oculi_vision_2

What Is Nystagmus: A Deep Dive into Diagnosis and Care Techniques

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:53:49 GMT

Nystagmus, a complex ocular condition characterized by rhythmic and involuntary eye movements, requires unique care. To effectively address these challenges, a comprehensive understanding of its intricacies becomes pivotal. In this exploration, we embark on an insightful journey into the depths of nystagmus, unraveling its nuances in diagnosis and discussing vital care techniques essential for those affected.

1. Understanding this Condition's Multifaceted Nature

Nystagmus is a condition marked by rhythmic eye movements, often leading to compromised visual acuity and depth perception. This ailment exists in diverse forms, all from congenital origins rooted in genetic or neurological factors from underlying conditions.

Accurate diagnosis of nystagmus necessitates a meticulous and detailed assessment conducted by skilled eye care professionals. Utilizing specialized tools such as precise ocular examinations , advanced imaging techniques, and meticulous eye movement recordings is imperative. These diagnostic measures play a pivotal role in precisely identifying the specific type and severity, laying the groundwork for personalized and effective treatment strategies.

2. A Holistic Approach to Care and Management

Effectively managing nystagmus demands a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to tackle its diverse challenges. While a universal cure remains elusive, utilizing an array of strategies proves instrumental in alleviating its impact. Vision aids, contact lenses , or prism lenses , often contribute to enhancing visual acuity. Plus, vision therapy that prioritizes targeted exercises for eye coordination and stability has shown promising results. Integrating these assistive technologies and adaptive techniques further bolsters daily functioning for individuals managing nystagmus.

3. Empowering Support and Pioneering Futures

Navigating life with nystagmus presents unique hurdles, yet with robust support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. Vibrant communities, inclusive support groups, and proactive advocacy organizations offer invaluable resources, fostering a sense of belonging and empathy. Moreover, ongoing research and technological advancements hold promise for enhanced treatments and an elevated quality of life for those affected by nystagmus, charting an optimistic trajectory for the future.

4. Tailoring Lifestyles and Environments

Fine-tuning daily routines and environmental settings significantly influence the lives of individuals grappling with nystagmus. Crafting optimal lighting conditions, mitigating screen glare , and establishing ergonomically designed workstations tangibly alleviate eye strain and enhance visual comfort. Furthermore, cultivating awareness and understanding among peers and employers empowers anybody with this condition to thrive in diverse settings.

5. Prioritizing Emotional and Mental Health

Beyond its physical implications, nystagmus frequently impacts a patient’s emotional well-being. So, prioritize mental health through actively participating in counseling, support groups, or therapy sessions to effectively cope with challenges and nurture resilience. A holistic approach that integrates robust mental health support alongside physical care ensures a comprehensive strategy for navigating life with nystagmus.

What Is the Best Way to Start Combating Nystagmus?

Nystagmus requires nuanced diagnosis and care to plan for its multifaceted nature. With the right planning, tailored treatment plans, and supportive environments, anybody with nystagmus can navigate their journey with improved vision and enhanced well-being. Plus, further advancements in research and technology will continue to shape a brighter future for those impacted by this condition.

Prioritizing your ocular health involves comprehensive care, especially when addressing conditions like nystagmus. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing specialized eye exams, tailored treatments, and expert fittings, ensuring that individuals coping with nystagmus receive the personalized care they deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see the difference in our approach.

What is a Depth Perception Test?

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 21:42:22 GMT

Whether we’re driving a car or catching a baseball, our depth perception plays a crucial role in our day-to-day lives. It's the three-dimensional magic that allows us to gauge the distance between objects and perceive our surroundings in all their visual glory. But how do we measure and maintain this essential aspect of our vision? This is where optometry steps in. In this blog, we'll delve deeper into the role of optometrists in depth perception testing and why their expertise is crucial in preserving this critical facet of our visual world.

Understanding Depth Perception Tests

Depth perception allows us to distinguish between near and far objects, providing a three-dimensional understanding of our surroundings. Our brains use various visual cues to determine depth, such as binocular cues (the different perspectives of each eye), monocular cues (size, perspective, and shading), and motion parallax (the change in the apparent position of objects).

If you navigate an environment in your day-to-day lifestyle, you use depth perception. So obviously, accurate awareness is crucial for a variety of daily activities:

Safety: Depth perception is vital for risky tasks like driving. For example, it allows us to judge the distance between our vehicle and the cars in front and behind us, as well as objects on the road.
Sports and Activities: In sports like baseball, depth perception is essential for hitting a pitched ball. It's also crucial for tasks like catching a frisbee, making free throws in basketball, or playing golf.
Occupational Tasks: Many professions require good depth perception, such as surgeons, construction workers, and pilots. Precision in their work often relies on accurate depth perception.
Quality of Life: In everyday life, depth perception enhances our overall experience so we can appreciate art, nature, and activities like a walk in the park or 3D movies.

The Importance of Regular Testing

Depth perception tests are a means of evaluating an individual's ability to accurately perceive their environment’s depth. The most common test is the stereopsis test , which measures binocular depth perception. During this test, you wear 3D glasses and look at an image that appears to have objects floating at different depths. You then identify the object that appears closer or different from the rest. Another test, the Random Dot E Stereogram , assesses how well your eyes work together.

Regular depth perception testing is vital, especially for children. Children with vision issues may not even be aware of their limitations, which hinders their safety and cognitive development. For adults, regular testing is essential to ensure that they’re maintaining good depth perception. We often encounter age-related changes that factor into poor ocular strength, so early detection is vital.

The Role of Optometry in Depth Perception Tests

When depth perception issues are detected, immediate responses are necessary to help a patient get back to a better life. Depending on the severity, solutions can include prescription eyeglasses, vision therapy, or surgical interventions. Regular follow-ups with a professional optometrist are crucial to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

Optometrists are experts in evaluating visual systems and are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to conduct comprehensive depth perception tests. Optometry is not just about prescribing glasses or contact lenses; it's about ensuring the overall health and functionality of our eyes, including their ability to perceive depth accurately. So, when it comes to your depth perception, remember that optometrists are your trusted allies in preserving this critical aspect of vision.

Book Your Ocular Checkup Today!

By staying vigilant and undergoing regular testing, we can ensure our depth perception remains sharp and our visual experiences are as rich and precise as possible. So, don't forget to schedule a depth perception test with your local optometrist to keep your vision in top shape!

If you're seeking a committed optometrist who’s focused on enhancing every facet of your vision, get in touch with us today to schedule a checkup ! We are here to address all your questions and empower you to actively manage your eye health.

What Is Tunnel Vision?

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 19:59:05 GMT

We often take our vision for granted and assume that everybody else sees things how we do. But some of us see the world in a narrow manner because of a condition known as tunnel vision. To empathize with our community, we should explore this condition’s causes, symptoms, and potential solutions. Understanding tunnel vision is not only essential for anyone who wants to appreciate the diverse human experience.

Understanding Tunnel Vision

Tunnel vision can occur in one or two eyes, leading to a restricted and narrow view of the surrounding environment. Many people with this narrowed eyesight often describe it as if they’re “looking through a narrow tunnel or tube” (hence the name). This condition can vary in severity, with some experiencing a subtle reduction in  peripheral vision  and others often unable to see objects on the side.

Causes of Tunnel Vision

Tunnel vision can have various underlying causes. One common cause is  glaucoma , a condition that stems from increased pressure on the eye, damaging the optic nerve. Genetic eye diseases like  retinitis pigmentosa ,  advanced diabetic ret inop athy , and certain genetic disorders can also result in this peripheral vision loss. Additionally, head injuries, concussions, and neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis may impact the brain’s visual pathways and lead to this condition.

Symptoms of Tunnel Vision

Early detection and intervention of tunnel vision can only come from properly understanding this condition’s symptoms. However, it can become more severe over time, so anyone experiencing these symptoms should book an evaluation to see what further treatment is necessary. Some common symptoms of tunnel vision include:

Gradual or sudden  loss of peripheral vision .
Difficulty seeing objects from the sides.
Increased susceptibility to accidents (especially when walking or driving).
Reduced awareness of your surroundings.

Potential Solutions

Treating and managing tunnel vision largely depends on each case’s underlying causes. For example, tunnel vision can stem from glaucoma or retinitis pigmentosa. In these cases, medical intervention like medication or surgery may help slow its progression. Additionally, low-vision aids like magnifiers, specialized glasses, and mobility training can enhance a patient’s quality of life and improve their ability to navigate the world.

Coping Strategies and Emotional Support

Living with tunnel vision can be emotionally challenging, especially since its limitations on daily life can be quite overwhelming. That’s why support groups, counseling, and therapy can help many people navigate the emotional aspects of peripheral vision loss. Sharing experiences and strategies with others who face similar challenges can be incredibly empowering and provide a sense of community.

Furthermore, friends and family play a vital role in providing emotional support. A loved one’s empathetic understanding can make a significant difference, helping a patient maintain a positive and fulfilling outlook. It's important for all of us to be aware of tunnel vision’s emotional impact how to support anybody dealing with this condition.

Vision Rehabilitation Services

Lastly,  vision rehab  is designed to help visually impaired patients maximize their independence and living standards. Vision specialists develop personalized strategies and skills that empower their patients to adapt to a reduced field of vision. These strategies may include orientation and mobility training, adaptive technology usage, and activities of daily living training.

By participating in vision rehabilitation programs, individuals with tunnel vision and other conditions can regain control over their lives, enhance their self-confidence, and learn practical techniques to effectively navigate their environment. These services are often available through healthcare providers or nonprofit organizations specializing in vision impairment support. So, if you or someone you know is living with decreased vision, consider exploring these valuable resources to improve daily living and overall well-being.

Book an Optometry Check-Up

Tunnel vision affects many individuals worldwide and can significantly impact their daily lives. By understanding tunnel vision’s causes, symptoms, and potential solutions, we can support those living with this visual impairment. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of tunnel vision, seeking early medical intervention is essential to preserve and improve their quality of life.

If you’re looking to book an eye care checkup or talk with an optometrist,  book an appointment today ! We realize that our vision is a precious gift and are proud to help our community fully enjoy the world.

What is Peripheral Vision Loss?

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 18:26:49 GMT

Our vision is a remarkable and intricate sense that allows us to experience the world around us in vibrant detail. However, it's not just about what we see directly in front of us. Peripheral vision plays a crucial role in our daily lives, aiding in spatial awareness and balancing. But what happens when this peripheral vision starts to fade away? Today, we'll explore the concept, causes, implications, and management techniques of peripheral vision loss.

Understanding Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision, also known as side vision, is the ability to see objects and movements outside of our central focus. It extends our field of view beyond what's directly in front of us, providing a panoramic awareness of our surroundings. This peripheral vision allows us to detect motion, spot potential hazards, and maintain spatial orientation . It’s consequently essential for tasks like driving, navigating crowded spaces, and participating in sports.

Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision decline can occur due to various factors, including eye conditions, injuries, and systemic diseases. However, a group of eye conditions called glaucoma are the leading cause of this vision loss as they damage the optic nerve. Other conditions like retinitis pigmentosa , diabetic retinopathy , and certain neurological disorders can also contribute to diminished peripheral vision. Lastly, head injuries and certain medications can affect the peripheral visual field.

Implications and Challenges

Any level of peripheral vision loss can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Simple activities like crossing the street, navigating through crowded areas, or playing sports can become challenging and potentially dangerous. Declining peripheral vision consequently leads to an increased risk of falls and accidents. It can also affect emotional well-being, as individuals may feel a sense of isolation or anxiety due to their limited field of view.

Coping and Management

While peripheral vision loss can be challenging, there are strategies and tools available to help anybody adapt to and manage their condition. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection and intervention.

For those with existing conditions, low-vision aids such as magnifiers, telescopic lenses, and specialized glasses can enhance their remaining vision. Orientation and mobility training can improve spatial awareness and help many people confidently navigate their environment. Support groups and counseling can also provide communal and emotional assistance for those with peripheral vision loss.

Promising Research and Prospects

Furthermore, there are promising developments in the fields of vision science and medical research aimed at addressing peripheral vision loss. Scientists and researchers are continually exploring innovative treatments, such as gene therapies and retinal implants, that hold the potential to restore or enhance peripheral vision.

These advancements offer a glimmer of hope for those affected by peripheral vision loss, hinting at a future where technology and medical breakthroughs could potentially reverse such limitations. As we continue to unravel the human visual system’s complexities, the prospect of improved outcomes for individuals with worsening peripheral vision remains a beacon of possibility on the horizon.

Lifestyle Adjustments and Advocacy

Lastly, living with peripheral vision loss requires adjustments to daily routines and personal habits. Anybody facing such challenges can benefit from practical changes to their environment, such as adjusting their lighting, minimizing clutter, and creating clear pathways. Furthermore, openly discussing this condition with friends, family, and coworkers can foster mutual understanding and support. By embracing these adjustments and advocating for change, individuals can empower themselves and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world.

We can help with Peripheral Vision Loss

While peripheral vision loss may present challenges, technological and rehabilitation techniques offer newfound hope and support for many. Understanding the importance of peripheral vision and its potential decline underscores the need for regular eye care and proactive management of eye conditions. Remember, seeking timely medical attention and exploring available resources can make a significant difference in adapting to and managing peripheral vision loss.

If you’re overdue for a  comprehensive eye exam , then give us a call to schedule an appointment today. We're proud to help our community navigate and overcome its visual pitfalls. We look forward to getting to know you and providing you with the best optometry exams.

Common Refractive Errors

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:25:04 GMT

Refractive errors are a common occurrence that affects the way our eyes focus on objects, leading to blurry vision and other visual disturbances. These errors occur when an eye’s shape prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. As a result, anybody with refractive errors often requires corrective measures such as glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery to improve their vision. Today, we'll discuss the main refractive errors and shed light on their characteristics, causes, and available treatment options.

Understanding Refractive Errors

By gaining a deeper understanding of these refractive errors and visual impairments, we can equip ourselves with valuable knowledge to identify symptoms, seek appropriate professional care, and explore the available treatment options. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey to uncover the intricacies of common refractive errors and visual impairments, empowering ourselves and others to embrace the world with clarity, understanding, and visual well-being.

1. Myopia (Nearsightedness)

One of the most prevalent refractive errors is myopia , also known as nearsightedness. People with myopia can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. This occurs because the eyeball is abnormally long or the cornea is excessively curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina. Myopia typically develops during childhood or adolescence and can progressively worsen over time. It's commonly corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses that redirect the light onto the wearer's retinas.

2. Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Hyperopia , or farsightedness, is another common refractive error. Individuals with hyperopia can see distant objects more clearly than near objects. This occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal, causing light to focus behind the retina. The eye's focusing mechanism can compensate in mild cases, but in more severe cases, close-up vision becomes blurry. Hyperopia can also cause eye strain and headaches. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery may correct hyperopia by bringing the focal point onto the retina.

3. Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a refractive error that results from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of having a spherical shape, these structures are more football-shaped, leading to distorted and blurred vision at all distances. Astigmatism often accompanies myopia or hyperopia. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery can correct astigmatism by compensating for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens and bringing the light rays into focus.

4. Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a common refractive error that affects individuals typically older than 40. It occurs due to the natural aging process and the loss of flexibility in the lens. As a result, individuals with presbyopia have trouble focusing on near objects, such as reading materials or close-up work. Symptoms include eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision at close range.

Various options are available to address presbyopia, including reading glasses, multifocal glasses, contact lenses, or surgical interventions. These solutions provide additional focusing power for near vision, allowing individuals to continue their daily activities with clear and comfortable vision. Regular eye examinations are crucial for managing presbyopia and adapting corrective measures as the condition progresses.

5. Color Vision Deficiency

Color vision deficiency, often called color blindness , is a refractive error that affects the perception of colors. Individuals with this condition have difficulty distinguishing certain colors or may see them differently than individuals with normal color vision.

The most common type of color vision deficiency is red-green color blindness, where individuals struggle to differentiate between these colors. In rarer cases, individuals may have difficulty perceiving blue and yellow hues. Color vision deficiency is usually inherited and occurs due to abnormalities in the retina's cone cells.

While there is no known cure for color vision deficiency, various assistive technologies, educational tools, and adaptive strategies can help individuals navigate daily life. Awareness and understanding of color vision deficiency can foster inclusivity and assist in accommodating affected individuals in various settings, such as educational institutions and workplaces.

Visit Your Optometrist for A Clearer Vision

Understanding common refractive errors is crucial for recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment. Whether it's myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia, each refractive error has distinct characteristics and can impact visual acuity differently. With advancements in corrective measures such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery, individuals with refractive errors can achieve clearer vision and enjoy a better quality of life.

Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and proactive management of refractive errors, ensuring optimal eye health and visual well-being. Reach out to our optometry team to get started on finding an accurate diagnosis and reliable course of action. We’re proud to serve our community, and we can’t wait for you to see the difference.

What Is Eye Refraction?

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:17:12 GMT

Eye refraction, a fascinating process that influences the way we see the world, lies at the center of our visual perception. From the moment light enters our eyes, it undergoes a remarkable journey of bending and focusing, ultimately shaping our vision's clarity. Now, let's delve into the intriguing world of eye refraction, exploring its definition, impact on vision, and significance in the field of optometry.

An Introduction to Eye Refraction

Eye refraction refers to the bending of light entering the eye and passing through the cornea, lens, and retina. The cornea, an eye's transparent outer layer, is primarily responsible for the initial refraction of light. Furthermore, the lens behind the iris further focuses the light onto the retina at the back of the eye. This complex process is essential for creating clear and focused images, which are then transmitted to the brain for interpretation.

How Eye Refraction Affects Vision

Crucially, eye refraction plays a crucial role in determining our vision quality. When the refraction process functions correctly, light rays converge precisely on the retina, resulting in clear and sharp vision. However, if there are abnormalities in the refraction process, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness , the light rays may not focus correctly on the retina, leading to distorted or blurred vision . As a result, these refractive errors can significantly impact an individual's ability to see objects at various distances and may require corrective measures, such as glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

The Importance of Eye Refraction in Optometry

Refraction tests are of utmost importance in optometry, where specialists evaluate and correct refractive errors. Through comprehensive eye examinations, optometrists assess the extent of refractive errors in individuals and determine the appropriate prescription for glasses or contact lenses. They utilize various techniques, including retinoscopy and subjective refraction, to accurately measure and analyze the refractive status of the eyes. This allows optometrists to provide customized vision correction solutions that optimize their patients' visual acuity and comfort.

Eye Refraction and Ocular Health

Eye refraction is not solely about vision correction; it also indicates overall eye health. Regular eye exams that include refractive assessments help detect potential conditions or diseases. For instance, certain eye diseases, like cataracts or keratoconus, can alter the normal refraction process. By monitoring changes in refraction over time, optometrists can identify these underlying conditions and provide appropriate treatment or referrals.

Refractive Errors and Corrective Options

Refractive errors, such as astigmatism , are common conditions that affect the eye's ability to refract light properly. Fortunately, various corrective options are available to address these refractive errors and improve vision. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK can effectively correct refractive errors and provide clearer vision. Optometrists play a crucial role in helping their patients select a suitable option based on their unique needs and lifestyle. By understanding the nature of refractive errors and the available corrective measures, individuals can make informed decisions to enhance their visual clarity and quality of life.

Take Charge with Your Optometrist

Eye refraction is a fundamental process that influences our vision and plays a crucial role in optometry. Understanding what eye refraction is and how it affects vision helps us appreciate the complexity of our visual system. Therefore, regular eye examinations with refractive assessments are vital to ensure your ocular health and optimal visual acuity.

Prioritizing your ocular health becomes even more enjoyable when you schedule regular eye exams with your trusted optometrist . At our clinic in Lincoln, Nebraska, we take pride in offering the finest eye exams, treatments, and fittings to our beloved community. So, book an appointment with our exceptional staff and discover the unique qualities that set us apart!

What is Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 13:08:06 GMT

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy or Graves' orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition that affects a person’s eyes and surrounding tissues. TED carries a wide range of symptoms that significantly impact a person's vision and overall quality of life. So, today we’ll discuss and explore the symptoms, causes, and available treatment options of thyroid eye disease.

Understanding Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid Eye Disease is primarily caused by an abnormal immune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue around the eyes. The condition typically occurs in individuals diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which is when an overactive thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones. However, TED can also develop in individuals with a normally functioning thyroid or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).

Causes of Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid Eye Disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues and muscles around the eyes. This disorder's cause is likely related to an immune response triggered by TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb’s). These antibodies are produced due to hyperthyroidism, and their interactions with eye tissue receptors result in tissue damage and inflammation.

Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease

The symptoms of TED can vary in severity and even affect both eyes. Additionally, this disorder often leads to redness, swelling, and dryness. Many individuals with TED experience pain and pressure behind their eyes, often worsening with eye movements. Plus, any misaligned eyes can cause double vision (diplopia) , making it challenging to correctly see and focus on objects. Lastly, TED can make eyes more sensitive to light, causing persistent discomfort in brightly lit environments.

Bulging eyes (proptosis) and other misaligned states are distinctive effects of TED. With proptosis, eyes appear to protrude from their sockets, causing a person's gaze to appear forward and stare-like. Additionally, TED can cause the upper and lower eyelids to retract, exposing more of the eye's surface than usual. This gives off a consistently startled and wide-eyed appearance.

Ocular Treatment Options

Thyroid Eye Disease treatments aim to manage any symptoms, reduce inflammation, and protect the eyes from long-term damage. All treatment approaches depend on the condition’s severity and the patient’s needs.  Expert optometrists perform detailed eye examinations to diagnose eye diseases for their patients. These examinations are essential for establishing a baseline and monitoring any changes in eye condition over time.

Medications like prednisone are common prescriptions that can reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. In some cases, immunosuppressive medications may be used to reduce the immune system's response. Lastly, artificial tears and lubricants also help alleviate dryness and provide relief from eye discomfort caused by TED.

However, surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases with significant eye protrusion or optic nerve compression. This surgery creates more space in the eye socket to improve eye alignment and alleviate any optic nerve pressure. If TED causes severe eyelid retraction, surgery may be recommended to reposition the eyelids and improve any eyelid retractions caused by the disorder.

Book an Expert Eyecare Checkup

Thyroid Eye Disease can significantly impact your vision and overall eye health. Seeking the expertise of an optometry clinic is instrumental in effectively managing any ocular condition. They can provide comprehensive eye examinations, prescribe appropriate eyewear, monitor your eye health, manage dry eyes, and collaborate with other eyecare professionals to ensure the best possible care. With proper guidance and support, you can navigate the challenges of TED and work towards optimizing your vision and ocular comfort.

Remember that regular checkups and open communication with your optometrist are crucial for managing TED successfully. If you’re looking for an optometrist that aims to improve every aspect of your vision,  call us today to set up an appointment! We can address any concerns or questions and empower you to actively participate in your eye care journey.

Common Eye Diseases

Mon, 15 May 2023 18:42:47 GMT

Our eyesight is an essential component of our daily life, so protecting it from diseases and infections is crucial. Without proper care, our eyes may experience various issues and even acquire diseases that may lead to blindness. As such, it is essential to understand the most common eye diseases to address them immediately and prevent further complications.

Six Common Eye Diseases

Identifying these all-too-common eye diseases' symptoms can help prevent significant vision loss. We’re going to discuss some of the common eye diseases, their causes, their symptoms, and some effective prevention methods.

1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that causes vision loss in the macula (the central part of the retina). As the name suggests, AMD typically affects older adults affecting people aged 60 years and above. The early signs of AMD include seeing straight lines as curved shapes or incorrectly distinguishing colors. This loss of vision presents challenges to daily tasks such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to help prevent and treat vision loss and macular degeneration. Preventive strategies for AMD include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular eye checkups, quitting smoking, proper dieting, and wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet and blue light.

