While you may refer to winter as the wet time of year due to the precipitation, the atmosphere is actually a lot dryer in the winter, causing your eyes to be more sensitive.
Our optometry team is available to assist you in selecting the most effective options to keep your eyes hydrated during the arid winter season. While you are indoors you can help your eyes by using a humidifier. Eye doctors suggest using humidifiers in rooms with forced air heaters, which can decrease moisture from the air.
In addition, be careful to take extra protective measures once you step outside into the cold air. Keep your eyes protected by wearing a hat with a brim and wearing sunglasses. It is important to protect your eyes from the whipping winds to stop them from drying out your eyes.
If your dryness is persistent you may want to consider lubricating eye drops which may help manage the uncomfortable symptoms of dry eyes. Speak to your eye care professional before you start using eye drops to make sure they are suitable for your symptoms.
Remember that if you use contact lenses it’s important to be especially careful in the colder months. When able, make use of rewetting drops often. While you may not realize it, lenses are like sponges and must remain wet to maintain their shape. Once they loose moisture, the lenses can lose their form and cling to the eyeball, causing pain and blurriness. So do your eyes a favor and keep them lubricated this winter. With a little knowledge and planning, you can avoid the dangers of winter and keep your eyes clear and moisturized all season long!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
What does 20/20 mean
The term 20/20 is used to describe someone with perfect vision, but what do the numbers mean?
Everything optically is measured at a twenty foot distance(20 feet is considered optical infinity). However, exam rooms typically are not 20 feet long, but with the use of mirrors and certain types of charts, the same effect as a 20 foot distance in achieved.
20/20 means that what someone with perfect vision sees at 20 feet is the same as what you would see. 20/40 vision means that an object a person with perfect vision sees at 40 feet, you would have to walk up to 20 feet away to see the same object. The same is said for 20/50, 20/100, etc.
Most people have the potential to see 20/20 either unaided or with the help of glasses or contacts. However, some conditions are not correctable even with help. Macular degeneration, cataracts, retinitis pigmentosis, and many other conditions may cause a loss of vision that may lead to non 20/20 vision.
Legal blindness describes a condition that a person cannot achieve 20/200 vision or better in their best eye, even with glasses. Also, someone whose visual field is smaller than 20 degrees- this is applicable to conditions that impair your peripheral vision, such as glaucoma.
To make certain you are seeing as clearly as possible, schedule a yearly eye exam.
Everything optically is measured at a twenty foot distance(20 feet is considered optical infinity). However, exam rooms typically are not 20 feet long, but with the use of mirrors and certain types of charts, the same effect as a 20 foot distance in achieved.
20/20 means that what someone with perfect vision sees at 20 feet is the same as what you would see. 20/40 vision means that an object a person with perfect vision sees at 40 feet, you would have to walk up to 20 feet away to see the same object. The same is said for 20/50, 20/100, etc.
Most people have the potential to see 20/20 either unaided or with the help of glasses or contacts. However, some conditions are not correctable even with help. Macular degeneration, cataracts, retinitis pigmentosis, and many other conditions may cause a loss of vision that may lead to non 20/20 vision.
Legal blindness describes a condition that a person cannot achieve 20/200 vision or better in their best eye, even with glasses. Also, someone whose visual field is smaller than 20 degrees- this is applicable to conditions that impair your peripheral vision, such as glaucoma.
To make certain you are seeing as clearly as possible, schedule a yearly eye exam.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month
February has been announced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision awareness month. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss for seniors. AMD can result in low vision, a phrase eye doctors use to describe significant visual impairment that is sometimes called “legal blindness” or almost total blindness. For those with AMD, a degenerative eye disease, impairment is caused to the macula, the area of the retina which produces sharp vision in the central visual field. AMD causes a vision loss relating to the central vision zone, but usually leaves peripheral vision intact.
Vision Impairment from age-related macular degeneration usually comes on gradually and painlessly over time but occasionally disruptions in vision can be sudden. Early signs of low vision from AMD include blurred areas in your central visual field or very distorted vision. While AMD doesn’t have a cure yet, early detection and attention is known to stop advancement of the degeneration and therefore prevent vision loss. For individuals who have already lost acuity, a normal life can be maintained with low-vision rehabilitation.
Those at higher risk of AMD include individuals over 65, females, Caucasians and individuals with light eyes, severe farsightedness or family members with the disease. Controllable risk factors include smoking, hypertension, exposure to UV light and obesity. Paying attention to overall physical health and good nutrition has been determined to be preventative.
Those who suffer from low vision should speak to their eye doctor about low vision rehabilitation and specialized equipment that can support a return to favorite activities. After a proper eye exam, a low vision professional can recommend suitable low vision aids such as reading telescopes and non-optical adaptive aids such as special light fixtures and signatureguides.
