Category: Articles

The Benefits of Orthokeratology (Ortho-k)

Home » Articles » Page 5

The Benefits of Orthokeratology

Would you like to see clearly without wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses but don’t want to have refractive eye surgery? Orthokeratology, commonly called ortho-k, may offer the perfect option for you.

Schedule An Appointment

What Is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology involves wearing special contact lenses at night that flatten your dome-shaped cornea. In addition to protecting your inner eye from debris, your cornea focuses light onto your retina. As light enters the eye, the cornea bends it to ensure that it’s focused directly on the retina.

Ortho-k is most often used to treat myopia (nearsightedness). If you’re nearsighted, light doesn’t quite reach the retina inside your eyes, which makes everything you see in the distance look blurry. Flattening the cornea with orthokeratology corrects this issue. In some cases, Orthokeratology can also be used to treat astigmatism and hyperopia (farsightedness).

When you take out your gas-permeable lenses in the morning, your cornea will retain the shape of the lens, allowing you to see well without glasses or contact lenses. Initially, you’ll wear a series of temporary contact lenses that will gradually flatten your corneas over several weeks. Once your optometrist is satisfied with your progress, you’ll wear the same pair of contact lenses every night. You’ll need to wear the contact lenses every night to maintain your results.

Orthokeratology Advantages

Ortho-k offers several benefits, including:

  • Excellent Vision. Ortho-k offers clear, crisp vision. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that it may take two weeks or longer to achieve sharp vision when you first start wearing the lenses at night.
  • A More Practical Solution. Forget about constantly cleaning your glasses or using rewetting drops to keep your contact lenses comfortable. When you opt for ortho-k, you won’t have to keep an eyeglass case or contact lens supplies with you during the day.
  • More Comfortable Eyes. Do you constantly remove your contact lenses because a speck of dirt or dust has found its way under your contact lens? When you only wear lenses at night, you won’t have to worry about contact lens discomfort in dusty or windy conditions.
  • Better Sports Experience. Imagine playing sports without worrying about damage to your glasses or the discomfort of a piece of debris under your contact lenses. Sports goggles and safety glasses also fit better when you don’t have to wear them over a pair of eyeglasses.
  • Slower Progression of Myopia in Children and Teens. Myopia tends to get worse as your child gets older. If nearsightedness becomes severe, your child may be more likely to develop other eye problems, like cataracts, retinal detachment, and glaucoma. Orthokeratology could prevent myopia from progressing too quickly, according to several research studies. A literature review published in Ophthalmology noted that orthokeratology may help slow nearsightedness and is most effective if it’s begun when children are 6 to 8 years old.
  • No More Worries About Your Glasses. You’ll no longer need to worry about misplacing your eyeglasses, losing them, or forgetting them when you travel if you correct your vision with ortho-k. There’s also no need for frequent eyeglass adjustments. Broken glasses are a definite possibility when you have active children. With orthokeratology, your kids can play without worrying that a stray ball or fall in the playground will damage their glasses.
  • Reversible Results. If you ever decide that you don’t want to continue with orthokeratology, you’ll simply stop wearing the lenses. Orthokeratology won’t permanently change your eyes or cause scars or damage.

Would you like to find out if orthokeratology is the ideal solution for your vision issues? Contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

Can Reading Glasses Improve Your Vision?

Home » Articles » Page 5

5 Tips for First-Time Contact Lens Wearers

Have you recently started wearing contact lenses? It’s not unusual to feel a little nervous when switching from eyeglasses to contacts. Whether you’re concerned about inserting your lenses or identifying an inside-out lens, our tips will make wearing contact lenses a positive experience.

Schedule An Appointment

Can Reading Glasses Improve Your Vision?

Sooner or later, most of us struggle with poor near vision. Luckily, presbyopia, the age-related vision error that causes near vision problems, can be corrected with a pair of reading glasses.

What Causes Presbyopia?

Presbyopia happens when the lens inside the eye stiffens with age. The lens, typically a flexible disc, bends light onto the precise point on the retina needed for clear vision. The retina serves as the eye’s processing center and turns light into electrical impulses. The brain creates the vivid images you see after receiving the impulses from the eyes.

The lens constantly changes shape as you shift your focus between near and for objects. The flexibility of the lens makes it possible to see clearly at near, middle, and far distances. Unfortunately, your near vision suffers when your lens becomes less flexible. As a result, items close to your eyes begin to look blurry. At first, holding a book or newspaper away from your eyes helps, but that trick stops working eventually.