2. Cataracts

Cataracts affect over 20 million Americans and are most common among older adults, although they can develop in younger people. A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens, leading to blurry or hazy vision, particularly at night. Although cataracts can be removed surgically, early detection is still critical to prevent the condition from worsening.

Symptoms associated with cataracts include having difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to bright light, and seeing halos around light sources. To prevent cataracts , avoid smoking, wear protective eyewear when out in the sun, maintain healthy diets, manage blood sugar levels, and be sure to schedule regular eye checkups.

3. Glaucoma

A group of eye conditions commonly called glaucoma can damage the optic nerve, and if left untreated, lead to partial or complete loss of vision. This disease typically develops over time, and due to its gradual progression, patients may not notice it until peripheral vision loss occurs.

This condition generally affects people above 60, but screening should begin at age 40 or earlier for those at high risk. early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term damage from this condition. Preventive measures for glaucoma include using eye protection, avoiding prolonged exposure to blue light , maintaining healthy blood pressure, and monitoring your blood sugar levels.

4. Diabetic Retinopathy

The leading cause of blindness for adults living with diabetes is the condition known as Diabetic retinopathy . This disease occurs because of damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or close. Symptoms include blurred vision, fluctuating vision, dark spots, or “floaters” in your line of sight. If you have diabetes, it’s essential to control blood sugar levels and utilize annual eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy early.

5. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye , is a temporary inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin, transparent tissue that lines the white part of the eye. Symptoms of this highly contagious disease include redness, itching, and watering of the eye. To avoid transmitting conjunctivitis, practice good hygiene, avoid sharing eye makeup, and cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing.

6. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eye fails to produce enough tears, leading to redness, swelling, and eye irritation. Unfortunately, dry eye syndrome affects many people’s quality of life and may cause vision issues if left untreated. While there is no cure for dry eye syndrome, you can manage the symptoms using eye drops, humidifiers, and lifestyle modifications such as proper dieting and reducing screen time.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams with Your Optometrist

Understanding the most common eye diseases and their symptoms can help you detect and manage issues early, preventing further complications. Additionally, early detection of these conditions can lead to better treatment outcomes, providing an opportunity for you to maintain and even enhance your eye health. Don't take your vision for granted, monitor your health by staying aware of your eyes’ condition.

One of the best ways to prioritize your ocular health is by scheduling regular eye exams with your optometrist. As Lincoln, Nebraska’s preferred optometrist, we’ve gladly provided our community with the best possible eye exams, treatments, and fittings. Call us today to set up an appointment with our skilled staff and see what makes us different!

How to Get Rid of Red Eyes

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 20:48:42 GMT

Red eyes can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable condition that impacts your confidence and daily routine. Luckily, there are several simple solutions and prevention methods available to improve this condition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide some helpful information on how to get rid of red eyes.

Remedies for Red Eyes

Whether they’re from allergies, dryness, illness, or a lack of sleep, red eyes can make you feel unpleasant. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce the symptoms of red eyes and alleviate discomfort. Here are some tips and tricks on how to get rid of red eyes and improve your overall eye health.

1. Use Eye Drops

One of the most straightforward ways to get rid of red eyes is to use eye drops . These over-the-counter treatments constrict blood vessels in the eye, which helps to reduce dryness and inflammation. We recommend choosing eye drops or artificial tears that are specifically designed for redness relief. Remember to only use redness relief drops for a short period of time, as long-term use can lead to more irritation over time.

2. Use a Cold or Hot Compress

Placing a cold compress on your closed eyes can also help to decrease redness. Simply soak a clean cloth or towel in cold water, wring it out, then apply it to your closed eyes for a few minutes. The cold temperature will constrict blood vessels in your eyes and reduce their inflammation. If you need a long-lasting cold compress, then try putting some ice cubes in a plastic bag.

Another effective way to reduce eye redness is to apply a warm compress to increase blood circulation and soothe eye irritation. You can use a soft cloth soaked in warm water, or alternatively, a heated gel eye mask. No matter which method you use, don’t apply the compress directly to your eyes, as doing so can cause further irritation. Instead, place it on your scalp, forehead, or cheeks.

3. Block Allergens and Irritants

Certain allergens and irritants like smoke, dust, and pollen can irritate your eyes and cause redness. To address this issue, replace your home’s air filters promptly to block allergens from entering your residence. Consider wearing glasses and a hat when you’re outside to protect your eyes and hair from airborne toxins and allergens.

4. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can also cause your eyes to become dry and itchy, which can lead to increased redness due to inflammation. The best way to reduce dehydration is to increase your water consumption throughout the day. Always drink at least six to eight glasses and avoid excessive consumption of dehydrating fluids containing alcohol or caffeine.

5. Get Enough Sleep

When you don't get enough sleep, your eyes can become tired and strained. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night to give your eyes a chance to rest and recover. If you struggle to fall asleep, then consider adjusting your evening routine.

Screen usage in the evening often negatively impacts one’s sleep. If you use screens prior to your bedtime, then adjust the brightness and contrast of your devices. You can also add an anti-glare screen protector to most devices that reduce harsh brightness. If you still have trouble sleeping, then make sure to speak to your doctor to discuss other ways to get a good night's rest.

6. Visit an Optometrist

Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your optometrist if you suffer from chronic red eyes or other eye symptoms . They’ll gladly perform a comprehensive eye exam, which can help to identify underlying conditions that may be causing your condition. Your optometrist can also provide prescription eye drops or other treatments to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall eye health.

Schedule an Eye Exam Today

Although it can be bothersome to suffer from red eyes, their remedies are fairly straightforward. Treating red eyes can be as simple as improving hydration, adjusting your sleep schedule, or seeing an optometrist. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can improve your red eyes and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.

If you’re still struggling with red eyes or need to schedule a comprehensive eye exam , then please call us today to reserve an appointment. Our goal is to keep your eyes functioning at their best no matter your age or condition. We strive to improve each patient’s quality of life, and we look forward to supporting your vision today.

What Is a Visual Processing Disorder?

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 15:25:57 GMT

Visual processing disorders, also known as visual perceptual disorders or VPD, are neurological conditions that affect how the brain interprets visual information. They can affect people of all ages, but most diagnoses occur in school-age children. For those affected by a visual processing disorder, it can be tough to make sense of the images and symbols they see. Here are some common types and symptoms of visual processing disorders.

Symptoms of Visual Processing Disorders

The most common symptom of visual processing disorders is difficulty interpreting visual information. This can manifest as problems with reading, writing, following written directions, noticing patterns, recognizing faces, paying attention, or focusing on tasks. One can also experience clumsiness and poor coordination when performing physical activities. Others may experience headaches or eye strain when focusing on visual tasks for extended periods of time.

How Are VPDs Diagnosed?

Optometrists often diagnose visual processing disorders as part of their routine examinations . Our optometrists typically use a comprehensive battery of tests to evaluate a patient’s peripheral vision , color vision accuracy, binocularity, and detection of specific stimuli during an exam. Tests involving puzzles may also be given depending on the subject's age or needs. These tests generally provide a more complete picture of possible impairments to visual processing ability.

Types of VPD

There are eight types of visual processing disorders, all of which have their own distinct symptoms. However, each one can be managed with help from your optometrist and their recommended techniques. Here’s a brief description of each type of visual processing disorder and how to address them.

1. Visual Processing Disorder

Those suffering from this disorder generally experience reduced visual discernment. Its symptoms include difficulty recognizing the differences between similar shapes, letters, and numbers. Common ways to reduce these symptoms include color-coding comparable items and adding extra spaces between words.

2. Visual Memory Disorder

Individuals may have difficulty recalling visual information if they’re diagnosed with this disorder. For example, they often struggle to recall what they saw on a page without reading it multiple times. It’s important to provide extra reading time for those affected by this condition.

3. Visual Sequential Memory Disorder

People experiencing this disorder may struggle to recall sequences or patterns of visual information presented in order . Sadly, difficulty remembering phone numbers, account numbers, or directions is common with this condition. Colored overlays are often used to reduce symptoms and improve a patient’s memory.

4. Visual-Spatial Organization Disorder

Those diagnosed with this disorder may struggle to visually organize and interpret their environment. For instance, they have problems reading a map or finding items on a cluttered desk. This disorder can make moving around in unfamiliar places difficult and even dangerous. When possible, color-code items and use simple visual layouts for easy navigation.

5. Visual Closure Disorder

This type of visual processing disorder can make it tough to recognize partially obscured objects. It often contributes to poor handwriting and impaired spatial recognition. It’s essential for those with this disorder to take their time with daily tasks and not assume an object’s identity at first glance.

6. Visual Figure-Ground Perception Disorder

This problem affects an individual's ability to distinguish between foreground and background objects. For instance, a patient may have difficulty analyzing charts or graphs due to the various elements in the illustration. Utilizing simplified visuals and a magnifying glass are two great ways to manage this disorder.

7. Visual Motor Integration Disorder

Individuals suffering from this condition have difficulty coordinating their motor skills and visual perception. Since their hand movements line up separately from their sight, those affected will often find difficulty drawing, painting, writing, or playing certain sports. Dictation software can be incredibly beneficial in this regard.

8. Ocular Motor Dysfunction

This disorder significantly affects ones ability to control their eye moments. For example, it often results in double vision, slow eye movements, and difficulty tracking moving objects. Luckily, audiobooks and text-to-speech software can reduce the impact of this disorder.

Visit Your Optometrist

A visual processing disorder can severely reduce anyone’s quality of life if left unaddressed. Children may struggle with schoolwork, and adults may struggle to perform simple everyday tasks  without aid or accommodation . Luckily, modern healthcare and digital technologies provide reasonable solutions to many symptoms of visual processing disorders.

If you have any further questions about these disorders or how to treat them, then please contact our team today. Our optometrists are always eager to discuss your concerns and explore possible treatment options available to you.

What Is Peripheral Vision?

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 15:52:37 GMT

The human nervous system is truly incredible if you think about it. Your brain and body work together to sense the world using only tiny nerves and delicate sensory organs. While taste, touch, smell, and hearing are key, eyesight is our most impressive sense, in our opinion. In fact, a huge portion of the human brain is devoted to visual processing . What we call vision really consists of two main parts: central and peripheral vision. Allow us to explain some differences between the two and why peripheral vision is so essential to overall eyesight.

Peripheral Vision

Peripheral vision refers to our ability to detect motion and objects outside our center of focus. Believe it or not, it makes up a vast majority of our total field of view. By contrast, central vision refers to the small sliver of focus in our direct line of sight. Central and peripheral vision work together to allow us to see most things around us most of the time.

When you look at something closely, you can usually still see about 180 degrees around you. While this may sound like magic, it’s actually quite natural, and many animals have an even wider field of view. When we look at something directly, our eyes fixate on that object and we see it in detail. However, when we look away from something, our eyes relax and allow us to see a wider area with less clarity. Simply put, this wide-angle view is what we call peripheral vision.

Both central and peripheral vision are essential to overall eyesight. For instance, central vision is necessary for precise activities like reading, writing, eating, cooking, creating art, and working on cars. However, the world would be much more dangerous and difficult to navigate without peripheral vision. Imagine if you couldn’t move your eyes and had to turn your head like an owl to look at anything.

How Does Peripheral Vision Work?

Human retinas contain two types of light-sensitive cells called rods and cones. The rods are denser in the periphery of the retina where they detect movement and low levels of light. Cones, on the other hand, are concentrated near the center of the retina and are involved with detailed vision and color perception.

The distribution of rods and cones gives us both central and peripheral vision. It allows us to detect movement even when we aren’t focusing directly on it. This helps us quickly notice danger, identify shapes, and even perceive colors without much conscious attention. In fact, our vision can work so well that we rarely have to think about it.

Our eyes are constantly sensing information all around us, even when we aren’t aware of it. However, there’s simply too much visual input for us to process it all consciously. That’s why we often ignore things that we can see but deem to be useless or irrelevant. Psychologists sometimes call this “ change blindness ,” “selective attention,” or “ inattentional blindness .” Luckily, we don’t have to be consciously aware of our surroundings for our eyes to sense them.

Why Is it Important?

Peripheral vision helps us respond to threats and objects in our environment. The ability to detect movement out of the corner of our eyes allows us to react faster than our brain can think. This is crucial in our fast-paced world where countless people, places, and things constantly compete for our precious attention.

Our peripheral vision also helps us make quick decisions. Without it, we would have to consciously focus on every minor detail before making any kind of visual judgement call. In this way, peripheral vision often works unconsciously and automatically alongside our other instinctive reflexes.

Peripheral vision plays a significant role in many fast-paced activities. For instance, the human brain processes a massive amount of visual input while playing sports or driving a car. In these cases, there’s simply too much going on for our central vision alone to keep up. Peripheral vision fills in the gaps by letting us see many things without giving them our direct attention.

This is clearly and effortlessly demonstrated by professional athletes. Notice how skilled football, hockey, and basketball players often look forward while passing to players in other directions. They can do this because they’ve learned to use peripheral vision to shift their attention without moving their head or eyes.

Protect Your Peripheral Vision

Much of our eyesight comes from peripheral vision. Without it, we’d struggle to safely drive, play sports , and even ride a bike down the sidewalk. Since vision depends on the nervous system, one of the best ways to protect your eyes is by taking care of your brain and nerves.

To protect your peripheral vision, remember to eat a balanced diet , drink plenty of water, and prioritize your sleep schedule. Consider limiting screen time , especially before bedtime, and consult your eye doctor if you experience persistent dizziness , allergies , blurry vision , or light sensitivity . Make a note of any sudden vision changes, and schedule regular eye exams to catch symptoms early, especially if you suffer from diabetes .

If you have any questions about vision or how to protect your eyes, then we hope you’ll contact us for more information. Your eyesight is a gift, and we’d be honored to help you make the most of it no matter what.

Eye Care Professionals

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 15:33:23 GMT

Your eyesight is a precious gift and it’s important to take care of it. Eye care professionals provide invaluable services that can help you support optimal eye health throughout your lifetime. There are many kinds of eye care professionals and each one specializes in certain areas of eye health. Let’s look at some of the most common eye care professionals and what they do.

Types of Eye Care Professionals

Several eye care professionals complete various levels of higher education before starting their careers. Among others, these include opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and ophthalmic technicians. Though their duties overlap sometimes, each plays a distinct role in patient eye care.

Opticians

While opticians technically aren’t medical doctors, they’re still integral to any eye care practice. They generally choose patients' eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Opticians are also responsible for measuring eyes and fitting prescriptions lenses to correct patients’ vision.

Opticians may also aid with patient education regarding proper contact lens use and maintenance , as well as nutrition tips for healthy eyesight . In short, opticians work closely with other eye care professionals to ensure each patient receives the best vision care possible.

Optometrists

Optometrists are primary eye care professionals who earn a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. They typically perform eye exams, make diagnoses, and prescribe medical treatments for various eye diseases. Optometrists also prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.

Technically, optometrists are doctors because they hold a doctorate degree. However, they’re only considered medical doctors (MDs) if they also complete four years of medical school after college. Optometrists focus on diagnosing and medically treating most eye conditions that don’t require surgery or extensive therapy. These often include moderate to severe cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness , light sensitivity , and astigmatism . Though they aren’t trained surgeons, they may refer their patients to an ophthalmologist in some cases.

Optometrists sometimes choose to specialize in the field of neuro-optometry , a key intersection between brain and eye healthcare. Neuro-optometrists generally assist patients with visual rehabilitation by employing specific techniques to overcome common visual deficits. They often treat those with disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, or neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.

Ophthalmologists

Ophthalmologists are MDs who specialize in eye anatomy, physiology, and pathology . Many of their responsibilities overlap with those of skilled optometrists. They generally diagnose and treat moderate to severe cases of glaucoma , cataracts , macular degeneration , diabetic retinopathy , and strabismus (crossed eyes). However, ophthalmologists also perform targeted surgery for various eye conditions.

Ophthalmic Technicians

Many ophthalmologists work alongside skilled technicians. These eye care professionals generally take patient histories, update medical records, and answer questions about upcoming procedures. They may also sterilize instruments, prepare exam rooms, dispose of hazardous materials, and aid with equipment calibration. Like opticians, ophthalmic technicians aren’t doctors, but they’re often certified and may also be licensed by their respective states.

Benefits of Eye Care Professionals

Visiting an eye care professional is important for a variety of reasons. For instance, it can detect early signs of diseases that could potentially cause permanent damage if left untreated. Plus, these visits also ensure that your current prescription is correct , allowing you to maintain sharp vision over time. Here are just a few reasons to visit your eye care professional.

1. Comprehensive Eye Exams

During these exams, an optometrist will check your eyes for any signs of underlying disease or issues that can affect your vision. Eye care professionals also use advanced technologies to measure the way your eyes interact with light, which helps them decide if you need corrective lenses. Plus, regular visits can identify issues like glaucoma early on so that they can be treated quickly and effectively.

2. Prescription Lenses

If you need corrective lenses, then seeing an eye doctor is the only way to get them safely and legally. An optometrist or ophthalmologist will be able to prescribe the right lenses depending on the strength of your vision and which type of lens would best suit you. They’ll also advise you on how to clean and look after your new lenses to prolong their lifespan.

3. Expert Advice

Eye care professionals can provide expert advice on how to take care of your eyes throughout your lifetime. They’ll discuss things like UV protection, diet tips for better eye health, and lifestyle choices that affect vision over time. Plus, talking with your optometrist or ophthalmologist about vision changes can help you treat conditions before they become more severe.

Trust Our Eye Care Professionals

Opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists and their technicians all work together to provide excellent vision care for their patients. If you have any questions about your vision, then please feel free to give us a call , send us an email , or contact us online today. Our skilled eye care professionals are always willing to give you the support you deserve.

What Does it Mean to Have 20/20 Vision?

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 18:15:57 GMT

When you hear the phrase "20/20 vision," what comes to mind? Some believe it stands for perfect vision. For others, it's simply a good score on an eye exam. However, there's much more to it than either explanation suggests. Allow us to explore what it means to have 20/20 vision and how this relates to overall eye health.

Visual Acuity

Before we look into 20/20 vision, it’s important to understand some key terms. The word “eyesight” can mean different things in certain contexts. In general, it includes peripheral vision, depth perception, color vision, eye coordination, and visual acuity.

When someone says they have good eyesight, they often mean good visual acuity (VA). This refers to the clarity of one’s vision at a certain distance. Keep in mind that while optometrists often measure VA during routine eye exams, this is only one metric for determining eye health and overall visual ability.

What Is 20/20 Vision?

The term "20/20" comes from the Snellen chart , which is one tool often used by optometrists to measure VA. It consists of multiple rows of letters that decrease in size as you progress. You’ve probably seen a version of it at your doctor’s office or eyecare clinic.

Simply put, 20/20 vision refers to normal VA. Someone with this level of clarity can clearly read the last row of the Snellen chart from 20 feet away. However, there are also other visual acuity charts worth mentioning including the Bailey-Lovie, ETDRS, and LEA symbols.

If someone has better than normal vision (e.g., they can see at 20 feet what others can only see at 10 feet), then they might score 20/10 on a VA exam. Similarly, if someone has 20/40 vision, then they may only be able to see at 20 feet what others can see at 40 feet.

Many people hope to receive a score of 20/20 on their exam. However, this score doesn’t necessarily translate to perfect vision. It simply means that at 20 feet, their eyesight falls within the definition of normal VA. However, if their VA falls below this benchmark, then they may be suffering from a refractive error such as nearsightedness or astigmatism .

How Can I Measure My Vision?

The best way to determine your level of visual acuity is to visit your optometrist. They’ll most likely help you perform an eye refraction exam . This may involve reading a VA chart either unassisted or through a refractor device. Your optometrist may also employ a retinoscope to observe the condition of your retinas.

How to Achieve 20/20 Vision

The simple truth is genetics play a significant role in the quality of one’s vision. If your parents are nearsighted or farsighted, then you’re more likely to develop the same condition. Luckily, there are several ways to improve visual symptoms caused by common refractive errors.

To achieve optimal sight at any distance, some may need the help of a corrective device such as contacts or prescription lenses. Most optometrists will recommend corrective lenses based on shifts in VA at certain distances. Keep in mind that t he numbers in an eyeglass prescription are different than those used in contact lenses and VA exams.

Some patients with refractive errors are good candidates for surgery. Their optometrist may recommend that they see an ophthalmologist who specializes in refractive surgeries like LASIK. While they can be expensive, these solutions are often more permanent than prescription lenses.

We can't overstate the importance of healthy habits when it comes to eyesight. While genetics form the foundation of eyesight, one’s lifestyle also plays a key part. In fact, those with a predisposition to certain eye diseases may reduce their risk by maintaining healthy habits. If you’re interested in preserving your eyesight over your lifetime, then it’s critical to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet , get plenty of sleep, quit smoking, reduce alcohol use, and limit eyestrain as much as possible.

Ask Us about 20/20 Vision

Overall, 20/20 vision refers to normal visual acuity, or clear eyesight at 20 feet. Optometrists generally measure this using a certain chart and refractor devices. Patients who suffer from nearsightedness or farsightedness can often overcome blurry vision by wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses, or sometimes by undergoing surgery.

If you’re experiencing blurry vision , light sensitivity , or other visual symptoms, then we hope you’ll reach out today for a routine eye exam . Our friendly staff is eager to help you see the world as clearly as possible.

Best Foods for Eye Health

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 17:59:34 GMT

Proper nutrition is essential for healthy organ function. This is especially true of the eyes given their sensitivity to damage from a variety of sources. In fact, several studies suggest that eating nutrient-dense foods can reduce one’s risk of developing some chronic diseases. Here’s a brief description of the best foods for eye health and why they’re so important for your body.

1. Green Vegetables

Leafy and green vegetables are loaded with vitamins that support eye health. Many of them also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that can protect against inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage from UV rays . Eating a diet rich in dark green vegetables may also reduce one’s risk of developing macular degeneration or cataracts .

Examples of the best green vegetables for eye health include:

Peas,
Kale,
Spinach,
Collard greens,
Swiss chard,
Romain lettuce,
Broccoli, and
Brussel sprouts.

2. Seafood

Oily fish and some shellfish are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats can reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel function, and regulate hormone production . Oily fish are also high in vitamin D, which can help to prevent eye diseases by regulating calcium levels in the body. If you’re not a fan of seafood, then consider taking a fish oil supplement regularly. Just make sure it’s of high quality and free from harmful levels of mercury.

Examples of the best seafood for eye health include:

Anchovies,
Crab,
Halibut,
Mussels,
Oysters,
Salmon,
Sardines,
Scallops,
Shrimp,
Swordfish,
Trout, and
Tuna.

3. Nuts and Seeds

Countless nuts and seeds are packed with beneficial nutrients. Many of them contain omega-3s, vitamin E, zeaxanthin, phosphorus, and monounsaturated fats. Dietary phosphorus, in particular, can help reduce one’s risk of developing diabetes , which is a major source of eye conditions . Also, monounsaturated fats can improve the absorption of other nutrients in the body.

Examples of the best nuts and seeds for eye health include:

Brazil nuts,
Cashews,
Peanuts,
Pistachios,
Walnuts,
Sunflower seeds,
Pumpkin seeds,
Hemp seeds,
Flax seeds, and
Chia seeds.

4. Fruits

Fruits are well known for their fiber content and vitamin density. Many of them contain high levels of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and carotenoids, which the body uses to create vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for healthy eyes , as it helps the body produce rhodopsin, a light-sensitive protein found in the retina.

