Articles posted by Tami Wloch

Facts about children's vision

10 Crucial Facts Every Parent Should Know About Children’s Vision

Healthy vision is crucial for a child’s development and learning. Yet, many parents are unaware of important basic facts about their children’s eye health. Here are 10 essential things every parent should understand about children’s vision.

Early Detection is Key

The first few years of a child’s life are critical for vision development. For this reason, regular vision exams should start as early as six months, followed by another at 3 years old and again before starting school. These important exams should continue annually after that, as early detection of issues can prevent potential complications and support healthy visual development.

Vision and Learning are Closely Related

Undetected vision problems can absolutely impact a child’s academic performance. If your child struggles with reading, comprehension, or shows signs of disinterest in learning, an eye examination is crucial to rule out any potential vision issues.

Screen Time Matters

In today’s digital age, children are exposed to screens more than ever. Unfortunately, children’s vision can be affected by this digital screen use. Excessive screen time can lead to digital eye strain and potential long-term issues. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds) can help alleviate eye strain.

Healthy Vision is Not Just 20/20

While 20/20 vision is an important indicator of good vision, other factors like eye teaming and focusing abilities are equally important. Regular eye exams assess overall vision health, not just basic clarity.

Always Be Thorough with Eye Safety

Whether engaging in sports or playing at home, protecting your child’s eyes is paramount. Always make sure they wear appropriate eye protection, especially when participating in activities with a risk of eye injury.

Proper Nutrition Can Support Eye Health

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, plays a vital role in maintaining children’s vision. Include foods like carrots, spinach, and eggs to support your child’s eye health.

Certain Signs Can Indicate a Vision Issue

Kids don’t always have the ability to explain the presence of a vision problem. However, there are certain signs to watch out for that can indicate an underlying issue. Some of the most common signs would include squinting, rubbing their eyes excessively, holding objects very close, head tilting, misalignment or abnormal turning of one or both eyes, frequently closing one eye, headaches and light sensitivity. Of course, any symptoms that you have questions about should always warrant a visit to our office for evaluation.

Genetics Can Play a Role in Eye Health

Children’s vision can often be affected by a genetic component. Family history can influence a child’s predisposition to certain eye conditions. Therefore, inform your eye care professional about any family history of eye issues in order to ensure comprehensive and proactive care.

Don’t Wait Until There is a Problem

Regular eye exams are essential for preventative care. Sometimes, the most effective treatments are most successful when applied early. This early detection and treatment can prevent vision problems from impacting your child’s daily life as well as their future.

Family Vision Development Center is Your Partner in Children’s Vision

At Family Vision Development Center, we are dedicated to caring for and protecting the visual health of our patients of all ages. When your child visits our team regularly for vision exams, we are able to closely monitor their vision and quickly detect and treat any issues that may arise. Additionally, we can provide important guidance on issues such as eye safety, proper care of glasses or contacts, or important post-concussive vision care, as well as provide advanced treatment of visual disorders through our effective vision therapy programs. Contact our Aurora office at 630-862-2020 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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binocular vision and vision therapy

Exploring Binocular Vision and the Powerful Benefits of Vision Therapy

Have you ever wondered why you can catch a ball with ease but struggle to thread a needle? The answer lies in the concept known as binocular vision. Binocular vision affects our ability to perceive the world in 3D, judge distances accurately, and navigate our surroundings effortlessly. But what exactly is it, and what happens when it does not function properly?

What is Binocular Vision

Binocular vision refers to the ability of the human visual system to merge two slightly different images from each eye into a single, three-dimensional perception of the world. Each eye captures a slightly different view due to their unique positions on the face, and the brain combines these images to create a comprehensive and immersive visual experience. This allows you to:

  • Perceive depth and distance: This crucial visual skill is essential for tasks like athletic performance (catching a ball, shooting a basket or swinging a bat, for example), driving a car, and interacting with the world around you.
  • Enhance visual acuity: Proper binocular vision can ensure focus and clarity, especially for near tasks like reading.
  • Boost visual comfort: By reducing eye strain and fatigue associated with misaligned eyes.