While some lucky people manage to avoid presbyopia, almost 90% of people over 45 have it, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). The AOA notes that presbyopia could develop even earlier if you have cardiovascular disease, diabetes or multiple sclerosis, or take diuretics, antihistamines, or antidepressants regularly.

How Do Reading Glasses Help?

Reading glasses correct near vision. Prescription lenses boost your focusing power, making it possible to see clearly when you’re reading fine print or threading a needle. Unfortunately, reading glasses aren’t a one-and-done purchase. Stephanie Marioneaux, MD, an ophthalmologist and spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, told Consumer Reports that stronger reading glass prescriptions may be needed about every five years.

If you’ve never worn glasses before, it may take a little while to get used to the idea of putting on a pair of glasses for close work. Already wear prescription eyeglasses? Bifocal, trifocal, or progressive lenses might be good choices for you. Bifocals include two powers in one lens. The bottom half of the lens helps you focus on near vision, while the top contains a prescription for myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness.) Trifocals are similar to bifocals but contain three distinct lens powers. Progressive lenses combine two or three lens powers that gradually blend together without lines. If you choose trifocals, bifocals, or progressive lenses for your vision correction, you won’t necessarily need a separate pair of reading glasses, although some people find separate reading glasses helpful.

Are Over-the-Counter Reading Glasses Just as Good as the Glasses the Eye Doctor Offers?

Over-the-counter reading glasses, available at drugstores, discount department stores, and grocery stores, are a convenient option when reading the fine print is difficult. Although over-the-counter glasses can be helpful, they do have a few drawbacks, including:

  • Inaccurate Prescription. The over-the-counter reading glasses you pick may not contain the correct prescription. Lenses that are too weak or too strong can cause eyestrain or headaches. Over-the-counter reading glasses contain the same lens power in both lenses, but many people need slightly different prescriptions for each eye. If you buy drugstore reading glasses, your eyes may struggle to adapt to the incorrect prescription.
  • Poor Quality. Reading glasses are so inexpensive because they’re made of cheaper materials. The frames may break after a few months of light wear, the lenses might scratch easily, or the fit may be uncomfortable.
  • Few Choices. Style isn’t much of a consideration when it comes to reading glasses. Your choices will be limited to a few frame selections, none of which might complement your appearance.

When you visit the optometrist for reading glasses, you’ll receive a thorough examination and a prescription that accurately corrects the vision in both eyes. Exams aren’t just about testing your ability to see clearly. Your eye doctor will also look for signs of common vision problems, like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. If you have one of these conditions or diseases, your optometrist can discuss appropriate treatments.

With your prescription in hand, you can choose from hundreds of high-quality, attractive frame styles offered by your eye doctor. Prescription reading lenses are also better quality than those found in over-the-counter reading glasses. They’re less likely to scratch and may offer anti-glare, blue-light protection and other features.

Is it about time you considered reading glasses? Contact our office to schedule your comprehensive eye exam.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

What You Can Do to Protect Your Eyes in the Workplace

Home » Articles » Page 5

What You Can Do to Protect Your Eyes in the Workplace

Sprains, burns, cuts, and broken bones aren’t the only job-related injuries that can ruin a day at work. Depending on your job, you may also be at risk for several eye conditions or injuries. Reducing your risk can be as simple as following these tips:

Schedule An Appointment

Follow Safety Rules and Regulations

Although they may be inconvenient at times, safety rules and regulations are in place to protect employees from injuries. Disabling a guard on a piece of machinery or failing to wear your safety goggles could result in temporary or permanent loss of vision due to an eye injury. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, contact with machinery or objects were the most common causes of eye injuries that resulted in a missed day of work.

Make Eye Protection a Priority

Luckily, you can significantly lower your eye injury risk by wearing goggle, face shields, helmets, and other eye safety gear when you’re around machinery or chemicals. The American Optometric Association recommends wearing the appropriate eye protection if you might be exposed to chemicals or their fumes, radiation, lasers, bloodborne pathogens, or concrete, dust, metal, or wood particles.

Protecting yourself from bright light is important if you’re a welder or work outside for long periods. Twenty-five percent of welding injuries affect the eyes, according to Occupational Health & Safety Magazine. Exposure to flashes of light while welding can cause eye pain and swelling. Welding without adequate eye protection could increase your risk for damage to your retina, the light-sensitive tissues at the back of the eye.

Whether you’re welding or working outside, wear eye protection that blocks 100% of ultraviolet A and B rays. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet light may increase your risk of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and skin cancer around the eyes. If the safety glasses or goggles your job provides aren’t comfortable, your eye doctor offers several types of eye protection available in both prescription and non-prescription varieties.