Examples of the best fruits for eye health include:

Oranges,
Grapefruit,
Mangos,
Cantaloupe,
Watermelon,
Papayas,
Apricots,
Tangerines, and
Nectarines.

5. Carrots and Sweet Potatoes

You’ve probably heard that carrots are one of the best foods for eye health. This is primarily because they’re incredibly rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is responsible for their vibrant color. Carrots are also a reliable source of folate, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamins C and K. Dark, orange sweet potatoes may have even more beta-carotene than carrots .

6. Eggs

Eggs are another healthy source of zinc, lutein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin A. This matters because vitamin A deficiency often contributes to night blindness . So, it's important to make sure you're getting enough of it in your diet from foods like eggs, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Also, egg yolks supply a form of lutein that’s more easily absorbed than other forms found in foods like spinach and kale.

7. Beef

Beef contains high levels of zinc, an essential nutrient. The human body can’t produce this nutrient on its own, so it must come from one’s diet. Zinc is found throughout the eye’s retina and vascular tissues, and it’s critical for visual acuity. Data suggests that zinc may work with other antioxidants to delay vision loss and age-related macular degeneration. We always recommend choosing locally sourced or grass-fed beef whenever possible.

Eye Health Starts with a Balanced Diet

Your diet plays a key role in keeping your eyes healthy at any age. Some of the best foods for eye health include leafy greens, seafood, nuts, seeds, fruit, carrots, sweet potatoes, eggs, and grass-fed beef. If you struggle to eat a well-balanced diet, then consider supplementing with fish oil and a high-quality multivitamin that includes zinc, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.

Consult your dietician or primary care physician if you have questions about your diet and nutrient intake. If you still have questions about how diet affects your vision, then you’re welcome to give us a call or contact us online . We’d love the chance to help you take control of your eye health today.

Do I Need Reading Glasses?

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 20:52:03 GMT

At any point in your life, you might start to have some difficulty reading up close. Whether it's fine print on a medicine bottle or the small type in a book, it may suddenly seem like words are blurrier than usual. This isn’t necessarily a sign of aging. Rather, it's simply a natural shift that often occurs in many people throughout their lives. Regardless, one question remains: “Do I need reading glasses?” If you experience any number of the following symptoms, then the answer just may be yes.

1. Blurry Vision

One of the most common signs that you need reading glasses is blurry vision, especially with nearby objects. If you find yourself squinting to read and must hold books, newspapers, or menus at arm's length to see them clearly, then it's probably time to visit your optometrist.

There are many causes of blurry vision at any age. Some of the most common are refractive errors, and they continue to affect millions of Americans to this day. Refractive errors include conditions such as nearsightedness and farsightedness , as well as astigmatism .

Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs when the eye’s cornea or lens is unevenly shaped. This can cause blurred vision at all distances, not just when reading up close. If you think you might have astigmatism, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor for an exam.

If you're having trouble reading up close, then you may be suffering from a refractive error. Fortunately, symptoms of these conditions can often be resolved with prescription glasses. However, there are a few other symptoms to keep in mind.

2. Headaches

Another symptom of needing reading glasses is unexplained headaches. If you find that you often get headaches after reading for extended periods of time, then it could be because your eyes are straining to see the print. Wearing reading glasses can help to relieve this strain and prevent these headaches from arising in the first place.

3. Eye Fatigue

Do your eyes feel tired and strained after looking at a screen for too long? If so, you may benefit from prescription reading glasses. Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, and other digital devices can cause eye fatigue, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects.

If you find that your eyes ache after reading or working at a computer, then eye fatigue may be to blame. Eye fatigue is incredibly common and can usually be remedied by taking frequent breaks and making sure that your workspace is well lit. Wearing reading glasses or progressive lenses can also help to reduce eye fatigue and improve your overall vision.

4. Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when your tears can’t adequately lubricate your eyes. This can cause symptoms like blurred vision, eyestrain, headaches, and redness. If you think you might have chronic dry eyes, talk to your doctor about ways to treat the condition.

Prevention is often the best treatment for chronic dry eyes. Make sure to blink regularly and take plenty of breaks when reading, watching TV, or working on a computer. Consider improving your space’s air quality by replacing your furnace filter or using a humidifier. Finally, examine your diet closely, and if necessary, include foods or supplements high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A to help reduce inflammation and improve the quality of your tears, respectively.

If symptoms persist after trying these solutions, then you may be suffering from a more severe underlying condition. We recommend booking an appointment with your optometrist to discuss alternative treatments.

Reading Glasses Are Common

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it's probably time to have your eyes examined. In most cases, a simple pair of reading glasses can help improve your vision and relieve any discomfort you may be feeling. Please feel free to give us a call , reach out online , or send an email to scheduling@oculivision.net to make an appointment today.

What Not to Do after Eye Dilation

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 20:36:01 GMT

Eye dilation exams are a common type of vision test. Optometrists perform them to get a better view of their patients’ eyes and look for early signs of disease. During these exams, physicians use special drops to dilate a patient’s pupils. While these drops are helpful, they can also cause blurry vision and light sensitivity for a few hours. For these reasons, it’s essential to avoid putting yourself and others at risk after this exam. Here are our suggestions for what not to do after eye dilation.

1. Refrain from Driving

Once your pupils dilate, it’ll be harder for you to see in low light or focus on nearby objects. That’s why it’s best to avoid driving for at least four hours after your exam. If you must drive, be sure to go slowly and have someone else with you who can help if needed. It may also be beneficial to wear sunglasses as the bright sunlight can bother your eyes.

2. Steer Clear of Machinery

As with driving, it’s best to avoid using any kind of machinery for several hours after your exam. This includes power tools, bicycles, and kitchen appliances. Again, this is because it may be hard for you to see well and react quickly enough to avoid an injury. If you must use any piece of equipment, then use caution, go slowly, and have someone nearby in case of emergency.

3. Try Not to Rub Your Eyes

It’s important to not rub your eyes after the dilation exam. This can cause irritation and even damage to the eye. If your eyes feel dry or itchy , then use artificial tears or ointment as directed by your physician. Consider laying down and resting your eyes, and avoid dry, windy, or dusty environments.

4. Don’t Stare into Bright Light

Bright lights can be uncomfortable for a while after an eye dilation exam. Exposure to bright light can also cause your pupils to constrict more slowly, delaying your overall recovery time. To minimize symptoms of light sensitivity , wear sunglasses or a hat with a brim when outdoors, and dim indoor lights if you can.

5. Avoid Children

Young children tend to move around quickly and unpredictably. After eye dilation, it may be difficult for you to keep track of them if they’re under your supervision. If possible, it’s best to avoid being around small children altogether for several hours after your eye dilation.

6. Delay Chores and Close Work

Dilated pupils can cause blurry vision when looking at nearby objects such as books, newspapers, smartphones, and computer screens. It may also be difficult to focus on tools, electronics, knitting needles, cooking utensils, and cleaning supplies. If you must do close work within a few hours of your exam, try sitting further away from the object than usual or taking breaks about every 20 minutes.

Ask Us about Eye Dilation

An eye dilation exam is a simple and painless way for doctors to get a better view of the back of your eye. However, there are quite a few things that you should avoid doing for several hours after the exam. Knowing which activities to avoid will help you achieve the speediest and most comfortable recovery possible.

By following these simple guidelines, you can avoid any complications after your eye dilation exam. Remember, it’s important not to drive, rub your eyes, stare into bright light, or do any close work for at least four hours after the exam. If you have questions about eye dilation or are looking to schedule an exam, then we welcome you to stop by our clinic or contact us for more information. We’re always eager to give you the care and support you deserve.

Common Causes of Blurry Vision

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 22:13:25 GMT

It’s only natural to feel worried if you experience blurry vision. While this symptom might only be minor and temporary, it can sometimes indicate a more severe underlying condition. Understanding what causes blurry vision can empower you to take control of your eye health at any age. It may also encourage you to remain calm in the face of undiagnosed issues. Here are some of the most common causes of blurry vision from our experience.

Causes of Blurry Vision

Blurred vision can occur suddenly and without warning. Although it’s rarely life-threatening, it can negatively affect anyone’s quality of life, especially if not addressed quickly. That’s why it’s so essential to pay attention to any changes in your vision as you age. Blurry vision may be attributed to any number of the following causes.

1. Refractive Errors

Some of the most common causes of blurry vision involve issues with refraction. This is the process by which light is bent and focused on the retina at the back of one’s eyes. Refractive errors affect people of all ages, and they vary widely in severity. Luckily, many of them are easily resolved with corrective eyewear or prescription contact lenses.

According to the National Eye Institute, refractive errors affect more than 150 million Americans today. They’re also considered to be the world’s most prevalent kind of vision problem, estimated to cause as much as 43% of visual impairments across the globe. Common types of refractive errors include nearsightedness, farsightedness , astigmatism , and age-related presbyopia.

2. Age-Related Conditions

Vision often changes noticeably over time. Every day, our eyes are subjected to countless potential hazards, from heat, cold, and UV rays to dust, allergens , and chemical fumes. Eyes are fragile organs, and their delicately balanced structures tend to weaken with age. It’s no wonder why blurry vision often affects older adults.

Many age-related conditions can cause blurry vision and even vision loss. These include glaucoma , cataracts , and macular degeneration . Prompt treatment for these conditions is often necessary to prevent or minimize permanent loss of vision. Chronic dry eye can also cause blurry vision in some cases.

3. Physical Trauma

Another widespread cause of blurry vision is contact injury. Accidental lacerations and blunt injuries often result when objects or substances impact the eye. Blunt trauma frequently occurs while playing sports , and it can sometimes cause a concussion. Following a concussion, blurry vision can arise alongside other visual symptoms such as dizziness , eye pain, double vision , and light sensitivity .

Keep in mind that exercise unrelated to contact sports can also lead to vision changes. Simply running, swimming, lifting weights, and other strenuous physical activity often raises blood pressure, which may cause temporary vision disruptions. Contact your eye doctor if these symptoms don’t resolve after resting.

4. Diabetes

Systemic conditions like type 1 and type 2 diabetes can affect multiple organ systems, including the eyes. Diabetic patients, in particular, often experience rapid changes in blood sugar levels. This may affect the shape of their eye lenses, which can cause temporary blurry vision until their blood glucose stabilizes. Over time, mismanaged blood sugar levels can lead to diabetic retinopathy , a severe condition which is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults .

5. Neurological Disorders

Clear vision relies on a healthy nervous system. Light enters the eye, focuses on the retina, stimulates the optic nerve, then sends signals directly to the brain. Any disruption along the way can affect the quality of anyone’s vision. Common neurological causes of blurry vision may include migraines, optic neuropathies, temporal arteritis, chiasm disorders, and eye movement disorders such as nystagmus.

Ask Us about Eye Exams

Blurry vision is rarely a cause for alarm if it resolves within a few hours. However, chronic blurry vision may indicate any number of severe underlying conditions. It’s critical to visit an optometrist at least annually , and especially if your vision issue persists for more than a few days. We welcome you to contact us for more information about blurry vision or to schedule a routine eye exam today.

What Is an Eye Refraction Exam?

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 21:44:46 GMT

When it comes to caring for your eyes, it can be tough to find simple guidance. This may be because there are so many distinct types of exams, lenses, and physicians involved in eyecare. For instance, eye refraction exams are common, but they also sound complicated at first glance. Those new to this field might be wondering, “What is an eye refraction exam?” Allow us to shed some light on this common, non-invasive procedure.

Eye Refraction Exams

As their name implies, these routine examinations assess refraction within patients’ eyes. Refraction simply refers to the bending of light as it passes through different materials. Try placing a straw or pencil in a clear glass of clean water to see this for yourself. Healthy eye refraction properly focuses light directly on the retina, allowing for accurate vision without correction.

An eye refraction exam serves to evaluate the quality of a patient’s vision and how healthy their eyes are. It will help the optometrist decide if their patient needs prescription lenses to see clearly. This is often the case in patients who suffer from refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness , or astigmatism .

Refraction exams also help eyecare physicians gather information about their patients’ overall eye health. For example, if a patient suffers from cataracts , then they may be a suitable candidate for surgery. Similarly, they may also be screened for conditions commonly associated with aging, such as presbyopia and macular degeneration . Other conditions that may be identified with refraction exams include glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy .

Eyecare specialists often perform these tests as follow-ups to routine eye exams. If you’re sent for an eye refraction exam, then don’t worry! This simple test is quick, painless, and completely safe. It’s always performed by a highly trained professional to ensure you get the best eyecare possible.

How Are Eye Refraction Exams Performed?

Eye refraction exams reveal whether or not a patient would benefit from surgery, prescription glasses, or contact lenses. They can also determine if any vision changes have occurred since their last check-up. During this test, patients will typically be asked to try and read small letters from several yards away, either with or without assistance.

When you take an eye refraction exam, your physician will generally assess how clearly you can see a distant chart. They often ask you to read the smallest row of letters from about 20 feet away. Young children tend to view a different chart with small images instead of letters. Your optometrist may also ask you to read from a page featuring paragraphs of assorted sizes. Again, children sometimes benefit from simple pictures rather than written words during this step.

Optometrists often employ different tools during eye refraction exams. For instance, they may use a retinoscope to shine a soft beam of light into their patient’s eyes. This is especially useful for infants and young children who struggle with other methods. Optometrists may also use a computer-assisted technique called auto-refraction. In other cases, they utilize various lenses on a phoropter or refractor device to perform subjective refraction. This requires participation from the patient to find which lens provides the best results.

Ask Us about Eye Exams

Regular eye check-ups are essential, regardless of your age, lifestyle, and family history. They’re some of the best ways of finding common refractive errors and maintaining eye health over time. That’s why we recommend scheduling routine eye exams at least once per year. If you’re due for an annual check-up or are developing concerning symptoms, then please call or reach out online today. We’d be happy to schedule a refraction exam to determine the best course of action moving forward.

Nearsightedness vs. Farsightedness

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 15:44:37 GMT

Vision problems are common throughout the world, and many of them can alter the quality of one’s life. This is especially true in cases of nearsightedness and farsightedness. These simple refractive errors may severely complicate even the most basic, everyday tasks. Though these conditions affect millions of people worldwide, some may still be unfamiliar with them. So, let’s take a moment to explore and compare nearsightedness vs. farsightedness.

Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is one condition that affects the eye’s ability to focus light. Patients with myopia may see close images clearly, but they often struggle to make out distant objects. This condition tends to run in families, and symptoms generally arise during childhood or adolescence.

Nearsightedness occurs when an eye’s shape causes poor refraction. This means light isn’t properly focused on the retina, the part that allows your optical nerve to receive visual input. This tends to happen if one or both eyes is too long or if either lens is too curved.

The primary symptom of nearsightedness is blurry vision at a distance, and it varies in its severity. For instance, many who suffer from this condition struggle to read traffic signs while driving. Others will regularly squint throughout the day, leading to headaches and eye fatigue. Those with severe myopia often struggle to comfortably watch television or read a classroom whiteboard.

While this condition isn’t directly life threatening, it certainly reduce one’s quality of life. Luckily, nearsightedness is easy to diagnose with an eye exam, and patients’ symptoms often improve considerably with contacts, corrective lenses, or refractive surgery.

Farsightedness

Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is the exact opposite of myopia. Patients with farsightedness tend to see distant objects more clearly than closer ones. Like nearsightedness, this condition is often genetic , and symptoms usually appear long before adulthood.

Farsightedness is also a refractive error. In some cases of hyperopia, a patient’s eye may be too short. In other cases, their lens isn’t curved enough to clearly perceive nearby images. Either way, any light entering their eye is focused behind, rather than on, their retina. This causes nearby objects to appear out of focus.

The primary symptom of farsightedness is blurry vision of nearby objects. Like nearsightedness, it varies in severity from case to case. However, many patients with farsightedness struggle to naturally read, write, and work with computers. They often squint and experience pain or aching around their eyes, and in rare cases, some may develop crossed eyes.

Eyecare professionals diagnose this condition with a comprehensive, dilated eye exam. Optometrists generally correct patients’ symptoms with prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. Another long-term treatment option is corrective surgery.

How Common are Nearsightedness and Farsightedness?

Refractive errors are some of the most common vision problems in the United States . These include both near- and farsightedness, as well as astigmatism and age-related vision loss (presbyopia). Thankfully, these refractive errors tend to be easy to correct with the proper prescriptions.

According to the National Eye Institute, over 40% of Americans suffer from nearsightedness . Developed countries in East and Southeast Asia often see rates of nearsightedness as high as 90%. Sadly, some projections suggest that in the year 2050, nearly 50% of the world’s population will experience some form of nearsightedness.

Farsightedness is a far less common condition. Though many infants are farsighted at birth , it only affects about 5-10% of the American population as a whole . On the other hand, age-related farsightedness is far more common, affecting more than half of adults over age 30 around the world.

Ask Us about Corrective Lenses

Understanding nearsightedness vs. farsightedness can empower you to take control of your eye health . While refractive errors such as these are troublesome, they generally respond well to corrective measures if diagnosed early. If you’re experiencing symptoms of near- or farsightedness, then we welcome you to reach out for an eye exam. We’re always happy to serve our neighbors in the Lincoln, Nebraska, community.

Early Signs of Macular Degeneration

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 15:20:31 GMT

It’s well known that age can affect one’s overall health. Muscles often weaken, bones tend to lose strength, and vision may become less keen over time. These symptoms of aging are only natural, but it’s still important to notice and address them early. One common issue associated with aging is macular degeneration. While this condition is common, it can also be fairly debilitating. That’s why it’s so critical to look out for the early signs of macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the clarity of one’s central vision. This condition occurs when the central part of the retina, called the macula, begins to break down. It usually causes one’s central vision to become blurry or darkened.

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 65 . There are currently about 11 million people with this condition in the United States , and that number is expected to double by as early as 2050. To illustrate the effects of macular degeneration, consider the face of a clock. Someone with this condition may be able to clearly see the numbers on the outside but not the hands near the center.

Macular degeneration can occur in one or both eyes, and it appears in two common types: dry and wet. In dry AMD, yellowish deposits of lipids and proteins called drusen begin to form within the retina. With the wet form, blood vessels grow beneath the macula and leak blood or fluids into the retina.

Dry macular degeneration is less severe and much more common than wet AMD. However, it tends to worsen slowly over a number of years. By contrast, the wet form may appear suddenly and without warning, though it often affects those who already suffer from dry macular degeneration. Wet AMD often responds to laser treatments and certain drugs, and the FDA recently approved an implantable device to relieve some symptoms of severe dry AMD.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

While there’s no cure for macular degeneration, its development can often be slowed with early treatment. Thus, it’s critical to catch the early signs of macular degeneration as soon as possible for the best long-term results. There are a number of early signs of macular degeneration including the following:

Blurred, empty, or dark areas in the center of your vision,
Difficulty recognizing faces,
Contrast sensitivity,
Poor tolerance to changing light levels,
Issues with depth perception,
Straight lines beginning to appear wavy, and
The presence of drusen, which can be detected during a dilated eye exam or with retinal photography.

If you experience any early signs of macular degeneration, be sure to consult your optometrist about them at once. There are a number of tests available to check for potential concerns. The most common is a dilated eye exam, which allows the doctor to get a better view of your retina’s condition.

There are also several risk factors that predispose people to developing this condition. If you have any of these risk factors, then keep an eye out for any early signs of macular degeneration. Risk factors for macular degeneration include:

A family history of macular degeneration,
A diet high in saturated fats,
Cardiovascular disease,
High blood pressure,
European descent,
Age of 50 or older,
Tobacco smoking, and
Obesity.

Schedule an Eye Exam Today

It’s important to take care of your health as you get older. Chronic vision conditions like macular degeneration can often be properly managed if they’re diagnosed early. That’s why we always recommend scheduling regular eye exams with your optometrist each year. If you’re experiencing any early signs of macular degeneration, then we encourage you to contact us today. We’re happy to address your concerns and assist with your unique vision needs as they arise.

Types of Eyeglass Lenses

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 20:02:23 GMT

Our patients can choose from several types of eyeglass lenses to suit their needs. They come in multiple styles and may also feature different materials. This wide variety allows our patients to choose the designs they prefer most, helping them to feel as confident and comfortable as possible. Let’s take a closer look at the diverse types of eyeglass lenses available today.

Common Types of Eyeglass Lenses

Corrective eyeglass lenses have come a long way since their invention. The first lenses were usually made from hand-blown glass and set into frames made of wood, leather, or animal bone. They had to be held in front of the eyes or on the nose, and only the wealthiest could afford them. Today, there are so many types of eyeglass lenses that it can be hard to keep track of them all. Luckily, they’re now more affordable and accessible than ever.

Single Vision

Single vision lenses are probably what most people picture when they think of eyeglasses. They feature a basic design with the same prescription across the entire lens. Patients typically wear these to treat near-sightedness or far-sightedness.

Bifocals and Trifocals

These are composed of either two (bifocals) or three (trifocals) distinct types of eyeglass lenses. They can help correct multiple vision conditions without needing to switch between prescriptions. For example, bifocals may correct both near- and far-sightedness. Bifocals and trifocals each feature a clear line dividing their distinct prescriptions .

Progressive

Progressive lenses are becoming increasingly popular these days. They serve to correct vision conditions without a transition zone (the line on bifocals and trifocals). Instead, the focal power of their prescription increasingly progresses from top to bottom. This is where they get their name.

Toric

Toric lenses are fairly uncommon, and they’re named for their unique shape . Patients often wear these single vision lenses to correct symptoms of astigmatism . They combine spherical and cylindrical lenses and can increase the clarity of distant objects when worn.

Prism

These lenses may look like traditional eyeglasses, but they serve special purposes. Prism lenses can correct double vision and symptoms of heterophoria (latent squint or misalignment). They do this by bending or reflecting light so the wearer’s retinas can focus more easily.

Which Are the Thinnest Eyeglass Lenses?

Throughout the 20th century, many eyeglass lenses were thick and clumsy. It wasn’t until the 1980s that thinner plastic lenses were widely available to the public. Some of our patients prefer to choose the thinnest eyeglass lenses accessible to them, and we do our best to support their needs with several materials.

Glass

Most people still refer to corrective lenses simply as “glasses.” This makes sense given that most lenses were traditionally made from glass. However, today’s corrective lenses rarely contain glass because it’s thicker, heavier, and more likely to break than other materials.

Plastic

Many modern eyeglass lenses now feature plastic lenses. They are relatively affordable and lightweight, making them popular among most patients. Plastic lenses are also thinner and more durable than traditional glass lenses.

Polycarbonate

These lenses are the thinnest eyeglass lenses available, though they may be more expensive than plastic alternatives. Polycarbonate is extremely light, shatterproof, and scratch-resistant, and it can also block up to 100% of harmful ultraviolet light.

Which Are the Best Types of Eyeglass Lenses?

The best types of eyeglass lenses are a matter of personal choice. While you alone can make this decision, our friendly optician is always available to guide you through your options. If you have questions about frames, lens prescriptions, or types of eyeglass lenses, please feel free to contact us today. We’d be happy to help you choose the perfect pair for your exact needs.

The Best Way to Clean Your Glasses

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 19:55:27 GMT

Prescription eyeglasses can be a major investment. It’s essential to keep them clean if you want them to last as long as possible. Plus, crystal clear lenses will best support your eyesight when driving or playing sports. Sadly, smudges are common, especially if you cook often, work outside, or wear multiple pairs during the day. So, just what is the best way to clean your glasses? Here are our professional recommendations.

Why Clean Glasses Are Important

It’s easy to take eyeglasses for granted. After all, you may use them every day and sometimes forget you’re even wearing them. The truth is prescription eyeglasses are professionally designed medical devices, and they deserve your respect.

