Summer break offers kids a well-deserved vacation from their typical school routines. Although this time is often filled with activities such as family trips, outdoor fun and time with friends, it’s also the perfect time to focus on their visual health! Specifically, summer break offers an ideal window to begin vision therapy, especially for children and students. If your child has been struggling with visual challenges, there’s no better time to address them.
A Break from School Provides a Stress-Free Schedule
During the school year, students are often juggling packed schedules filled with homework, sports, and extracurricular activities. Adding a brand-new vision therapy program into that routine can sometimes be overwhelming. Summer break, on the other hand, offers a more flexible schedule, allowing kids to fully commit to their therapy sessions without the added pressure of school demands. This is especially important for kids who may be dealing with issues such as:
- Eye tracking problems
- Lazy eye (amblyopia)
- Eye teaming or focusing difficulties
- Visual processing challenges
With more time and fewer distractions, kids can make significant progress over the summer and return to school in the fall with improved visual skills and greater confidence.
Improvement Over Summer Break Means a Stronger Start to the School Year
Vision problems often go unnoticed during the academic year, but they can interfere with reading, comprehension, attention, and overall academic performance. By starting vision therapy over summer break, kids can address these underlying challenges before they start to cause issues in the classroom. A vision therapy program can help your child start the new school year with:
- The ability to read more comfortably for long periods
- Greater confidence in academic and social situations
- Improved ability to focus in class
- Fewer headaches or eye strain during homework
Tackling these issues now with a vision therapy program can turn frustration and struggles into confidence and success when school resumes.
Vision Therapy Can Enhance Athletic Skills for Fall Tryouts
Clear, efficient vision is just as important on the field or court as it is in the classroom. Vision therapy can help improve critical visual skills that directly impact athletic performance, including depth perception, peripheral awareness, eye-hand coordination, and reaction time. Summer break is the ideal time to work on these skills so athletes can be at the top of their game when fall sports tryouts begin. Whether it’s soccer, football, volleyball, or any other sport, vision therapy can give your child a competitive edge and help them feel more confident and capable during practices and games.
Make your Summer Break Appointment with our Vision Therapy Specialists
Vision therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. It requires a personalized, carefully designed program based on a thorough evaluation of a person’s visual system. That’s why it’s essential to work with our optometrists who specialize in many different vision therapy techniques.
The professional team at Family Vision Development Center has advanced training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of visual disorders beyond simple eyesight problems. We can identify subtle issues that standard eye exams may miss, and then use evidence-based techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs. This helps to ensure that your child receives the best possible care – and the highest chance of success. Contact us 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. 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.
Summer is here and that means longer days, outdoor adventures, and plenty of sunshine. But it also introduces unique risks for your eyes. Enjoy the season safely, with clear and comfortable vision, by following these vision care tips to keep your eyes healthy during the summer months.
Shield Your Eyes from Harmful UV Rays
Any time you are outdoors, there is an increased risk of eye damage from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
- Always wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. UV rays can damage not only your skin but also your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)
- Don’t be fooled by cloudy days – UV rays penetrate clouds, fog, and haze, so keep your sunglasses handy year-round
- For extra protection, pair your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat, which can block up to half of UVB rays that sunglasses alone might miss
Protect Your Eyes When Swimming
Swimming is one the most-loved summer activities for both kids and adults, but it brings some risks along with it.
- Chlorine in pools and salt in ocean water can irritate your eyes, strip away the protective tear film, and lead to redness, grittiness, or blurred vision.
- Always wear swim goggles to protect your eyes from chemicals and bacteria. After swimming, rinse your eyes with fresh water to remove any irritants.
- If you experience persistent irritation, use lubricating eye drops for comfort and visit us for an evaluation.
Guard Against Summer Allergens and Dryness
Allergies and dry environments are common in summer, and both can take a toll on your eyes.
- Summer allergens like pollen and grass can cause itchy, red, or watery eyes. If you’re prone to allergies, avoid rubbing your eyes and use doctor-approved allergy eye drops as needed.
- Air conditioning and fans can dry out your eyes. Stay hydrated, consider using a humidifier indoors, and wear wrap-around sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and sun.