Work with Screens? Breaks Are Important for Your Eye Comfort

According to an analysis by the National Skills Coalition, 92% of jobs now require digital skills. Although laptops, tablets, cellphones and other digital devices undoubtedly make working easier, staring at these screens for hours can cause computer vision syndrome. Symptoms of the syndrome include:

  • Eyestrain
  • Headaches
  • Blurry vision
  • Headaches
  • Dry Eye
  • Neck, Shoulder and Upper Back Pain

Dry eye is a particularly common complaint among screen users, due to decreased blinking. Blinking keeps eyes moist by spreading a layer of tears over the front of the eyes. Unfortunately, people tend to blink less often when viewing screens.

Reminding yourself to blink and taking short breaks can help your eyes stay moist and comfortable. Eye doctors recommend taking breaks every 20 minutes. During the break, look at an object about 20 feet in the distance for 20 seconds.

Improve Your Comfort with a New Pair of Glasses

Harsh office lighting and glare from screens can cause eye discomfort and even trigger migraines. Wearing glasses with special lenses can help you avoid headaches, eyestrain, and uncomfortably dry eyes. For example, rose-tinted FL-41 lenses might be a good idea if you suffer from computer vision syndrome, blepharospasm, or migraines or if you struggle with glare. The lenses filter some blue and green wavelengths that cause light sensitivity, while improving contrast.

Other options include computer glasses that provide clear vision at the optimum distance for viewing screens while filtering blue light and TheraSpecs lenses. Rose-tinted TheraSpecs lenses filter blue light and can be helpful for anyone who has migraines or experiences light sensitivity when exposed to fluorescent and LED lights.

Are your eyes fully protected at work? If not, we’ll help you find eyewear that will keep your eyes safe from injury while providing crystal clear-vision. Contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

The Importance of Vitamin A for Your Eyes

Home » Articles » Page 5

Are You Getting Enough Vitamin A? Why Vitamin A Is So Important for Your Eyes

Your eyes may suffer if your diet is too low in vitamin A. Vitamin A deficiency could affect your ability to see well at night and may even cause blindness in extreme cases.

Schedule An Appointment

The Role of Vitamin A in Vision

Vitamin A, found naturally in food, helps keep many of the body’s systems functioning normally, including the immune and reproductive systems. This vitamin is essential for the health of your organs, is necessary for normal growth and development, and is crucial for good vision.

Vitamin A helps you maintain good vision by:

  • Supporting Night Vision. Without vitamin A, it would be impossible to make rhodopsin, a substance required for good vision when it’s dark or the lights are low. In fact, night blindness can occur if the rod cells in the retina don’t have enough rhodopsin. The rods, along with the cone cells, are photoreceptor cells that absorb light. Rods are responsible for night vision, while the cones play an important role in color vision. Both of these photoreceptor cells are found in the retina, a layer of light-sensing tissue at the back of the eye.
  • Keeping Your Eyes Moist. Dry eyes are more than just an uncomfortable inconvenience. Severe dry eye can cause sores on the cornea that scar as they heal, interfering with clear vision. Vitamin A moistens the surface of the eye, helping you avoid dry eyes. Tear quality improved in research study subjects with dry eye after taking vitamin A supplements, according to a study published in Clinical Ophthalmology.
  • Preventing Blindness. Vitamin A moistens the entire eye, not just the cornea. Damage to the retina can occur if it becomes too dry due to vitamin A deficiency. Vision loss or blindness can occur as a result.
  • Stopping Infections. The tear film in your eyes washes away germs that could cause eye infections. If your eyes are too dry, you may be more likely to develop an infection that could threaten your vision. Luckily, vitamin A lubricates the eyes and reduces your risk of infections.
  • Treating Rare Eye Diseases. Vitamin A palmitate, an easily absorbable form of the vitamin, could slow the progression of retinitis pigmentosa, a rare, inherited disorder that affects peripheral (side) and night vision, notes the Foundation Fighting Blindness. A treatment made with a modified form of vitamin A also slowed retinal shrinkage in patients with Stargardt’s disease during a clinical trial conducted by Alkeus Pharmaceuticals. Stargardt’s disease, another rare, inherited eye disease, causes central vision loss. If you have either of these diseases or another eye disease, don’t start taking vitamin A before first speaking to your optometrist

Do You Know How Much Vitamin A You Need?

