How often should I get my eyes examined?

My vision is fine, why do I need to get my eyes examined if my insurance only covers one exam every 2 years?

My vision is fine, all I need is a new pair of contact lenses, why do I need an exam?

What is an Optometrist?

My last doctor said I couldn't wear contacts, can I?

My mother has glaucoma does that mean I will get it?

What is presbyopia?

Will my eyes get worse if I wear my glasses all of the time, if I don't?

How does diabetes affect my eyes?

How does high blood pressure affect my eyes?

What are floaters?

What does “legally blind” mean?

What is a Cataract?

What is a stye?

What is Astigmatism?

What is color blindness?

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

What is Dry Eye?

What is Farsightedness?

What is Glaucoma?

What is Lazy Eye?

What is Macular Degeneration?

What is Nearsightedness?

What is pink eye?

What is the purpose of dilation?

When should my child have their first eye exam?

Why are my eyelids always crusty?

Why do I need reading glasses after age 40?

Most doctors recommend yearly eye examinations for most people who wear glasses or contact lenses. This is especially true for young children and teenagers whose eyes can change faster than that of adults. Persons with certain eye conditions may need more frequent exams.

The fact that your vision has not changed or seems not to have changed is great, consider that a bonus. Often, small changes occur in less than a year that can make it difficult to see while driving at night or read the fine print in the paper. Adults should be examined yearly to screen for diseases that affect the eye which can usually be treated to minimize damage to the eye. It is not in your insurance companies best financial interest to pay for an exam every two years. If your insurance company covers all or part of your exam every two years, consider yourself fortunate. We don't think twice to cover our refrigerator or new computer, why not our most precious gift - our sight.

My vision is fine, all I need is a new pair of contact lenses, why do I need an exam?

Again, changes in visual acuity, e.g., 20/20, are not the only thing we look for in a contact lens evaluation. Contacts are medical devices and in the case of soft lenses, cover the entire cornea (the clear part of the eye in front of the colored part, iris). This is the only tissue in the body that breathes (receives oxygen) directly from the air. All other tissues receive their oxygen from the blood directly or indirectly. Therefore, if the contact becomes too dirty or tightens or does not fit properly, new blood vessels can grow into the cornea where they normally do not reside. This can cause scaring. In addition, dirty or tight lenses can increase the risk of eye infections as can sleeping in lenses.

What is an Optometrist?

Optometrists are primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.

Optometrists receive their 4 year college degree before earning their Doctorate in Optometry which is also a 4 year degree. The first two years of an Optometry degree are very similar to that of the M.D. degree. Courses include anatomy, neruoanatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, pathology, clinical medicine, optics and more. The third year concentrates more on diseases of the eye and specialty areas of optometry such as pediatrucs, sub-normal vision, geriatric optometry, contact lenses, pathology, electro-diagnosis and related clinical experience. The fourth year consists of concentrated clinical experience in hospital settings, private practice and institutional settings.

My last doctor said I couldn't wear contacts, can I?

Technology is improving every day. Many who could not wear contacts years ago now can. Many persons with astigmatism ( when the front of the eye is oval shaped) were told that they could not wear contacts in the past. Our doctors have been successfully fitting toric (astigmatic) lenses for years. We also fit all types of disposable and bifocal lenses.

My mother has glaucoma does that mean I will get it?

Glaucoma is a disease of the eye where the mechanism that regulates the pressure inside of the eye is not working. Pressure inside of the eye should be between 12 and 20 mmHG (mm of mercury). Persons with pressures over this should be suspect. However, this in no way means that someone with high pressures has glaucoma or conversely does it mean that persons with low pressures do not. Glaucoma has many facets. Further testing must be done to determine if any damage or loss of vision is present which would verify the presence of glaucoma. Optometrists treat glaucoma with drops that act by lowering the pressure in the eye. See our 3D library for more information on the home page.

What is presbyopia?

This as a normal condition of the eye that affects persons over 40 years young. There is a lens inside the eye that focuses light from far to near and anywhere in between. When we are young this lens is very strong and flexible. It can focus to about 3 inches in front of our nose. As we age, the ability of this lens to focus close diminishes and our "near point" moves away from our nose until it moves all the way out to where we can barely reach. Glasses can help focus the image and reduce eyestrain. See our 3D library for more information.

Will my eyes get worse if I wear my glasses all of the time, if I don't?