Binocular Vision Disorders

While binocular vision functions seamlessly for many individuals, that is not always the case. When the eyes do not work together properly, it can result in conditions such as:

  • Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): A misalignment of the eyes, where one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward, disrupting binocular vision and depth perception.
  • Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): A condition where one eye has significantly reduced vision, often leading to the brain favoring the stronger eye and inhibiting proper binocular vision development.
  • Convergence Insufficiency: Difficulty in coordinating the eyes to focus on nearby objects, leading to eyestrain, double vision, and difficulty with tasks such as reading or computer work.

Vision Therapy as Treatment for Binocular Vision Disorders

The good news is that many binocular vision problems can be addressed through vision therapy. Vision therapy programs involve personalized exercises and activities designed to:

  • Improve eye teaming and coordination: Helping your eyes work together efficiently.
  • Strengthen eye muscles: Enhancing focusing ability and reducing eye strain.
  • Develop depth perception skills: Allowing you to see the world in true 3D.

The Family Vision Development Center professionals have advanced training in the latest vision therapy techniques. Our individualized programs can help to restore proper vision and alleviate the symptoms that often accompany binocular vision disorders, such as headaches, blurred vision, double vision, sore or tired eyes, or difficulty with reading or concentrating. Correcting a binocular vision disorder with a vision therapy program can significantly affect quality of life and make everyday activities more manageable and enjoyable.

Contact our Aurora office at 630-962-2020 to schedule your appointment or to get your questions answered.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

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AMD month

AMD Awareness: Expert Facts & Guidance to Manage this Condition

February marks National Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this prevalent eye condition. At Family Vision Development Center, we believe it’s crucial to inform our patients about AMD, its risk factors, symptoms, and management strategies. Therefore, we would like to share some important information about the basics of AMD and explore how we can assist in managing this condition effectively.

 

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Over time, AMD can lead to blurred or distorted vision, making it challenging to perform tasks such as reading or driving.

 

Types of AMD

  • Dry AMD: This form of AMD is more common, characterized by the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula.
  • Wet AMD: Less common but more severe, wet AMD involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula, which can leak blood and fluid, leading to rapid vision loss if left untreated.

 

Risk Factors for AMD

  • Age: AMD primarily affects individuals over the age of 50.
  • Family History: Genetics play a significant role in predisposing individuals to AMD.
  • Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk and progression of AMD.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese is associated with a higher likelihood of developing AMD.
  • High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can contribute to the progression of AMD.
  • Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light may increase the risk of AMD.

 

Symptoms of AMD

  • Gradual loss of central vision
  • Distorted or blurry vision
  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
  • Increased sensitivity to glare
  • Decreased color perception

 

How Family Vision Development Center Can Help Manage AMD

  1. Comprehensive Eye Examinations: Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and monitoring of AMD. During your exam, we will perform various tests, including visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams, and imaging tests, to assess the health of your retina.

 

  1. Personalized Treatment Plans: Depending on the type and severity of AMD, we may recommend specific treatments, such as:

 

  • Nutritional supplements containing vitamins and minerals beneficial for eye health.
  • Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD.
  • Low vision aids and devices to help improve visual function and quality of life for individuals with advanced AMD.

 

Treatment options for both wet and dry AMD are continually changing and improving, such as evolving drug therapies, gene therapy for wet AMD, advancing anti-VEGF treatments, and even stem cell transplants. We stay informed of developments as they become available and work with patients to determine the best course of treatment.

 

  1. Lifestyle Modifications: Another way we help our patients is by providing guidance on lifestyle changes that may help manage AMD and reduce its progression. This may include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and managing underlying health conditions like hypertension.

 

  1. Patient Education and Support: Of course, we will always serve as a valuable resource for educating our patients about AMD, answering questions, and providing support throughout their treatment journey. We do our best to offer advice on adapting daily activities to accommodate changes in vision, and refer patients to support groups or other services if needed.