According to the National Institutes of Health, adult males need 900 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin A daily, while adult females need 700 mcgs. The recommended daily amount in children varies from 400 mcg at birth to 300 mcg from ages 1 to 3 to 600 mcg from ages 9 – 13. Teenagers need more vitamin A, as do pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Vitamin A, or substances called carotenoids that can be converted into vitamin A, are found in many foods, including:

  • Fortified Milk and Cereal
  • Liver
  • Carrots
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Squash
  • Broccoli
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Cheese
  • Apricots
  • Mangos
  • Cantaloupe

Most people get all the vitamin A they need from their diet. If you aren’t getting enough vitamin A, your doctor may recommend supplements. Although supplements can be helpful, they may cause health problems at high dosages. WebMD reports that too much vitamin A can cause headaches, confusion, vomiting, joint pain, dry skin, liver problems, birth defects, and bone density issues. Vitamin A may also interfere with some medications, like cancer drugs, birth control pills, and blood thinners.

Protect your eyes by eating foods high in vitamin A and scheduling yearly checks up with the optometrist. Call our office to make your appointment.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

Are Hearing Loss and Vision Loss Related?

Home » Articles » Page 5

5 Tips for First-Time Contact Lens Wearers

Have you recently started wearing contact lenses? It’s not unusual to feel a little nervous when switching from eyeglasses to contacts. Whether you’re concerned about inserting your lenses or identifying an inside-out lens, our tips will make wearing contact lenses a positive experience.

Schedule An Appointment

Could Hearing Loss and Vision Loss Be Related?

Wondering why you’re having trouble seeing and hearing? Unfortunately, these sensory problems can happen at the same time in some cases. Hearing and vision loss can be caused by several conditions and diseases, including:

Aging

Tiny hairs in your inner ear pick up sound waves and convert them to nerve signals. The brain receives the signals and changes them to sounds. As you grow older, hair cells die or become damaged, causing hearing loss.

At the same time, you may notice that your vision is worsening. Cataracts are a common age-related reason for poor vision and can be caused by years of sun exposure. Cataracts cloud the lens inside your eye and cause blurry, hazy vision, glare, and faded colors. Cataract surgery improves vision by replacing your cloudy lens with a clear, artificial lens.

Other conditions and diseases that can cause vision loss include glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration, a condition that affects central vision.

Illnesses and Diseases

Measles and chickenpox aren’t just harmless childhood diseases. In fact, these diseases can cause complications that affect hearing and vision. Vaccinating your children will help them avoid measles and chickenpox and the lifelong health problems these diseases may cause.

Diabetic retinopathy, a common cause of vision loss in people who have diabetes, happens if your blood sugar levels are too high for too long. When diabetes is poorly controlled for a long time, blood vessels in the retina leak, interfering with vision. The retina captures light rays as they enter the eye and sends them to the brain for processing.

The brain receives incomplete information from the eyes when blood vessels leak, which causes blurry vision or dark spots. Special injections or laser treatment can stop leaks and shrink swollen blood vessels in the retina.

Diabetes-related hearing loss could be caused by damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the ear. If you already have hearing loss, carefully controlling your blood sugar will prevent further damage, while hearing aids and other assistive devices will make your life easier.

Other diseases and conditions that may cause both hearing and vision loss include cancer, Lyme disease, brain tumors, and meningitis.

Rare Conditions

Usher Syndrome, a rare genetic condition, affects both hearing and vision. Vision loss occurs due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP), an eye disease that causes night blindness and peripheral (side) vision loss. Vision changes often start during adolescence and slowly worsen.

Hearing loss related to Usher syndrome is caused by abnormal hair cell development, according to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Loss of hearing may occur at birth or during childhood. Depending on the severity of the syndrome, learning sign language and using hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive devices can be helpful.

Low vision aids and assistive devices can help you make the most of your vision if you have Usher syndrome. Vitamin A supplements could slow the progression of RP, according to the National Eye Institute. However, the supplements should only be taken with the approval of your doctor, as too much vitamin A can cause health problems.

Other rare conditions that may affect vision and hearing include deafness myopia syndrome and Susac syndrome. Deafness and myopia syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes severe nearsightedness and moderate to profound hearing loss. Susac syndrome is an autoimmune condition that damages small blood vessels in the ears, eyes, and brain

Down Syndrome

Hearing and vision loss may also affect children and adults with Down syndrome. As many as 75% of children with the syndrome have hearing loss and more than 50% have problems with vision, according to Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Cataracts, myopia (nearsightedness), strabismus (crossed eyes), or involuntary eye movements can impair vision. Cataract surgery, eyeglasses, and hearing aids help people with Down syndrome improve their hearing and vision.

