Can LASIK Treat Astigmatism?

If you are struggling with astigmatism, you may have the question, “Can LASIK fix astigmatism”. Well, there is good news for you. Studies show that LASIK is an effective solution for correcting vision in case of low to moderate astigmatism. This means that if you are in the same range of astigmatism, this treatment can help you too, and bring a new level of clarity to your everyday life.

In this blog post, we will discuss in detail how LASIK addresses astigmatism.

Before that, let’s take a look at what astigmatism is.

What Is Astigmatism?

The human eye has a clear and curved front surface, known as the cornea, and a transparent structure behind it, which we generally call the lens. If the cornea or lens has an irregular shape or is curved more in one direction than the other, a refractive error occurs, causing a vision issue. This condition is known as astigmatism.

If this condition happens because of the irregular shape of the cornea, it is known as corneal astigmatism. On the other hand, if that happens because of lens misshapen, it is called lenticular astigmatism.

Remember, it can affect you at any age, and you can correct it with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Common symptoms of this vision issue include blurred or distorted vision, eye strain, headache, or poor night vision. Though this condition is hereditary, it can also develop after an eye injury, eye surgery, or other eye disease.

Can LASIK Fix Astigmatism?

To be very precise, LASIK can cure astigmatism. Though it does not eradicate the problem, it is a long-term solution. LASIK surgery works by changing the shape of the cornea with a laser. It transforms the cornea into a more rounded form. This helps to focus light more on the retina, thus improving your vision. Once the cornea is altered, your eye surgeon will close the flap, and your incision will heal over time.

This procedure lasts about 30 minutes. You remain awake during it, but your doctor may give you sedative medications to keep you relaxed. According to a study, almost 90% of patients with astigmatism get 20/25 vision after the procedure. This vision eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses and helps you perform daily life activities better.

What Are Different Methods of LASIK Eye Surgery for Astigmatism?

Different Methods of LASIK Eye Surgery for Astigmatism

There are different methods to treat astigmatism with LASIK. Let’s throw light on them:

This is the most common method of LASIK and has the highest success rate. In this method, your eye surgeon uses a microkeratome to create a flap in your cornea. They lift the flap to reshape the underlying cornea with a laser, and the flap is repositioned. This traditional technique can treat many different cases of astigmatism.

In this method, doctors use a femtosecond laser to create flaps in the cornea instead of a microkeratome. This creates a more precise and customized corneal flap. Though this method can also treat different types of astigmatism, it is mostly used for patients with thinner corneas.

For patients with complex astigmatism, this method is the most suitable one. It uses advanced wavefront technology to get a detailed map of the eye’s surface. This is how doctors customize the LASIK treatment according to the individual imperfections of a person.

What Types of Astigmatism Can Not Be Fixed with LASIK?

Generally, people who are ideal candidates for LASIK can also proceed with astigmatism. However, there are rare cases where LASIK is ineffective in curing astigmatism.

Astigmatism Can Not Be Fixed with LASIK

If you suffer from significantly high astigmatism i.e. greater than 4.00 diopters, it is very challenging to correct with LASIK. In such cases, other surgical options like toric intraocular lenses are recommended.

If you develop astigmatism after previous eye surgeries like cataract surgery or any other, it becomes difficult to correct it with LASIK. For such cases, you should go through additional corneal surgeries to get rid of this condition.

If your vision is unstable, you can not treat astigmatism directly. In fact, first, you should focus on stabilizing your vision, and then you can have LASIK for astigmatism.

So, if you suffer from any of these critical astigmatism conditions, you should always choose the best alternative treatments according to your specific visual needs.

How Long Does It Take to Recover after Getting LASIK for Astigmatism?

Though some people notice an improvement in their vision within the first week of LASIK, your eyes generally take three to six months to recover fully. During this period, you should avoid all activities that strain your eyes and continue using artificial tears. Moreover, be regular with all your follow-up appointments and meet your eye surgeon in a timely manner to learn about the progress of your healing process.

Conclusion

To conclude, you must be aware now that LASIK can fix astigmatism. Undoubtedly, it is a highly effective solution that reduces your dependency on contact lenses and glasses. It cures a wide range of astigmatism, but there are some severe cases in which you need alternative treatments to deal with this vision issue. So, it is always better to go for a thorough evaluation by a well-reputed eye care center, such as Cedar Park Vision, to get the best advice and treatment.

Eye Care Tips

Wearing sunglasses isn’t just useful for hiding a mulled-wine hangover… low winter sun can be dazzling and just as damaging to your eyes as Mykonos in July.

Heading to the slopes? Snow and ice are reflective, too, so the sun’s rays can reach your eyes from below as well as above. Good quality, protective sunglasses are a must.

Many of us have noticed that since spending more time indoors over the last couple of years, our screen time has increased. While there is no evidence of long-term damage to vision from prolonged screen use, it can cause tired eyes and symptoms of eye strain.*

DRY EYES are extremely common in the colder months, often worsened by central heating and increased screen time. Blinking less frequently, as we do when staring at a screen, means blinking regularly and using lubricating eye drops (if advised by your Optometrist) will help.

Time outdoors has been shown to reduce myopia (short-sightedness) progression among children. Chasing your child around the garden can also relieve stress—or increase it, depending on what they’re carrying in their hands!

Following the above advice is a great start, but the most fundamental tip is to have regular eye tests: for most people, every 2 years, unless specified by your Optometrist or general practitioner. Your Optometrist will check both the health of your eyes and your vision to determine whether you need glasses.

Here are a few tips to reduce computer-related eye strain:

Conclusion

Prioritize finding a practice that is accessible, innovative, and highly-regarded optometrist in the community.

To uphold this standard, Cedar Park Vision is committed to offering top-tier eye care services. Let’s get you started with an eye examination –  schedule your eye exam today!

Essential Tips for Choosing an Optometrist in Cedar Park in 2024

As kids, we get our eyes checked regularly to ensure our vision is sharp. 

Sadly, only 13% of adults in the United States report having an eye exam, yet over two-thirds of the general population reports having vision problems. 

Either the importance of eye health is being undersold, or some may believe that clear vision seems unattainable. 

However, with the right provider, many can achieve success!

At Cedar Park Vision, a leading provider of comprehensive eye care services, we aim to exceed your expectations of optimal vision and eye health. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the essential tips you need for choosing the right optometrist in your area. 

Although most optometrists undergo the same training, their specializations within eye care and the scope of their practice can vary. 

Resultantly, credentials, experience, services offered, and patient reviews should all be taken into account when choosing your ideal optometry provider. 

Credentials and Experience

When choosing the right eye care provider, it’s essential to verify their qualifications and credentials. 

In order to be considered an optometrist, you must complete a four-year undergraduate program, followed by 4 years of optometry school. 

After the Doctor of Optometry degree is obtained, general optometrists can further their training in specific residency programs, such as pediatrics or neuro-optometry. 

The optometrists at Cedar Park Vision are thoroughly trained in a number of conditions and procedures, such as glaucoma, astigmatism, corneal disease, and more. 

For instance, Dr. Kimberly Wampler is a well-renowned therapeutic optometrist, possessing an additional certification in optometric glaucoma. 

If you’re interested in LASIK, Dr. Jeff Wineinger uses the technology to manage ocular diseases and injury in the community, with 30 years of experience informing his expert care. 

Services Offered

Top optometrists should offer a catalog of services that address the health and aesthetic aspects of eye care. 

However, it is important to make sure that your optometrist is practicing within their scope, or the range of services they can provide based on their training. 

At Cedar Park Vision, you can expect to receive excellent, comprehensive eye care. For vision correction, LASIK and contact lens fittings are available. 

However, innovative approaches to eye care are explored at this optometric center, such as OptoMap Retinal Imaging. 

From diagnostic testing to cutting-edge treatments, the staff at this optometry office is dedicated to providing their patients with the highest degree of eye care.

Patient Reviews and Reputation

Any time you’re interested in purchasing something, it’s wise to check out customer reviews to ensure you’re purchasing the right item. 

The same goes for eye care! Although patient reviews won’t always be positive, if the overwhelming majority are, you’ve found a provider worth visiting.

In the Cedar Park community, Cedar Park Vision is renowned for providing advanced, high quality care to those that need it. 

In fact, a quick glance at their reviews will reveal the glowing reputation of the doctors and staff at Cedar Park Vision. 

The doctors are reported to be friendly and knowledgeable, while aiming to create a welcoming experience for all patients. Additionally, the facilities are reported to be immaculately clean, which is critically important for a doctor’s office to provide.

Accessibility and Convenience

Having an optometrist that is convenient to visit is crucial. Cedar Park Vision offers many different appointment times during the day, so you’re able to easily fit the optometrist into your schedule. 

Also, the location of Cedar Park Vision is easy to access for its patients, as there is a large parking lot on site. This practice wants to make sure going to your eye exam is as seamless as possible!

Technology and Equipment

In order to provide optimal eye care, optometrists must be willing to evaluate and improve their approach to care. 

In the medical field, technology is improving at an unprecedented rate, which requires physicians to adopt the status quo, or be left behind. 

Fortunately, Cedar Park Vision utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology. From their LASIK protocol to new retinal mapping software, you’re in tremendously capable hands. 

Conclusion

When choosing an optometrist in Cedar Park, you should never settle for less. 

Prioritize finding a practice that is accessible, innovative, and highly-regarded in the community. 

To uphold this standard, Cedar Park Vision is committed to offering top-tier eye care services. Let’s get you started with an eye examination –  schedule your eye exam today!

 

References:

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/majority-us-adults-eye-problems-no-exams-survey

https://optometriceducation.org/pdfs/Residency-One-Pager-July2020-003.pdf

https://cedarparkvision.com/team/

https://cedarparkvision.com/services/comprehensive-care/

https://cedarparkvision.com/services/innovative-treatment/optomap-retinal-imaging/

https://cedarparkvision.com/

https://www.facebook.com/CedarParkVision/

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-doctors-optometrists-ophthalmologists

Should I Be Worried About Eye Floaters? Understanding This Common Visual Phenomenon

Introduction

Have you ever noticed small dots, specks, blobs, threads, or squiggly lines drifting across your field of vision? These visual disturbances, known as eye floaters, are a common experience for many. While they are usually harmless, it’s important to understand what causes them and when they might signal a more serious issue.

What Causes Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humour, the gel-like substance filling the eye. As we age, this fluid becomes more liquid, leading to the formation of clumps or strands. These strands cast shadows on the retina, creating the appearance of floaters.

Common causes of eye floaters include:

When Should You Be Concerned?

Most eye floaters are benign and don’t require immediate medical attention. However, there are certain signs that should prompt a visit to your eye doctor:

These symptoms could indicate more serious conditions like retinal detachment, which requires urgent medical care to prevent permanent vision loss.

Eye Care Specialists in Austin

At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we have a team of experienced optometrists ready to assist with all your eye care needs. Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring eye health and addressing issues like eye floaters. If you’re experiencing changes in your vision or have concerns about eye floaters, don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.

Conclusion

While eye floaters are usually not a cause for alarm, being aware of their causes and potential warning signs is key to maintaining good eye health. Remember, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, it’s best to consult with an eye care professional immediately.

Prioritizing eye health through regular examinations is a proactive step towards ensuring overall well-being.

Need to book an eye exam? We’d be happy to help determine the best schedule for your eye examinations and safeguard your vision and health.

The Vital Role of Regular Eye Examinations in Maintaining Holistic Health

Introduction

In the realm of health maintenance, regular eye examinations are often underestimated. They are not merely about updating prescriptions for eyewear but are integral to overall health and well-being. The recommended frequency of these examinations varies, typically every two years, but it can be more frequent depending on individual health status, age, and risk factors for eye diseases. Understanding the importance of these tests is crucial for proactive health management.

Comprehensive Health Assessment Through Eye Exams

Detecting Systemic Health Problems

Eye examinations can be the first line of defense in identifying systemic health issues. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological disorders often manifest early signs in the eyes. For example, diabetes can lead to changes in the blood vessels of the retina, signaling the onset of diabetic retinopathy. Timely detection through an eye exam can lead to early intervention, which is crucial for managing such systemic conditions effectively.

Ongoing Monitoring for Eye Health

For individuals with existing eye conditions such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism, macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts, regular eye exams are essential. These conditions can progress or change over time, and consistent monitoring is key to adapting treatment plans and preserving vision.

Essential for Children’s Development

Eye tests are particularly important for children, ideally before they commence school. Undiagnosed vision problems can significantly impact a child’s learning and developmental progress. Regular eye exams ensure that any vision issues are identified and addressed promptly, setting the foundation for successful educational and developmental experiences.

Professionals Dedicated to Eye Care

Eye examinations are conducted by a range of eye care professionals:

Diverse Range of Eye Tests

A comprehensive eye examination encompasses various tests to evaluate different aspects of vision and eye health:

Specialized Assessments for Children

Children’s eye tests are vital for identifying conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed or turned-out eyes), and other common pediatric eye problems. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent long-term vision impairment.

Contact Lens Consultations

For those considering contact lenses, comprehensive consultations are necessary. These include fitting the lenses, educating on proper care, and regular follow-ups to ensure eye health is not compromised.

Advanced Testing for Specific Conditions

Patients with specific eye conditions or systemic diseases like diabetes may require more advanced testing, such as perimetry (visual field tests), retinal imaging, and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Conclusion

Regular eye examinations are a cornerstone of holistic health care. They play a pivotal role in not only maintaining optimal vision but also in serving as a window to detect broader health issues. Regular eye tests are essential for everyone, from children to adults, especially for those with existing eye conditions or systemic health issues.

Prioritizing eye health through regular examinations is a proactive step towards ensuring overall well-being.

Need to book an eye exam? We’d be happy to help determine the best schedule for your eye examinations and safeguard your vision and health.

Unveiling the Unseen: How Regular Eye Exams Can Detect Serious Medical Issues

In a world where health is wealth, regular eye exams play a crucial role in maintaining one’s overall well-being. The saying “the eyes are the windows to the soul” holds a deeper truth; they are also windows to one’s health. Eye exams can unveil serious medical issues, some of which may be life-threatening if left undetected. This article delves into the serious medical issues caught with an eye exam and underscores the importance of making regular eye exams a part of your healthcare routine.

Uncovering the Hidden: Medical Issues Detected Through Eye Exams

Eye exams are not just about checking your vision; they are a gateway to detecting underlying health conditions. Here are some serious medical issues that can be caught early through a comprehensive eye exam:

1. Diabetes:

Diabetic retinopathy, a condition where blood vessels in the retina bleed or leak fluid, is a common sign of diabetes. Detecting this condition early can help manage diabetes and prevent further complications.

2. High Blood Pressure:

Unusual bends, kinks, or bleeding in the retinal vessels can indicate high blood pressure, allowing for early intervention to prevent more severe cardiovascular issues.

3. Heart Disease:

Evidence of ischemia or lack of blood flow in the eyes can be a sign of heart disease. Eye exams can detect clogged arteries and other cardiovascular issues before they escalate.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Eye exams can reveal redness, severe pain, and inflammation in the eyes, which are common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Cancer:

Certain types of cancers, including skin cancer and leukemia, can manifest signs in and around the eyes, which can be detected during an eye exam.

6. Brain Tumors:

Swelling in the retina or optic nerve can indicate a brain tumor, making eye exams a crucial step in early detection and treatment.

7. Thyroid Disorders:

Protruding eyeballs and retracting eyelids can be signs of thyroid disorders, which can be identified during an eye exam.

8. Multiple Sclerosis:

Inflammation of the optic nerve and abnormal eye movements can be early signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

The Imperative of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are a cornerstone of maintaining good health. They provide a non-invasive way to check for serious medical conditions, often before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body. By detecting these conditions early, individuals can seek timely medical intervention, which can be life-saving.

Moreover, consulting with experienced ophthalmologists and having routine eye exams can help maintain clear vision and prevent serious eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. It’s recommended that adults get a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years, or more frequently if they have existing eye conditions or are at risk for certain systemic diseases.

Conclusion

The importance of regular eye exams extends beyond ensuring good vision. They are a crucial part of a proactive healthcare approach, unveiling serious medical issues that might otherwise remain hidden. So, the next time you think about skipping your eye exam, remember, your eyes are not just the windows to your soul, but also to your health.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Get Chlorine Out of Your Eyes

Although swimming is an excellent way to exercise, there are some downsides to a dip in the pool. For one, opening your eyes while underwater can damage the outer cells that protect your cornea.

Swimmers may experience burning and irritation if this happens. That’s why it’s important to know how to get chlorine out of your eyes and how to take precautions for next time.

Here’s what to do if you’re experiencing red or irritated eyes after swimming in the pool.

Does Chlorine Hurt Your Eyes?

Some people can open their eyes underwater and may do so to get a clearer picture of where they can swim without bumping into someone or something. However, we advise against opening your eyes underwater without protective goggles for several reasons.

Chlorine is a powerful chemical meant to kill germs. Adding it to pools is essential to avoid bacteria growth, which can cause infections and other health problems. Yet, while chlorine is a vital sanitizer for the water, it can also cause damage to our eyes.

As we mentioned, chlorine can harm the outer cells protecting your cornea, also known as the tear film on your eyes. Unfortunately, removing that protective barrier makes it easier for germs and bacteria to reach your eyes.

Generally, opening your eyes for a second won’t cause much harm. However, keeping your eyes open for extended periods puts you at risk as you’re exposing them to chemicals and contaminants.

Additionally, some people swim with contacts in, but this is a bad idea! Chlorine can damage the surface of your contact lenses and create the perfect place for bacteria. Contaminated contact lenses sit directly against your eyes, and are likely to cause infections.

To maintain healthy eyes, it’s best to remove your contacts, keep your eyes closed while underwater, or buy a pair of swimming goggles.

How to Get Chlorine Out of Your Eyes

So, what if you recently went swimming and you already opened your eyes underwater? If so, you may experience some symptoms, such as:

Generally, these symptoms should only last a few hours after visiting the pool.

To clear your eyes, first flush them with cool, clean water. You can also use a sterile eye wash solution, which is usually made of 99% purified water.

If you’re using an eye wash solution with a nozzle applicator, simply lean back and squeeze the bottle over your eyes as needed. Make sure to avoid touching the tip of the applicator to the eye’s surface.

When using an eye cup, start by rinsing the cup with the solution and then filling half of it. Pour the cup over your eye and hold it as instructed. Tilt your head back and open your eyes, looking around to ensure the solution reaches your entire eyeball.

If you’re dealing with light sensitivity, consider moving to a darker area until the symptoms pass. Applying a cold compress soothes irritation and also promotes tear production.

If your symptoms persist for more than a few hours, it can indicate a bigger problem.

The Formation of Chloramines and Their Impact on Eye Health

When talking about swimmers’ eye caused by chemical impurities in the swimming pool, chloramines are a common harmful chemical irritating the eyes.

As we know, chlorine is used as an oxidizer in pools, which reduces the effects of other infection-causing agents. After entering the water, chlorine turns into free chlorine and combines with ammonia (add in water due to urination and perspiration) to make chloramines or combined chlorine.

This chloramine becomes the reason for eye-stinging, burning eyes, and respiratory disorders. If you feel your eyes pulsating chlorine after swimming, it may indicate high chloramine levels.

The pool’s legally allowed amount of chloramine is 1mg/L, which should not exceed half of free chlorine.

To control chloramine concentration in the pool, encourage the use of a toilet and take a bath with soap before swimming. Moreover, a high amount of chlorine is also helpful in reducing it.

Signs of Infection

After getting rid of chlorine by flushing your eyes and waiting for symptoms to pass, your eyes should return to normal. If the pain or irritation doesn’t go away, you may need to seek medical treatment. Unfortunately, opening your eyes underwater can sometimes result in an eye infection.

Signs of an eye infection include:

You may also have a sensation that something is in your eye, even though you can’t see anything. This is referred to as Acanthamoeba keratitis, and it can cause severe pain or vision loss if left untreated.

Another common type of infection is conjunctivitis or pink eye. This virus can survive even in chlorinated pools.

How to Spot Unsafe Pools: Environmental Indicators to Watch For

Before swimming in a pool, it is essential to observe the cleanliness and maintenance. Poorly maintained pools can harbor bacteria, algae, or fungi, leading to serious issues like a pink eye from swimming pool water or chlorine burn from pool exposure.

Firstly, if the pool has a strong chlorine smell, it showcases the high concentration of chloramines, which can lead to chlorine allergy symptoms or red eyes after showering post-swim. Cloudy or murky water or slimy surfaces often indicate algae or biofilm in the water.

Moreover, unpleasant odors or visible debris like leaves or plastic bags on the water’s surface point to unhygienic conditions. If you notice broken surfaces or malfunctioning equipment, it suggests the pool is not well-maintained.

By observing all these signs, you can estimate the safety of a pool for swimming.

Tips for Eye Care While Swimming

To prevent problems in the future, you should take the right precautions before jumping into the pool. If you do, you can beat the summer heat while also caring for your eyes.

If you wear contacts, remove them before getting into the water.

Get a pair of swimming goggles for you and your kids. Make sure that they’re properly fitted and snug against your face. There should be enough suction to keep water out.

Proper fit and suction are key to avoiding water inside the goggles, so you may need to test a few pairs. Keep in mind that there are many types of swimming goggles as well. For instance, there are recreational types and designs meant for competition.

Always rinse your eyes with clean, non-chlorinated water after swimming. It’s a good idea to take a shower and use an eyewash to remove the chlorine from your eyes, skin, and body.

Using lubricating artificial tears can also calm irritated eyes and restore some protection.

5 Proactive Steps to Prevent Eye Irritation in Pools

After understanding the basic reasons for eye irritation after swimming, it is time to know the best precautions to help you prevent eye irritation and other problems.

When to Contact an Eye Doctor

If your eyes still hurt or you notice discharge after 24 hours, you should contact your eye doctor. Proper eye health includes getting regular eye exams. Your doctor can look for signs of infection and damage.

If you swim often, you should ask your doctor for advice and tips to prevent irritation and infection in the future.

Generally, you should get an exam every few years depending on your age and any eye or vision problems you may have. If you’re a frequent swimmer, you should make this a priority.

Protect Your Eyes

Swimming is a great way to cool down or to get your exercise, but you should always remember to protect your eyes. Even if you don’t open them while underwater, it’s a good idea to flush them after swimming in a chlorine pool. If you want to know how to get chlorine out of your eyes, use these tips to help prevent infection and protect your vision.

If you suspect you might have an eye infection or you’re dealing with pain that doesn’t go away after chlorine exposure, schedule a visit with us at Cedar Park Vision. Set up your appointment today.

How Often Do You Need an Eye Exam?

Did you know that about six million Americans suffer from some sort of vision problem? An additional one million Americans have some form of blindness.

Many vision problems could be prevented or caught early on if you were to get regular eye exams.

That might bring up more questions, though- how often do you need an eye exam? What happens if you don’t get an eye exam? How else can you protect your eye health?

In this article, we’ll answer all of those questions and clear up any of your confusion. Protecting your eye health is important, but it isn’t as scary as it seems. Keep reading, and you’ll see just how simple it can be.

How Often Do You Need an Eye Exam?

You’ve probably heard a variety of answers to this question. You need an eye exam every five years, every 2 to 4 years, yearly- what’s the correct answer? The truth is that the answer is different for everybody depending on your age and eye condition.

Children between the ages of three and eighteen need an eye exam at least once a year. If you’re an adult or a teenager who is no longer in school, you need an exam at least every two years.

However, if you’re over sixty-five or at high risk, you should get a yearly eye exam. High-risk patients include those with a history of eye problems, those who have dangerous jobs, and those who take prescription medication with vision risks.

The frequency of when you need eye exams varies so much because your eyes change at different rates throughout your entire life. Making sure you’re having eye exams through these changes will allow you to catch potential problems.

What Happens During an Eye Exam?

During an eye exam, your doctor will first ask you questions to establish your medical history. If you have glasses or contacts, you should bring them so the doctor can examine your prescription.

Your doctor will perform a variety of different tests. Some of these will test your visual accuracy, while others will measure your inner eye pressure. These tests will inform your doctor if your eyes are healthy or not.

Your doctor can use these tests to decide if you need follow-up tests or not. Sometimes you may need multiple tests to rule out possible eye conditions.

Your eye doctor will also determine if you need glasses or contacts. If you already have glasses or contacts, they’ll decide if you need a stronger prescription.

Having an eye exam might feel scary, but it’s really not as complex as it seems. Eye exams are an easy way of maintaining your eye health and your vision.

What if You Don’t Take an Eye Exam?

Skipping your eye exam is a bad idea, so don’t try and tell yourself it’s not a big deal.

Eyes are one of the biggest indicators that something might be wrong with your body. All sorts of diseases come with early indicators that can be found in the eyes. One such disease is diabetes.

Small changes in your eyes can also indicate neurological problems. They can even be used to detect a brain tumor.

In addition, many eye diseases take a long time to develop visible symptoms. Eye exams can catch these diseases early, so they can be managed.

Lastly, your eyes change quickly. Even if your vision and eye health were fine last year, they may not be fine this year. Catching vision changes early on means you can get glasses or contacts, protecting you from eye strain.

If you can’t make the eye appointment you had, it’s better to reschedule than skip it.

Should You Come In Early?

Sometimes, you might notice vision problems that you think can wait until your next exam. Sometimes they can wait, but sometimes these seemingly small vision problems can mean an eye emergency.

The biggest eye emergencies to be aware of are chemical contact and foreign bodies within your eye. If you’ve gotten anything in your eyes, you should be speaking to your optometrist as soon as possible.

However, there are other problems to be aware of. If your vision suddenly worsens or blurs, that’s an indicator of a possible eye emergency. So are tunnel vision and dark spots in your vision field.

Lastly, you should also contact your eye doctor if you’re experiencing large amounts of eye discharge. This could be an indication of a problem you didn’t even know was there.

If you’re wondering if something counts as an eye emergency or not, put in a call to your eye doctor. They’ll tell you if you should come in or not.

Protecting Your Eye Health

In between eye exams, you should make sure to protect your eye health. Taking small preventative measures can make a major impact on your eye health.

One easy thing that you can do is avoid dry eyes. If you spend a lot of time staring at a screen, take a break every twenty minutes. Go look at something twenty feet away for twenty seconds to give your eyes a rest and avoid inflammation.

Another simple measure you can take is wearing sunglasses when you step outside. You should also wear sunscreen on the skin around your eyes. Your eyes and the area around them are sensitive and prone to UV radiation.

Finally, don’t smoke! If you do smoke, consider working on quitting. Smoking increases your risk of cataracts, dry eyes, and eye tissue degeneration.

Reach Out to Us Today

Now that we’ve answered the question “how often do you need an eye exam”, are you ready to book your eye exam? Or do you have more questions that you need answered?

If your answer is “yes”, then you should reach out to us at Cedar Park Vision! Simply fill out the form and we’ll get back to you with answers as soon as possible.

Don’t wait- reach out to us today! You won’t regret it when we help you take care of your eye health.

Looking For Suitable Reading Glasses? Here’s Your Buying Guide

According to studies, 34.5 million Americans wear over-the-counter reading glasses.

Reading glasses are an essential accessory for many people, but it can be hard to know which pair is right for you.

With so many different styles and colors available, it’s difficult to decide which pair of reading glasses will best suit your needs. You want a pair that looks good and provides the correct level of magnification, but how do you choose?

Don’t worry! Keep reading because this buying guide will help you find the perfect pair of reading glasses that look great, remove blurry vision and provide the exact level of magnification you need. We’ll show you all the options available so that you can make an informed decision about which ones are right for you.

Reasons You May Need Reading Glasses

Reading glasses aren’t just a fashion accessory. They are designed to help you in a few ways. Let’s look at them now:

Reduce Eye Strain

To reduce eye strain, consider investing in a pair of reading glasses. Not only can they help reduce strain, but they can also help improve your concentration when you’re trying to read – particularly if you’re someone who has difficulty focusing on shorter texts.

And as an added benefit, since the lenses are specially designed to enhance your sight, your vision may become clearer and crisper when wearing them. So not only can you covertly show off your style with different frames, but they may also help make the text easier to read and understand over time – doing wonders for your eyesight in the long run.

See Small Details

Fine details make all the difference in many tasks, including reading sheet music and understanding diagrams. With a simple pair of reading glasses, many of these tasks can become easier to handle. Good vision sharpens the ability to see small details that are essential for success.

Whether it’s making sure you have all the necessary ingredients for a recipe or reading the fine print on your essay assignment, simple magnification can help aid in focusing on those important little details. Reading glasses can help you take control of complex jobs and make them significantly more enjoyable when there is less eye strain.

Improve Vision

Improved vision can be an empowering experience. Whether you’re seeking reading glasses or contact lenses, there are a variety of products designed to help you see the world around you more clearly. Even glasses that may have been considered “old-fashioned” can now become stylish accessories that allow people to highlight their sense of personal style while supporting great sight.

Advances in technology and materials make it easier than ever for individuals to access vision care and maintain clear vision as they age. Ultimately, having good eye health is critical for living a healthy and productive life – start taking steps today toward improving your vision!

Basics of Reading Glasses Strength

It is important to understand the basics of reading glasses strength when selecting products to ensure you select a pair that matches your vision needs. You may prefer stronger lenses if you suffer from age-related presbyopia or need extra help when trying to read smaller or further away items.

When choosing an appropriate strength for your reading glasses, the general rule of thumb is for every diopter (+d), increase your lens strength by 0.25%. This means that a reading glass with +1.00 dpt will have 25% more power than one with no power, while +3.50 dpt will improve visual acuity by 87.5% more than having no power in your reading glasses.

To determine your exact needed lens strength, visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can provide you with a corrective eye prescription tailored just for you.

Types of Reading Glasses

Depending on your needs and wants, a variety of reading glasses can fit any lifestyle. Full-frame reading glasses provide maximum protection while still doing their job of helping you to see clearly; they are ideal for people who need extra coverage and sensitivity or who have larger facial features.

Meanwhile, half-frame reading glasses keep the look stylish by framing only the upper half of your eyes; these frames are great for those who prefer a sleeker design or have more petite features. With such a diverse range, finding the best reading glasses for you shouldn’t be too difficult.

How to Choose the Right Reading Glasses

When shopping for reading glasses, there are a few factors to consider. Let’s look at them now in more detail:

1. Lens Type

The type of lenses you need for your reading glasses depends on the strength of your vision and the type of activities you plan to do with them. If you have a mild-to-moderate vision problem, single-vision lenses are usually sufficient. If you require stronger magnification, bifocal or trifocal lenses may be necessary.

2. Frame Style

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to frame style; it comes down to personal preference. You’ll want to find a pair that looks good and feels comfortable on your face. Look for frames with adjustable nose pads, spring hinges, and temples that can be bent to fit your unique facial structure better.

3. Frame Color

The color of your frame should match your lifestyle and personal style. For example, if you’re active and outdoorsy, go for a sportier look with a matte black or gunmetal frame. If you’re more fashion-forward, pick something bolder like red or blue.

4. Lens Material

Reading glasses usually come in either polycarbonate or plastic lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and impact-resistant, while plastic lenses are more scratch-resistant and cost less.

5. UV Protection

Make sure to look for lenses that offer 100% UVA/UVB protection. This will help protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and reduce glare.