 

As we observe National Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month, it’s essential to prioritize eye health and raise awareness about AMD. By understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and management options for AMD, our patients can take proactive steps to preserve their vision. Your eye doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals affected by AMD, so don’t hesitate to contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your regular eye exam and seek guidance for optimal eye care.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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vision exams are important

5 Legitimate Reasons to NOT Skip Out on Annual Vision Exams

Regular comprehensive vision exams may not be on the top of most people’s list of important things to do. But they absolutely should be! In fact, getting your vision examined every year is one of the most important things you can do to protect your overall health and well-being.  While we feel that there are dozens of reasons why vision exams are essential, here are a few of the top reasons to visit us for an annual appointment.

Prescriptions Can Change

Vision can change over time, so annual vision exams help ensure that your prescription for glasses or contact lenses is up-to-date. Wearing an outdated prescription not only leads to discomfort, but can also contribute to eye strain, headaches, and can even worsen existing vision problems. Keeping your prescription current ensures that you are seeing the world clearly and comfortably.

Vision Exams Help Track Vision Changes Quickly

Comprehensive vision exams check your vision, the inner and outer parts of your eyes, and measure how well your eyes work together as a team. Even if the exam determines that no corrective measures are needed, the results serve as a baseline for future exams. Consistent vision exams can help us quickly recognize signs of a developing vision disorder, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, and can allow for early and more effective treatment. In essence, regular vision exams act as proactive checkpoints, enabling us to address vision changes promptly and help you to maintain optimal eye health.

Vision Exams can Reveal Signs of Dangerous Health Problems

Believe it or not, your eyes can provide valuable insights into your overall health. During an eye exam, we may identify signs of systemic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Changes in the blood vessels, retina, or even the appearance of yellowish deposits in the eye can serve as early indicators of these conditions. Detecting and addressing these issues promptly can have a positive impact on your overall health.

Get Important Vision Questions Answered on a Regular Basis

At Family Vision Development Center, we are always happy to share our wealth of knowledge. We stay informed of the latest eyecare topics, the most current vision therapy treatment options and the latest in eyeglass and contact lens technology. It is important to have a true partner in maintaining your eye health, and we are here to help ensure that you have a reliable source of information when the need arises.

Preserve your Vision on a Long-Term Basis for Overall Quality of Life

Healthy vision is an essential component of daily life. When your vision suffers, everyday tasks can become more difficult.  In essence, clear vision is fundamental to our daily activities, from work to leisure. By addressing any vision issues promptly, you can maintain an optimal quality of life. Whether it’s reading a book, driving a car, or enjoying your favorite hobbies, proper vision is important. Yearly vision exams help ensure that you can continue to engage in these activities to the fullest extent possible.

Family Vision Development Center is here to help ensure your complete eye health with comprehensive vision services that range from eyeglasses and contacts to effective vision therapy programs, and even post-concussive visual rehabilitation following a head injury. But it all starts with the vision exams! Contact us today at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment and get started on a commitment to healthy vision for life.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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Vision therapy for motion sickness

Motion Sickness Relief: The Surprising Benefits of Vision Therapy

Many people experience motion sickness, and it can be very uncomfortable, annoying and disruptive during daily activities. People who suffer from motion sickness often have difficulty with actions such as reading while riding in a car or plane, travelling by boat, looking at stationary objects while in motion, watching oncoming traffic, watching a 3-D movie or riding an amusement park ride. Symptoms of motion sickness can include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Cold sweats
  • Rapid breathing
  • Increase in saliva production

Motion Sickness Connection to Vision

Motion sickness can occur when there is a disconnection between what the eyes see and the signals the brain receives from the inner ear and other sensory systems. When visual input contradicts the body’s perception of motion, it can lead to a sensory mismatch, triggering symptoms like nausea and dizziness.

For individuals with vision issues, this disconnect becomes more pronounced. Conditions such as strabismus (eye misalignment), amblyopia (lazy eye), or convergence insufficiency (difficulty coordinating both eyes to focus on nearby objects) can disrupt the normal functioning of the visual system. When these conditions are present, the eyes may struggle to work together efficiently, exacerbating the sensory mismatch that contributes to motion sickness.