These delicately balanced instruments can be both fragile and lifechanging, not to mention expensive. Clean frames and lenses will help to keep you safe from bacteria while supporting your vision when you need it most. While it’s impossible to avoid every little scratch and streak, regular maintenance will serve to extend their lifespan over time. We suggest cleaning your glasses at least once per week using the following steps.

1. Wash Your Hands

Though this first step is easily overlooked, it’s arguably the most important. Before attending to your lenses, washing and drying your hands should be the first things you do. You don’t want to transfer dirt, bacteria, or oil onto your glasses and face. Use your favorite hand soap or a degreasing dish detergent and a clean, lint-free towel for the best results.

2. Rinse Glasses with Warm Water

Next, use lukewarm or room-temperature water to rinse your lenses one at a time. This will help to dislodge dirt, hair, and dust particles that are stuck on the surface and in the frames . Ensure the water isn’t too hot as this may damage their structure and any external coatings.

3. Apply One Drop of Dishwashing Liquid Per Lens

All you need to clean your glasses is a simple dishwashing liquid. One drop per lens is plenty. Once they’re rinsed, use your clean fingers to rub the liquid around each lens and throughout the frame. Make sure to also wash the nose pads and temple tips, which tend to get the dirtiest. We recommend using scent-free soap, if possible, especially if you’re sensitive to fragrances.

4. Rinse Frames and Lenses Again

Once again, rinse your frames and lenses using warm water. Hold them firmly, and make sure to clear away all the soap. Rinsing should only take about 30-60 seconds.

5. Dry Lenses with Microfiber Towel

Finally, gently dry your glasses with a clean towel. It’s critical that you only use a microfiber towel for this step. Old, dirty, or rough towels can scratch your lenses even with minimal pressure. They can also leave behind lint, grease, and bacteria. Always double check your work by looking at a soft light through your lenses. This will reveal any smudges or debris you may have missed. Carefully repeat the process, as necessary.

Cleaning Tips

Always rinse your glasses before wiping them clean. This helps to avoid scratching the lenses with dry dust particles.
Try using a cotton ball or swab to clean hard-to-reach corners and hinges.
Clean or replace microfiber cloths often, as they can trap dust and transfer it back to your hands, face, and glasses.

Always Keep Your Glasses Clean

Eyeglass lenses work best when they’re transparent. However, it’s only natural that they attract dirt, oil, and bacteria with regular use. You may need to clean your glasses every few days if you wear them outside, in the kitchen, or in messy areas. Luckily, most modern lenses are durable and will stand up to regular cleanings. We welcome you to reach out for more information about proper eyeglass maintenance or if you need a new fitting.

What Are Cataracts?

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:31:18 GMT

Age affects everyone’s vision differently. We each come from diverse backgrounds with distinct levels of risk. However, one of the most common eye conditions in older adults is known as cataracts. This condition is a natural part of aging, and it can occur without warning. Though symptoms of cataracts are generally mild, they usually worsen over time if left untreated. Here we briefly discuss what cataracts are and what causes them, as well as some effective treatments.

Symptoms of Cataracts

The human eye is a delicately balanced organ. It includes many different tissues that function together and allow you to see clearly. One of these is the lens, an important structure that regulates the amount of light coming into the eye.

An eye’s lens must be transparent to function properly. This allows incoming light to freely pass through and focus on the retina behind it. Unfortunately, lenses can become opaque after an injury or illness, or naturally over time. These opacities are what we call cataracts, and they can occur in either one or both eyes.

The symptoms of cataracts are often minor at first. They may even be unnoticeable for several years. Eventually, they tend to make vision blurry, colors appear faded, or lights seem unbearably bright. They can also create double vision and halos around light sources. Those with moderate diagnoses often have trouble seeing well at night, and severe cataracts can sometimes cause vision loss.

What Causes Cataracts?

Like many conditions, cataracts tend get worse with age. They can appear around age 40, but they’re much more likely after age 60. In fact, they affect nearly half of all American adults over age 75 . Cataracts occur when proteins within the eye’s lens break down and cluster together. While this happens naturally over time, there are a wide variety of other factors that contribute to one’s risk.

The risk of developing cataracts can change for a number of reasons . For example, those diagnosed with diabetes tend to experience higher rates of this condition. Obesity, high blood pressure, tobacco smoking, alcohol abuse, and overexposure to sunlight also add to one’s risk. Eye injuries, surgeries, and inflammation may further increase one’s chances of developing cataracts. Family history, poor air quality, and prolonged use of some steroid medications are also common risk factors.

Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Cataracts

Cataracts are a natural result of aging. There’s no surefire way to avoid them, but lifestyle changes and regular eye exams can help reduce your risk. Minor forms of this condition may need little to no treatment, but more advanced stages often call for surgery.

The best way to prevent being diagnosed with cataracts is to lead a healthy lifestyle. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to block direct sunlight when outside, and quit smoking as soon as possible. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables such as citrus, spinach, and broccoli. Research shows that heavy alcohol use significantly increases the risk of cataracts , so limit daily consumption to two drinks at most. We also recommend getting a dilated eye exam at least every two years if you’re over 60 years old.

Optometrists can diagnose cataracts during an eye exam. They do this by dilating your pupil with special eye drops and looking within the eye for obstructions. Those diagnosed with cataracts may only need minor interventions, such as brighter lights, anti-glare sunglasses, or special prescription eyeglass and contact lenses. After Dr. Layton diagnoses a patient with this condition, she will refer them to an ophthalmologist if surgery is needed. The patient then returns to Oculi Vision for post-op care and ongoing support.

Age has a way of catching up with all of us, but leading a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of many debilitating conditions. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of cataracts, then we encourage you to contact us for a comprehensive eye exam. An early diagnosis is vital for effective treatment, and we can help give you the peace of mind needed to live with confidence.

Neuro-Optometry at Oculi Vision

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:27:42 GMT

Vision is much more than simply seeing 20/20. It’s our most dominant sense, and it helps us orient ourselves in the world. That’s why metaphors like “I see now” and “it’s clear to me” are common in everyday speech. Functional vision is so central to our identity that even minor disruptions can cause major lifestyle changes. Sometimes, injuries and diseases that affect vision require the care of a specialist in neuro-optometry. The following is a brief overview of the field of neuro-optometry and how it can support one’s overall health and wellbeing.

What Is Neuro-Optometry?

The human nervous system plays a central role in perception. It’s responsible for sending sensory input from our body to our brain. This input allows us to hear, smell, taste, feel, and see the world around us. However, the nervous system is also fragile, and a wide variety of things can disrupt its function.

Injuries are common occurrences at all ages. Though minor injuries often affect only a single limb, major ones may involve multiple organ systems. For instance, stroke and traumatic brain injury can severely affect one’s quality of life, especially if they aren’t treated at once. This is because they tend to affect the brain’s central nervous system and can lead to visual deficits. These deficits make everyday activities like reading, driving, and completing tasks much more difficult.

Neuro-optometrists step up to address these issues. They treat patients who suffer from visual deficits due to injuries, disabilities, and neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Their primary goal is to retrain the eyes and brain to improve eye function through a process called neuroplasticity. This process can basically rewire the brain by creating new neural pathways.

The field of neuro-optometry is at the intersection of brain and eye health. It often involves the rehabilitation of gait, balance, and motor skills, as well as visual memory and information processing. Neuro-optometrists use specialized devices and techniques for visual rehabilitation such as computer programs, prism training, optical tints, and sector occlusion. In this way, neuro-optometry provides the tools and methods for overcoming challenges associated with common visual deficits.

When to See a Neuro-Optometrist

Physicians tend to specialize in one particular area of health. Eye doctors are no different, and there are some critical distinctions between their specialties . Thus, optometrists often employ an interdisciplinary approach to treatment alongside a team of well-trained psychologists, physical therapists, and primary care physicians.

Optometrists are eye doctors who complete years of rigorous education to earn a Doctor of Optometry Degree. They oversee patients’ unique vision needs by performing vision exams, diagnosing common eye conditions, and writing prescriptions for medications and corrective lenses . Those who specialize in the rehabilitation of patients with visual deficits are known as neuro-optometrists.

We specialize in neuro-optometry at Oculi Vision. Our team treats patients who suffer from a wide range of visual symptoms caused by brain injuries, disabilities, and neurological conditions such as stroke, dementia, and epilepsy. This is crucial because stroke and traumatic brain injury are leading causes of death and disability in the United States.

We recommend seeing a neuro-optometrist if you’ve experienced a head injury and have any symptoms of a concussion . These can range from recurring headaches and double vision to dizziness , nausea, eyestrain , and difficulty reading. Other conditions that may call for this specialist’s care include stroke , autism, dementia, retinopathy , cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Early diagnosis almost always contributes to effective treatment, so don’t delay an exam simply because your symptoms aren’t severe enough yet.

Our eyes and brain allow us to navigate the world with confidence. If either of them is dysfunctional, it can significantly disrupt our quality of life. Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining overall health, which is why we recommend getting one at least every year . If you have questions about your symptoms or neuro-optometry in general, then please contact us to see how we can help today.

Optician vs Optometrist: What’s the Difference?

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 15:04:36 GMT

The medical profession can be a bit tough to navigate with all the jargon. This is as true for eyecare as it is for internal medicine. There are many types of eye doctors with distinct duties and educations, so it’s important to understand the key differences. Our patients often ask about various specialists and what they do every day. Here we explore the roles of an optician vs optometrist in detail.

Optician vs Optometrist

When you walk into our practice, there are two types of eye specialists that you may interact with: opticians and optometrists. Many people don’t realize the differences between them and often use the terms interchangeably. However, these are two distinct professions with precise roles and backgrounds.

When most people say “doctor,” they’re referring to a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.). However, this term generally applies to anyone who earns a doctorate degree , such as a Ph.D. Individuals can earn doctoral degrees in anything from physics and engineering to history, statistics, and political science. This overlap tends to cause some confusion when discussing many specialized professions.

An optician isn’t actually a doctor by definition. They rarely hold a doctoral degree, which is partly why they’re unable to diagnose eye conditions and prescribe medication. Opticians are instead responsible for interpreting an optometrist’s prescriptions , as well as taking measurements and helping patients select the best eyewear for their needs.

Technically, optometrists are “doctors” because they earn a Doctor of Optometry degree. However, they usually aren’t medical doctors unless they also hold an M.D. An optometrist is an eye doctor that oversees patients’ specific vision needs. They often conduct vision exams and look for common conditions such as glaucoma , astigmatism , and retinopathy . Optometrists are also responsible for writing prescriptions for medications and corrective lenses.

An ophthalmologist, by contrast, is a medical doctor who specializes in eyecare. They typically earn an M.D. before pursuing specialized postgraduate training. This allows them to diagnose diseases, prescribe medications, as well as perform eye surgeries .

What Does an Optician Do?

Though opticians aren’t doctors, they’re still an essential part of any eyecare practice. Since they won’t be diagnosing or performing your eye exam, you may wonder what they do. An optician is often who you’ll see when you go to be fitted with glasses or contacts.

They work to make sure that your glasses or contacts closely match your prescription. They will also use special equipment to measure things like the size of your eyes, pupillary distance, and vertex distance. These measurements ensure that your corrective lenses fit properly and are comfortable. Opticians will also advise you on certain features such as lens coatings, frame styles , and specialized types of lenses .

Most opticians don’t need a professional or even an undergraduate degree. Instead, they typically complete a specialized program, often either a certification or associate degree. There they study things like optical theory, eye physiology, lens technology, and laboratory techniques.

Eyecare at Oculi Vision

The various terms and jargon in eyecare can be confusing for many patients. You’ll typically interact with two eyecare professionals at Oculi Vision: opticians and optometrists. While there is some overlap between their duties, their education and technical expertise are quite different.

An optometrist like Dr. Layton will conduct eye exams, diagnose conditions, and write prescriptions. Meanwhile, an optician will help fit you for glasses and contact lenses . Both have specialized roles and play a major part in the provision of patients’ eyecare. If you still have questions about the differences between types of eye doctors, feel free to give us a call for more information. We’ll gladly explain the distinctions and help you choose the right professional for your unique needs.

Common Eye Symptoms of Allergies

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:58:51 GMT

Tens of millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year. In fact, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. We find that many of our patients struggle with various minor symptoms, especially during spring and summer months. Are allergies affecting your mental and physical wellbeing? The following are common eye symptoms of allergies from our experience, and some general best practices for reducing their severity.

Redness

One of the most common eye symptoms of allergies is redness. Sometimes, this can occur without you even realizing it, and others may notice it before you do personally. This symptom typically doesn’t cause too many issues aside from making you less photogenic. While redness can be a sign of seasonal or environmental allergies, it may also indicate other conditions.

Redness is often caused by dry, irritated eyes . However, it can also arise from smoke, vitamin deficiency, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you struggle with redness, consider your habits and environment. Change your contacts, try to improve indoor air quality, and adjust your diet to reduce inflammation. Also, make sure to take breaks when viewing an electronic device for lengthy periods of time.

Itchy or Watery Eyes

Of all the eye symptoms of allergies, the most annoying is probably itchiness. Itchy eyes may arise for many reasons, from inflammation and injuries to excessive rubbing. However, the most common cause , by far, is allergies. Lubricating eyedrops, anti-allergy medications, and a cold compress can help to reduce the severity of this symptom.

If itchiness persists for more than a few days, then take stock of your surroundings. There may be something in your car, home, or office that is setting it off. Something as simple as old coffee or a damp room may be triggering an underlying mold allergy .

Can you remember a time when your eyes seemed to tear up for no reason? Allergies may also be a cause of this common symptom. The purpose of tears is to keep your eyes hydrated, to enhance vision, and protect against contaminants. This is why allergens can cause your eyes to water. Excess blinking or rubbing of your eyes provoked by allergies can also cause this symptom to worsen.

Light Sensitivity and Burning Sensations

Light sensitivity can be a particularly problematic symptom of allergies. When you’re sensitive to light, it may affect several essential activities such as driving and cooking. Light sensitivity can also be frustrating for anyone who prefers to spend a lot of time outdoors. Wearing sunglasses and dimming overhead lights may reduce the impact of this symptom for most people.

One of the less common eye symptoms of allergies is a burning feeling. Though it’s rare, burning sensations can be extremely frustrating and even dangerous. If you feel occasional burning in one or both eyes, then try rinsing them with lukewarm water to remove allergens. Take note and consult your physician if this symptom persists, as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition . Avoid driving or operating machinery if the pain becomes distracting or unbearable.

How Do I Treat Eye Symptoms of Allergies?

It’s always worth paying attention to your diet, the air you breathe, and the condition of your home. Oftentimes, many eye symptoms of allergies can be traced back to environmental triggers. If allergies are causing problems with your eyes, there are some over-the-counter treatments you can try. However, if your allergies are moderate or severe, you’ll want to schedule a visit to your doctor or optometrist. They can offer precise advice and suggest effective long-term treatments. We encourage you to contact us for more information on allergies and how to improve your specific symptoms today.

Why Your Eyes May Be Sensitive to Light

Tue, 10 May 2022 13:40:10 GMT

For people with eyes sensitive to light, everyday activities like being outside on a sunny day or going to a store with bright fluorescent bulbs can be frustrating. Those whose eyes are sensitive to light can often experience issues such as migraines and anxiety. Fortunately, your optometrist can help diagnose this issue and find a reasonable solution. Light sensitivity can arise from many conditions, but here are some of the possible causes.

Dry Eyes and Light Sensitivity

Dry eyes occur when your eyes aren’t able to properly lubricate themselves. This primarily causes problems with one’s corneas, which are the clear protective layers on the outside of your eyes. There are a number of things that can cause dry eyes including issues with tear ducts, vitamin deficiencies, and some chronic medical conditions. Dry eyes are often associated with itchiness , burning, and sensitivity to light (photophobia).

Abrasions

A corneal abrasion (remember that the cornea is the outside layer that protects your eye) occurs when something causes a small cut in the cornea, and it can even arise from forceful rubbing. It’s typically a painful issue that tends to generate redness, tears, headaches, and light sensitivity. Luckily, it’s often a fairly minor injury and tends to heal after a few days of rest. Avoid further irritation to allow inflammation to fade and encourage a speedy recovery.

Keratitis

If you suddenly have eyes sensitive to light, keratitis may be the culprit. This is another condition in which one’s corneas become inflamed for one reason or another. It may be due to a virus, bacteria, or simply from wearing your contact lenses too long. Your optometrist can diagnose and design a personalized treatment plan for keratitis. Its symptoms include blurred vision, eye pain, and eye discharge, in addition to sensitivity.

Uveitis

This is a general term for a group of diseases that damage eye tissue, cause swelling, and result in the inflammation of the eye . Such symptoms can occur fairly quickly and tend to include blurred vision, redness, floaters, and eye pain, as well as to sensitivity to light. Uveitis often indicates infection, injury, autoimmunity, or an inflammatory disease. This condition can sometimes result in permanent vision loss, so early diagnosis and treatment are critical for long-term recovery.

Keratoconus

While fairly rare, another potential cause of eyes sensitive to light is keratoconus. Your corneas are typically round but they can become warped into a cone-like shape over time. This condition occurs gradually over the course of years or even decades. When it arises, your eyes have difficulty focusing light, causing distorted vision and light sensitivity. Keratoconus generally affects both eyes, and often one more than the other. Causes of this condition aren’t well-known , but genetic and environmental factors may both play a key role.

Concussions Can Make Eyes Sensitive to Light

Eyes sensitive to light are fairly common after suffering a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Since concussions impact the functioning of the brain, and the brain is critical for processing visual input, it isn’t surprising that light sensitivity can sometimes present itself. Even minor head trauma can cause severe symptoms including confusion and migraines. While light sensitivity typically passes within a few weeks at most, we highly recommend checking with your physician after a concussion.

Light sensitivity is a common symptom of migraines, some eye diseases, and traumatic brain injuries. It can be both irritating and debilitating, especially during the daytime hours. While it isn’t always cause for concern, light sensitivity may indicate a more severe underlying condition. If your eyes are sensitive to light, contact us today or schedule an appointment with your optometrist. Early treatment can often make a world of difference in your quality of life.

What Is an Optometrist?

Tue, 10 May 2022 13:23:43 GMT

There are many different terms for professionals who work in vision care. If you are unfamiliar with the industry, it can be tough to tell them apart. One of the most frequent questions we hear is, “What is an optometrist?” Patients are often curious about the education these professionals receive and what their daily duties are. Let’s take a closer look at optometry and clear up any uncertainty surrounding this key position.

What Is an Optometrist?

An optometrist is a healthcare professional who provides for your primary vision care. Just as your doctor is a general practitioner who attends to your overall healthcare, an optometrist attends to your overall vision needs. This person is your go-to for periodic vision screenings and comprehensive eye exams.

Optometrists perform eye examinations and vision tests to determine the health of your eyes. They are able to write prescriptions for glasses, contacts, and medications for the treatment of eye diseases. An optometrist also typically works to detect abnormalities in your eyes that may need attention.

Your optometrist will likely ask about your medical history and any vision issues you’re having. They may conduct various test to assess the function of your eyes. For instance, they may do a visual acuity test to see if you need corrective lenses. This common test involves reading lines of an eye chart from top to bottom. They will ask you to cover one eye and work your way from the largest to smallest letters. The optometrist may then conduct a refraction test to fine-tune your prescription using different strengths of lenses.

Is An Optometrist a Doctor?

Many people assume that optometrists are medical doctors. However, this isn’t the case (that would be an ophthalmologist, who attends medical school). Instead, optometrists have a Doctor of Optometry, which is instead earned at optometry school.

An optometrist must complete their undergraduate education in science or pre-med then apply for optometry school. There they complete four years of specialized education. They study the anatomy and physiology of the eye and the process of vision. They will also learn about common diseases and conditions that affect vision as well as their associated treatments. Much of optometry school is practical application of material through work in university eye clinics or externships.

After graduation from optometry school, a student must then pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Exams. The NBEO is an independent, nonprofit organization that conducts universal, internationally accepted examinations of optometry school graduates. Their exams are rigorous hands-on assessments of skills and knowledge needed to practice optometry. Students who pass NBEO exams are then considered licensed optometrists.

What Would I See an Optometrist For?

You will typically see an optometrist for your basic vision needs. This includes annual vision exams and the prescription of corrective measures. Optometrists are also your go-to for common issues such as eye pain, blurred vision, and irritated eyes.

An optometrist is generally the professional who you would see for the treatment of a wide range of common eye conditions. These include things such as glaucoma , macular degeneration, cataracts, and retinopathy . In short, an optometrist typically deals with all vision-related concerns that don’t require surgery or extensive medical treatment. For these conditions, you would see an ophthalmologist

Final Thoughts

Optometrists specialize in various vision care practices. They’re well-educated and licensed to perform accurate assessments of their patients’ eye health. Optometrists can often diagnose most eye conditions and write prescriptions for appropriate corrective treatment. If you’re in need of an optometrist for regular eye exams, we encourage you to reach out and contact us today. We’re always happy to accept new patients and discuss their unique needs together.

Eye Injuries in Sports and How to Avoid Them

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 22:13:31 GMT

With Sports Eye Safety Month upon us, it’s a perfect time to discuss eye injuries in sports. They are the leading cause of blindness in children, making this a critical issue for parents and coaches alike. In fact, emergency rooms treat over 40,000 sports-related eye injuries each year . It’s vital for children to avoid eye injuries if they wish to lead a healthy, fulfilling life. Luckily, there are many things they can do to protect their eyes while playing sports.

Types of Eye Injuries in Sports

It’s important to understand the different types of eye injuries in sports. They may occur suddenly and without warning, putting children at risk of further harm. There are a number of ways in which eyes can become damaged, especially during contact sports. The following are three common types of eye injuries often experienced by athletic children.

Blunt Trauma

The most common type of sports-related eye injury occurs from blunt force trauma. This happens when a severe impact damages the eye area. It can cause minor injuries like black eyes and double vision or severe conditions like detached retinas or broken orbital bones. This injury is one to watch for during high intensity sports like football, soccer, hockey, and basketball.

Penetrating Injuries

While not nearly as common as blunt trauma, penetrating injuries are possible when proper eye protection isn’t worn. They typically occur while wearing regular glasses during sports. If glasses break, their shards may scratch or cut the eye. These invasive injuries are rare, but they sometimes occur during baseball, softball, and other sports that don’t require a helmet.

Radiation Damage

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can also damage children’s eyes. These types of injuries typically occur in snow and water sports, or those played during summer months. Overexposure to sunlight essentially burns different parts of the eye. This can lead to various issues in the short- and long-term.

Which Sports Have the Most Eye Injuries?

Most eye injuries occur during basketball and baseball. These popular activities are intense, involve many positions, and often don’t require much in the way of protective equipment. This presents many opportunities for eyes to experience unexpected impacts. Water sports and racquet sports follow in terms of eye injury frequency.

When considering the risk level of different sports, it’s important to remember the likelihood of contact with others. Also, sports that involve balls, pucks, sticks, and other equipment that moves at high speeds have higher levels of risk. Of course, those that require helmets or faceguards are generally safer for children’s eyes.

How to Prevent Eye Injuries in Sports

There are a number of things that one can do to prevent different types of eye injuries in sports. In fact, 90% of sports-related eye injuries are preventable . Always be sure to schedule regular eye exams to catch any issues before they worsen. Here are some tips to reduce the likelihood of eye damage when playing sports.