Other Causes

A major head injury could damage your eyes and ears, leading to temporary or permanent vision and hearing loss. Temporary or permanent hearing loss might also occur after taking certain medications, like chemotherapy drugs and some antibiotic and cholesterol medications.

Have you noticed a change in your vision? Contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

The Advantages of Prescription Sunglasses

Home » Articles » Page 5

The Advantages of Prescription Sunglasses

Sunny days pose a problem if you wear prescription glasses. Drugstore sunglasses don’t offer the clear vision you need, while clip-on sunglass lenses rarely fit well. Fortunately, prescription sunglasses are available.

Schedule An Appointment

Why It’s So Important to Wear Sunglasses

Exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVA) light from the sun raises your risk of skin cancer and wrinkles. However, your skin isn’t the only part of your body damaged by the sun. Your eyes may also suffer if you don’t protect them from the intense rays of the sun.

UVA and UVB light exposure may increase your chances of developing these eye diseases and conditions:

  • Cataracts
  • Macular Degeneration
  • Growths on the Whites of Your Eyes
  • Photokeratitis (sunburn on the cornea, the clear, rounded tissue on top of your iris and pupil)
  • Cancer In or Around the Eyes
  • Wrinkles Around Your Eyes

The longer your eyes are exposed to the sun, the greater your risk is for developing an eye disease or condition. You might develop cataracts or age-related macular degeneration after decades of sun exposure, while photokeratitis could happen in a single afternoon if you don’t wear sunglasses on the beach or ski slope.

How You Benefit from Wearing Prescription Sunglasses

What’s not to like about wearing eyeglasses that help you see more clearly and offer built-in sun protection? When you wear prescription sunglasses, you’ll enjoy these benefits:

  • Complete Protection from the Sun’s Rays. The prescription sunglasses your optometrist offers block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Unfortunately, drugstore sunglasses don’t always provide 100% protection. Although the glasses shade your eyes, you may still be at risk for developing eye diseases in the future.
  • No More Glare. Sunglasses reduce glare that makes driving or playing sports difficult on sunny days. Ask your optometrist about adding polarized lenses to your prescription sunglasses. These lenses have a special coating that filters out the light that causes glare. Polarized lenses are very helpful for outdoor sports and activities, like boating, golfing, water sports, and skiing. Although polarized lenses offer the ultimate sun protection, the American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that they may make it a little harder to see screens that use liquid crystal displays (LCD), like your car’s control panel, your cellphone, and automatic teller machines.
  • A More Comfortable Experience. Prescription sunglasses are ideal for outdoor activities ranging from gardening to hiking to walking along a beach. Since the glasses are adjusted to fit your face, you won’t have to worry that they’ll slip or rub when you’re climbing a hill or watching dolphins play in the ocean.
  • A Variety of Styles. Your optometrist probably offers many types of sunglass frames, in addition to the usual frame selection. Sunglass and polarized lenses can be added to most frame styles, allowing you to choose sunglasses that not only shade your eyes but also look stylish. Want a little more protection from the sun? Wraparound styles prevent the sun’s rays from entering at the sides, top, and bottom of the frames. If you don’t want to keep switching from your everyday glasses to your prescription sunglasses, consider transition lenses. These prescription lenses darken in response to sunlight and lighten when you return inside.
  • Multiple Tints. The tint is one of the most important aspects of your new sunglasses. Tints aren’t just an aesthetic choice but can sharpen your vision on sunny days. Gray lenses reduce glare and help your eyes feel less fatigued, while green lenses improve contract and reduce glare and eyestrain, according to All About Vision. Wearing brown sunglass lenses could improve contrast, particularly on cloudy days. Your eye doctor can discuss the benefits of tints with you and help you choose the best tint for you.
  • Better Sports Experience. A second of glare can ruin your day if you participate in an outdoor sport, like baseball, pickleball, tennis, golf, skiing, or snowboarding. Prescription sunglasses prevent glare, ensuring that you don’t miss a crucial shot. For extra protection, ask your optometrist to add prescription sunglass lenses to shatter-proof goggles.

Need a pair of prescription sunglasses or goggles? Call our office to schedule an exam with the optometrist or stop by to take a look at our frame selection.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

What Are Ocular Migraines and How Can They Be Prevented?

Home » Articles » Page 5

Could Ocular Migraines Be Responsible for Temporary Vision Changes?

Ocular migraines, also called retinal migraines, cause temporary vision loss and changes in your vision. Although the symptoms don’t last long, ocular migraines can be frightening, particularly if you’ve never experienced these visual symptoms before.