Wearing or not wearing your glasses will not make your vision worse. Often, when someone puts their glasses on and later removes them it appears as though things are blurrier than before. This usually is only an apparency as one gets use to seeing things clearly and then removes the glasses, things seem blurrier than before. Additionally, when one has a change in their prescription the glasses seem "funny" initially. This is because there is a perceived change in how the light is being focused on the retina and there is something called induced prism which makes objects appear to move.

How does diabetes affect my eyes?

Diabetes can affect the eyes in many ways; however the most serious eye problem associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy.  Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.  It occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels inside the retina, (the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). Retinal blood vessels damaged from diabetic retinopathy eventually can cause vision loss in two ways: 1) through development of fragile, abnormal vessels which leak blood, and 2) from fluid leaking into the center of vision, causing swelling (macular edema).  If the retinopathy progresses and becomes sight threatening, laser surgery is used in treatment.   To prevent this progression of diabetic retinopathy, people with diabetes should control their levels of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.   Diabetics should see their eye doctor for a dilated eye exam at least once a year, with more frequent exams required for those with existing retinopathy. 

How does high blood pressure affect my eyes?

High blood pressure causes the blood vessels in your eyes to constrict.  This narrowing may eventually cause obstruction of small vessels and lead to a lack of blood supply to certain areas of the eye (ischemia). High blood pressure can also increase the permeability of vessels, causing leakage and swelling in the retina and in severe cases, swelling of the optic nerve.  Arteriosclerosis (hardening/thickening of the blood vessel walls) can also occur, which results in compression of retinal veins at points where the arteries cross.  This compression can lead to a retinal vein occlusion, which has the potential to severely damage vision.  A comprehensive eye exam can often detect undiagnosed high blood pressure.  Treatment is to control the underlying high blood pressure under the care of your primary care physician.

What are floaters?

Floaters are little “cobwebs” in your vision.  They are usually small, dark, threads, which move as your eyes move; most noticeable when looking at a bright background like a blue sky.  Floaters occur as part of the natural aging process of the gel-like substance (vitreous) that fills your eye.  The remaining strands cast shadows seen as floaters.   Normally, floaters are simply an annoyance not requiring treatment. However, there are other serious causes of floaters, (including retinal detachment) which can cause blindness.  Anyone who experiences a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light should see an eye doctor immediately.

What does “20/20” vision mean?

20/20 vision describes visual acuity, or central vision.  It is a measure of the sharpness of central vision at 20 feet from an object.  It is expressed as a fraction, where the top number indicates the test distance, and the bottom number indicates the distance that an eye with “normal” vision would be able to read the same line.  For example, an acuity of 20/60 means that the patient was tested at 20 feet but could only see letters that a person with normal vision would be able to read at 60 feet away.  Many people think that 20/20 vision is “perfect” eyesight, but it is actually just “normal” eyesight.  It does not include depth perception, peripheral vision, or color vision.  It is also possible to have better than 20/20 vision.

What does “legally blind” mean?

A person is considered legally blind when their best corrected vision is less than 20/200 in their better seeing eye, or if their peripheral/side vision is restricted to less than 20 degrees in their better eye.  This means that a legally blind person cannot be corrected to any better than that, even with glasses or contact lenses.  It is important to remember that even if a person is legally blind, they will often still have some useful vision.  Legally blind people may also qualify for certain government and consumer benefits.  An eye doctor specializing in the care of low vision patients (generally considered to be patients with correctable vision of 20/70 or worse) may be able to prescribe visual aids or magnifiers to help legally blind patients maximize the use of their remaining useful vision.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens within your eye.  Most cataracts are related to aging and are very common.  Other types can be related to eye injury, medications, or health problems, like diabetes.   The most common symptoms of cataract are cloudy / “filmy” vision, glare and poor night vision.   Cataracts are detected during a regular eye examination.  New glasses or brighter lighting may improve the symptoms of early cataract.  If these measures are not enough, then cataract surgery is the only effective treatment. Wearing UV protective sunglasses, quitting smoking and good nutrition may help delay cataract formation.

What is a stye?

A stye (hordeolum) is a small lump that appears in the eyelid or at the base of an eyelash.  They typically result from a bacterial infection or clogging of the oil glands around the eyelashes.  They are usually harmless, although they do cause redness, tenderness, pain, and lid swelling in the affected area.  Often a small pimple-like area eventually appears, which may allow the stye to drain on it’s own.    See your eye doctor if the stye does not resolve quickly or is getting worse;  (you may have a chalazion or another condition that requires further treatment).   Treatment may include warm compresses and topical or oral antibiotics.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a vision condition that occurs when the front surface of your eye, the cornea, is slightly irregular in shape. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the back of your eye, the retina. As a result, your vision may be blurred at all distances. People with severe astigmatism will usually have blurred or distorted vision, while those with mild astigmatism may experience headaches, eye strain, fatigue or blurred vision at certain distances.Most people have some degree of astigmatism. A comprehensive eye examination will include testing to diagnose astigmatism and determine the degree. Almost all levels of astigmatism can be optically corrected with properly prescribed and fitted eyeglasses and/or contact lenses.