Wear safety goggles like sports glasses that have durable polycarbonate lenses.
Ensure that any eye guard you use is ASTM F803 approved.
Youth baseball players should use batting helmets with polycarbonate face shields.
Don’t wear regular glasses when playing sports if at all possible.
Use all appropriate safety equipment dictated by youth sports organizations.

Athletics are fun activities where teens and children can learn many valuable skills such as teamwork and leadership. However, they also increase the risk of injuries if proper safety techniques aren’t followed. Being aware of common injuries and how to avoid them will empower athletes of all ages to play it safe. If you have questions about sports-related eye injuries, contact us for more information. We will gladly discuss any concerns to give you greater peace of mind in this regard.

Sports Glasses to Protect Children’s Eyes

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 22:12:17 GMT

April is Sports Eye Safety Month . Did you know that eye injuries are the main cause of blindness in children? This is one of the reasons why Sports Eye Safety Month is so critical for raising awareness about the importance of eye protection. If parents wish to empower their children as they grow, they must protect their child’s vision, especially during sports. Let’s take a closer look at the purpose of sports glasses and how they can help your child athlete.

Prescription Sports Glasses

You probably could guess that daily-use prescription glasses aren’t safe for playing most sports. After all, they aren’t designed for that type of intense physical activity. In fact, wearing regular glasses while playing sports can be dangerous as the lenses can shatter and injure the eye. Something as simple as an errant basketball pass or missed popup could result in permanent eye injury.

Instead, children can play sports with special prescription sports glasses that contain lenses crafted from more durable, sturdy materials. Many varieties actually fit directly into helmets for use in football, hockey, or baseball. These lenses are safe for use during sports and other types of rigorous activity. Also, wearing this special type of lenses ensures that your child will still reap the benefits of clear sight while engaging in sports.

Things to Consider

When picking out a pair of sports glasses, there are a number of things to keep in mind. Of course, you want to ensure that your prescription is up to date. We recommend scheduling regular eye exams at least once a year. This will guarantee that your current prescription notes any changes to your vision.

It’s also critical to have a proper fit, as sports glasses are certainly not one-size-fits-all. Sizing is important to exercise safely while enjoying the vision correction of a prescription. They should feel comfortable while resting flush against the face. An improper fit will result in fidgeting

Sometimes, parents consider buying sports glasses that are a bit larger than necessary to allow room to grow. However, if glasses are too large, they may put an athlete’s eyes at risk for damage. Meanwhile, if they are too small, they will be uncomfortable and can reduce peripheral vision.

Should I Invest in Sports Glasses?

If your child wears glasses and is often physically active, you should certainly invest in prescription sports glasses. They are critical for protecting your children’s eyes and they will give you greater peace of mind. They also have many significant advantages over regular glasses. Among the benefits you will notice from them are the following:

Corrected vision will help optimize sports performance
They protect eyes from injury due to direct impacts and UV rays
Athletes can express themselves with different styles
They will last and are durable enough to withstand impacts and scratches

Sports glasses can be worn during all kinds of physical activity. They are especially useful for biking and running, or even working in the yard. Reliable pairs can be used for years as long as they fit and their prescription stays current .

If you’re interested in finding a quality pair of sports glasses, we encourage you to reach out and contact us today. We can special order the right pair for your child and their unique sporting needs. We’ll walk you through the process and make sure you’re aware of all the available options. Of course, the final decision is up to you and your child, but we’ll answer any questions you may have along the way.

What Is an Astigmatism?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:30:17 GMT

Our eyes are delicate organs, and they require the balance of many parts to function properly. If any one of these is slightly off-balance, it can impact vision as a whole. Many conditions can affect one’s quality of vision. Our patients often ask us, “What is an astigmatism?” This is understandable given how common this condition truly is. In fact, roughly one-third of Americans may suffer from some form of it. Let’s take a closer look at the definition as well as the causes of astigmatism.

Astigmatism

An astigmatism is simply an anomaly in the way that the eye develops. Eyes naturally have a curved shape to them, but sometimes they form unevenly. An astigmatism occurs when there is a slight imbalance in an eye’s curve. This can arise when either the cornea (the outside surface of the eye) or the lens (inside the cornea) has a defect in its shape. As a result, the curve of one will be slightly different than the other, affecting something called refraction. Refraction is how our eyes bend and focus light onto the retina. Astigmatism often causes problems with how light is perceived due to a lack of precise focus. It may lead to a variety of different symptoms at all ages. This condition can also vary over time as the eye’s curve changes.

Causes of Astigmatism

There are many causes of astigmatism worth detailing . You may wonder what could cause part of an eye’s surface to become misshapen. In many cases, this condition is present from birth. Patients often live with it throughout their entire lives. This may make it difficult to diagnose without consulting an optometrist. After all, it’s hard to know that you have a vision problem if it has always been that way.

However, there are a few other common causes of astigmatism. It can occur from a disease or injury that directly affects the eye. It may sometimes arise after eye surgery. Although, these causes are fairly rare in nature. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about developing this condition without reason. While reading in low light or sitting too close to a screen aren’t good ideas, they aren’t causes of astigmatism.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a common refractive error, like near- and farsightedness. There are a number of symptoms of this condition. These include blurred vision, frequent eyestrain, and difficulty seeing at night. Fatigue may sometimes occur given the constant effort needed to refocus one’s vision. Also, if you find yourself squinting often or suffering from headaches, it’s possible that you may have astigmatism.

The best way to avoid these issues at any age is by scheduling regular eye exams . An optometrist will monitor your eyes for diseases or injuries that may cause this condition. Make an appointment if you have any concerns, or if your symptoms worsen over time. However, diagnosing astigmatism in children can sometimes be tough. They may not notice minor symptoms, especially if they’re used to them. If they mention any of these symptoms, or if you notice a change in behavior, discuss this with a physician.

How to Treat Astigmatism

Fortunately, it’s usually easy to treat astigmatism. The treatment is almost always the prescription of glasses or contact lenses . These corrective measures work to precisely improve one’s clarity of vision. In most cases, they can alleviate many symptoms of astigmatism. In some situations, patients may have surgery to correct the shape of their cornea. However, this is almost never needed.

Good eyesight is important for overall health and wellbeing. It’s often a major factor in one’s quality of life. If you or a loved one have any of these symptoms, we encourage you to contact us for more information. We’d be happy to discuss your unique needs whenever is most convenient.

Types of Contact Lenses

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:19:06 GMT

Vision correction has come a long way over the years. What began with simple spectacles expanded to include countless kinds of contact lenses. Millions of patients prefer contact lenses over glasses for a variety of reasons. They are convenient during exercise, they won’t fog up, and they can offer a more natural field of view. Though, with so many options available , it can be hard to choose the right contact lenses for your needs. Let’s take a moment to explore the different types of contact lenses and how to choose the perfect pair.

Soft Lenses

Commonly called soft lenses, these are also known as hydrogel or silicone hydrogel lenses. These relatively thin contacts have a gel-like feel to them. They are by far the most popular type of contact lens and represent roughly 90% of the U.S. market.

Many people prefer these lenses because they are very flexible. This tends to make them quite comfortable to wear compared to other types. Soft lenses are also permeable, which means they easily allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Almost anyone can enjoy soft lenses, giving them a great deal of utility. They are typically the best option for patients who need to wear contacts for long hours during the day.

Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses (RGP)

These lenses are made of fairly durable plastics. This tends to have two major effects. On one hand, they are much more resistant to build-up, which allows them to provide a much sharper image than other types. However, their durable nature means that they are more rigid than soft lenses. This means they can sometimes be uncomfortable to wear.

Despite this minor drawback, many patients choose these lenses due to their cost-efficiency. RGP lenses can last much longer than some other alternatives. They may remain usable for up to a year with daily cleaning and sanitation. RGP lenses can correct many vision issues and are fairly easy to maintain over time.

Disposable Types of Contact Lenses

Of all the types of contact lenses, daily disposable lenses are perhaps the most convenient. This is because they don’t require much in the way of cleaning or maintenance. There are many different types of disposable lenses, but daily disposables are the most popular of them all. Daily disposables are also one of the most prevalent types of lenses used when traveling.

Other lenses are marketed as “disposable,” but they are really “extended wear” options. These contacts can be worn for between a week and a month before replacing. However, extended wear lenses do require daily cleaning and disinfecting before reuse. Make sure you know exactly what you’re buying to avoid misuse.

How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses

The path to the right contact lens starts by discussing options with your eye doctor. Ultimately, most people tend to begin with soft contacts. Due to the comfort, they are often the preferred option. They are also able to treat most vision problems. If you experience issues with soft lenses like excessive dryness, consult your eye doctor to discuss other options.

While rigid lenses are more durable and cost effective, it can take some time to get used to them. Their lack of comfort may cause many patients to struggle to use them comfortably. Thus, soft contacts are a good option for most beginners. Whatever you choose, be sure that your contact lenses are fitted properly , and you know how to handle them safely .

Contact lenses are worn by millions of people to improve their vision and quality of life. Recent innovations make them more adjustable, affordable, accessible for many patients. If you’re unsure how to choose the right contact lenses for your needs, please contact us today. Our experts will take the time to discuss all your options in detail.

What Are Progressive Lenses?

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:17:30 GMT

Our patients often ask us, “What are progressive lenses?” With so many eyeglass options to choose from, questions like this one are common. It can be tough to make an informed decision about your unique vision needs. Here, we discuss the benefits of progressive lenses and what makes them different than other choices.

Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses were first designed in 1959, yet many people are still unaware of them. This is because most don’t see them unless they’re in need. Bifocals, in contrast, are common today. This design features two prescriptions separated by a line. Their wearer sees two distinct levels of focus depending on where they look. Of course, trifocal lenses also feature an added degree of focus.

Progressive lenses are a new, convenient form of lenses. These eyeglasses feature three prescription strengths in one pair of glasses. Although, unlike trifocals, there aren’t any lines separating them. In fact, they’re built right into the lens, allowing wearers to shift seamlessly between various levels of focus.

The main advantage of this is focal flexibility. A pair of progressive lenses improves clarity at many distances. Whether reading a book, working on a project, or driving a vehicle, they will support your vision and focus. However, these lenses function like eyes do normally, meaning you’ll need to face the objects to see them.

What Makes Progressive Lenses Different?

There are many differences between these lens types. First, standard lenses have one optical strength while progressive lenses have three. This makes them more versatile and user-friendly in most cases.

Unlike bifocals and trifocals, progressive lenses don’t have a visible line between focus levels. They appear to transition smoothly from one degree to the next. This gradual shift in clarity is useful when switching between many tasks throughout the day.

Since progressive lenses feature newer technology, they may cost more than traditional lenses. Their convenience and versatility more than make up for it, though. It’s much safer to have a single multipurpose pair, and easier to keep track of, too.

Benefits of Progressive Lenses

All patients’ vision is unique, as are their correction needs, and progressive lenses aren’t always for everyone. They provide certain advantages to some more than others. The following are the most likely to benefit from progressive lenses.

1. Patients over 40 Years Old

As we age, our vision needs change a lot. Many people over 40 have a variety of issues that one pair of glasses simply can’t fix. Progressive lenses may be a good option for those in this group. Consult your optician to see if they’re the right choice for you.

2. Those with Multiple Prescriptions

It can be dangerous to manage multiple prescription pairs of glasses. A single slip-up may leave you unprepared to conduct your daily routine. For instance, wearing the wrong pair while driving may put your life and others at risk. If you dislike your bifocals, or struggle to keep track of many pairs, progressive lenses can help.

3. Patients with Presbyopia

If you suffer from farsightedness, progressive lenses may be a good fit for you. Replacing your reading glasses can improve your quality of life to a great degree. Ask your optician about the pros and cons of making the switch.

4. Children with Myopia

There are some cases where progressive lenses are suggested for children. They may be useful in preventing the progression of nearsightedness (myopia). In fact, one study found that progressive lenses slowed myopia progression more than single-vision lenses. Prompt treatment is a major factor in results, so discuss the choice with your doctor as soon as possible.

Wearing the right type of prescription glasses is vital. Vision needs change over time and regular eye exams are the best way to stay proactive. If you’re unhappy with your current prescription or are looking for a more convenient pair, contact us about progressive lenses. We’ll take the guesswork out of the process and support the quality of life you deserve.

When to See a Doctor for Itchy Eyes

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:08:03 GMT

Aches, pains, and minor issues are common from time to time. Severe symptoms warrant a doctor’s visit, but it’s tough to know when a minor issue is cause for concern. For instance, broken bones require attention, yet bruises and small cuts often heal on their own. Similarly, many things can cause itchy eyes, and not all of them require treatment. It’s vital to know when itchy eyes aren’t just a minor symptom, though.

What Are Itchy Eyes?

Chronic itchy eyes are also known as ocular pruritis . Many people get the urge to rub or scratch their eyes for different reasons. It’s often a minor issue, but sometimes itchy eyes will come with other symptoms. These may include dryness , redness, a burning feeling, discharges, sneezing, and a runny nose. If they persist for more than a few hours, this may signal an allergy or infection.

What Causes Itchy Eyes?

Knowing the causes is the first step towards getting relief from itchy eyes. However, the sources of this symptom can vary widely. Itchy eyes are avoidable in some cases, though not always. There are many factors to consider, but here are some of the most common causes of itchy eyes.

1. Keratitis

This refers to inflammation of the cornea, a membrane that covers the front of your eye. It can be caused by contact lenses , bacteria, or genetics. Keratitis often requires treatment, as it can result in conditions like cataracts, scarring, and vision loss.

2. Conjunctivitis

This is better known as “pink eye.” It’s a common condition that almost always presents with red, itchy eyes. Pink eye results from allergies, viruses, bacteria, or chemicals. This condition runs its course in a matter of days and doesn’t always require treatment.

3. Medication Side Effects

Sometimes itchy eyes can be a simple side effect of medication. They may occur with birth control pills, some antibiotics, beta blockers, antihistamines, and some antidepressants.

4. Allergies

Many times, the answer to itchy eyes lies in seasonal allergies. Common causes of allergies are smoke, pollen, mold, grass, dust mites, and pet dander. However, substances applied near the eye like makeup, lotion, or contact lens solution could also be the culprit.

When to Visit Your Doctor

For many people, symptoms may be minor and not require medical attention. However, there are some situations where you should seek help to get relief from itchy eyes.

1. Persistent Symptoms

Itchy eyes should go away on their own, but sometimes the body isn’t producing tears properly. If you have more than minor itching, or a gritty feeling in your eye, call your doctor. Long-term symptoms may indicate a severe underlying condition.

2. Fluid Discharges

While some discharge is normal at night, a rapid change in the amount isn’t good. Discharge of an unusual color may be caused by an infection and warrants a trip to the doctor.

3. Long-term Redness

If your eyes are red and itchy, there’s a chance you may have conjunctivitis. If the symptoms persist for more than a week, you might want to get them checked out. Whether the cause is viral or bacterial, your doctor can provide solutions to get relief from itchy eyes.

4. Vision Changes

Itchy eyes shouldn’t affect your vision. If you have vision problems during the onset of itchiness, contact your eye doctor right away. This could indicate an injury to your eye that could lead to long-term damage if left untreated.

5. You Need Relief

This is a simple reason to call a doctor, but many people choose to tough it out. If your eyes affect your quality of life, schedule an appointment to explore some solutions.

Minor health issues are a fact of life. Not every symptom requires medical treatment, but knowing when to see a doctor is important. Ignoring even minor symptoms may lead to major consequences down the road. Regular eye exams are one great way to stay on top of your health. If you have questions about symptoms like redness or itchy eyes, contact us for more information. We’ll help you to decide the best course of action moving forward.

Glaucoma Awareness Month: Causes of Glaucoma

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 18:47:13 GMT

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month , and we’d like to take a moment to discuss it in detail. This chronic condition results from ongoing damage to one’s optical nerve for a variety of reasons . Understanding the root causes of glaucoma is critical for managing one’s potential risk for developing it as they age. Let’s take a look at some causes, symptoms, and comorbidities, along with different diagnostic techniques.

What Causes Glaucoma?

Before exploring the causes of glaucoma , it’s useful to outline the affected biological processes. Eyes continually produce a clear fluid known as aqueous humor. This fluid fills the front of the eye, then drains through passages in the cornea and iris. When these passages become blocked, one’s internal eye pressure rises.

It’s this increased pressure which typically causes glaucoma, as such unnatural strain can slowly damage the optic nerve. As the damage worsens over time, vision is affected, and it may eventually be lost if left untreated. Intraocular pressure (within the eye) is therefore a major risk factor to consider when assessing this disease.

While pressure buildup is often caused by blockages, there are other potential sources of damage to optic nerves. These include high blood pressure, reduced blood flow, dilating eye drops, and some medications such as corticosteroids. Unfortunately, glaucoma may also develop with no clear cause.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma Awareness Month serves to educate individuals about the symptoms of this disease. One cannot accurately assess their own intraocular pressure, so it’s critical to be aware of other common indicators. Glaucoma initially affects peripheral vision, though it can progress inward if left undiagnosed. Those with optic nerve damage often experience decreased or blurred vision, tunnel vision, or blind spots. They may also notice eye floaters or halos around light sources. Other warning signs include nausea, headaches, eye redness, severe eye pain, and sensitivity to light. In some cases, however, the onset is so gradual that such symptoms aren’t easily noticeable.

Various comorbidities are associated with glaucoma. These are chronic health conditions which occur in the same patient at approximately the same time. Research shows that the most common comorbid conditions for those diagnosed with glaucoma are hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Heart disease, renal (kidney) diseases, and hypothyroidism are also correlated with this condition to some degree.

How Is Glaucoma Detected?

Another critical goal of Glaucoma Awareness Month is to explain how this condition can be detected. After all, the objective is to identify it as early as possible to allow for effective treatment.

The most reliable way to detect this disease is to schedule routine eye examinations with your optometrist. In fact, we recommend annual exams for reasons such as this. During this assessment, a number of things are done to evaluate eye health. This includes measuring eye pressure through noninvasive means. Your physician may also test your visual field, inspect eye drainage, and look closely at your optic nerve. When conducted regularly, these methods assess eye health and can detect early signs of severe conditions like glaucoma.

Believe it or not, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world today. This disease affects millions of Americans and it’s estimated that nearly 50% of patients are unaware of their condition. Glaucoma Awareness Month highlights the need for more education regarding its causes, symptoms, and potential risk factors. While some of the sources of this condition are understood, others aren’t so well-known. For instance, genetic predispositions play a certain role, especially in congenital diagnoses. Further research is needed to thoroughly uncover the connection between intraocular pressure and optical nerve damage. We encourage you to contact us for more information about glaucoma or to schedule an eye exam.

Types of Glaucoma

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 18:41:41 GMT

Glaucoma is a chronic health condition which damages one’s optic nerves and may cause vision loss. In fact, this disease is the second most common cause of blindness worldwide. The term actually refers to a spectrum of conditions with a variety of symptoms. There are a number of different types of this disease which are categorized as either primary or secondary. The following are the most common types of glaucoma from our experience.

Open-Angle

By far the most prevalent form, open-angle glaucoma occurs in 90% of cases . This form of the disease affects millions of Americans and tends to develop slowly over time. Unfortunately, many don’t realize anything is wrong until the condition worsens, and the damage has been done.

The term “open-angle” refers to where the eye’s iris meets the cornea. This angle is supposed to be wide open to allow fluid to drain properly. However, this chronic condition is often caused by a gradual clogging of the eye’s drainage canals. As a result, pressure inside the eye increases, damaging the optic nerve.

Angle-Closure

Angle-closure may also be referred to as acute glaucoma. This is a much less common form of the disease, but one that requires immediate medical attention. This condition will generate very noticeable symptoms that are often severe and develop quite quickly.

Here, “angle-closure” means that the space between the iris and cornea has narrowed. This causes severely blocked drainage canals that lead fluid and eye pressure to rise. This sudden upsurge in pressure damages the eye and can cause pain, headaches, and nausea.

Normal Tension

Normal tension is sometimes referred to as low tension or normal pressure glaucoma. This type occurs even though the level of intraocular pressure is relatively low. The causes of this condition are unknown, and research is still ongoing to determine why such damage develops.

This is a fairly rare type of glaucoma. Known risk factors include heart disease, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, Japanese ancestry, and genetic predispositions. Fortunately, research has found that treatments which lower eye pressure in other forms of this disease also work in these cases.

Congenital Glaucoma

The final of the primary types of glaucoma is the childhood or congenital form. This condition occurs when an infant is born with an eye issue that prevents fluid from draining normally. As expected, this buildup causes higher pressure which leads to vision issues. The good news is that congenital conditions are extremely rare , occurring in roughly 1 in every 10,000 infants.

Children with congenital glaucoma tend to experience a variety of symptoms. They may be sensitive to light, make extra tears, have cloudy eyes or eyes that are larger than normal. If the condition is diagnosed and treated early, typically with surgery, permanent vision loss can be avoided.

Secondary Glaucoma

In addition to the primary kinds of glaucoma discussed above, there are also a number of secondary types. While primary types develop due to a cause that isn’t directly evident, secondary conditions occurs due to known causes. Secondary types aren’t very common, but they’re worth reviewing in detail here.

1. Exfoliation Glaucoma

One type of open-angle glaucoma occurs in patients with exfoliation syndrome . This is where extra material deposits on parts of the eye causing blockages. It tends to progress faster than primary open-angle glaucoma.

2. Neovascular

This occurs when extra blood vessels in the eye cover up the areas where fluid normally drains, causing blockages. Diabetes or high blood pressure often cause this type to develop.

3. Pigmentary

In this type of glaucoma, pigment from your iris flakes off and begins to block the fluid drain from your eye. This tends to cause blurred vision or rings around lights.

4. Uveitic Glaucoma

This can occur in those who suffer from uveitis, a condition where the eye experiences swelling and inflammation. About 20% of patients with uveitis develop glaucoma, and it’s believed to occur when scar tissue blocks drainage.

5. Other Causes

Secondary glaucoma can also result after eye injuries due to risky activities like sports and construction work. Tumors may also cause secondary glaucoma, although this is not very common.

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but there are some steps you can take to help prevent it. We always recommend annual eye exams to catch any symptoms early. If you’re in a high-risk group, it’s a good idea to talk to family members about their medical history. Also, weight and blood pressure management are essential to reduce your risk, as are physical activity and smoking cessation. If you have questions or concerns about glaucoma, please reach out for more information.

How to Prevent Dry Eyes

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:35:18 GMT

Eyes function best when they are well-lubricated. Tears usually work to coat their surface, keep them moisturized, and deliver key nutrients to the cornea. In some cases, tear production can be disrupted by hormones, allergies, diabetes, inflammation, and environmental factors. The result is often dry, itchy, watery, or irritated eyes. These symptoms are usually brief, but chronic dry eye can severely affect one’s quality of life. Fortunately, you can easily prevent symptoms and avoid invasive treatment for dry eyes. The following are our top suggestions to do just that.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Understanding the root cause of a symptom is the first step in preventing it. Many things can cause dry eyes, from smoke and vitamin A deficiency to autoimmune conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. Also, activities which tend to reduce blinking, like reading, driving, or using a smartphone can quickly dry out one’s eyes. Lasting symptoms may indicate an underlying condition, so contact your physician if they don’t improve over time.

Dry Eye Prevention Tips

We’ve all heard the saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The same is true for dry eyes, as the severity of symptoms is often related to the environment. Dry eye treatment and prevention is a process of elimination starting with the simplest solutions first.

1. Take Breaks Often

Long periods of intense focus can easily cause dry, irritated eyes. This is common when viewing an electronic device , for example. Regular blinking is vital for good eye health, so try to consciously blink at least every few seconds. Follow the 20/20/20 Rule : look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to give your eyes a moment to rest. This will also help to prevent headaches associated with eye strain. Get up, stretch, take a quick walk, or grab a healthy snack from another room. Once you return to the task at hand, you may even see a boost in productivity.