Schedule An Appointment

What Happens During an Ocular Migraine?

During an ocular migraine, you might notice a blind spot in your central vision, see flashing or twinkling lights, notice a change in your peripheral (side) vision, or experience temporary blindness. In most cases, ocular migraines only last an hour or less, although permanent vision loss can happen in rare cases. The vision changes occur in one eye and happen due to a temporary reduction in blood flow to the retina at the back of the eye.

The retina serves as the processing center for the eye and changes light rays into electrical signals. The brain uses the information contained in the signals to produce images. When blood flow in the retina is restricted, the brain may not receive complete information from the eyes. As a result, you may notice vision loss or disturbances during an ocular migraine. You may get a headache about an hour after the vision symptoms occur, although it’s possible to experience an ocular migraine without a headache.

You’re more likely to develop ocular migraines if you have a family history of migraine, are female, or are between the ages of 30 and 39, according to the American Optometric Association.

What Should I Do if I Experience Ocular Migraine Symptoms?

Sudden changes in vision can also occur if you have glaucoma or other serious eye diseases. If you haven’t been diagnosed with ocular migraines and suddenly experience a loss of vision, call your optometrist immediately or go to the emergency room.

If you have been diagnosed with ocular migraines, the changes to your vision should improve soon. Your doctor may prescribe medications that prevent migraines, which can reduce the number of retinal migraines you experience.

Avoiding migraine triggers can also be helpful. In fact, the same things that cause classic migraines may also trigger retinal migraines. These include:

  • Foods and Drinks. Some people have more migraines after eating chocolate or drinking wine or caffeinated beverages, while others aren’t affected by foods and drinks. If you notice that a particular food or beverage triggers your retinal migraines, avoiding it could reduce the number of migraines you get.
  • Stress. Exercise, meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and making time for fun can lower stress and anxiety and help keep your retinal migraines under control.
  • Bright Lights. Eighty percent of migraine patients have photophobia (light sensitivity), according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Any type of light can trigger migraines, including sunlight and light from digital screens. Overhead lights, particularly flickering fluorescent lights, may also cause migraines. The American Migraine Foundation suggests wearing sunglasses inside and outside if you’re sensitive to light. Yellow, orange, or red tinted lenses can be helpful if blue light from screens is a problem, according to the Foundation.
  • Eyestrain. Eyestrain may also be a contributing factor in migraines. Taking frequent breaks when reading or viewing digital screens can help you avoid eyestrain.
  • Smoking. Smoking or the smell of smoke can trigger migraines and make them worse. Any product that contains nicotine, whether it’s a cigarette, vape cartridge, or cigar, may cause migraines. If you’ve been thinking about quitting smoking, now is the perfect time to give up the habit.
  • Other Triggers. Other migraine triggers include high blood pressure, exercise, dehydration, and high blood pressure. If you’re female, you may have noticed that you experience migraines more often during your period or shortly before it starts.

What’s the Difference Between Retinal Migraines and Migraines with Auras?

Although both types of migraine cause vision disturbances, migraines with auras start in the brain and usually affect both eyes. In contrast, retinal migraines start in your eye and only affect one eye.

An aura is a set of symptoms you may experience an hour before a migraine starts. Migraines with aura symptoms can include blind spots, colorful stars or jagged lines, flashing lights, numbness, tingling, trouble speaking, or muscle weakness. Avoiding triggers and taking over-the-counter or prescription medication can also be helpful if you have migraine with aura.

Any change in your vision should be evaluated as soon as possible. If you’ve experienced vision loss or vision disturbances, even if the symptoms were only temporary, contact our office.

Sources:

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

Common Eye Symptoms

Home » Articles » Page 5

Common Eye Symptoms

Common Eye Symptoms

Vision is one of our most vital senses, and maintaining healthy eyes is essential for everyday life. Because the visual system is delicate and complex, any unusual eye symptoms should be evaluated promptly by an eye care professional. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to protecting your vision and overall eye health.

Damage to sensitive parts of the eye, congenital abnormalities, or age-related changes can all contribute to vision loss. Since vision loss often occurs gradually, regular eye exams and vision screenings should be part of everyone’s wellness routine.

Schedule An Appointment

Below are some common eye symptoms that may indicate the need for professional care:

Vision Problems

Glare and Halos
Glare and halos are visual disturbances that occur around bright lights. Halos appear as bright circles surrounding a light source, while glare causes light to interfere with your vision, making it difficult to see or causing your eyes to water. These symptoms can happen anytime and may signal underlying issues.