Practice Safe Outdoor and Sports Activities
Outdoor fun and sports are highlights of summer, but they can also increase your risk of eye injuries if you’re not prepared.
- Wear protective eyewear when playing sports, gardening, mowing the lawn, or doing home maintenance. This helps prevent serious eye injuries from flying debris or accidental impacts.
- Choose safety glasses or goggles that meet ANSI standards for impact resistance when engaging in high-risk activities.
Don’t Forget Rest and Hygiene
Good eye health is more than just protection. In fact, giving your eyes the care and rest they need can go a long way towards proper vision care in the summer months.
- Get adequate sleep – aim for at least 7 – 8 hours per night to help your eyes recover from sun and screen exposure.
- Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis (“pink eye”) and other infections, especially after outdoor activities or swimming.
Visit Family Vision Development Center for Comprehensive Vision Care
We are dedicated to protecting our patients’ visual health – not only in the summer but all year round! Our experienced team is able to provide the most comprehensive care, from vision exams, glasses and contacts to advanced vision therapy treatment and neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation. When it comes to summer vision care, we are available to answer your important questions and make sure your eyes stay healthy throughout these warm months. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our practice.
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.
For many people, vision care simply means getting glasses or contacts. But for those who struggle with more complex issues such as visual processing, eye teaming, or eye movement issues, vision therapy programs can offer life-changing results. Unlike lenses that focus on vision correction alone, vision therapy works to improve and retrain the connection between the eyes and brain. This means the improvements you gain are not just temporary fixes. In fact, one of the most compelling reasons to consider vision therapy it is that the long-term benefits can be significant and lasting.
Why Do People Seek Vision Therapy Programs?
People pursue vision therapy programs for a variety of reasons, including visual rehabilitation following head trauma or stroke, addressing learning-related visual challenges such as reading or concentration, or even to improve athletic performance by enhancing skills such as hand-eye coordination or reaction times. Whatever the reason may be, personalized therapy programs can provide substantial, measurable improvements, like the following examples.
Academic Improvements
For children, vision therapy can be a game-changer. Many students who struggle with reading, writing, or focusing in class actually have underlying vision problems. By strengthening their visual skills, vision therapy programs help children read more fluently, comprehend better, and perform more confidently at school. These academic benefits often last well beyond the end of therapy, setting kids up for lifelong learning success.
Improved Eye Coordination and Binocular Vision
Conditions like strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye) can make everyday tasks challenging. Vision therapy programs help correct these issues by improving eye teaming and depth perception. These improvements have proven to be long-lasting, with many patients maintaining better eye coordination for years after completing therapy.
Comprehensive Recovery Following a Concussion or Stroke
One of the most powerful uses of vision therapy programs is in the rehabilitation process following a concussion or stroke, where common issues include double vision, blurred vision, light sensitivity, difficulty focusing, trouble with balance, and challenges in tracking moving objects. The benefits of vision therapy can be substantial, by reducing or eliminating these symptoms and giving patients the ability to read, drive, and participate in work or hobbies, while regaining independence and confidence in the process.
Better Hand-Eye Coordination and Sports Performance
Athletes who participate in vision therapy programs often see long-lasting benefits that can significantly improve their gameplay. This personalized therapy can sharpen reaction times, boost spatial awareness, and enhance visual tracking. These skills are crucial for sports performance and can help an athlete gain a competitive edge while reducing the risk of injury.
Improvement to Overall Quality of Life
The benefits of vision therapy programs go beyond the technical improvements in visual skills, often resulting in significantly improved quality of life. When everyday visual tasks become easier and more comfortable, people will begin to feel more confident and capable in their daily routines. Whether it is a child finding success in the classroom, an adult becoming more productive, independent or fulfilled, or an athlete gaining new opportunities for college or career, the lasting effects of vision therapy can be both empowering and uplifting.
