood Pressure MonitorMito-Q Eye (available once you create a free account through Dr. Rani's Fullscript dispensary)Free app for Sleep Apnea Screening: https://www.snorelab.com/Connect with me! Website: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.ranibanikShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
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Episode 058: Glaucoma Part 3 - Glaucoma Medications, Lasers, and Surgery—What Comes Next
Jan 2300:20:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down the medical and surgical treatments used for glaucoma. We explore how different eye drops lower pressure, why side effects matter, and how punctal occlusion can reduce systemic absorption. I also explain when lasers like SLT or LPI are used, and how surgical options—from MIGS to trabeculectomy and tube shunts—fit into glaucoma care when disease progresses.Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast/
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Episode 057: Glaucoma Part 2: The 5 Glaucoma Tests You Need to Get
Jan 1600:23:59Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down how glaucoma is properly tested and monitored. We explore eye pressure measurements, visual field testing, optic nerve cupping, and OCT scans—explaining what each test reveals and why no single test tells the whole story. This episode empowers you to understand your eye exam and protect your vision before damage becomes permanent.Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast/
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Episode 056: Glaucoma 101: The Foundations
Jan 900:26:03Tap to summarizeGlaucoma doesn’t warn you. It slowly takes vision from the outside in. In this episode, I explain what glaucoma really is, how it damages the optic nerve, and why peripheral vision is the first to disappear.I break down how glaucoma progresses over time, the differences between open-angle and closed-angle glaucoma, who is most at risk, and why relying on symptoms or eye pressure alone can be misleading. Early testing and timely care are the key to protecting long-term vision.Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of The Eye-Q Podcast, where she educates listeners on eye health, vision preservation, and disease prevention. Through clear explanations and visual analogies, she breaks down complex eye conditions like glaucoma, so patients can better understand their risks and take proactive steps to protect their sight.Dr. Banik is passionate about early detection, prevention, and patient education, emphasizing that understanding how eye diseases develop is one of the most powerful tools for preserving long-term vision.Connect with me! Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mIi8P9tXSRXXwEdNX6aRw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr# Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast/
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