What is color blindness?

Color vision deficiency ( “color blindness”) means that your ability to distinguish some colors and shades is less than normal. It occurs when the color-sensitive cone cells in your eyes do not properly pick up or send the proper color signals to your brain. It is more common in men than women, and there are several forms. Red-green deficiency is by far the most common form; it is the inability to distinguish certain shades of red and green. A less common type is difficulty distinguishing blue and yellow. Since many learning materials are color-coded, it is important to diagnose color vision deficiency early in life, through a comprehensive eye exam. Color vision deficiency is usually inherited and cannot be cured, but those affected can often be taught to adapt to the inability to distinguish colors.

What is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Computer vision syndrome is a term that describes vision-related symptoms caused by prolonged computer use. Staring at a computer monitor can lead to a variety of symptoms including headaches, eyestrain, blurred vision, slow refocusing and dry eyes. Perhaps the easiest preventative measure is to take frequent visual breaks from the computer screen. Use the “20/20 rule”: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjust your workstation to minimize glare and maximize visual comfort. Make sure glasses and contact lenses are the correct prescription for working at a computer distance. Ask about anti-glare coatings for your glasses or your computer monitor. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently and use artificial tears as recommended by your eye doctor. Good eye care and simple changes in the work environment can alleviate many of these visual symptoms.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye means that your eyes either do not produce enough tears or that the tears you produce are not of sufficient quality. Often, dry eye is part of the natural aging process. Other causes include eyelid problems, certain medications, health conditions and environment. Your symptoms may include scratchy, burning, irritated or red eyes, and difficulty wearing contact lenses. Dry eye cannot be cured, but your eye doctor can prescribe treatment so that your eyes remain comfortable and healthy. Treatments may include artificial tear supplements, increased water intake, correcting environmental factors, using humidifiers, eyelid hygiene, punctal plugs and improved nutrition.

What is Farsightedness?

Farsightedness, or hyperopia, as it is medically termed, is a vision condition in which distant objects are usually seen clearly, but close ones do not come into proper focus. Farsightedness occurs if your eyeball is too short or the cornea has too little curvature, so light entering your eye is not focused correctly. Common signs of farsightedness include difficulty in concentrating and maintaining clear focus on near objects, eye strain, fatigue and/or headaches after close work, aching or burning eyes, especially after sustained concentration. A comprehensive eye examination will include testing for farsightedness. In mild cases of farsightedness, your eyes may be able to compensate without corrective lenses. In other cases, your doctor can prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses to optically correct farsightedness.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a term for a group of eye diseases usually associated with high pressure within the eye and resulting in damage to the optic nerve. This damage most commonly causes painless loss of peripheral vision, eventually leading to blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma can develop in anyone, but is more common in African Americans, people over the age of 60, and people with a family history of glaucoma. More than 3 million Americans suffer from glaucoma, but only half of them are diagnosed. This is probably because the most common form of glaucoma has no initial symptoms and vision may appear to be normal. Unfortunately, by the time a patient notices any symptoms, significant damage has already occurred and that vision already lost is gone forever. Glaucoma cannot be prevented, but the earlier it is detected through a comprehensive eye exam, the easier it is to treat successfully and preserve vision.

What is Lazy Eye?

Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is the loss or lack of development of normal 20/20 central vision in one eye that is unrelated to any eye health problem and is not correctable with lenses. It can result from a failure to use both eyes together. Lazy eye is often associated with crossed-eyes or a large difference in the degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness between the two eyes. It usually develops before age six. Signs and symptoms may include noticeably favoring one eye or an eye turn. Treatment for lazy eye may include a combination of prescription lenses, prisms, vision therapy and eye patching, or surgery. Early diagnosis (through a comprehensive eye examination) increases the chance for a complete recovery. If not diagnosed until the teen or adult years, treatment takes longer and is often less effective.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-Related macular degeneration ( AMD) is a disease that occurs when the macula (central portion of the retina) deteriorates, blurring the sharp, central vision used for activities like reading and driving. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans over 60. There are two forms: “dry” and “wet”. (The wet form is more severe but also more rare.) Your lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing AMD: quit smoking, protect your eyes from UV/sun, eat a healthy diet high in green, leafy vegetables and control your blood pressure. Regular eye examinations can detect early signs of AMD.