Because so many eye diseases can be prevented by early diagnosis, eye doctors recommend a routine yearly eye exam for all ages. Your awareness can lead to prevention of vision loss.
Vision Impairment from age-related macular degeneration usually comes on gradually and painlessly over time but occasionally disruptions in vision can be sudden. Early signs of low vision from AMD include blurred areas in your central visual field or very distorted vision. While AMD doesn’t have a cure yet, early detection and attention is known to stop advancement of the degeneration and therefore prevent vision loss. For individuals who have already lost acuity, a normal life can be maintained with low-vision rehabilitation.
Those at higher risk of AMD include individuals over 65, females, Caucasians and individuals with light eyes, severe farsightedness or family members with the disease. Controllable risk factors include smoking, hypertension, exposure to UV light and obesity. Paying attention to overall physical health and good nutrition has been determined to be preventative.
Those who suffer from low vision should speak to their eye doctor about low vision rehabilitation and specialized equipment that can support a return to favorite activities. After a proper eye exam, a low vision professional can recommend suitable low vision aids such as reading telescopes and non-optical adaptive aids such as special light fixtures and signatureguides.
Because so many eye diseases can be prevented by early diagnosis, eye doctors recommend a routine yearly eye exam for all ages. Your awareness can lead to prevention of vision loss.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
This Month is National Glaucoma Awareness Month
To create awareness about the ''sneak thief of sight,'' January has been named National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the second leading source of permanent vision loss, responsible for 9%-12% of all cases of blindness in the United States and effecting nearly 70 million people around the world. Because the disease is initially asymptomatic, research shows that close to 50% of patients with glaucoma are not aware of their condition.
Glaucoma is the name for a group of ocular diseases that have the common affect of causing damage to the eye's optic nerve, which is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain. Although anyone can develop glaucoma, those at higher risk include African Americans above age 40, senior citizens, particularly of Mexican descent, and those with a family history of glaucoma.
Because blindness of this kind is irreversible, vision can only be preserved through early diagnosis. Symptoms of the disease, however, don’t present themselves before the optic nerve is damaged, and usually start with an irreversible loss of peripheral (side) vision.
Treatment for glaucoma is determined based on the disease characteristics and the extent of the damage, and may include medication (usually prescription eye drops) or surgery. While scientists are working hard to find a cure, it has not yet been found and therefore early diagnosis and treatment are vital to preserve vision. Since glaucoma is a chronic disease, it is important to find an eye doctor you trust.
According to a recent survey of the National Eye Institute of the NIH, while glaucoma was known to ninety percent of the people they surveyed, a mere eight percent were aware that it presents no early warning symptoms. Only a qualified optometrist can detect the early signs of glaucoma, through a comprehensive glaucoma screening. We suggest a yearly eye exam as your best defense against this potentially devastating disease. Don’t delay in scheduling a comprehensive eye exam before it’s too late.
Glaucoma is the name for a group of ocular diseases that have the common affect of causing damage to the eye's optic nerve, which is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain. Although anyone can develop glaucoma, those at higher risk include African Americans above age 40, senior citizens, particularly of Mexican descent, and those with a family history of glaucoma.
Because blindness of this kind is irreversible, vision can only be preserved through early diagnosis. Symptoms of the disease, however, don’t present themselves before the optic nerve is damaged, and usually start with an irreversible loss of peripheral (side) vision.
Treatment for glaucoma is determined based on the disease characteristics and the extent of the damage, and may include medication (usually prescription eye drops) or surgery. While scientists are working hard to find a cure, it has not yet been found and therefore early diagnosis and treatment are vital to preserve vision. Since glaucoma is a chronic disease, it is important to find an eye doctor you trust.
According to a recent survey of the National Eye Institute of the NIH, while glaucoma was known to ninety percent of the people they surveyed, a mere eight percent were aware that it presents no early warning symptoms. Only a qualified optometrist can detect the early signs of glaucoma, through a comprehensive glaucoma screening. We suggest a yearly eye exam as your best defense against this potentially devastating disease. Don’t delay in scheduling a comprehensive eye exam before it’s too late.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Dry Eyes
Dry Eye is a chronic problem that has irritated patients for years. This condition is responsible for redness of the eyes, excess tearing, inability to wear contact lenses, blurred vision, and general discomfort for a fair portion of the population.
Causes of dry eye include: decreased tear production(this may be a side effect from certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, steroids, hormone treatment, and certain birth control), eye irritation(for example,living in dry climates or working outside in windy conditions), systemic conditions(diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis to name a few-also, LASIK may cause dry eye), and also from working conditions(staring at a computer screen or excessive reading reduces blink rate, which decreases tear production).