Vision Therapy for Motion Sickness

Vision therapy is a specialized form of visual rehabilitation that retrains how the eyes and brain communicate with each other. It involves a personalized program of eye exercises and activities designed to enhance eye coordination, tracking, and focus. When it comes to motion sickness, vision therapy can play an important role in addressing the underlying visual issues that can contribute to the condition by accomplishing the following goals:

  • Strengthening Eye Muscles – Vision therapy exercises often target the muscles responsible for eye movement and coordination. By engaging in activities that promote the strength and flexibility of these muscles, individuals can enhance their ability to maintain visual focus and reduce strain during motion.
  • Improving Eye-Body Coordination – Vision therapy also helps strengthen the connection between the eyes and the body’s movements. Activities that enhance eye-body coordination can help individuals adapt more effectively to changes in their visual environment. This can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness.
  • Enhancing Depth Perception – Conditions like strabismus can impact depth perception, making it difficult for the eyes to work together in perceiving distances accurately. Vision therapy exercises can improve depth perception, allowing individuals to better judge spatial relationships and reduce the disorienting effects of conflicting visual signals.
  • Correcting Convergence Insufficiency – Convergence insufficiency, where the eyes struggle to work together as a team, can contribute to eye strain and discomfort during tasks like reading or focusing on nearby objects. Vision therapy can target these issues, promoting more efficient eye teaming and reducing the likelihood of visual discomfort that may contribute to motion sickness.

Family Vision Development Center for Vision Therapy

The team at Family Vision Development Center has advanced training in vision therapy treatment options. If you find that motion sickness is disrupting your daily activities, come in for a consultation so we can determine the best options for you. Each vision therapy program is individualized according to your specific needs so we can target the exact underlying visual issues with the appropriate exercises. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to learn more about the benefits of vision therapy for eliminating the bothersome effects of motion sickness.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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winter concussions

Beware of the Increased Risk of Concussions During Winter Conditions

There are a lot of reasons to enjoy winter. After all, it’s the time of joyous holidays and beautiful, snow-covered landscapes. However, it can also bring an increased risk of concussions and that is something to take seriously. At Family Vision Development Center, our priority is protecting and caring for our patients’ vision. Because the colder months can present their own set of hazards that can lead to head injuries – and those injuries can greatly impact a person’s vision – we feel it is important to make you aware of the potential risks of concussions during this time of year, as well as provide information about what to do following an injury.

Potential Winter Hazards

This winter, be aware of the following risks that can lead to concussions:

  • Slippery surfaces – Winter is synonymous with icy sidewalks, snowy driveways, and slippery roads. The increased likelihood of slips and falls on these surfaces raises the risk of head injuries and concussions. Walking outside, even for a moment, can pose a slip-and-fall hazard, as ice may not be clearly visible. And driving can certainly be more dangerous during periods of snow and reduced traction, which can lead to an increased risk of auto accidents.
  • Winter Sports – Activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey are popular winter pastimes, but they also carry an inherent risk of head injuries. Collisions, falls, and abrupt stops common in these sports can result in concussions. It is crucial to wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, to mitigate these risks.
  • Reduced Visibility – Winter weather often brings reduced visibility due to fog, snowfall, or early darkness. Impaired visibility increases the chances of accidents, falls, and collisions, subsequently elevating the risk of concussions.

Visual Concerns Following Concussions

While the immediate symptoms of a concussion often include headaches, dizziness, and confusion, the effects on vision are not always as apparent. Here are some ways concussions can affect vision:

  • Eye focusing – not being able to quickly and easily see an object clearly (objects look blurry)
  • Eye Movements and Tracking – not able to easily follow a moving object from one spot to another, or switch fixation from one object to another. Sometimes this can be reported by students saying that words are moving on the page.
  • Depth Perception Issues – difficulty with accurately judging the distance between objects.
  • Eye Teaming – not able to get both eyes to work together to focus on an object, often reported as double vision
  • Peripheral Vision Loss – problems with your wide-angle field of vision, or feeling like you’re looking through a narrow tube

In addition to the visual issues mentioned above, any of the following symptoms can be an indicator of a possible concussion:

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Confusion or forgetfulness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Feeling sluggish, groggy or slowed down
  • Mood or personality changes
  • A general feeling that something is not right
  • Difficulty with sleep