Family Vision Development Center Specializes in Vision Therapy Programs
The dedicated professionals at Family Vision Development Center have advanced training and experience in vision therapy techniques and customize each program to target the specific vision issues of each patient. We understand that vision therapy programs not only correct visual disorders, but can also have lasting effects that can dramatically impact a person’s ability to comfortably and confidently succeed in daily life. Reach out to our team at 630-862-2020 with questions 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.
When we think about the importance of healthy vision, the first things that come to mind are often the most obvious, like reading, driving, recognizing faces or watching television. But our eyes play a much bigger role in our daily lives than many people realize. In fact, proper vision can impact everything from our safety and productivity to how we interact with others and even our overall health. Here are some less obvious ways healthy vision shapes your everyday experience, and why regular vision care is so important.
The Not-So-Obvious Ways Healthy Vision Shapes Your Day
There can be countless times throughout the day when your vision is working behind the scenes, almost invisibly, to keep you safe, efficient, and connected. These moments can determine a person’s overall quality of life, which is why proper vision care means so much. Look at a few examples of healthy vision in action, making our days better.
There’s usually a lot going on in the kitchen when preparing a meal. Slicing vegetables, reading labels, or cleaning up a spill on a patterned floor are all tasks that require different aspects of your visual system to work well together. Your eyes are the first line of defense in the kitchen and help with everything from reading expiration dates to spotting mold on food or making sure meat is thoroughly cooked through. Healthy vision goes beyond just reading a recipe by helping you avoid dangerous things like foodborne illness and kitchen accidents.
Many people don’t realize that healthy vision plays an essential role in maintaining proper balance. Your brain uses visual cues, along with information from your inner ear and muscles, to help you stay upright. If your vision is off, your balance may suffer, especially in dimly-lit places or on uneven surfaces. That might mean more trips, stumbles, or even falls, especially for older adults.
- Navigating Unfamiliar or Crowded Places
Whether you are walking in a dimly-lit restaurant, busy grocery store, crowded airport or unfamiliar town square, you are making constant use of your peripheral vision and depth perception to navigate the environment. Your eyes must continually adjust to interpret visual clues, such as uneven sidewalks, moving objects or changing lighting, in order to avoid tripping, falling or other accidents. Without healthy vision, these environments can be overwhelming or even dangerous.
Interacting with others can be difficult for anyone, regardless of the state of their visual health. However, healthy vision can play a big role in making social interactions easier. A large part of communication is non-verbal. Interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions, shifts in eye contact or subtle body language, can help you better understand and interpret the emotions or meaning behind the conversation. When healthy vision is at work, people can have a better opportunity to have more meaningful, confident conversations.
The Importance of Regular Vision Exams for Healthy Vision and Beyond
Vision impacts so many hidden parts of your life, and it is often taken for granted – until something goes wrong. That is one of the most important reasons for visiting us at The Family Vision Development Center for a vision exam every year. Many common eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, develop slowly and without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. A comprehensive vision exam can catch these issues early, before they cause permanent damage.
A vision exam can also reveal more than just vision problems. In fact, these exams can help us detect symptoms of serious health issues, such as diabetes , high blood pressure or even neurological disorders – making vision care a vital part of your overall health.
Healthy vision supports your safety and overall quality of life, so schedule an appointment now for a comprehensive vision exam in order to protect it! Contact our Aurora location at 630-862-2020 to find a convenient time for your schedule.
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.
After a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI), many people expect symptoms like headaches or memory problems. But one of the most common and frustrating side effects is persistent dizziness or balance problems. These issues can remain long after the initial injury and can seriously affect your ability to return to work, school or daily activities. What many people don’t realize is that these symptoms are often connected to disruptions in the visual system, and neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation may be the key to recovery.
Why Head Trauma Affects Your Balance
The brain relies on input from three major systems to maintain balance: the inner ear (vestibular), muscles and joints (proprioception), and the eyes (visual). When any one of these systems is affected by a concussion or head trauma, the others must compensate. In many cases, the visual system is compromised, leading to problems like:
- Dizziness when walking or turning your head
- Feeling off-balance in busy environments
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty focusing or tracking objects
- Motion sickness or nausea
- Disorientation, especially in open or crowded spaces
Even small disruptions in visual processing can cause a mismatch between what your brain sees and how your body feels – and that can leave you feeling dizzy, off-kilter or even anxious.