2. Improve Air Quality

It may come as no surprise that air quality affects one’s eye health. Chronic dry eyes can be attributed to long-term exposure to smoke, dust, and dry indoor air. Reduce or quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. Check your furnace filter, replace it as advised, and use a humidifier to add moisture to rooms. This is especially helpful in desert climates and high-altitude regions. Also, avoid blowing air directly into your eyes with fans, vents, or hair dryers. If you cannot control the room’s air quality, try closing your eyes briefly every few minutes.

3. Supplement Your Diet

Overall health will influence the condition of one’s eyes. For instance, reactions to toxins and allergens often contribute to dry eye symptoms. Thus, reducing inflammation may aid in the prevention of dry eyes. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such walnuts, almonds, flax seeds, and fish have been known to reduce inflammation . Try including some of these in your diet, or opt for a high-quality fish oil supplement. Also, vitamin A is essential for the production of tears, and research has shown that supplements can improve the quality of one’s tears.

4. Change Contact Lenses

Those who wear contacts are prone to dry eyes, believe it or not. Lenses can trap pollen and dust for days, holding them directly up against one’s eyes. If your contact lenses are causing irritation, try alternating them with glasses to give your eyes a break. Don’t disregard your cleaning regimen, and never use disposable lenses for longer than instructed. Make sure to use the appropriate cleaning solution and consult your physician if you continue to experience discomfort.

5. Apply Artificial Tears

If your symptoms persist despite your best efforts, it may be worth considering some quality eye drops. Many over-the-counter artificial tears can make a world of difference for those with dry eyes, but beware generic store brands. Avoid any product which contains preservatives or claims to help with redness. Discuss with your optometrist to determine the best solution for your unique needs.

Nobody should have to live with dry, itchy eyes. Whether you experience the occasional symptom or chronic discomfort, prevention is often the best long-term solution. For more information about dry eyes, we hope you’ll reach out today. We look forward to helping you manage your symptoms however we can.

How to Stop Glasses from Fogging

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:28:31 GMT

Billions of people wear corrective lenses to improve their vision. In fact, it’s estimated that about half of Americans currently wear some kind of eyeglasses. Though spectacles have bettered countless lives over the centuries, an age-old issue remains. They still tend to fog when exposed to warm air and water vapor. This can be frustrating, especially during winter months or when wearing a face mask. Some avoid this by simply switching to contacts , but that’s not always an option.

What Causes Glasses to Fog?

The term “fog” actually refers to condensation . Think back to chemistry 101 and you’ll recall that this happens when a gas changes into a liquid state. Condensation often occurs when a gas like water vapor comes into contact with a cold surface. In many cases, your breath is much warmer than your glasses and can cause them to fog when you exhale. For those who wish to keep their glasses fog-free, we have some suggestions.

1. Improve Air Flow

Glasses can quickly fog due to a lack of air circulation. If they rest too close to your eyes, heat and moisture will be unable to escape. Try to avoid exhaling directly upwards to give warm air a chance to dissipate. Pushing glasses away from your face will also enhance air flow and reduce fog buildup. This is especially helpful when working outside, wearing a mask, or breathing heavily. If this feels uncomfortable or makes it tough to see clearly, it may be time for a new pair of glasses. Consult your optician to find a set which fits your face properly.

2. Handle with Care

Condensation tends to form easily on scratches. Tiny nooks, crannies, and smudges are great places for moisture to build up. Avoid this by taking care of your glasses as best you can. Keep them in a protective case or sleeve when you aren’t wearing them, and be careful not to drop them. Always rinse lenses with warm water or cleaning fluid before wiping them with a new microfiber cloth. This will reduce your chances of scratching them with dirt and debris. Also, try to keep your glasses warm and with you at all times, as cold glass fogs much more quickly.

3. Try Anti-Fog Products

Various wipes and sprays can help to curb eyeglass fog. These professional, short-term solutions may be just what you need to avoid issues during the day. They work by creating a thin film which spreads water droplets more evenly across a lens’s surface. Anti-fog products are fairly inexpensive can even prevent dust from sticking to your lenses in the first place. Unfortunately, their effects won’t last forever, and they must be reapplied to remain effective. If you’re looking for a long-term option, ask your optician about anti-fog lenses. These glasses are embedded with water-wicking top layers that can last for years.

4. Use Soap or Shaving Cream

Believe it or not, another quick fix for lens fog may already be in your cabinet. A bar of soap can help in a pinch and provides benefits similar to true anti-fog products. Try applying a small dab of white soap or shaving cream before polishing your lenses and letting them dry. Buff off any excess to create a clear protective coating on either side. This residue will guard against moisture and changing temperatures for a few hours. While not a permanent solution, this trick can be a lifesaver if you’re on the road or out of your favorite cleaner.

Eyeglasses improve the lives of billions of people around the world. When you can keep them from fogging, these accessible interventions will serve you when you need them most. If you have questions about glasses, anti-fog lenses, or eyewear in general, we’d love to discuss your concerns in detail. We offer a variety of services and have an optical dispensary on site in Lincoln, Nebraska, for all your fitting needs.

How Does Screen Time Affect Your Eyes?

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:00:32 GMT

We are surrounded by screens in our modern digital age. Smartphones, TVs, and computers are now almost unavoidable in homes, schools, and offices. With the average American spending hours in front of devices each and every day, it’s clear than many of us indulge in a lot of screen time. A growing body of research suggests that excessive screen time causes eye strain and other health problems. The following is an explanation of the link between eyes and screen time.

Blue Light

Our eyes are not made to stare at screens for hours on end. Most digital displays emit what is known as “blue light,” and this high-energy visible light can filter into the eyes and produce numerous outcomes. Blue light is a natural component of sunlight and is not harmful in short durations, though it can negatively affect one’s sleep cycles . Luckily, blue light glasses have been documented to improve the wearer’s sleep quality. The most troubling thing about screen time is that too much tends to produce computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain.

Digital Eye Strain

Viewing an electronic screen is much different than reading from a printed page. Contrast is higher, reflections on screens are more common, and digital text may often appear blurry and out of focus. Many also place their devices too close to their face or at an angle, forcing eye muscles to work harder to compensate. Furthermore, device users tend to blink less often which can cause dry eyes and burning or stinging sensations.

The most common symptoms of digital eye strain are headaches, eye fatigue, blurred vision, neck or shoulder pain, loss of focus, red or itchy eyes, and nearsightedness. There is also evidence that excess blue light can damage sensitive cells in the eye’s retina. In some cases, too much screen time can cause underlying vision conditions like farsightedness, astigmatism, and macular degeneration to worsen.

How to Prevent Eye Strain

Eye strain from computer screens is becoming more commonplace. As more people use digital devices at home and work, it’s more important than ever to address this avoidable issue. A good rule of thumb is to set your screen’s center about four inches below eye level and about 2 feet away. Try increasing your screen’s text display size to minimize squinting and reduce direct overhead lighting to cut down on glare. Remember to blink often, at least every minute or so, to keep your eyes thoroughly lubricated. If they still dry out frequently, artificial tears and lubricant drops can be used to relieve temporary symptoms.

Set your screen’s brightness to match its surroundings. Avoid fluorescent bulbs and opt for natural options whenever possible. You may also consider applying a “night light” on your screen to further reduce brightness, especially during long sessions. Anti-glare screen filters are also available if overhead or natural light remains troublesome. Take breaks often and follow the 20/20/20 rule, which recommends focusing on an object at least 20 feet away for about 20 seconds after 20 minutes of screen time. This will help your eyes relax and reset, allowing you to return to work refreshed.

Screen time is currently the subject of much debate. Ongoing research continues to provide insight into its effects on one’s eyes, brain, and overall health. One thing is for certain: digital screens are now more common than ever. While avoiding them entirely is unrealistic, some simple steps can be taken to reduce instances of eye strain. Position your monitor at a safe, comfortable distance and adjust its brightness to match the room. Follow the 20/20/20 rule during long sessions, keep fluorescent overhead light to a minimum, and don’t forget to blink if your eyes start feeling dry. It’s important to note that excessive screen time is a major risk factor for many preexisting eye conditions. If you’re concerned about screen time affecting your eyes, we encourage you to contact us for more information or to book a comprehensive exam.

Can Blue Light Glasses Actually Help My Eyes?

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 14:38:30 GMT

The sun was the main source of light for most people throughout human history. Until the advent of lightbulbs, evenings were often spent in the dark or dimly lit by lamps and candlelight. Nowadays, we are surrounded by artificial lighting at all times in the form of LEDs, TV screens, and bright fluorescent bulbs. While this may be useful at home and in the office, too much lighting can also cause health problems. For instance, most digital displays emit a large amount of blue light, which is known to disrupt sleep cycles. Luckily, many tools such as blue light glasses are available to help offset the negative effects of excess artificial light.

What is Blue Light?

Different colors exhibit different characteristics. Blue light is a high-energy, high-frequency band of the visible spectrum responsible for the sky’s normal hue. A natural element of sunlight and most artificial lighting, research indicates as little as 30 minutes of blue light exposure can improve attention, memory, and reaction time. It does this, in part, by suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone which works to regulate sleep.

Most LED and LCD displays operate primarily within the blue light band and can basically trick one’s brain into thinking it’s still daytime long after sundown. As the number of digital screens and one’s average amount of screen time increases, so does the risk of harmful overexposure. Fortunately, most devices offer a “night light” or “blue light filter” function which shifts their displays towards warmer colors, reducing the amount of light emitted.

Do Blue Light Glasses Work?

Wearable lenses which filter light are becoming popular. These glasses are made with coatings or materials that block a percentage of the visible spectrum coming from digital displays, and they come in many shapes and sizes with a wide range of price tags.

There is no evidence that blue light glasses help one’s eyes, though there is also none which suggests they are harmful to wear . While research is still ongoing, it’s noteworthy that excess screen time can cause eye strain, at the very least. Unfortunately, no evidence exists which supports the claim that blue light glasses actually alleviate this issue. This doesn’t stop advertisers from claiming the contrary, and one UK optician chain was recently fined nearly $35,000 for overstating the benefits of blue light glasses.

Take a moment to consider how your eyes interact with computer screens. Device users tend to squint more, blink less , and shift their focus constantly. This can quickly lead to eye strain, regardless of the amount of light present. The underlying cause of this issue is more complex than exposure to blue light. If you are experiencing digital eye strain symptoms, try following the 20/20/20 rule , as it’s likely to be far more effective than any pair of lenses.

Blue Light and Sleep

We all know how important quality sleep is for overall health and wellbeing. The effects of excess light on sleep cycles are well-documented , and while blue light glasses may not prevent eye strain, there is significant evidence that they can assist those with insomnia. This is encouraging because a lack of sleep is known to cause a variety of harmful long- and short-term outcomes.

In 2020, one study found that blue light glasses can even boost productivity . The experimental group’s work engagement, task performance, and organizational behavior were effectively improved over the placebo group. Night owls actually experienced a greater effect due to a misalignment between their assigned working hours and natural internal clock. Because blue light glasses are relatively cost-effective interventions, they present organizations with an avenue for a major return on investment.

The effects of excess screen time are coming into focus. As we learn more, different solutions will continue to present themselves. Take them with a grain of salt until conclusive research emerges on their effectiveness. Blue light glasses are often falsely marketed as cure-alls, though they’ve only been documented to aid with sleep disturbances. If you’re curious about blue light, eye strain, or how to protect your health, please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.

How Does Diabetes Affect My Eyes?

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:39:30 GMT

Chronic health conditions like diabetes mellitus tend to make life more difficult for patients. Long-lasting diseases can come with a host of changes from weight gain and mood swings to permanent nerve damage. Because diabetes is a multi-systemic disorder which affects the entire body, all organs including the eyes may get caught in the crossfire. Living with these changes can certainly be frustrating, but early diagnoses and proper prevention can reduce the need for invasive treatment in the future. The following are some clear answers to common questions about diabetes and eyesight.

Cataracts

Your eyes contain various parts which allow you to see images. These parts must work together for vision to be clear, and disfunction at any level can affect the whole. For instance, the internal lens of your eye lets it focus on external objects like a camera. Healthy lenses are transparent, meaning they let in as much light as possible. However, if lenses become cloudy, the eyes cannot focus normally, and this condition is known as a cataract. While anyone’s eyes can form cataracts, those suffering from diabetes tend to develop them earlier and more rapidly. Glare and blurry vision are common symptoms of cataracts and surgery is generally required to remove and replace the damaged lens.

Glaucoma

It is well known that diabetes can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy). Diabetic neuropathy causes pain, numbness, and tingling, and often affects the extremities such as hands, feet, legs, and arms. Unfortunately, this damage can extend as far as the optical nerve. This may lead to glaucoma, a condition where fluid fails to drain and pressure builds up within the eye. Being diagnosed with diabetes doubles one’s risk of developing glaucoma. While glaucoma doesn’t always present with symptoms initially, it can dramatically affect vision if left untreated. Your optometrist will be able to detect the early signs before serious symptoms arise.

Vision Loss

Diabetics often experience changes depending on blood sugar levels. Because healthy blood sugar is necessary for the proper functioning of most organs, physical and psychological shifts are sure to follow as it fluctuates. For example, blurry vision is a common occurrence for diabetics with high blood sugar and this results from damage to blood vessels and eye lenses. Maintaining a proper blood sugar range often alleviates short-term vision changes, so don’t race to buy glasses if you experience minor symptoms. Self-monitor for improvement in the next few weeks and notify your physician to check for more significant issues.

Retinopathy

One of the more troubling complications of diabetes is retinopathy. This common condition is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20-70 and it’s estimated to affect nearly 8 million Americans. Diabetic retinopathy results from damaged vessels in the retinas which swell, leak, and can even stop blood flow to the rest of the eyes. In rare cases, repeat damage can lead to scar tissue which may detach the retina from the optic nerve. Unfortunately, the longer one suffers from diabetes, the greater their chance to develop retinopathy, especially if their blood sugar is out of control. Symptoms don’t always appear right away, so it’s important to get regular eye exams to ensure early treatment and reduce the risk of severe vision loss in the future.

Macular Edema

Swelling in the body is known as edema. It generally occurs when fluid accumulates in a contained space for various reasons. About 10% of individuals diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy will develop macular edema as their blood vessels become more and more damaged over time. Common symptoms include wavy, double, or blurry vision, floaters, color changes, and eventual blindness. Treatment generally involves laser procedures which seek to reduce blood vessel leaks within the eyes.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition which negatively affects the whole body. Many complications can develop from this disease, including those that impact eyesight. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, you’re at higher risk of experiencing noticeable changes in vision. Speak with your physician about preventative measures and be sure to schedule regular eye exams at least once a year. Give us a call or reach out online for more information on diabetes and eyesight improvement.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:34:45 GMT

There are many health conditions that can affect one’s eyesight. For example, liver disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes can all lead to noticeable vision changes. Most changes can be reversed with proper treatment, but early diagnosis is essential to ensure the best long-term outcome. Diabetes is especially important to monitor because it can lead to a complication known as diabetic retinopathy. This condition is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, and knowing the symptoms and causes are necessary to reduce one’s risk of developing severe vision loss.

Symptoms

Diabetes can cause eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinopathy. Retinopathy is a fairly common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It’s the most widespread cause of blindness among adults, and most diabetics will experience some form of retinopathy in the first two decades of the disease. Early-stage symptoms may not arise for years, but over time, mismanaged blood sugar can create blockages of blood vessels in the eye. This can cause spotty, blurred, or darkened vision, as well as nausea, headaches, colorblindness, far- or near-sightedness, and may even lead to blindness if not treated in time.

Types and Causes

Retinopathy is a disease of the eye’s retina. When vital blood vessels are blocked, blood supply to the eye is reduced and as new blood vessels grow improperly, they may leak more easily. This presents in two forms depending on the severity of the condition. Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the earliest form of this condition. As small vessels weaken, tiny bulges emerge from their walls and sometimes leak flood and blood inside the retina. Larger vessels then dilate irregularly, and damage can cause the buildup of fluid known as macular edema. Macular edema can affect vision and requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent blindness. NPDR will generally progress in severity as more blood vessels are damaged within the retina.

Advanced diabetic retinopathy (ADR) is the result of progressive NPDR. With many blood vessels blocked, abnormal growth of fragile replacements can lead to further complications. Scar tissue will eventually cause retinal detachment, experienced as spots, floaters, flashes, or severe vision loss. Patients with ADR may also feel a buildup of pressure as the normal flow of their eye fluid is disrupted. As a result, they may develop glaucoma as their optic nerve is further impaired.

Anyone diagnosed with diabetes is at risk of experiencing these symptoms. The longer one suffers from diabetes, the higher their chances of developing retinopathy. The most notable risk factors are pregnancy, tobacco use, poor glycemic control, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and being of African, Hispanic, or Native American descent.

Treatment and Prevention

Unfortunately, diabetic retinopathy is not always avoidable. Thankfully, early intervention can help to reduce symptoms and instances of vision loss. Exact treatment will depend on your age, medical history, and degree of damage, but often includes regular eye exams, injections of corticosteroids, laser surgery, and outpatient vitrectomy procedures. The following are the best ways to reduce your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Avoid Tobacco Use
Manage Your Overall Health
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels Closely
Test Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Address Vision Changes Immediately

Those diagnosed with diabetes can suffer from a variety of complications. Retinopathy is just one significant condition which may arise as a natural result, regardless of any preventative measures taken. This condition is common among diabetics, especially as they age, and can lead to blindness if left untreated for long periods. Call your physician or optometrist right away if you experience flashes, holes, black spots, or blurry vision. Please contact us if you’ve experienced any of the symptoms mentioned here or have general questions about vision and diabetes.

Should I Be Worried about My Eye Twitching?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:12:28 GMT

Nothing can be more annoying than a persistent eye twitch, especially when the cause is unknown. These involuntary spasms tend to be unpredictable and can arise for a variety of reasons. While most cases are completely harmless, it’s important to understand that this symptom may occasionally be indicative of major systemic conditions. Knowing whether or not you should be worried about eye twitching is tough, though there are some common factors to consider before jumping to conclusions.

Common Causes

One common cause of acute twitching is known as ocular myokymia, which is rarely dangerous. Many things can trigger it to arise, including stress, driving, fatigue, light sensitivity, corneal scratches, membrane inflammation, as well as caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine use. Twitching tends to appear and worsen with age, and can also result from environmental irritations like wind and pollution. Head injuries may increase the risk of twitching, as will genetic predispositions. Behavioral patterns tend to be the first markers of this symptom’s severity, so take note of when eye twitching occurs throughout the day to narrow the cause down to its source.

Rare Cases

Minor cases of eye and facial twitching are innocuous and will normally disappear within a few days. However, sometimes these can be symptoms of greater muscular or neurological conditions such as Bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Tourette’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, or myasthenia gravis. Don’t overlook numbness, tremors, cognitive changes, disrupted balance, or double vision, as chronic eyelid spasms accompanied by any one of these symptoms warrants a visit to your doctor as soon as possible.

When to Seek Help

Contact your healthcare provider if twitching lasts more than a week, begins to negatively impact your daily life, or if you experience swelling, redness, or discharges. Record any additional symptoms and triggers to help track down the precise causes, and remember to take family histories into account. Confusion and other neurological symptoms may require further consultation from a specialist if your physician suspects a nervous system disorder.

Treatments

The most common causes of eye twitching are stress and fatigue, and many cases can be alleviated with simple remedies. While twitching can vary widely in intensity and frequency, it’s possible to minimize occurrences by cutting back on caffeine and alcohol intake, getting plenty of sleep, reducing stress, and wearing sunglasses and protective equipment as needed. Additionally, noninvasive treatments like over-the-counter or prescription eye drops are often recommended by physicians as preventative measures. Alternatively, holistic treatments such as nutrition, hypnosis, acupuncture, and chiropractic therapies may also provide significant short-term relief of acute symptoms.

Most cases will resolve themselves in time, but constant twitching accompanied by other symptoms indicates any number of underlying conditions. Long-term eye twitching is often referred to as benign essential blepharospasm (BEB), a form of movement disorder (dystonia) that may advance to temporary functional blindness. Chronic spasms can be treated by simple surgery which removes some nerve and muscle tissue in the eyelids (myectomy). Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are another viable, albeit more short-term, solution for prolonged twitching associated with BEB. This minimally invasive FDA-approved treatment works by temporarily paralyzing facial muscles.

More often than not, eye twitching is generally no cause for concern. This symptom can often be relieved with patience and minimal treatment, but in some rare cases it can suggest a serious brain or nerve disorder. If you’re experiencing troublesome twitching or have questions about treatments for underlying conditions, we welcome you to contact us online or give us a call today. We’ll work together to discover the cause and determine the best course of action for you.

How Long Is My Prescription Valid?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:02:29 GMT

Eyeglasses and contact lenses are classified by the FDA as medical devices. Therefore, in order to buy and wear either, a doctor must recommend a specific treatment according to the needs of their individual patient. As with any prescribed medical therapy, eyeglass and contact lens treatments will eventually expire. While the exact timeline varies depending on local laws, most are valid for no longer than two years. However, significant health changes or vision problems may warrant more frequent exams and adjustments, but we generally recommend getting a full eye exam at least once annually. Consider the following if you’re unsure about exactly how long your prescription is valid.

State and Federal Laws

According to Nebraska State Law, eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions are valid for a period of twelve months, or as otherwise indicated by a licensed physician or optometrist. Once expired, though, a doctor may choose to extend the treatment without further examination. U.S. Federal Law also applies, and the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA) states that expiration shall occur according to state law where the exam was conducted and the prescription was written. Unless a specific medical condition warrants additional screening, expiration shall not occur less than one year following the completion of an eye exam and lens fitting.

Do I Need a New Prescription?

It’s a popular misconception that corrective lenses remain applicable for many years. While this is true in rare cases, it’s far more common for an individual’s vision to noticeably change over time. Even the slightest error in assessment can cause eye strain and headaches if not caught and corrected in a timely manner. There are many signs to watch for which indicate a need to update your prescription. For example, if you’re experiencing redness, dry eyes, discomfort, or headaches, especially around the eyes, you are likely straining to focus. Also, squinting and blurry vision are clear signs that your assessment is no longer current. These symptoms may arise gradually, so be sure to take note if it becomes difficult to read or see distant objects easily. If your health or vision has changed noticeably, make an appointment to get your eyes checked, regardless of the expiration date of your prescription.

Even if you’re not experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule regular exams with your physician or optometrist. They will assess the overall quality of your eyesight and test for cancer, lupus, glaucoma, diabetes, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other major disorders. Additionally, no corrective lens will last forever. Normal wear and tear can affect the degree of correction offered by your glasses or contact lenses, especially if they’re exposed to harsh environments.

What to Do When Your Prescription Expires

Because corrective lenses are considered medical devices, it is illegal for vendors to sell them to anyone without a valid prescription. Never try to buy replacements without a physician’s current assessment, and steer clear of any retailer willing to overlook this detail. Reputable merchants won’t even consider allowing you to purchase glasses or contacts without a valid prescription. Schedule an appointment with your physician or eye doctor to update your prescription, ideally before it expires. If you simply need to extend your current treatment, it may be possible to conduct a brief exam online or over the phone.

It may be tempting to ignore the expiration date of your corrective lenses. Resist this urge by planning regular eye exams with your trusted optometrist at least once a year, even if you haven’t experienced changes in vision. To learn more about eyeglasses, contact lenses, and prescription expiration dates, we encourage you to give us a call or contact us online . We’d be honored to help give you the peace of mind you deserve.