Family Vision for Post-Concussive Visual Rehabilitation

The Family Vision team has specialized training in post-concussive neuro-optometric rehabilitation. We can customize this special type of vision therapy program to target the concussion symptoms you are experiencing in order to restore visual abilities. Those who have experienced a head injury often have difficulty participating in normal, daily activities that once were accomplished easily. It is our passion to help those patients return to their daily lives and continue to pursue their interests.  Contact us at 630-862-2020 to get more information or to schedule a consultation.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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prepare for glare

Prepare for the Glare & Protect your Eyes this Winter in 1 Easy Step

As winter weather quickly approaches, it is important to be prepared for a unique visual challenge that often accompanies snow-covered landscapes – glare. While a winter wonderland can certainly be beautiful, the reflective nature of snow intensifies sunlight, causing a brightness that can significantly impact our vision.

How Glare Affects Vision

Winter glare occurs due to the reflective properties of snow and ice. When sunlight hits the white surface, it bounces back, creating an amplified intensity that can overwhelm the eyes. This is known as snow blindness, or photokeratitis, and can cause an increased risk of eye damage. Snow blindness occurs when UV light enters the cornea of the eye, inflaming the epithelium. When agitated, this sensitive outer layer becomes irritated and inflamed, resulting in a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:

  • Photophobia or light sensitivity
  • Painful burning sensation in the eyes
  • Visible redness in the eyes
  • Excessing tearing or watering
  • Blurred vision
  • Swollen eyes or eyelids
  • Headaches
  • Halo effects around light sources

Prepare for Glare in these Situations

Winter glare can present itself in a variety of situations so be prepared while:

 

Driving – drivers can experience glare from snowy surroundings, as well as frozen surfaces such as ice-covered roads and sidewalks or bodies of water. Additionally, because of the sun’s relative position to Earth in winter, the sun’s rays hit Earth at a lower angle. This can cause increased glare on the roads, which can create dangerous driving conditions especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours.

 

Participating in Winter Sports – many people enjoy the sporting activities available in winter months, such as skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling. But these activities obviously involve being in or around a lot of snow, so it is important to remember the damage that glare can cause and take the appropriate precautions.

 

Shoveling – Although not usually a favorite winter activity, shoveling snow is often a necessity for many people. Oftentimes, people will be out tackling their snow-covered driveways in the morning, before heading out to work or school. This is prime time for the sun’s rays to reflect off snow or ice-covered surfaces, causing potential eye damage.

One Surefire Solution to Prevent Glare

The easiest and most effective way to prevent glare this winter is to wear protective eyewear! Although it might sound like a simple solution, many people go out every day without any type of protection for their eyes. But wearing a good pair of sunglasses can be crucial to preventing damage. When selecting sunglasses, always make sure that they block 100% of the sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays. Glare that reflects off of snow or ice can intensify UV exposure, but high-quality sunglasses can offer much-needed protection.  Additionally, polarized sunglasses offer a very effective way to reduce glare and will significantly increase your ability to see clearly during bright conditions.

Protective eyewear can come in different forms. For example, sunglasses should be worn every time you go outside. In fact, keeping an extra pair in the car can ensure that you have them when you need them and provide safety while driving at any time of day. Wearing sports goggles while engaging in outdoor winter activities will protect your eyes from glare, as well as any flying ice particles that could damage your eyes. Additionally, prescription eyeglasses can be customized with glare-reducing coatings to provide additional daily protection from glare.

The team at Family Vision Development Center is dedicated to your healthy vision! Our extensive optical center has a variety of glasses and sunglasses that can help prevent harmful glare in your daily life. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule a visit for a vision exam or for a consultation in our optical center.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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Mistakes with contact lenses

Avoid these Top 5 Mistakes People Make with Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction due to their convenience and unobtrusive nature. However, while they offer freedom from the constraints of traditional eyeglasses, contact lenses require a higher level of care and attention. Unfortunately, many people underestimate the importance of proper contact lens care, which can lead to a number of complications that can affect their eye health. Understanding and avoiding these common mistakes associated with contact lens usage is essential in order to maintain healthy eyes and enjoy the benefits of clear vision.