What Is Neuro-Optometric Vision Rehabilitation?
Neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation is a highly specialized therapy that retrains the visual system and restores coordination between the eyes, brain, and body. It’s not about correcting eyesight with glasses – it’s about repairing how your brain processes visual information after a trauma. Treatment is tailored to each individual and may include:
- Eye teaming and tracking exercises
- Activities that integrate vision with balance and movement
- Use of prism lenses to stabilize visual input
- Light therapy or sensory integration tasks
By addressing the underlying visual dysfunction, vision rehabilitation helps reduce dizziness and imbalance, which often leads to significant improvements in daily function and quality of life.
Why You Should See Our Specialists for Dizziness or Imbalance
Standard vision exams are important, but they often don’t pick up on all of the visual processing issues caused by a head injury. That’s why it’s essential to work with the optometrists at Family Vision Development Center who specialize in neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation and have advanced training in diagnosing and treating visual issues that result from head trauma. A neuro-optometric evaluation goes far beyond a basic eye chart – it looks at eye coordination, tracking, focus, spatial awareness, and how your visual system interacts with your vestibular and proprioceptive systems.
Working with our specialists ensures you get a customized treatment plan designed to address your unique challenges and help you recover as fully as possible. In fact, with the right diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience dramatic improvement in symptoms they’ve been struggling with for months, or even years. If you are experiencing symptoms of dizziness or imbalance, especially after a head injury, reach out now to get started on a treatment plan. Contact us to schedule a consultation at our Aurora location by calling 630-862-2020.
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.
As people age, changing vision is not only common—it’s expected. These vision changes can be gradual or sudden, and while many are a natural part of aging, some may indicate a more serious issue. Knowing what to expect, what causes these changes, and how to manage them is key to protecting your long-term eye health.
Common Vision Changes with Age
Starting around age 40, most people begin to notice subtle shifts in how their eyes function. In fact, many vision changes are simply the result of the natural aging process. In other cases, however, vision changes can indicate a more serious issue. Some of the most common age-related vision changes include:
- Presbyopia – Difficulty focusing on close objects or small print. This is caused by a gradual thickening and loss of flexibility in the eye’s natural lens, which makes it harder to focus. This is one of the vision changes most frequently experienced by those over 40 and is usually not a major concern. However, blurred vision can also be a sign of cataracts, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy so we always recommend confirming the cause through a vision exam.
- Dry Eyes – A gritty, itchy, or burning sensation in the eyes. This is often due to age-related changes in tear production, hormonal shifts (especially during menopause), certain medications, or prolonged screen use. However, chronic dry eye may also indicate health concerns like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Graves’ disease or diabetes.
- Light Sensitivity – Trouble with bright sunlight or night driving due to oncoming headlights. Sensitivity to light or glare can result from changes to the cornea and lens, or it could also be a sign of early development of cataracts or glaucoma.
- Decline in Color Perception – Colors may appear duller or harder to distinguish.
Decreased color perception can be caused by decreasing function of cells in the retina or shrinking pupils that become less responsive to changes in lighting. However, it may also be related to cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration.
- Difficulty with Nighttime Vision: Struggling to see clearly in low-light settings.
Difficulty adjusting from bright to dark settings, or trouble distinguishing details in dim lighting is another common vision change that comes with aging. Problems with low-light vision are often the result of deteriorating cells across the retina, but it can also signal cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
- Floaters and Flashes: Seeing small shapes or flashes of light in your vision.
Eye floaters and flashes are a common occurrence with aging, caused by a thickening of the eye’s vitreous gel. In most cases there is no need to worry about them. However, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Tips to Manage Aging Vision Changes
As we have seen, some vision changes are a result of serious issues that should be treated by a professional. However, when it comes to non-threatening age-related changes, there are many ways to protect your eyes and comfortably adapt:
- Wear Corrective Lenses – Whether it’s reading glasses or updated prescriptions, using the right eyewear can relieve eye strain and improve clarity.