What is Nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness, or myopia, as it is medically termed, is a vision condition in which near objects are seen clearly, but distant objects do not come into proper focus. Nearsightedness occurs if your eyeball is too long or the cornea has too much curvature, so the light entering your eye is not focused correctly. Nearsightedness is a very common vision condition in the U.S. population. Nearsightedness can be hereditary, but there is also evidence that it may also be caused by the stress of too much close vision work. It normally first occurs in school age children. A sign of nearsightedness is difficulty seeing distant objects like a movie or chalkboard. Your eye doctor can prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses to optically correct nearsightedness. You may only need to wear them for certain activities, like driving or watching a movie, or they may need to be worn for all activities. Refractive laser surgery is also a possible treatment.

What is pink eye?

Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, (the thin protective membrane that covers the surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids). It is caused by bacteria, viruses, and exposure to allergens or environmental irritants. It is important to determine whether someone’s conjunctivitis is from allergy or from infection, since each condition is treated differently. Conjunctivitis caused by infection is highly contagious. The best way to prevent infectious conjunctivitis is to wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, and avoid sharing towels or eye makeup. If you suspect conjunctivitis, see your eye doctor.

What is the purpose of dilation?

When the pupil is functioning normally, shining a bright light into a person's eyes causes the pupil to constrict. Using dilating drops allows the eye doctor to use the instruments necessary to fully evaluate the back of your the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels without the pupil becoming smaller. The large, dilated pupil allows a much better view which allows the eye doctor to detect ocular conditions such as glaucoma, cataract, macular degeneration, and retinal defects, as well as ocular manifestations of systemic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Dilation can temporarily cause increased light sensitivity and may affect your ability to read or drive, but these effects wear off in a few hours.

When should my child have their first eye exam?

Vision disorders are a common pediatric health problem in the United States. It is estimated that nearly 25% of school age children may have vision problems. The American Optometric Association recommends that all children receive a comprehensive eye and vision exam to assess and treat any deficiencies in ocular health, visual acuity, refractive status and binocular vision prior to entering school. It is recommended that children have a comprehensive examination at age 3, and another examination before entering 1st grade. Additionally, the AOA is encouraging parents to have their infants between the ages of 6-12 months assessed at no charge by a participating Infant See eye doctor to assure healthy vision development during the critical early years. For more information on this public health initiative, visit www.infantsee.com.

Why are my eyelids always crusty?

Blepharitis is a general term for this condition of the eyelids and eyelashes. The most common symptoms are redness of the lid margins and crusty matter on the eyelids and lashes. It is among the most common and stubborn eye conditions and may result from low-grade bacterial infection, abnormalities in oil gland function of the lids, or poor eyelid hygiene. Those most susceptible include people with other skin conditions. Blepharitis can also contribute to other eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis and dry eye. Blepharitis can be controlled, but usually not cured. Treatment usually includes warm compresses and eyelid “scrubs”. In some cases, antibiotics are needed in treatment. Your eye doctor can instruct you in the proper use of these eyelid hygiene techniques to manage this chronic condition.

Why do I need reading glasses after age 40?

Presbyopia is a vision condition in which the normally flexible lens inside your eye loses its flexibility, which makes it difficult for you to focus on close objects. Presbyopia may seem to occur suddenly, but the actual loss of flexibility takes place over a number of years. Presbyopia usually first becomes noticeable in the early forties and continues to progress until the early sixties. Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process of the eye. It is not a disease and it cannot be prevented. Some signs of presbyopia include the tendency to hold reading materials at arm's length, and blurred vision, eye fatigue or headaches at near/reading distances. To correct this, your eye doctor can prescribe reading glasses, bifocals, “no-line” progressive lenses or contact lenses. You may only need to wear your glasses for close work like reading, but you may find that wearing them all the time is more convenient and beneficial for your vision needs.

Why does my eye twitch?

Mild twitching of an eyelid (myokymia) is a common phenomenon. Although this twitch can be annoying, it is almost always temporary and harmless, and not visible to anyone else. This type of lid twitch is usually associated with lack of sleep, stress, worry, or too much caffeine, and so addressing these root causes usually makes the twitch disappear without any further treatment. However, in some cases, more severe contractions where the eyelids completely close are possible. This can be caused for other reasons, such as irritation of the surface of the eye. In such cases, see your eye doctor for an examination.