 

Sleeping in Contact Lenses

Sleeping in contact lenses is a common oversight that significantly increases the risk of eye infections and corneal complications. The closed-eye environment during sleep can promote the accumulation of bacteria and can reduce oxygen supply to the cornea, which can lead to discomfort, inflammation, or potential long-term damage. Unless your contacts are specifically designed for extended wear, always take them out before sleeping, even if you are just taking a nap.

 

Neglecting Proper Hygiene

Failing to maintain proper hygiene while handling contact lenses can introduce harmful bacteria and debris to the eyes. Poor hand washing, using saliva to moisten lenses, and ignoring lens case cleanliness are common habits that can lead to severe eye infections and discomfort. Practicing good hygiene is vital to ensure the safety and effectiveness of contact lens use.

 

Using Tap Water for Cleaning or Storing Contact Lenses

Some individuals resort to using tap water as a substitute for the recommended contact lens solution, not realizing that it contains microorganisms that can adhere to the lenses and cause infections. Tap water may also contain chemicals and impurities that can damage the lenses, leading to discomfort and reduced clarity of vision.  To reduce the risk of infection, it is best to keep contacts away from any kind of water.

 

Failing to Replace Lenses on Time

Overextending the lifespan of contact lenses beyond their recommended usage period can compromise their integrity and lead to discomfort, decreased vision quality, and increased risk of eye infections. This is why it is so important to regularly replace lenses according to our advice during your exam, in order to maintain optimal eye health and visual acuity.

 

Ignoring Symptoms of Discomfort

When it comes to wearing contact lenses, it is important to pay attention to signs of a potential problem, such as redness, dryness, irritation or pain. Ignoring these symptoms can allow underlying eye issues to worsen, and potentially lead to severe complications. You can’t be too careful with your vision, so if you have any concerns at all about a possible issue with your contacts, always come to see us for an evaluation.

 

At Family Vision Development Center, our dedicated team will make sure you have the right contact lenses to properly correct your vision. And just as importantly, we will make sure you understand the responsibilities involved in order to protect your eye health. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment for a vision exam, consultation and to get all of your important questions answered.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

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parent teacher conference clues to vision problem

Parent Teacher Conferences Can Reveal These 5 Clues of a Vision Problem

November is typically the time of year that schools allow parents the opportunity to meet individually with their child’s teacher in order to assess their progress and discuss any issues before getting too far into the school year. As the teacher explains your child’s behaviors in the classroom, interactions with other students, punctuality with homework assignments and more, make sure to listen closely. If you hear the teacher mention any of the following issues, it could be a sign of an underlying vision condition.

Classroom Clues that can Indicate a Vision Issue

  1. Reading problems – a vision disorder can cause a child to transpose letters, confuse similar letters or words, skip lines or words while reading, or lose their place easily. Additionally, vision conditions often cause blurry or double vision. Any of these issues could obviously make reading extremely challenging.
  2. Avoids doing homework – if a student has a vision condition, it can be very difficult to complete visually demanding tasks. Therefore, they may lose interest or give up trying to complete assignments.
  3. Messy handwriting – Children with vision problems may have poor eye movement skills or poor visualization abilities. The lack of these necessary skills could prevent a child from being successful at writing.
  4. Sits too close to the board, computer screen or reading materials – when a student consistently positions himself or herself very close to things they need to read, it might mean they cannot see clearly from a distance. This can affect classroom performance when important information is outside of their clear field of vision.
  5. Poor behavior in the classroom – when a student cannot maintain focus, they may begin to act out. But many students are misdiagnosed with ADHD, when binocular vision disorders actually have similar symptoms. In fact, functional vision problems often mimic ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty focusing, fidgeting in their seat or making careless mistakes. Any child facing an ADHD diagnosis should also be examined for a binocular vision problem.

Additional Questions to ask the Teacher

Along with discussing classroom performance, it’s a good idea to also question any unusual frequent behaviors by your child. The teacher interacts with your child on a daily basis so ask if they notice any of the following occurring consistently throughout the day. While these issues may not directly affect their academic performance, they can be signs of a possible vision issue:

  • Excessive rubbing of their eyes
  • Abnormal head tilting or turning
  • Often complains of headaches
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Poor hand-eye coordination
  • Frequently bumps into things

Explore the Possibility of a Binocular Vision Disorder

A teacher may be quick to assume that a child has a problem with learning new material, has a behavior issue, is not interested in participating or does not have the capability to succeed in school. However, this could be because they have not been trained to watch for signs of an underlying binocular vision condition. Correcting a binocular vision disorder can be just what your child needs to experience school in a whole new way and enjoy the success they truly want!