Peripheral Vision Loss
Peripheral vision is your ability to see objects outside your central line of sight. Loss of peripheral vision may indicate serious eye conditions and should be evaluated promptly.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia occurs when one eye fails to develop proper vision because the brain ignores its input. This condition can affect binocular vision and requires early treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

Blurry Vision
Blurriness can have many causes, from minor issues to serious eye diseases. A thorough eye exam is necessary to diagnose and treat the root cause effectively.

Double Vision (Diplopia)
Double vision happens when two images of a single object are seen, often due to misalignment of the eyes or neurological issues. It’s important to have this symptom evaluated, as it can affect daily activities.

High Order Aberrations
Most eyes have minor imperfections known as aberrations. Sometimes these can impact vision quality and may require specialized correction.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Hyperopia causes difficulty focusing on close objects while distant vision remains clearer. It is common and usually correctable with glasses or contact lenses.

Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia leads to clear near vision but blurred distance vision. It is the most common refractive error and can be managed with corrective lenses.

Ocular Migraine
Ocular migraines cause temporary visual disturbances, often lasting up to 30 minutes, and can affect one or both eyes. Unlike typical migraines, these usually do not involve pain.

Other Common Eye Symptoms

Dry Eye
Occurs when tear production is insufficient or tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, burning, or a gritty sensation. Common in contact lens wearers and those who have had refractive surgery.

Tearing (Epiphora)
Excessive tearing can be caused by blocked tear ducts, allergies, or irritation. Persistent tearing warrants evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Swollen Eyelids
Eyelid swelling may result from allergies, infections, or blocked glands. It can be painful or painless and should be assessed if persistent.

Eye Discharge
A small amount of discharge upon waking is normal, but excessive or discolored discharge may indicate infection or other eye conditions.

Red Eye
Redness is often due to dilated blood vessels and can be harmless or signal serious conditions like infections or glaucoma, especially if accompanied by pain or vision changes.

Ptosis (Drooping Eyelid)
Ptosis is the drooping of the upper eyelid and may partially cover the eye. It can be congenital or develop later in life and might impact vision.

Photophobia (Light Sensitivity)
Sensitivity to bright lights can arise from various causes including dry eye, corneal problems, migraines, or infections. Persistent photophobia should be evaluated.

Flashers and Floaters
Floaters are tiny shapes drifting in your vision, and flashes are brief bursts of light. While often normal with aging, sudden increases may indicate retinal issues requiring urgent care.

Eye Twitching
Usually harmless and linked to fatigue, caffeine, or stress. Persistent twitching should be checked to rule out neurological causes.

Eye Pain
Any sharp or persistent eye pain, especially with redness or vision changes, requires immediate attention to rule out injury or infection.

Don’t ignore changes in your vision or eye comfort.
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule a comprehensive eye exam promptly. Early detection and treatment can help maintain your eye health and preserve clear vision.

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

Common Eye Conditions

Home » Articles » Page 5

Common Eye Conditions

The human visual system is an amazing network of anatomical structures. Even minor changes in the structure or function of a component of the eye can significantly affect visual acuity. Because we rely so heavily on our visual system to receive and process information, it is essential to keep the eyes functioning properly. Visit your eye care provider regularly for a vision check-up to ensure any of these common eye conditions are diagnosed and treated properly.

Schedule An Appointment

Regular visits to your eye care provider are key to detecting and treating eye conditions early—before they lead to long-term vision loss. If you experience any sudden or unusual changes in your vision, schedule an eye exam immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your vision for life.

Age-Related Eye Conditions

  • Macular Degeneration
    A leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60, macular degeneration affects the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management.
  • Cataracts
    Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s lens, often developing with age. While common, they can significantly impact vision and quality of life. Fortunately, cataract surgery is safe and effective.
  • Presbyopia
    Presbyopia is the gradual loss of near vision that typically begins in your 40s. It occurs as the eye’s lens becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on close objects.

Eye Diseases That Threaten Vision

  • Glaucoma
    Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased eye pressure. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, but early treatment can slow its progression.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy (optional addition if relevant)
    Caused by complications of diabetes, this condition damages blood vessels in the retina and can lead to severe vision loss if not managed properly.
  • Retinal Detachment
    A detached retina requires urgent care. Warning signs include flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over your vision. Without treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss.