- Use Adequate Lighting – Brighten your home and work areas to reduce glare and make reading easier.
- Limit Screen Time – Take frequent breaks using the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Eat a Vision-Healthy Diet – Include foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, like leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, and fatty fish.
- Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays – Always wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection when outdoors. Polarized lenses can add an additional layer of protection from harsh glare.
- Control Chronic Health Issues – Managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol can prevent vision complications.
- Quit Smoking – Smoking increases your risk for many eye diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
One of the most effective ways to maintain healthy vision as you age is to visit us regularly for a comprehensive eye exam. These visits allow us to monitor changes, update prescriptions, and detect early signs of eye disease – often before symptoms become noticeable. At Family Vision Development Center, we treat patients of all ages, but we have an advanced understanding of the most common changes that can occur in aging adults, which means we can provide the most effective treatment options. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your vision exam today.
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.
For many adults, job performance can be negatively affected by vision issues that go unnoticed or untreated. Whether working in an office, managing a business, or engaging in hands-on labor, strong vision is essential for productivity, accuracy and comfort on the job. Adult vision therapy is a customized program designed to improve a variety of visual skills, and it can have a profound impact on job performance.
Common Workplace Vision Challenges
Nearsightedness and farsightedness are not the only vision issues that can affect job performance. There are many other visual challenges that can become problematic on the job, including:
- Eye Strain and Fatigue – This issue can be caused by extended periods of screen time, reading, or detailed work.
- Poor Focus and Eye Coordination – Difficulty maintaining clear focus when switching between near and far tasks, or between screens and printed materials, can slow work efficiency.
- Headaches and Blurred Vision – Frequent headaches and intermittent blurriness can signal underlying visual dysfunctions.
- Reduced Depth Perception – Depth perception is essential for tasks requiring precision, such as handling tools, assembling products, or even driving a vehicle.
- Dizziness and Motion Sensitivity – Struggling with balance and coordination may affect job safety and comfort in a variety of work environments.
How Adult Vision Therapy Enhances Job Performance
Vision therapy is a treatment program that targets the connection between the eyes and brain and involves visual activities and exercises. These exercises are not necessarily about strengthening eye muscles, but rather retraining the brain to process visual signals more efficiently. Here are some of the ways it can benefit professionals in various fields:
- Increased Productivity – Employees who struggle with eye strain or focus issues often take longer than necessary to complete tasks. Vision therapy can enhance focusing ability, making reading, writing, and digital tasks more efficient.
- Reduced Fatigue and Discomfort – By addressing eye tracking and alignment problems, vision therapy can help prevent headaches, tired eyes, and discomfort, allowing workers to stay focused longer without strain.
- Improved Attention and Accuracy – For jobs requiring attention to detail, such as accounting, graphic design, or engineering, vision therapy can enhance visual processing skills, which can lead to fewer errors and improved efficiency.
- Enhanced Depth Perception and Coordination – Professionals in fields like construction, aviation, or healthcare rely on strong depth perception. Vision therapy helps improve hand-eye coordination, leading to better precision in hands-on tasks.
- Better Reading and Comprehension – Workers who frequently read reports, analyze data, or draft documents may experience difficulties if they have visual tracking issues. Vision therapy improves eye movement control, making reading smoother and reducing the need to re-read information.
- Greater Confidence and Job Satisfaction – When visual challenges are corrected, employees feel more comfortable and confident in their roles. They experience fewer work-related frustrations and can perform at their highest potential.
Who Can Benefit from Adult Vision Therapy?
Any adult who is experiencing persistent visual discomfort, difficulty focusing, or performance struggles at work may benefit from an evaluation in our office. It is particularly helpful for:
- Office workers with prolonged screen exposure
- Tradespeople who rely on precise hand-eye coordination
- Professionals who handle high volumes of reading or computer work
- Medical professionals who are tasked with detailed, precision work
Family Vision Development Center Specializes in Vision Therapy for All Ages
If you suspect that your work performance may be suffering because of vision issues, a vision therapy consultation can help identify the root cause. Improving visual efficiency through a customized therapy program can lead to enhanced focus, comfort, and productivity, ultimately boosting job performance and career success. Prioritizing vision health isn’t just about seeing clearly—it’s about optimizing performance in every aspect of your professional life. Schedule a vision exam today by calling 630-862-2020 and take the first step toward better workplace efficiency.
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.
Spring is in the air and that means chirping birds, blooming flowers and unfortunately for many – itching and watery eyes due to seasonal eye allergies. If you’re one of the millions who suffer from these allergies, you understand the struggle. Sneezing and congestion are some common symptoms, but seasonal eye allergies also come with additional symptoms that can be just as disruptive, that can affect your comfort and your vision.
What Causes Seasonal Eye Allergies?
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, the official term for eye allergies, is triggered by airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. When these allergens come into contact with your eyes, your immune system releases histamine, leading to these classic symptoms:
- Itching
- Redness
- Watering
- Burning
- Swelling
- Sensitivity to light
While spring is notorious for pollen, allergies can linger throughout the year. Ragweed in the fall, mold in damp summer weather, and even indoor allergens like pet dander during winter can all irritate your eyes.
Relief Tips for Spring and Beyond
Thankfully, there are several strategies to combat seasonal eye allergies and find relief:
- Minimize Exposure – minimizing the amount of time you come into contact with allergens can make a big difference in lessening your symptoms. Some easy ways to do this would be to track pollen counts on your phone every morning, keep your windows closed when counts are high, use air purifiers in the house and wear sunglasses when heading outdoors.
- Over-the-Counter Remedies – your local pharmacy can provide some relief as well. Lubricating artificial tears can wash away allergens and soothe irritation, while antihistamine eye drops can help with itching and redness. Additionally, oral antihistamines can help with overall allergy symptoms, including irritated eyes.
- Practice Good Hygiene – properly caring for your eyes can certainly help with the effects of seasonal eye allergies. For example, avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and spread allergens. Also, frequent hand washing can help prevent transferring allergens to your eyes. For those who wear contacts, always stick to your prescribed directions for cleaning and replacing them, or even consider switching to daily disposables during allergy season.
Consulting Family Vision Development Center for Seasonal Eye Allergies
While over-the-counter remedies offer some relief, our team can play an important role in managing seasonal eye allergies. Here’s how we can help:
- Accurate Diagnosis – Following a vision exam, we can differentiate between allergic conjunctivitis and other eye conditions that may mimic allergy symptoms, such as dry eye or infections. This ensures you receive the appropriate treatment.
- Prescription-Strength Relief – For persistent or severe allergies, we can prescribe stronger antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops. These medications provide more effective and longer-lasting relief than over-the-counter options.
- Personalized Treatment Plans – We’ll assess your specific symptoms and lifestyle to create a tailored treatment plan. This may include recommendations for specific eye drops, contact lens adjustments, or environmental modifications.
- Managing Contact Lens Irritation – If you wear contact lenses, we can recommend daily disposable lenses or specialized cleaning solutions to minimize allergen buildup and irritation. We can also assess if your current contact lenses are contributing to your discomfort.
- Identifying Underlying Issues – In some cases, allergies can exacerbate existing eye conditions. We can identify these issues and provide appropriate management strategies.
- Monitoring and Follow-up – We’ll monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal comfort and vision.
If you are suffering from seasonal allergies, and over the counter medications aren’t helping, call 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment today so we can discuss other options to keep your eyes comfortable all season long.
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.
Blurry vision is a common issue that many people experience at some point in their lives. Maybe you’re tired, staring at a screen too long, or just need a new prescription for your glasses. Often, it’s temporary and nothing to be overly concerned about. But sometimes, blurry vision can be a sign of something more serious. Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for protecting your eye health and overall well-being.
When Blurry Vision is Usually Not an Emergency
Not all instances of blurry vision indicate a major health issue. Some common, less serious causes include:
- Refractive Errors – Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can all cause blurred vision that is easily corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses.
- Dry Eyes – Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can lead to dry, irritated eyes and temporary blurriness.
- Eye Strain – Prolonged screen use, reading in poor lighting, or focusing on close-up tasks for extended periods can cause eye strain and momentary blurred vision.