When you bring your child in to Family Vision Development Center for a comprehensive vision exam, we will thoroughly evaluate and diagnose any vision issues that could be affecting your child’s school performance. Additionally, we offer many ways to effectively treat the common binocular vision disorders that can cause classroom struggles. In fact, our doctors have extensive training in the latest vision therapy techniques that can vastly improve your child’s visual skills. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment and set your child on a path to success.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.

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child's eye exam

6 Easy Ways to Prepare for a Child’s Eye Exam

Vision plays an essential role in our overall well-being. Therefore, taking care of that vision should be a high priority, especially for parents. A child’s eye exam can be a scary event for both the child and the parent if you don’t know what to expect. But the team at Family Vision Development Center is here to assure you that there is nothing to be concerned about! Regular vision exams are the best way to maintain your child’s healthy vision and we are committed to making the process as easy as possible.

When to Bring your Child in for a Visit

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that infants have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months old. Moving forward, they should return at age 3, then again at age 5 or 6 when the child starts first grade.  School-aged children should have an eye exam every two years if no vision correction is required. If a child needs corrective glasses or contact lenses, it is recommended that they get an exam every year in order to ensure proper vision correction. Following these guidelines is an important way to allow for quick diagnosis and treatment of any potential vision concerns.

What to Expect at your Child’s Eye Exam

When you bring your child to Family Vision Development Center, you can expect that we will provide a comfortable environment where your child feels safe and welcome! This exam is where we collect all of the necessary information and testing to determine the health of your child’s eyes and if any vision correction is required.

During this assessment, we will gather information about your child’s medical history, and will perform tests to determine how well the eyes are functioning and to check for signs of eye problems such as amblyopia, eye misalignment, convergence insufficiency, poor depth perception or focusing issues. Some of the tests we might perform during your child’s eye exam include:

  • Visual acuity test – we assess visual clarity by having the child identify letters or pictures of varying sizes
  • Refraction test – this helps us determine if your child needs glasses or contact lenses
  • Pupil test – we quickly flash a light into each eye to see how the pupil responds
  • Eye movement test – here we assess how well your child’s eyes align and move together, which is crucial for proper depth perception and coordination

How to Best Prepare for your Child’s Eye Exam

A child’s eye exam can go more smoothly if you are prepared! Here are some easy tips to make the visit easier for you and your child:

  • Schedule the appointment properly – when choosing a time, make sure that it fits well with your child’s schedule. For example, try not to schedule a time when they would normally be napping or during a time when they are typically tired or cranky. Happy kids make for easier appointments!
  • Bring appropriate items with – before heading out to the exam, check to make sure you have all important information, such as your child’s and family medical history, previous prescription information, as well as your current insurance information. The more organized you are, the less likely the chance of delays.
  • Talk to your child before you go – much of the nervousness from kids comes because they do not know what to expect. They will be much more at ease if you explain to them that the doctor will look at their eyes, ask some questions and do a few tests. But the tests are not painful and the team is very nice so there is nothing for them to be afraid of.
  • Bring a few small toys or their favorite stuffed animal – we always try to stay on schedule, but in the event of an emergency there may be an unexpected wait. In those cases, it’s best to have something to keep your child occupied while they wait. And having a comfort item like a blanket or animal can help calm their nerves during the exam.
  • Stay calm and supportive – as much as you prepare a child, it is still normal for them to be apprehensive during their visit. Simply giving them words of encouragement about the great job they are doing can go a long way in helping them to stay calm throughout the visit.
  • Plan a post-visit treat – kids love rewards! Consider planning a fun activity or treat for your child after the exam to give them something to look forward to and to make the experience more enjoyable.

Keep in mind that we are here to help make your visit as easy as possible. We take great pride in the care that we provide to our young patients and want to provide them a lifetime of healthy vision! Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment or to ask any additional questions.

 

Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.  We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions.  We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.

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