Monthly Archives: February

vision therapy adults

Vision Therapy is Not Just for Children: Adults Can Benefit Too!

As Vision Therapy continues to gain in popularity, more and more children are receiving treatment to correct eye conditions as early as possible. However, Vision Therapy is not just for little ones- adults can benefit too! In the past, the old school of thought was that certain eye conditions could not be corrected after childhood. Today, we know this is simply not true. Studies show that adults suffering from eye conditions such as lazy eye or crossed eyes can greatly benefit from Vision Therapy.

 

Double Vision (Diplopia)

Double vision, or diplopia, can occur due to a number of contributing factors. Adults with this condition often have trouble in one or both eyes, which can cause one image or object to appear as two. Vision Therapists utilize techniques that help adults with diplopia regain visual control which can improve their balance and movement. In this aspect, Vision Therapy can help adult patients improve their quality of life as well as their vison.

 

Crossed Eyes or Wandering Eye (Strabismus)

Strabismus is known by many other names such as cross-eyed, wandering eye, squint, wall eye, and more. This condition occurs when a patient’s eye/eyes are not aligning properly, and one may “turn” instead of focusing on a target that both eyes are pointed at. In order to help a patient retrain their brain and eyes to coordinate, Vision Therapists can use tools such as eye patches and focus shifting exercises. Improvement with this condition can not only help adults feel more confident, but can also increase their ability to read, write and work more effectively.

 

Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

Amblyopia is a condition where one eye is dominate over the other, and therefore the two do not work together as they should. The non-dominate eye suffers from reduced vision. Through a series of eye exercises that both improve vision in the lazy eye and help with eye/brain communication, Vision Therapy can be very effective in correcting Amblyopia.

 

If you are an adult suffering from any of the above eye conditions, contact Family Vision Development Center right away to set up a comprehensive eye exam. Our specialty is neuro-optometric rehabilitation and vision therapy, and we will customize a program to meet your individual needs. Visit us online or call 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment at our Aurora location at 452 N. Eola Rd.

 

Additional information referenced here and here.

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medications vision

Your Medications May Be Hurting Your Eyesight!

In today’s busy world there are many things that can take a toll on your vision: from stress, to environmental issues, to your own bad habits. But did you know that certain medications can also negatively impact your eyesight? Side effects can range from minor issues like dryness, to permanent damage including loss of vision.

Watch Out For These Drugs

While this is not an all-inclusive list of medications to watch out for, these are a few more commonly used prescription drugs that have been linked to vision issues:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Diuretics (water pills)
  • Antihistamines
  • Osteoporosis drugs
  • Antidepressants
  • Cholesterol medication
  • Alpha and Beta-blockers
  • Ulcer medication
  • Birth control pills
  • Acne medication
  • Erectile dysfunction medications
  • And more

If you have glaucoma or diabetes, you should be especially careful to monitor your medication’s side effects.  Elderly patients and those who take medications for longer periods of time can also be more at risk for vision issues depending on the drug taken and the dosage amount.

Read the Labels Carefully

Your vision is a precious gift and it’s important that you protect it. Get in the habit of reading the warning labels on your medications carefully – including anything you purchase over-the-counter. Even herbal supplements and vitamins can have an effect on your vision. Knowledge is a key element of practicing good vision self-care.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you suspect that your eye problems are related to your medication, talk to your prescribing doctor immediately but do NOT stop taking the medication until instructed to do so.

In addition, always see your eye doctor if you notice vision changes, regardless of what you suspect the cause may be. Be sure to let your eye doctor know what medications you are taking- including prescriptions, over-the-counter, and herbals- and the dosage amount of each.

At the Family Vision Development Center, our philosophy is of “whole body wellness” that extends beyond the eyes. Reach out to us if you are concerned about your vision and side-effects of your medications. We provide comprehensive services in our family-friendly office with an exceptionally dedicated and well-trained staff. Call us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment for your eye exam or use our convenient online appointment request form.

 

Additional information referenced here and here.

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