Is Poor Eyesight Genetic?

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 16:38:16 GMT

Every individual is unique and built by countless choices and experiences. While our environments truly mold and shape us, our genetics still form the basic foundation of our bodies. Height, weight, hair and eye color, temperament, and even many of our natural talents are all significantly influenced by heredity. This begs the question: “Is poor eyesight genetic, as well?” The short answer is “Yes,” but that’s not quite the whole story. We’ve chosen to explore just how dependent eyesight is, not only on genetics, but external influences, as well.

Eyesight and Genetics

Like most components of our health, how well (or how poorly) we can see is the result of several contributing factors. That said, studies conducted over the past few decades suggest that genetics have a significant influence on our eyesight throughout our lives.

The genetic code handed down from our parents and grandparents has been found to be positively correlated with eyesight quality. This means having just one parent with nearsightedness automatically increases your likelihood of experiencing similar issues, raising your chances of developing myopia to about one in five. Moreover, having two parents with this condition will raise your chances of this condition to about one in three.

Similar results can also be found when observing the effect of genetics on farsightedness, and scientific research suggests that those with astigmatism,  glaucoma , color-blindness, and age-related  macular degeneration in their family are several times more likely to suffer from these conditions themselves. Taken together, these figures indicate that family history and eyesight are almost inseparable.

Beyond Genetics

However, this is where things become complicated. While genetics play a major role in how likely you are to have a specific eye condition, the fact of the matter is our DNA is merely one contributing factor among many. The emerging field of study known as epigenetics considers various factors which act upon or beyond pure genetics. These tend to be external or environmental influences which affect development, such as stress, toxins, and amount of exercise.

It may come as a surprise that these external influences can be just as important as your family history when it comes to eyesight. For example, overexposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, tobacco smoking, significant dietary gaps and malnutrition, injury, and even dehydration can all negatively impact healthy vision. Such habits may also trigger or aggravate any condition you were already genetically predisposed to, evoking an issue that may never have appeared otherwise. While nobody intends to reduce the quality of their eyesight on purpose, many of these factors may not be well-understood or appreciated. Good health doesn’t simply happen overnight—it takes a sincere and conscious effort to preserve one’s fitness and wellbeing today and moving forward.

Maintain your eyesight by eating a balanced diet, exercising at least twice weekly, staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, avoiding illicit drugs, and curbing alcohol consumption. Also, try to minimize participation in hazardous activities which may damage the eyes, or at least wear protective gear as often as possible. Furthermore, it’s imperative to schedule regular checkups and eye exams with an optometrist or other trusted healthcare professional. Healthy habits such as these will go a long way in reducing your risks and ensuring you can quickly address any concerns as soon as they arise.

Genetics may form the basic foundation of our physique, but it’s never too late to begin a healthy lifestyle. The earlier you cultivate healthy habits, the better you are likely to feel and the more long-term benefits you will experience. Unfortunately, a genetic predisposition to many eye-related conditions may be difficult to overcome; however, they are not necessarily guaranteed to develop at all. If you’re concerned about genetics, poor eyesight, or eyecare in general, we hope you’ll reach out and contact us . We’d love to help you protect your health and eyesight for many years to come.

Is It Possible to Improve Eyesight?

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 16:33:04 GMT

Poor eyesight often happens to the best of us. Whether due to injury, the natural aging process, genetic predisposition, or lifestyle choices, some of us simply don’t see the world very clearly. Many will be prescribed glasses or contacts in order to navigate with less strain, more clarity, and an improved quality of life. It turns out that our world is pretty remarkable when you can actually see all the amazing people, places, and things that surround you! That said, one may wonder whether their prescription lenses and other habits affect natural vision long-term. Can vision eventually get better, or will glasses be required indefinitely?

Two Sides Divided

What seems like a simple question at first is actually one which continues to be hotly debated. There are essentially two camps which hold opposing perspectives on this issue, and they rarely overlap.

The first of these tends to include natural care and vision correction proponents, optometrists, and medical doctors who hold that our bodies often adapt over time. They argue that eyesight can improve—we’re just restricting its ability to do so by becoming reliant on external tools like glasses and contacts. Many encourage turning instead to visual therapy, a type of natural treatment for the eyes and brain, insisting that it may gradually reteach our eyes to operate properly. Other supportive measures are also held in high regard, such as adjusting one’s diet, exercising regularly, and improving our overall health habits.

On the other hand, some traditional specialists and eye physicians consider this stance to be both unhelpful and potentially harmful. They view natural eyesight correction as little more than wishful thinking, and argue that poor eyesight largely cannot be permanently corrected. Vision problems are often regarded as lifelong conditions which will always persist, barring surgery, and those with this perspective generally view fighting against this truth to be pointless; they feel that simply utilizing visual aids and keeping your prescription up to date is the only way to enhance eyesight.

Who’s Correct About Vision Correction?

It’s apparent that these two sides will never fully agree, but the longstanding arguments have been incredibly eye-opening. Much research has been conducted in this field and much has been learned over the years, but the truth of the matter is that while vision quality is influenced by environmental factors, genetics and heredity play a major role in the development of individual ability.

One of the central takeaways is that eyesight can sometimes improve, but only rarely and in certain situations. For example, if poor vision resulted from underlying health conditions or dietary deficiencies, addressing these may actually clear up blurry vision (pun intended). Likewise, consciously retraining our eyes can also be slightly helpful should the underlying issue arise from a lack of focus or attention.

Unfortunately, these are not the situations most of us will find ourselves in. Many individuals experience poor eyesight due to genetics or other factors beyond their control. No amount of beta carotene or eye training exercises can negate such effects, and the lack of evidence for the aforementioned interventions seems to support that. 

So, can eyesight really improve long-term? Sometimes, but don’t count on it, and certainly don’t expect it to happen overnight. Managing health and embracing temporary corrective interventions is generally the way to go, and data shows these habits to be beneficial. However, if you’re concerned about the quality of your eyesight and would like some suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information . Clear vision is a critical component of a quality life, and we’d be grateful for the opportunity to contribute to your overall wellbeing.

What Causes Double Vision?

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:59:02 GMT

We depend quite heavily on clear vision to navigate our daily lives. Unfortunately, this means our days can be seriously impacted by a lack of visual clarity. Double vision, for instance, can be a potentially life-threatening condition depending on exactly where and when you first experience it. Granted, it’s unlikely to be too harmful if you’re simply hanging out on the couch at home, but you certainly don’t want to be suddenly struck by this condition when speeding down the freeway.

Double vision occurs when an individual perceives double images in place of a single object. Extra images may appear side by side, on top of one another, or in various combinations of configurations. This condition often affects balance, movement, reading ability, as well as focus and comprehension. If double vision affects only one eye, it’s considered monocular, but if it affects both, this is referred to as binocular. Many health problems can lead to this condition and we’ve chosen to highlight some of the most common causes here.

1. Corneal Distortions

The cornea is the layer in your eye that controls the amount of light sensed by your nervous system. Conditions such as astigmatism, dry eyes, infections (such as shingles or herpes zoster), or physical trauma (which causes scarring) may distort the corneal surface, thereby leading to double vision. Fortunately, corneal conditions can often be corrected with minimal intervention.

2. Lens Issues

Another controlling mechanism in your eye is known as the lens. Located just behind the pupil, the eye’s lens focuses light directly onto the retina before it can be sent to the brain along the optic nerve. Conditions such as cataracts which affect the clarity of the lens can sometimes cause double vision.

3. Muscle Weakness

Various tiny muscles control the movement of each individual eye. Six muscles must work together to allow you to move your eye up, down, sideways, or in rotation. Weakness or paralysis in any of these muscles can certainly affect their performance and can sometimes lead to double vision. Underlying medical conditions such as Graves’ disease (a thyroid condition that affects eye muscles and consequently causes vertical double vision) and strabismus (weakening or paralysis of eye muscles that prevents them from being aligned) are also factors.

4. Neurological Conditions

Certain medical conditions affect nerves which link your eyes to your central nervous system, thereby causing double vision, among other complications. Diabetes, Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and multiple sclerosis are among the diseases which directly affect visual nerves, and these conditions sometimes cause double vision, as well.

5. Traumatic Brain Injuries

It may go without saying that brain injuries are likely to affect visual acuity. Because all sensory input is sent to the visual cortex via the central nervous system, any lesions or damage along the way will also affect the reception and interpretation of this input. Think of the brain like a computer’s central processor—all sensory information depends upon its proper functionality.

Conditions such as tumors or aneurysms, blunt trauma, infections, strokes, or even simple migraines can exert pressure on the brain and affect its function. This pressure may short-circuit sensory signals, thereby altering how it interprets messages, potentially leading to double vision and other perceptual changes.

While it may be temporary and somewhat harmless, double vision may be indicative of a more significant underlying health condition. This list of causes is by no means exhaustive; however, these factors are among the most common reasons for this condition. If you or a loved one has recently or is currently experiencing double vision, we highly recommend contacting us or your primary care physician immediately. We look forward to helping you correct any existing vision problems as soon as possible.

How Prism Glasses Help Double Vision

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:49:59 GMT

As the saying goes, two heads are usually better than one. Well, that may be true when problem-solving, but it's an entirely different situation when it comes to vision. Seeing two heads—or multiples of anything that doesn’t belong, really—is certainly cause for concern.

Do you find yourself regularly seeing extra things or people? You’re likely suffering from double vision and may need some sort of intervention to keep your eyes from giving you trouble. Luckily, this condition is often easily improved by using prism glasses, and we have chosen to highlight the benefits of this noninvasive treatment here.

What is Double Vision?

Before proceeding, let’s first begin by defining what is generally known as double vision.

Double vision, also technically referred to as Diplopia, is a somewhat commonplace condition that affects how one perceives images. Instead of seeing one image normally, an individual suffering from double vision often ends up seeing two, either side-by-side, on top of one another, or in some combination. This effect may occur in either one or both eyes.

Double vision can be extremely disorienting, to say the least, and can make everyday activities like reading, walking, driving, and working seemingly impossible or even dangerous. It can also cause other problems beyond the obvious, contributing to pain around the eyes or when moving them, as well as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. 

There are many reasons why double vision affects some individuals, but one of the most widespread causes is muscle weakness due to inherent nerve issues, certain autoimmune disorders, stroke, injury, or diabetes. Deviations in the shape of the eyeballs are frequent contributors, too, often because of something as innocuous as astigmatism, but occasionally because of more worrisome ailments such as infections.

How Prism Glasses Can Help

Double vision may be fairly common, but it can usually be alleviated. Prism glasses are a type of eyewear that doesn’t look any different from regular frames, but their double vision-correcting abilities might make them seem like something out of your favorite sci-fi flick. Their double vision reduction properties are due to specialized prism lenses that bend or reflect light, ensuring it’s positioned correctly for both eyes. 

Without this light being properly aligned for the individual in question, it becomes increasingly difficult for the retinas to focus. Why? Our brains rely on light and its positioning to take the information processed by both eyes and combine them into a single, coherent image. The lack of this coordination of input translates to each eye perceiving something slightly different enough to cause problems, resulting in double vision.

Prism glasses correct this issue before light can even reach your eyes, let alone your nervous system. By redirecting and realigning it, these glasses compensate for your natural way of seeing and typically resolve any double images you may experience. Keep in mind that your eyes aren’t going to be physically altered in any way!

However, if you take off your swanky new specs, you’re going to see double once again. So, you’ll be reliant on them for crisp, accurate vision moving forward. Only surgery can permanently correct chronic Diplopia, but prism glasses are a perfectly valid, practical, and noninvasive temporary solution. They’re not necessarily suitable for everyone, although they certainly do function well for nearly anyone who doesn’t mind consistently wearing glasses or whose double vision has an annoying habit of changing from time to time. 

We understand that double vision and similar issues can be frustrating and debilitating. Fortunately, there are many simple solutions such as prism glasses which can help to improve your quality of life in the short- and long-term. If you’re concerned about the quality of your vision, we welcome you to contact us or explore our services page for more information. It’s our goal to give you the tools and knowledge you need to see the world around you as clearly as possible.

Possible Vision Problems after a Stroke

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:00:13 GMT

A stroke is a serious medical condition which occurs when critical blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Strokes often lead to a variety of short- and long-term impairments of one’s speech, memory, movement, and vision. They are a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, and unfortunately, many stroke survivors suffer from severe visual deficiency. The following are some common visual problems which can arise in the event of a stroke.

1. Temporary Blindness

Temporary blindness may result when the blood supply to the eyes is temporarily blocked during a stroke, resulting in a sudden loss of vision. This ailment may affect either eye or both simultaneously. Fortunately, this condition is rarely permanent, and vision tends to recover in a few minutes. The severity of this condition largely depends upon the significance of its underlying cause.

2. Double Vision (Diplopia)

Each eye is connected to numerous muscles which all function together. In order to produce a coherent image, each of these muscles must point the eyes in precisely in the same direction. If one or multiple muscles are impaired, one eye cannot maintain perfect alignment with the other, leading to an experience of double vision. This condition may occur either constantly or intermittently, and should be addressed immediately.

3. Visual Field Loss

Visual field loss commonly refers to the impairment of one’s peripheral vision. Damage to the right side of the brain leads to loss of left-side vision, while left-side damage translates to right-side vision loss. Patients who suffer from this condition can easily trip over or bump into objects due to reduced awareness. Crowded places will be hard for them to navigate, as people and objects will suddenly appear, and driving will also become extremely dangerous.

4. Loss of Color Vision (Achromatopsia)

Achromatopsia is the least common visual impairment from strokes. People and objects will appear only as black, white, or gray in this rare condition. While not immediately life threatening, this condition will severely affect one’s quality of life, and is certainly worth addressing sooner rather than later.

5. Light sensitivity (Photophobia)

Some stroke patients experience difficulty adjusting to various degrees and intensities of light. Tinted eyewear which includes certain shades or filters may help minimize or alleviate this sensitivity. Thankfully, effective treatments can also improve this condition over time.

6. Visual Hallucinations

Visual hallucinations occur when the visual pathways in the brain are disrupted during or after a stroke. Such disruptions will result in sensory information being falsely interpreted by the visual cortex. When this happens, a patient may experience a distorted perception of their surroundings. These distortions may simply be flashes of lights, flickering or moving objects, or may even take the form of frightening images of things or people.

7. Loss of Vision

Sadly, a stroke may lead to total and permanent blindness. This life-altering loss of vision generally results from a blockage of one of the retinal arteries which supplies essential blood flow to the eye. Sometimes, stroke survivors can even lose vision in both eyes. This rare condition is known as cortical blindness, and it occurs when the brain’s occipital cortex is damaged by internal or external trauma.

The eyes are intimately connected with the central nervous system. Therefore, any injury which directly challenges the brain, including conditions like strokes and aneurysms, can lead to significant disruptions in visual perception. Fortunately, most of these conditions are temporary and can be rehabilitated with proper and thorough treatment. It’s essential to detect and diagnose such symptoms as soon as possible in order to ensure the swiftest recovery. If you or a loved one have experienced any of the previously listed symptoms, we encourage you to contact us or your primary care physician immediately.

Common Eye Symptoms of a Concussion

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:00:13 GMT

A concussion is a specific type of head injury often caused by a sharp jolt, bump, or blow to the head. It may also occur if someone falls and jars the brain, forcing it to collide with the skull. A concussion may affect one’s ability to think rationally, act normally, and even feel like themselves. The symptoms of a concussion can range from fairly mild to severe, depending on the degree of head injury in question.

In the event of this type of injury, the eyes are some of the most commonly affected organs. Many people frequently experience issues or notice that their eyes are not functioning properly after a concussion. The following are some common eye symptoms that can arise after a concussion.

1. Eye Pain (Ophthalmalgia)

Eye pain occurs when the muscles around the eyes tighten and remain contracted for long periods of time. Such pain can also be caused by light exposure, inflammation, or allergic reactions. While not immediately life threatening, severe eye pain can become debilitating and severely affect one’s quality of life.

2. Double Vision (Diplopia)

In order to function properly, both eyes must work together with the nervous system. Also, eyes must each be focused on the same point to perceive one singular, cohesive image. However, after a head injury, each eye may not be directed at precisely the same spot. Therefore, the brain will struggle to combine and balance the images, leading to the experience of double vision. This condition is potentially dangerous if not addressed quickly.

3. Light Sensitivity (Photophobia)

Sensitivity to light is another common residual effect of both minor and severe concussions. Patients usually react negatively to bright sunlight, LCD screens, fluorescent lights, and brightly colored patterns. Such sensitivity may range from slight irritation to intense pain which causes headaches.

4. Abnormal Eye Movements

Abnormal movements of the eyes, such as weak or delayed reactions, are fairly common with concussion patients. Head injuries will often affect one’s ability to focus on objects, shift focus from one to another, and maintain focus while their head is moving. These symptoms are one of the earliest diagnostic markers for post-concussion syndrome and other more critical brain injuries. Such symptoms may also be potentially hazardous if not addressed in a timely manner.

5. Other Vision Changes

Visual disruptions can occur immediately following a concussion, gradually over a period of days, and even sometimes during the healing process itself. Other possible vision changes which one may experience include the following:

Dizziness
Difficulty reading or concentrating
Motion sickness or problems balancing
Persistent eye strain or eye-related headaches
Needing to cover either eye or change head positions to focus properly

Vision is not only about the images which one sees. Sensory information which the eyes collect is interpreted and processed in the brain so that one can make sense of their surroundings. When one develops visual issues due to concussions, they can lead to difficulty interpreting other sensory information. When this happens, a patient’s reading comprehension may be impacted, they may have trouble remembering names, places, and dates, and may also have difficulty conducting their daily activities.

It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible following any head injury, whether major or minor, and especially if you suspect a concussion. Various eye doctors will evaluate the condition of your eyes and nervous system during the event of a traumatic injury. They will listen to your concerns and provide reasonable treatment options to fit your specific needs. If you’ve experienced any of the symptoms listed above, we encourage you to contact us directly or give us a call at (402) 420-0880. We look forward to resolving your symptoms as soon as possible!

Vision-related Dizziness

Sat, 01 May 2021 12:00:08 GMT

Vision problems are usually only noticed when we have difficulty seeing or reading. However, some signs, such as dizziness, are a bit less obvious. Dizziness caused by vision problems is generally accompanied by blurry eyesight. You may feel unsteady and lightheaded, as if your head or body is moving even when motionless. Typically, dizziness is most noticeable when changing position or standing up abruptly, but one may also feel it while sitting or lying down. Some common causes of vision-related dizziness are described below.

Improper Contact or Eyeglass Prescription

Wearing any lens that isn’t fitted correctly can quickly lead to dizziness. If you haven’t visited your optometrist lately, your eyeglass or contact prescription may no longer be accurate. This is a common issue, and normally the first thing to check if you’re concerned about vision-related dizziness. Thankfully, an outdated prescription won’t cause permanent problems, though headaches and dizziness will likely remain until it’s corrected.

Eyestrain

Eyestrain is generally caused by excessive technology use without regular breaks. Experts recommend following the 20/20/20 rule when sitting in front of any screen for long periods of time. Give your eyes a break about every 20 minutes by looking away from the screen and focusing on an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, blue light filters and glasses tend to help with eyestrain and headaches. These tools are especially helpful if you cannot avoid using technology during the nighttime.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Any visual system will be negatively affected by traumatic brain injuries (TBI) such as strokes or concussions. Unfortunately, it’s fairly common to suffer from bouts of dizziness after a TBI. They can also make it difficult for you to read, write, or play board games. You may also experience problems like double vision and decreased peripheral acuity. We highly recommend scheduling an appointment with your physician or optometrist immediately following any serious head or neck injury. The earlier TBIs are diagnosed and treated, the better, as serious long-term health effects can occur if they are ignored.

When we refer to our vision, we generally only consider our ability to clearly see the world around us. However, this isn’t the whole picture. Proper vision also requires our brains to correctly interpret any signals sent from our eyes. Eyesight also assists many other important systems in our body, including our ability to think clearly, move and balance, as well as orient ourselves. When our visual system has a problem, one telltale sign is frequent bouts of dizziness. If you are experiencing constant and uncomfortable episodes of dizziness, blurriness, or headaches, consult your physician or eye care professional. Hopefully, you may simply need a new prescription, but these problems may also be symptomatic of a more serious illness.

Take care of your eyes and take note of signs like blurriness, dizziness, or frequent headaches. Your ability to maintain healthy eyesight directly impacts your quality of life and daily living activities. If you are concerned about dizziness or any other vision-related issue, we strongly encourage you to contact us . We’ll do our best to narrow down the cause of your symptoms and help correct them as soon as possible.

How Do Brain Tumors Affect Vision?

Sat, 01 May 2021 12:00:07 GMT

Many health concerns can negatively affect an individual’s vision. Simply being sleep or nutrient deprived can cloud your mind and certainly your eyesight. Believe it or not, even a brain tumor can severely disturb one’s vision. To ensure overall health as well as eyesight, it’s important to maintain regularly scheduled eye checkups; narrowing down the cause of your symptoms as early as possible gives you the best chance to make the swiftest recovery.

When you think of a comprehensive eye exam, you may consider it to be just another simple vision test. At first glance, it may even seem unnecessary if you aren’t currently experiencing headaches, blurred vision, or other troublesome symptoms, but getting your eyes checked can have immense benefits that stretch far beyond your optometrist’s office.

Your eyes contain countless tiny nerves and blood vessels. Their delicate structure is intimately interwoven with your brain and central nervous system. Therefore, a comprehensive eye exam assesses not only eye health but can also identify early symptoms of serious conditions like diabetes, aneurysms, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure, as well as harmful brain tumors.

Brain Tumors

Tumors result from the excessive growth of abnormal cells in the body. They can be benign (mostly harmless) or malignant (cancerous), and can either begin in the brain or start in other parts of the body and spread through the nervous system. Unfortunately, tumors can occur at almost any age and may be hereditary. Some tumors, such as medulloblastomas, are more common among children than adults.

Common Symptoms

The specific indicators of any brain tumor will depend on its size, location, and rate of growth. However, some common symptoms include:

Disrupted sight, light sensitivity, or narrowing of peripheral vision;
Frequent headaches of increasing severity, especially in the morning;
Sudden nausea, vomiting, or loss of bladder control;
Hormonal imbalance;
Loss of sensation or involuntary movement in extremities, including unexplained seizures;
Difficulty tasting, smelling, hearing, speaking, balancing, or concentrating;
Significant personality or behavior changes; or
Fatigue, drowsiness, or noticeable lapses in memory.

Brain Tumors and Eye Exams

Comprehensive eye exams generally include peripheral vision and eye muscle function tests. These tests are often the first step in detecting brain tumors. Depending on their location, tumors can cause severe loss of peripheral vision and nerve damage in the eye muscles, resulting in abnormal eye movement, as well as double vision. Any unusual growth, structure, and function within the visual pathway can also be detected during comprehensive eye exams.

Brain Tumors and Your Vision

The following problems may develop if a tumor puts pressure on particular areas of the brain.

Tumors in the occipital lobe, the area of the brain responsible for processing visual input, can cause numerous vision issues.
Tumors affecting the brain stem commonly lead to double vision.
Tumors growing directly on the optic nerve can also cause eye problems that often lead to blindness.
Increased intercranial pressure can also be caused by tumors, leading to a fairly painless condition known as papilledema, or swelling behind the eyes.
If a brain tumor pushes on any nerves between the eyes and the occipital lobe, it can often cause blind spots.

