Q:
How often should I have an eye exam?
A:
Eye exams are recommended periodically, with the interval differing for various age groups. In the first three years of infancy, a child should have vision checked along with normal pediatric checkups. Between the ages of three and six (the most crucial period of eye development) an eye exam should be scheduled every year or two. After that period, until adulthood, exams should be scheduled as necessary. During the twenties one should have at least one exam. During the thirties one should have at least two exams. In the forties, fifties, and early sixties, one should schedule an exam every two to four years. For seniors, an exam every year or two is recommended.
In addition to these basic guidelines, people with a family history of eye problems, those monitoring a diagnosed eye disease, or those with certain high risk diseases such as diabetes, it is recommended that exams should be performed at least once a year. Regular eye exams are the best way to keep you seeing your world clearly.
Contact us today to schedule an eye exam!
Q:
I have been noticing strange things with my vision lately. What should I do?
A:
Any abnormal phenomena or changes in your vision can indicate a variety of possible problems. The key to preserving vision in the face of most eye diseases is early treatment. Thus it is important to consult an ophthalmologist if you notice anything unusual or any change in your vision. It could be a serious problem, or it could be inconsequential, but the peace of mind and the possibility of catching a serious problem early are certainly worth it.
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Q:
My vision is great; I have no problems. Is there any reason to have my vision checked?
A:
Many serious eye diseases often have little or no symptoms until they are well developed. The only way to diagnose a problem early in such a case is to schedule periodic eye exams. This is the best way to preserve the clearest vision possible for life.
Contact us today to schedule an eye exam!
Q:
Can extended computer use hurt my eyes?
A:
If you spend more than two hours per day on the computer, you could suffer from eye strain or computer vision syndrome (CVS). It is estimated that more than 70 percent of U.S. workers who use a computer daily suffer from CVS.
However, regular breaks from computer use can reduce your eye strain. Also, computer glasses can reduce the strain and improve the clarity of your computer screen. For more information on CVS and computer glasses, schedule an eye examination.
Q:
How can I avoid cataracts and glaucoma?
A:
Both glaucoma and cataracts are a natural part of the aging process. If left untreated, both can lead to vision loss. You may not be able to avoid the development of either of these serious eye conditions; however, if you continue with regular, comprehensive vision exams, your optometrist may be able to detect cataracts and glaucoma in their early stages. Early treatment and monitoring can reduce the risk of severe vision loss.
Q:
What's the difference between hyperopia, myopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism?
A:
Hyperopia, also referred to as farsightedness, is a refractive error that hinders the ability to focus on objects that are up close. Myopia, often called nearsightedness, is also a refractive error. Unlike hyperopia, myopia causes a problem seeing distant objects. Astigmatism (sometimes mistakenly referred to as "a stigmatism,") is one of the most common eye problems. Also a refractive error, astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.
Presbyopia is often confused with farsightedness because it causes a problem with up close vision. However, unlike myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, which are caused by the shape of the eye, presbyopia is an age-related vision problem caused by a loss of flexibility in the eye's lens.
All of these eye conditions can be treated with corrective eyewear.
Q:
What causes eye pain?
A:
There are many possible causes of eye pain and discomfort. However, sudden eye pain can be the sign of a serious eye condition. If you notice a sudden pain in your eye, seek medical care immediately.
If you are affected by mild discomfort or pain in your eye, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor for a comprehensive vision examination.
Q:
Is dry eye something I can fix with eye drops?
A:
If your eyes feel dry due to allergies or dry air, over-the-counter eye drops should help. However, if you are suffering from dry eye syndrome, which is a chronic condition, you should visit your eye doctor for treatment. In some cases, artificial tears (lubricating eye drops) may be prescribed, but there are also other treatments available based on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
Q:
How can I treat pink eye?
A:
It depends on the cause of your pink eye. If it is caused by bacteria, your eye doctor can prescribe antibiotic drops for your treatment. If a virus caused your pink eye, antibiotics will not help; you will just have to let the virus run its course. It could take a few days or possibly several weeks for pink eye to clear up.
No matter what the cause of your pink eye, you can use warm compresses on the outside of your eyelids and lubricating eye drops to provide some relief while you are waiting for the pink eye to clear.
Q:
Should I get contacts or glasses?
A:
Most common vision problems can be corrected with either eyeglasses or contact lenses; however, there are some situations that may restrict contact lens use. One of the greatest hindrances to using contact lenses is squeamishness with placing a lens into the eye.
If you are trying to decide between contacts or glasses, speak with your optometrist about which would be best for you.
Q:
What are transition lenses?
A:
Transition lenses, or photochromic lenses, are eyeglass lenses that darken automatically when exposed to sunlight. These glasses allow users to wear one pair of glasses for both indoor and outdoor use.
Q:
What are progressive lenses?
A:
Progressive lenses are eyeglass lenses that contain various focal powers similar to bifocals and trifocals. However, unlike the other multi-focal lenses that have lines separating the different corrective prescriptions, progressive lenses gradually change from one proscription to another. This allows for a more natural visual experience.
Q:
I have good vision. Do I still need to get my eyes checked?
A:
Yes. Eye examinations check your vision, but they also screen for eye diseases and other problems. It is recommended that you have an eye examination every one to three years, depending on your age and if you currently have prescriptive eyewear.
In general, eye exams are recommended: