How often should I have an eye exam?
The doctor recommends having a full eye exam every year, even if your vision seems fine. Eye health can change quietly, and a yearly checkup helps us catch problems early and keep your vision feeling sharp and comfortable.
What are the signs that I need glasses or a change in prescription?
You may notice headaches, eye strain, squinting, trouble seeing at night, or blurred vision at distance or near. The doctor recommends coming in anytime you feel like your vision just “isn’t as clear as it used to be.”
Are contact lenses safe for my eyes?
Yes—when used correctly! The doctor recommends proper cleaning, not sleeping in lenses unless they’re approved for it, and replacing them on time. With good habits and regular checkups, contacts are a very safe option for most people.
Why are my eyes dry and irritated?
Dryness can come from screen time, allergies, climate, or not blinking enough. The doctor recommends starting with artificial tears, taking screen breaks, and coming in for an evaluation so we can pinpoint the cause and customize treatment.
How can I protect my eyes from harmful UV rays?
The doctor recommends wearing quality sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection anytime you’re outdoors—cloudy days included. UV protection helps prevent cataracts, macular changes, and damage to the surface of your eyes.
Why do I need to dilate my eyes during an exam?
Dilation lets the doctor see the back of your eyes clearly, which is important for checking the health of the retina and catching issues early. Our office also uses the latest imaging technology that allows us to get detailed pictures of the back of the eye most of the time without dilating. The only time we need to dilate is when your pupils are too small for the camera to capture a full, clear image. When dilation is needed, it gives us the most complete view of your eye health.
Can I prevent my vision from worsening?
While some vision changes are natural, the doctor recommends healthy habits like taking screen breaks, wearing proper prescriptions, protecting your eyes from UV, and managing conditions like diabetes. For kids, we offer myopia-control options that can slow nearsighted progression.
Is it normal to have blurry vision in the morning?
Yes, it can be. Overnight dryness or swelling can make your vision slightly fuzzy at first. If the blur lasts longer than a few minutes or is happening more often, the doctor recommends scheduling a quick exam to rule out any underlying issues.
What should I do if I get something in my eye?
Rinse your eye gently with clean water or saline and avoid rubbing. If redness, pain, or tearing continue, the doctor recommends coming in as soon as possible so we can safely remove it and check for scratches.
What is digital eye strain, and how can I reduce it?
Digital eye strain comes from long hours on screens. You may feel tired eyes, headaches, or blurred vision. The doctor recommends the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds—and adjusting screen lighting, posture, and breaks.
What are the common symptoms of cataracts?
Cataracts usually develop slowly and can cause glare, cloudy vision, dimness, trouble driving at night, or colors looking less vibrant. The doctor checks for cataracts at every exam.
Is LASIK surgery right for me?
LASIK is great for many people, but not everyone. The doctor recommends a consultation to review your prescription, corneal thickness, dryness, and overall health to see if you’re a good candidate.
What foods or vitamins are good for eye health?
The doctor loves recommending leafy greens, colorful fruits, fish rich in omega-3s, nuts, and vitamins like lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A. A balanced diet supports long-term eye health.
How can I reduce the risk of developing glaucoma?
Regular eye exams are key since glaucoma often has no symptoms early on. The doctor also recommends controlling blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and staying active.
Why do I see floaters or flashes of light?
Floaters are usually harmless and come from natural changes inside the eye. Flashes may happen when the vitreous tugs on the retina. The doctor recommends calling us right away if you notice sudden new floaters or flashes, as they can occasionally signal something more serious.
How can I care for my eyeglasses or contact lenses properly?
Rinse glasses daily with gentle soap and water and store them in a case. For contacts, the doctor recommends washing your hands before handling them, using fresh solution daily, and following your replacement schedule.
Do insurance plans cover eye care?
Most plans cover routine exams, glasses, or contacts to some degree. The doctor recommends checking your plan before your visit, and our team is always happy to review your benefits with you.
What causes red or bloodshot eyes?
Redness can come from dryness, allergies, irritation, or infection. The doctor recommends coming in if redness is painful, persistent, or accompanied by discharge.
Can screen time damage my eyes?
Screens don’t permanently damage your eyes, but they can cause dryness and strain. The doctor recommends blinking more often, using screen breaks, and adjusting your workstation for comfort.
Can you help with headaches?
It can help some people, especially with tension-related headaches. The doctor also recommends checking your eyes because uncorrected vision issues can contribute to headaches.
At what age should my child see an eye doctor?
The doctor recommends bringing your child in for their first eye exam around age 5, or sooner if you notice any concerns.
How often should my child get an eye exam?
Once a year is ideal. Children’s vision can change quickly, and early detection makes a big difference.
What causes eye twitching, and should I be concerned?
Eye twitching is usually harmless and related to stress, caffeine, or fatigue. The doctor recommends resting, reducing caffeine, and letting us know if the twitching lasts more than a week.
How can I tell if my child needs glasses?
Look for squinting, sitting very close to screens, rubbing eyes, or complaints about seeing the board at school. The doctor recommends scheduling a quick exam if you notice any of these.
What are the risks of not wearing my prescribed glasses or contact lenses?
You may experience headaches, eye strain, and unsafe driving or reading conditions. The doctor recommends wearing your prescription consistently so your eyes stay comfortable and your vision stays clear.
How do I choose the right sunglasses for eye protection?
Look for 100% UVA/UVB protection and consider polarized lenses for glare. The doctor can help guide you based on your outdoor activities.
What is the difference between nearsightedness and farsightedness?
Nearsighted people can see up close clearly but struggle with distance vision. Farsighted individuals often see better far away than up close. The doctor can determine which one you have during your exam.
What is Retinal Photo and is required?
The Routine Retinal Screening is a non dilated photo to check for retinal problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal holes, retinal detachments, and diabetic retinopathy. Early detection is crucial and our doctors require it for a thorough exam.
Why is there a contact lens evaluation fee every year, even if my prescription hasn’t changed?
Contact lenses are medical devices that require a yearly fitting and a prescription, which is different from your glasses prescription. During the evaluation. The doctor checks the fit for the lenses and monitors your eye health for issues such as dryness, allergies, or infections that can be caused or worsened by contact lens wear. The contact lens evaluation fee is the cost associated with renewing your contact lens prescription. This ensures you have an up-to-date, signed prescription from the doctor so you can purchase lenses throughout the year