Though brain tumors are fairly uncommon, diagnosing them early is essential to receive the best prognosis. Comprehensive eye exams can assist in the diagnosis of brain tumors by detecting any abnormalities in one’s vision. Be sure to be proactive about your eyecare by scheduling regular meetings with your optometrist. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns in this regard. It’s our goal to empower you with the resources needed maintain your eye health for years to come.

What Is a Contact Lens Fitting?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:00:06 GMT

Contact lenses are often custom-made to suit their user. There is no universal size for everyone, so anyone who wears or is planning to wear contact lenses must undergo a contact lens fitting. A proper fitting conducted by an optometrist is essential because an ill-fitted lens can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even damage to the eyes.

Types of Lenses

During the contact lens fitting process, your doctor will record information about your eye measurements and lens preferences. If you prefer to wear contacts rather than glasses, whether every day or just occasionally, there are different types of lenses to consider when looking for the best possible option. The following are the most common types of contact lenses.

1. Extended-wear Lenses

This thinner type of lens can be worn continuously, sometimes even overnight. Depending on the particular brand, these lenses can last anywhere from a week to a month.

2. Daily Wear or Disposable Lenses

These lenses should always be removed prior to sleeping. Since they’re disposable, they offer greater convenience, as neither cleaning nor storage is needed. This option also saves you from needing to purchase additional lens solution.

3. Color Contact Lenses

These lenses change the appearance of the iris’s color. They are becoming fairly popular among actors, models, and costume designers.

4. Soft Lenses

Soft lenses are arguably the most popular type of contacts since they are often more comfortable to wear, simple to adjust, and tend stay in place.

5. Hard Lenses

This lens type is durable and easy to maintain. They can also retain their shape while allowing adequate air flow to the eyes.

Eye Measurements

Besides choosing the right type of lens, proper eye measurements are also taken during contact lens fittings. Since contacts fit directly over the cornea, accurate measurements are essential to provide you with the best fit. Your optometrist will generally take the following measurements during a contact lens fitting.

1. Corneal Curvature

To help determine the best contact lens for you and to ensure that your lens fits properly, your doctor will measure the front surface of the eye, known as the curvature of the cornea.

2. P upil or Iris Size

The optometrist may also measure the size of your pupil or iris. This measurement is especially important if you will need specialized lenses.

3. T ear Film Evaluation

Dry eyes are one of the most common problems affecting those with contact lenses. When you do not keep your lenses hydrated, your eyes will feel dry, itchy, and irritated. Your doctor will evaluate and make sure you have sufficient tear film to keep your lenses moist and comfortable. If you have a weak tear film, your doctor may recommend certain types of lenses which work better to maintain moisture. In other cases, they may conclude that contact lenses aren’t the best option for you.

Eye Measurements

The contact lens fitting process also includes an assessment of the front surface of the eye. Your optometrist will need to determine your eye's overall health condition before recommending contact lenses. They will generally look for trauma or diseases of the eye’s surface, such as blood vessels that have grown improperly.

To achieve the best results, it’s vital that your contact lenses fit your eyes comfortably, allow clear vision, and are able to be properly maintained. You don't want to end up with the wrong lens that may lead to severe vision and eye issues. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding the contacts or the lens fitting process—it’s our goal to help you see the world as clearly and comfortably as possible.

How to Put in and Remove Contact Lenses

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:00:06 GMT

Inserting and removing contact lenses can be nerve-racking, especially for first-timers. Fortunately, there’s no need to be nervous because it’s easier than you might think. At the beginning, it may feel uncomfortable, but it’s completely normal for one to take a few days to get used to the feeling of wearing contacts. The following are some step-by-step instructions on how to insert and remove your contact lenses.

How Do You Insert Contact Lenses?

1. Wash Your Hands

Eyes are fairly susceptible to infection and contact lenses can carry contaminants when handled with dirty hands. So, don’t handle your contacts without first making sure that your hands are clean. Wash them thoroughly with soap and water, rinse well, and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

2. Inspect the Contact Lens

Place the lens on the tip of your finger and examine it in a clean, well-lit area. Ensure that the lens is damage-free, doesn’t contain rips or tears, is free of dirt and hair, and isn’t inside out. It should look like a bowl with straight edges. If the edges aren’t smooth and instead it flares, the lens is probably inside out.

3. Pull Down Your Lower Eyelid

Put your contact on your index finger with the edge facing upwards, then use your middle finger to pull down your lower eyelid. You may find it helpful to use a mirror to help ensure that you’re applying it correctly. If you want to open your eyes even wider, you may also use your opposite hand to hold your upper eyelid in place.

4. Place the Lens Over Your Iris

Move your index finger with the contact slowly towards your eye while looking upward. Place the contact directly onto your iris and gently press the contact down until all corners are touching the eye.

5. Blink a Few Times

Blink so that you can secure the contact in place and smoothen out any air bubbles. Continue blinking until you can see clearly with the contact comfortably in place.

6. Repeat the Process with the Other Eye

Once the first contact is comfortably in place, repeat the same process with the other eye. It’s probably best to continue using your dominant hand for the second eye.

How Do You Remove Contact Lenses?

1. Wash and Dry Your Hands

Similar to applying the contacts, first be sure to clean your hands thoroughly. Wash them with soap and water before drying them with a clean towel. Watch out for dust, hair, fuzz, or lint.

2. Pull Your Lower Eyelid Down

Blink a few times, then lower down your bottom eyelid using your middle finger. Take your time to avoid poking or scratching your eye.

3. Use Your Index Finger to Slide the Lens Downward

Once the lower eyelid is down, place your index finger over your contact lens. Look upward while gently sliding the lens down onto your eye.

4. Remove the Lens Slowly

Once your contact lens is on the white portion of the eye, it should begin to release itself. You may now gently squeeze or pinch the contact between your index finger and thumb. Once you have a good grip on it, pull it away from your eye altogether.

5. Repeat the Process with the Other Eye

Repeat the entire process with the other contact. Continue using your dominant hand and a mirror for the best results.

Placing and removing a contact lens can certainly be tricky at first. It will likely take several tries before you perfect your technique. Eventually, you will get the hang of it and may not even require a mirror in the future. Remember to take your time and don’t force the contact in any way. If you’re still concerned about this topic or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us . We’ll do our best to help you understand this process, and before long, you’ll be confidently teaching others how to insert and remove their own contacts.

What Do the Numbers in My Eyeglass Prescription Mean?

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 15:39:05 GMT

Many people probably know that 20/20 vision is a good thing. Beyond this fact, however, eyeglass prescriptions can be a little bit complicated to understand. All those letters and numbers can feel like you need special coding skills to decipher them, but it doesn’t have to be that way. So, what exactly do the numbers in your prescription mean? Allow us to clear this up.

Prescriptions are made explicitly for either individual eyes or both eyes. In the prescription, eyes are referred to as “OD,” “OS,” or “OU.” “OS” means Oculus Sinister or the Left Eye. “OD” is Oculus Dexter or the Right Eye. Occasionally, “OU” is used to refer to both eyes. Optometrists generally indicate a unique prescription for each eye because it is common for people to have different levels of clarity for each.

Diopter or “D” is the measurement for optics. It is represented by numbers, and these are the ones usually seen in any prescription. These numbers signify focal lengths in meters, as they indicate the focusing power required for the lens of your eye to see clearly. The general rule of thumb is that the further the number is from zero, the worse your eyesight condition is and the more correction will be needed. The higher the number, the more powerful the lens required to help you achieve 20/20 vision.

There are also standard abbreviations and terms that you will find in the prescription, such as:

Sphere (SPH)

The sphere shows the strength of the lens required to correct your eye focus. A negative sphere (-) refers to short-sighted prescriptions (Myopia). This means that you can see things close by, but objects at a distance are blurry. A positive sphere (+) refers to far-sighted prescriptions (Hypermetropia), meaning that you can see things at a distance, but the objects nearby are unclear.

Let’s break it down further with examples to help you better understand the numbers in your prescription. If your prescription says -1.00 in the OS and -4.00 in the OD, it means that your left eye has one diopter of nearsightedness, and your right eye has 4 diopters of nearsightedness, which will require stronger lenses compared to the left. Similarly, if it reads +1.00, this signifies 1 diopter of farsightedness, a small amount compared to +4.00.

Cylinder (CYL) and Axis

If there is a diagnosis of astigmatism, you will see more numbers in the prescription. Astigmatism simply means that the eye has difficulty focusing at certain angles. If this condition is present, aside from “SPH,” “CYL” and “Axis” are also noted in the prescription.

A cylinder or “CYL” is the lens power needed to correct for astigmatism. Axis is the positioning of astigmatism and this ranges from 1 to 180.

Here is an example of a prescription for eyes with the condition of astigmatism:

OS: -1.00 -1.00 x 180

OD: +1.00 -3.00 x 50

This prescription means that the person’s left eye has 1 diopter of nearsightedness with 1 diopters of astigmatism at an axis of 180 degrees. The person’s right eye has 1 diopter of farsightedness with 3 diopters of astigmatism at an axis of 50 degrees. It’s important to remember that these guidelines apply only to eyeglass prescriptions. Contact lenses require a different power due to their placement, given that they are put directly onto the eyes themselves.

If you have questions or concerns regarding your prescription, please reach out and contact us . We’ll do our best to help you and your family see the world as clearly as possible.

Choosing the Right Eyeglass Frames

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 14:37:54 GMT

Trying on a new pair of glasses is all fun and games until it comes time to make a decision. The frames may look may attractive on display but quickly become less-than-flattering when you try them on. The shape and the size can feel wrong, or they may just not fit, at all. So, how do you choose the best eyeglass frame for you? It can seem like a difficult task due to the wide variety of choices available, and do you really have to try on pair after pair until you finally pick the perfect fit? To narrow down your choices, you must understand your face shape and know the styles that compliment your individual features.

What is My Face Shape?

To know your face shape, pull your hair away from your face and look directly into a mirror. Take a close inspection of the overall shape of your face, or opt to trace your face on the mirror using a dry-erase marker. We have summarized the primary face shapes below. Use them to decide which shape fits your face description the most, and consider the available frames which best compliment it.

Inverted Triangle

An inverted triangle face shape is widest at the forehead and gradually narrows towards the jaw. If you have this face type, try to create a balance by having an eyeglass frame that is slightly wider than your forehead. Glasses with detailing at the lower portion of frames are good options, too.

Oval

An oval-shaped face is the most versatile shape because of its balanced proportions. Generally, people with this type of face shape have a slightly narrower jawline than forehead and have high and angled cheekbones. To maintain the balance of your shape, look for frames that are as wide as the broadest part of your face. It’s also best that you avoid any oversized frames.

Round

A round face shape has a wide forehead, a rounded chin, and full cheeks. This face has curved lines with the width and length in the same proportions and no angles. When looking for frames for this type of face shape, stay away from rounded and short glasses. Instead, look for frames that can make your face appear thinner and longer, such as square or angular, narrow eyeglass frames. Frames with transparent bridges are also good choices.

Square

A square face shape has a broad forehead, a horizontal jawline, with width and length of the face in roughly the same proportion. If this is your face type, aim to add contrast to your strong features. Make your face look longer and soften its angles by selecting narrow ovals and frames with more width than depth. Consider staying away from geometric and square-shaped glasses.

Rectangle

A rectangular face shape has elongated, angular lines with equally wide cheekbones, forehead, and jawline. You can soften your face's angular lines by choosing rounder frames that are a little thinner. Also, ensure that the width of your eyeglass frames are a bit wider than your cheekbones.

Heart

A heart-shaped face has a wide forehead, narrow chin, and rounded cheeks. When you have this shape, try to reduce the top of the face's apparent width by choosing frames that are wider at the bottom.

Knowing how to choose the right eyeglass frame doesn't have to be complicated. It can even be fun, especially if you showcase your personality through it. Knowing your face shape will help you to find the right frames and choose the one that makes you the happiest and most comfortable. Let Oculi Vision help you find perfect-fitting frames, today!

Eye Health Tips: Keeping Your Eyes Healthy

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 21:01:12 GMT

It is vital that you keep your eyes healthy and never take them for granted. Good vision keeps you on top of things, whether you are home, at work, or even behind the wheel. However, the 2018 National Health Survey revealed that 23 million American adults have some form of vision loss. While this number is certainly undesirable and also given the fact that it’s nearly impossible to avoid all eye issues, there are still many things which you can do to reduce your chances of vision loss or eye disease in the future. The following are some tips to help you maintain good eye health as you age.

1. Maintain Good Health Overall

Protecting your eye health starts with protecting your overall health. When you consciously make healthy choices and take care of yourself, you avoid diseases that can lead to eye problems, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Eat a balanced diet.

Be sure to eat plenty of green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, as well as oranges and other citrus fruits, oily fishes like tuna and salmon, pork, shellfish, and other protein sources like eggs, nuts, and beans.

Be physically active.

Exercising regularly can improve your cardiovascular health, thereby improving your eyes' oxygen level.

Don't smoke.

Smoking can lead to various medical problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage.

2. Safeguard Your Eyes

Unfortunately, there are everyday activities that are necessary, unavoidable, and put your eyes in harm's way. On days like these, make sure to protect your eyes from anything that can damage them.

Wear sunglasses.

Protect your eyes from the sun. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases your chances of eye problems. Wear the right pair of sunglasses when going out in the sun and look for those that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation.

Wear safety goggles.

If you have a job or play a sport that puts your eyes at risk, make sure to wear safety goggles. Safety goggles protect your eyes during certain activities like construction work, home repairs, lawn care, and sports like hockey, lacrosse, and racquetball. Use protective goggles for any hazardous activities involving dangerous airborne materials at home or on the job.

Rest your eyes often when looking at screens.

Looking at a computer or phone screen for too long is unhealthy. Make sure to take a break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Not taking rests can lead to eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and blurry vision.

You can protect your eyes by ensuring your glasses’ or contacts’ prescription is up to date. You may also consider wearing blue-light filtering glasses or installing anti-glare screens. Also, be sure that you aren’t straining when using a computer. Position yourself in a comfortable chair, move the screen so its top edge is slightly below eye level, and maintain about 24 inches from the screen.

Take extra precautions if you are wearing contacts.

If you wear contacts, make sure that you take the necessary steps to avoid eye infections. Wash your hands thoroughly when putting in or taking out your contact lenses, and have your contacts disinfected and replaced regularly.

3. Get Your Eyes Checked Regularly

Both adults and children need their eyes tested to check for vision or eye problems. Regular eye exams can help identify diseases as early as possible; the earlier they are detected, the easier they are to treat. There are two types of doctors one can see depending on their eye needs:

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors that can provide general eye care and perform medical and surgical interventions.
Optometrists are eye doctors that can provide general eye care, diagnose and treat most eye diseases but cannot do eye surgery.

Keep your eyes healthy with Oculi Vision ! Be sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle, take precautions, protect yourself, and have your eyes examined regularly. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding this subject.

Top 10 Child Eye Care Tips

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:36:45 GMT

Keeping eyes healthy is a major part of every child’s development. Understanding proper eye care essentials will help to ensure that vision is well-maintained long-term. Quality vision facilitates learning and reading comprehension in children, while eye problems can result in learning difficulties, especially when diagnosed and treated late. When eyes are properly cared for from birth, it increases the likelihood of good eyesight for life. Here are our top 10 child eye care tips.

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is vital for any child’s optimal growth and development. Children should be encouraged to eat less junk and processed foods, and a greater amount of nutritious foods, such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, fish, and meats. Also, green and yellow vegetables are great sources of vitamin A, an important nutrient for eye health.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water is crucial for proper hydration and eye maintenance. Younger children ought to drink at least 5 cups daily, depending on age, climate, and activities. This recommendation increases to at least 8 cups daily for 9-18 year-olds.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Maintaining healthy eyes requires a good night’s sleep. It’s recommended that young children get at least 9 hours of sleep each night to ensure that their bodies are rejuvenated and their eyes are refreshed. Sticking to a regular nightly routine and sleep schedule will help children fall asleep without difficulty.

4. Reduce Exposure to Gadgets

Digital devices and screens are now fairly common forms of entertainment. Kids love watching videos on smartphones and playing games on computers or consoles. However, prolonged exposure to these devices may result in eye strains because of constant focus on the screen. It may cause vision to degrade, leading to eye problems, even at a young age.

Daily screen time for children below five years old should be kept at less than an hour. Older kids can have an hour or two, at most, of screen time per day. Again, keeping a strict schedule will ensure that sleep and other physical activities are not affected.

5. Teach Kids Not to Rub Eyes

Children tend to rub their eyes excessively. It happens mostly when there are foreign bodies in the eyes or when irritation occurs. A disease called conjunctivitis (pink eye) may develop when germs from hands pass to the eyes. Teach children how to properly wash their hands and clean their eyes in order to reduce rubbing.

6. Give Eyes Regular Breaks

The eyes need rest too, and can easily get stressed. For children, it means taking a break from looking at blackboards in school, staring at books and notebooks, and using mobile devices and computers. Children are encouraged to incorporate in their daily schedule those activities that don’t need focus from the eyes, like strolling in the park or just lying down and listening to music.

7. Keep a Reasonable Distance from the TV

Watching TV, especially for a long time, can strain the eyes and result in various problems. Make it a rule for children to watch TV at a safe distance from the screen. Also, ensure that the room’s lighting is adequate and not merely dependent on the TV’s glow.

8. Protect the Eyes from the Sun and Other Hazards

Eyes must be protected from bright sunlight. Get your child some sunglasses that offer a high degree of UV protection. Proper eye protection should also be worn when playing basketball, football, baseball, etc. Swimming goggles should also be used when playing in the water. Small children must not be allowed to play with small, hard, or sharp toys—those offered to them must always be age-appropriate.

9. Childproof Your Home

When homes have small children, please keep them safe by securing all household cleaners and other chemicals far away from their reach. Accidental exposure to these chemicals can cause eye damage, not to mention other health problems.

10. See a Doctor Regularly

See your child’s doctor(s) for these purposes: first, for vaccination against measles, since this disease may increase the risk of blindness; secondly, for eye tests. Kids need annual eye tests to address eye-related problems that may or may not have manifested symptoms. Early intervention can help protect long-term vision.

Children are like living sponges, growing and learning by experiencing what’s around them. It’s important to give them proper direction regarding eye health in order to prepare them for adulthood. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s eyes, please don’t hesitate to contact us . We look forward to helping you and your family take care of your eyesight.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 17:05:48 GMT

It is common knowledge that one should visit their dentist every six months. We could also say the same thing about getting a general health screening each year. But, when it comes to eye health, it is relatively rare that people would know how often they should get an exam. So, how often should you be seeing your optometrist?

A good rule-of-thumb would be to get an eye exam annually. However, this recommendation is not a one-size-fits-all, as there are many factors to consider when maintaining a proper exam schedule. It is important that your optometrist is able to holistically assess the unique circumstances that you live with and account for them in their guidance.

Factors That Could Affect Your Eye Exam Schedule

1. Age

Visual assessment needs vary at different stages of life. To start, there is no fixed interval for infants yet, as long as they have had their first eye assessment with their primary care doctor before turning one. Then, the next eye exam would be at three years old or when they start school. This mainly checks for refractive errors that could interfere with learning.

Next, if there are no apparent issues, it would be best to start scheduling their eye exams at fixed intervals. For instance, you could have their eyes checked once a year until the age of 18. If there are corrections to be made, the optometrist may recommend a more frequent schedule. This is because drastic changes in their eyesight could occur during these developmental years.

During adulthood, this schedule may vary from once to twice a year depending on the presence of other risk factors. However, when you reach the age of 40, it is best to follow a strict yearly schedule because vision naturally declines with age and you will be at greater risk for age-related eye conditions.

2. Medical Risk Factors

Some medical conditions make one more vulnerable to visual impairment. For instance, diabetes could result in an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. This is when the blood vessels of the retina become damaged because of high blood sugar levels. Other medical conditions like high blood pressure and various heart conditions can also contribute to visual impairment.

3. Environmental Risk Factors

How often one should get an eye exam will vary if their job puts them at greater risk of eye damage. For instance, there is a greater risk of damage for those working around bright UV lights, hazardous environments, or conditions with excessive glare. Individuals who frequently experience these dangers should consider getting an eye exam more often to properly monitor their eye health.

4. Family History of Vision Problems

Genetic factors also play a role in some eye conditions. An article by Cleveland Clinic discusses eye conditions where genetic factors are known to contribute to issues. The article includes common conditions such as lazy eye, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Genetic factors are not the sole determinant, but it is best to closely monitor your eye health if you have a predisposition to such conditions because early diagnoses could lead to more effective treatments.

5. Presence of Symptoms

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, do not wait for your next eye exam. Schedule an appointment with your optometrist as soon as possible to address these concerns immediately.

Eye pain
Blurred vision
Dry, itchy, or red eyes
Seeing spots, floaters, or flashes of light
Seeing circles or halos around lights
Straining or squinting to focus
Other changes in vision

Regular e ye exams are just as vital as other health assessments (i.e., dentist appointments, general health evaluations). It’s not just about testing for 20/20 vision- following a proper eye exam schedule can provide countless long-term benefits. We use our eyes all day, every day, and our overall quality of life depends on how well we see the world around us. We encourage you to contact us at Oculi Vision to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. We’ll work together to consider your unique circumstances before recommending a personalized plan.

How to Maintain Good Eye Health

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 17:05:46 GMT

There are a lot of things to see in the world! Maintaining your vision to enjoy them all is a medical necessity. There are many factors out of our control that can lead to degenerating vision, such as aging, trauma, diabetes, or glaucoma. But for those things within our control, what can we do? What lifestyle changes can we make to help us maintain good eye health and sharp vision for the long term?

If you are a smoker with eye health concerns, quitting should be a top priority. Most of us are aware of the effects of smoking on our respiratory and cardiovascular systems, but don’t know about the specific ways in which smoking also impacts the eyes. Smokers experience Dry Eye Syndrome at elevated rates compared to nonsmokers, smoking-related high blood pressure is a risk factor for glaucoma, and smoking makes you more likely to develop cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Once you quit, your overall health and your vision are on their way to improving.

External factors can also diminish our ability to see clearly. Sun and UV damage are common concerns for many eye patients. Fortunately, sunglasses and wide brim hats provide easy and stylish protection for your eyes. Activities like welding, sports, and outdoor work can also contribute to eye trauma and decreased vision capability. Make sure you are choosing the right protective eyewear—like goggles or safety glasses—to greatly reduce the risk to your eyes.

Limiting computer and screen time is also a good idea. As we process the information we see in front of us on monitors and phone screens, our eyes can struggle to adjust. For eyes not accustomed to long periods of screen use, this can cause eye pain and headaches. Even those of us who regularly spend time working on a computer can suffer from eye strain symptoms like dizziness and blurred vision. Taking time away from our electronic devices contributes directly to better eye health, often with the added bonus of improving mental health, too.

Certain dietary factors also contribute to eye health. A healthy diet is about more than just maintaining your waistline; we often overlook the great benefits to our vision we get as well. Good eye health starts with essential vitamins and minerals including omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E. To get the best out of your eyes, make sure to eat foods like:

Leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach
Tuna, salmon, and other oily fish
Orange-colored fruits and veggies—think carrots, oranges, and sweet potatoes
Nuts, eggs, and legumes

A diet rich in these foods not only helps eye health but also contributes to decreased risk of obesity. This can ward off type 2 diabetes, the leading cause of vision problems and blindness in adults today.

Vision loss is a great concern for many eye patients, but it doesn’t have to be. Taking preventative measures like these helps to safeguard your eye health even as the years pass. By not smoking, protecting your eyes from external strain and damage, and eating well, you can take control of your eye health and maintain healthy vision that keeps you seeing the world the way you want.