Find the Right Pair of Reading Glasses for You

It isn’t easy to find the right pair of reading glasses, but if you use this guide, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and pick a pair that suit your style and needs. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the myriad of styles and features out there, don’t worry. The best thing about glasses is that fashion constantly cycles back around – so no matter which frames you decide on now, chances are they’ll still be in style in a few years.

If you’re ready to increase your reading power with new reading glasses, we’d love to help. Contact us today to book an appointment and see our eyeglass selection.

Avoiding Blue Light: A Complete Guide

According to The Vision Council, nearly six out of ten American adults report digital eye strain symptoms. These symptoms include neck and shoulder pain, headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, and dry eyes.

Neck pain seems easy enough to explain. Most people know they adopt poor posture when sitting at their laptops or scrolling on their phones. However, how can you account for the various eye problems?

The short answer involves a phenomenon called blue light. Blue light can have several deteriorating effects on eye health.

That’s why avoiding blue light is so crucial for your eyes. However, avoiding blue light can be a challenge when so many devices utilize it.

Fortunately, you can learn how to do it in this guide! Read on to discover some top-grade eye care tips for avoiding blue light.

Cut Down on Screen Time

The first thing you can do to avoid blue light is to cut back on screen time. The average American spends 7 hours and 4 minutes looking at a screen daily. The global average is 6 hours and 58 minutes on their screen.

One of the best ways to cut down on blue light is to avoid looking at screens in your downtime. Consider finding non-digital pastimes when you’re away from work, such as reading hard copies of books.

What about essential time looking at screens? After all, many Americans have to use screens for their work. Staring at screens throughout your workday can cause eye strain.

Fortunately, there are some ways to practice eye care during the workday. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen. Try focusing on an object at least 20 feet away instead of looking at your phone or other devices.

Practice this focus for roughly 20 seconds at a time. In doing so, you can give your eyes a break from the constant stream of blue light. It can also help to take periodic walks throughout the day to get away from screens.

Take a Break From Blue Light at Night

Screen breaks are perhaps the most crucial during the evening. The light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with your brain’s sleep cycle and prevent you from getting enough sleep at night.

There are a few ways to avoid this issue. First, keep screens out of your bedroom if possible.

Second, try to power down your devices sometime between 90 minutes to three hours before going to bed. Doing this can help you prevent blue light from affecting your body’s release of the sleep hormone melatonin.

Melatonin is a critical factor in getting REM sleep. REM sleep is the restorative stage of sleep that helps people feel rested when they wake up in the morning. It’s possible to get eight hours of sleep and still not reach this stage.

This lack of REM sleep often affects those who watch significant amounts of television at night. Cutting back on that screen time, in addition to your phone and tablet, can significantly improve your sleep quality. In addition, it can improve your eye condition.

Use a Filter on Your Devices When Avoiding Blue Light

Another way to avoid blue light is to add a screen filter to your devices, including:

Filters decrease the amount of blue light that your phones emit. From there, you can reduce the blue light that reaches your retinas.

You can also switch your devices to something called “night mode.” Different devices may have different processes for activating this mode, so check your settings to learn how to do it.

This setting lowers the screen’s brightness, decreasing the blue light quantity it emits. Doing this can ease your digital eye strain and help you reach REM sleep. If you can’t avoid your screens at night, “night mode” can be a helpful alternative.

Consider Purchasing Blue Light Glasses

Blue light glasses are a product that uses yellow-tinted lenses that can increase the contrast on your screen. Alternatively, there are glasses that use a coating on the lenses to block blue light from your eyes.

In doing so, manufacturers claim that blue light glasses (or computer glasses) filter blue light from your eyes. Many claims that this contrast can ease or eliminate eye strain. There are two primary types of computer glasses.

First, there are non-prescription computer glasses. These glasses do nothing to improve or enhance your vision.

Their sole purpose is to filter blue light away from your eyes. The second type of computer glasses are prescription models.

Many prescription glasses now include filters that provide the same type of contrast as computer glasses. These filters can protect your eyes.

Many proponents of computer glasses claim that they provide additional benefits, such as:

Researchers are unsure whether there is enough evidence to support the potential benefits of blue light glasses.

However, there is no evidence to suggest that these glasses harm their wearers. It’s up to individuals whether they want to purchase blue light glasses.

Begin Pursuing Eye Care

These steps can make avoiding blue light easier. However, avoiding blue light is the first step in pursuing eye care.

It’s also critical to see an optometrist receive comprehensive eye care. An optometrist can assess your current eye condition and determine what resources you need to preserve your eye health.

If you live in Texas, visit our office! We provide several expert optometrists who can assess your eye condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!