Whatever the cause, dry eye can be an irritating problem that though seems benign, can have a profound effect on one's quality of life.
Luckily, there are many treatment options available.
1)Artificial tears come in many brands and formulas. They work well and for many people are all that are needed to remedy the problem. Over-the-counter and used as needed, they may provide the necessary relief to overcome dry eye symptoms.
2)Vitamins taken orally that contain omega-3 fatty acids, marine lipid oil, and flaxseed oil have also shown to improve the quality of tear.
3)Restasis- is a prescription drop(cyclosporin) that makes your body produce more tears. It is fairly new, but has had good results so far.
4)Punctal Plugs, are silicon or collagen plugs inserted into the puncta(tear drainage canal) to stop drainage of ones own tears.
Contact your eyecare provider for more information on dry eye.
Causes of dry eye include: decreased tear production(this may be a side effect from certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, steroids, hormone treatment, and certain birth control), eye irritation(for example,living in dry climates or working outside in windy conditions), systemic conditions(diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis to name a few-also, LASIK may cause dry eye), and also from working conditions(staring at a computer screen or excessive reading reduces blink rate, which decreases tear production).
Whatever the cause, dry eye can be an irritating problem that though seems benign, can have a profound effect on one's quality of life.
Luckily, there are many treatment options available.
1)Artificial tears come in many brands and formulas. They work well and for many people are all that are needed to remedy the problem. Over-the-counter and used as needed, they may provide the necessary relief to overcome dry eye symptoms.
2)Vitamins taken orally that contain omega-3 fatty acids, marine lipid oil, and flaxseed oil have also shown to improve the quality of tear.
3)Restasis- is a prescription drop(cyclosporin) that makes your body produce more tears. It is fairly new, but has had good results so far.
4)Punctal Plugs, are silicon or collagen plugs inserted into the puncta(tear drainage canal) to stop drainage of ones own tears.
Contact your eyecare provider for more information on dry eye.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Vision Screenings at School - How reliable are they?
Vision screenings at school have been found to be fairly reliable for detecting myopia(nearsightedness), but not as good for hyperopia(farsightedness) and astigmatism.
Screenings are best designed to check distance acuity, which is important in learning, but myopia is the least risk for reading and learning problems. Myopia is also the easiest to be identified without a screening. Trouble seeing the board from a distance or seeing the television from across the room is easier to spot than a near vision or focusing problem. Hyperopia and astigmatism can cause problems with reading and comprehension.
The American Optometric Association Practice Guidlines indicates that children should undergo comprehensive eye examinations at age 1, 3, 5, and every year or two after based on their optometrist's recommendations. It is important to remember that vision is not fully developed until age 10-12, and if a vision problem such as amblyopia isn't addressed before that time there is a chance of permanent vision loss.
Screenings are best designed to check distance acuity, which is important in learning, but myopia is the least risk for reading and learning problems. Myopia is also the easiest to be identified without a screening. Trouble seeing the board from a distance or seeing the television from across the room is easier to spot than a near vision or focusing problem. Hyperopia and astigmatism can cause problems with reading and comprehension.
The American Optometric Association Practice Guidlines indicates that children should undergo comprehensive eye examinations at age 1, 3, 5, and every year or two after based on their optometrist's recommendations. It is important to remember that vision is not fully developed until age 10-12, and if a vision problem such as amblyopia isn't addressed before that time there is a chance of permanent vision loss.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
OneSight - Dec. 7th, 2010
Today, in support of the national One Sight vision care program, Today's Eyecare and LensCrafters, both located in the Mall of Acadiana provided free eyeglasses to over 50 Acadiana residents. The program started this fall, with the doctors of Today's Eyecare (Dr.'s Broussard, Guidry, and Atkins) providing free comprehensive eye exams for the residents.
The Lafayette Lion's Club identified local residents in need and worked with LensCrafters and Today's Eyecare at the event. The One Sight program has been an ongoing project between local Eye Doctors, Lion's Clubs, and Luxottica, the parent company of Lenscrafters. To date, more than 250 million adults and children have been helped.
This marked the 15th year that Today's Eyecare and LensCrafters in the Mall of Acadiana have partnered for the event.
For more information and photos go to todayseyecare.com
The Lafayette Lion's Club identified local residents in need and worked with LensCrafters and Today's Eyecare at the event. The One Sight program has been an ongoing project between local Eye Doctors, Lion's Clubs, and Luxottica, the parent company of Lenscrafters. To date, more than 250 million adults and children have been helped.
This marked the 15th year that Today's Eyecare and LensCrafters in the Mall of Acadiana have partnered for the event.
For more information and photos go to todayseyecare.com
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