Eyelid & Surface Eye Disorders

  • Blepharitis
    Chronic inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, crusting, burning, and blurry vision.
  • Stye & Chalazion
    Both are bumps that appear on the eyelid. A stye is a painful infection, while a chalazion is a blocked oil gland that grows more slowly and is usually painless.
  • Bell’s Palsy (Eye-related symptoms)
    Facial nerve paralysis can impact blinking and eyelid control, risking eye dryness and corneal damage.

Irritation, Infections & Inflammation

  • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
    Highly contagious, this inflammation of the conjunctiva is common in children and spreads quickly. Most cases are viral or bacterial and treatable.
  • Corneal Ulcer
    A painful open sore on the cornea, often caused by infections or contact lens misuse. It requires prompt treatment to prevent scarring or vision loss.
  • Acanthamoeba Keratitis
    A rare but serious infection, typically linked to improper contact lens hygiene. Prevention is key, as the condition can lead to vision loss.
  • Ocular Rosacea
    An inflammatory condition that affects both the skin and the eyes, causing redness, irritation, and swollen eyelids.
  • Uveitis
    Inflammation of the eye’s middle layer. It may be linked to infections, autoimmune diseases, or occur without a clear cause.
  • Optic Neuritis
    An inflammation of the optic nerve often associated with multiple sclerosis or autoimmune conditions. Symptoms include pain and sudden vision loss.

Vision Development & Function Issues

  • Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
    A misalignment of the eyes where they do not work together, leading to double vision or reduced depth perception.
  • Nystagmus
    An involuntary, rapid movement of the eyes that can cause vision instability and difficulty focusing.
  • Astigmatism
    A common condition where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision.
  • Color Blindness
    A hereditary or acquired condition that affects color perception—most commonly red-green confusion.
  • Low Vision
    Describes significant visual impairment that can’t be fully corrected with glasses or contacts. It may result from various eye conditions.

Occupational & Lifestyle-Related Conditions

  • Computer Vision Syndrome
    Prolonged screen use can lead to eye strain, dryness, headaches, and blurred vision. Proper screen habits and regular breaks can reduce symptoms.
  • Eye Occlusions
    Blockages in the blood vessels of the eye can lead to sudden, severe vision loss. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate care.
  • Pinguecula & Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)
    Growths on the white part of the eye due to UV exposure or irritation. While usually benign, they can interfere with vision if they grow large.
  • Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
    A broken blood vessel in the eye can look alarming but is generally harmless and resolves on its own.

Eye conditions range from mild to vision-threatening, but many are manageable with early detection and proper care. If you’re experiencing symptoms or due for a check-up, schedule an appointment with your optometrist today.

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More

Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Home » Articles » Page 5

Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

For most people, the lens of one or both eyes gradually becomes cloudy, causing blurry or dim vision. This common eye condition is known as a cataract. According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of Americans either develop cataracts or undergo cataract surgery by the age of 80. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, but importantly, they do not spread from one eye to the other.

Schedule An Appointment

How Cataracts Progress

Cataracts typically worsen over time. In the early stages, your vision may still be clear enough to be managed with glasses or contact lenses. However, as the cataract progresses, vision may become so blurred that it interferes with daily activities such as driving, reading, or recognizing faces. When cataracts begin to impact your independence or quality of life, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.

Laser Cataract Surgery: Advanced Treatment for Clear Vision

The only definitive treatment for advanced cataracts is surgical removal of the clouded lens. Laser cataract surgery is a modern, precise method that offers enhanced safety and accuracy compared to traditional surgery.

Our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced laser technology to carefully remove the cataract-diseased lens and prepare your eye for a new artificial lens implant. This outpatient procedure is generally quick, safe, and effective at restoring vision.

[Read more about Laser Cataract Surgery]

Cataract Surgery Procedure: What to Expect

During cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery typically takes less than an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Your eye will be numbed, and the pupil dilated before the procedure. Most patients experience little discomfort and rapid recovery following surgery.

[Read more about Cataract Surgery]

Choosing the Right Intraocular Lens (IOL)

After cataract removal, selecting the appropriate intraocular lens is essential to restoring your vision and addressing your specific visual needs.

There are various IOL options available, including lenses designed to correct astigmatism, near vision, and distance vision. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the best IOL choice tailored to your lifestyle and vision goals.

[Read more about Intraocular Lenses]

When to Schedule Cataract Surgery

If you notice increasing blurriness, glare while driving, difficulty reading, or trouble recognizing faces, it may be time to consult your eye care professional about cataracts and possible surgery.

Early evaluation ensures the best outcome and helps preserve your vision for years to come.

Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and find out if cataract surgery is right for you. Regain clear vision and improve your quality of life with expert care and advanced technology.

Read more eye health articles!

Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.

Read More