- Fatigue – Lack of sleep can lead to tired eyes and occasional vision problems.
- Allergies – Seasonal allergies can cause itchy, watery eyes that temporarily affect vision.
- Mild Dehydration – Not drinking enough water can impact eye lubrication and lead to transient blurry vision.
It is important to note that a less-serious cause of blurry vision still warrants an eye exam if it persists. Blurry vision is not a normal symptom and it should be treated in any instance, even if it is not an emergency.
Serious Eye Conditions Associated with Blurry Vision
While some causes of blurry vision are short-lived, certain conditions require immediate medical attention. Some of the serious causes include:
- Cataracts – Clouding of the lens of the eye, leading to blurry, hazy vision.
- Macular Degeneration – A progressive disease that affects the central vision, causing blurriness, distortion, or blind spots.
- Glaucoma – A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often leading to blurry vision and peripheral vision loss.
- Diabetic Retinopathy – Damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes, which can lead to blurry vision, floaters, and even blindness.
- Retinal Detachment – A serious condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye, causing sudden blurry vision, flashes of light, and floaters.
- Optic Neuritis – Inflammation of the optic nerve, which can cause blurry vision, eye pain, and loss of vision.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Because blurry vision can be an indication of some very serious conditions, there are times when it is appropriate to visit us for an evaluation as quickly as possible. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden or severe vision changes
- Vision loss in one or both eyes
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Double vision
- Flashes of light or an increase in floaters
- A shadow or curtain-like effect over your vision
For persistent blurry vision, even without emergency symptoms, scheduling an eye exam is a good idea so we can determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Family Vision Development Center is Here for All of your Vision Needs
While occasional blurry vision is often nothing to worry about, it’s very important to be aware of the signs that indicate a more serious problem. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, persistent blurriness, or blurry vision accompanied by other symptoms, don’t hesitate to call us for an appointment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving your vision and preventing further damage. Of course, regular vision exams are also essential for maintaining good eye health and detecting any potential problems early on. Give us a call at 630-862-2020 to learn more or to schedule a convenient 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.
Parents typically try to do what they can to keep their kids healthy—ensuring they eat the right foods, get enough sleep, and stay active. But how often do they think about their vision? Probably not as often as they should. Healthy vision plays a crucial role in learning, social development, and even sports performance, yet it’s easy to overlook. So, let’s break down the basics so parents have the knowledge they need to protect their child’s visual health.
Signs Your Child Might Have a Vision Problem
Kids can develop vision issues very early in life, but they aren’t always great at expressing when something’s wrong. Because it’s so easy for these issues to go undetected, it’s up to parents to look for clues. Some signs that could indicate a vision issue include:
- Squinting or tilting their head to see better
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes
- Holding books or screens too close
- Rubbing their eyes frequently
- Avoiding reading or close-up work
- Difficulty staying focused in school
Of course, this is not a comprehensive list. Parents know their child best, so at any time if there is a question or concern about the possibility of a problem, they should get their vision examined by a professional.
Eye Exams: When and How Often?
Many parents assume that if their child passes a school vision screening, their eyes are fine. Unfortunately, school screenings only catch some vision issues—they don’t replace a comprehensive vision exam by an eye doctor. Additionally, exams should actually begin long before a child reaches school age. The American Optometric Association recommends:
- First eye exam: 6 months – 12 months old
- Second eye exam: Age 3 – 5 years old
- Third eye exam: Before starting school
- After that: Annually, or as recommended by your optometrist
Regular vision exams help catch problems early, which is key to successful treatment. Keeping to this schedule is one of the most important ways you can protect your child’s eyesight and help to ensure healthy vision for their lifetime.
The Impact of Screen Time on Young Eyes
Let’s be honest—screens are everywhere. While technology has its benefits, too much screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which can cause dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To help protect your child’s eyes from damaging digital screens:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have them look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Limit recreational screen time, especially before bedtime.
- Encourage outdoor play—natural daylight has been shown to help slow the progression of nearsightedness!
Protecting Their Eyes from Injuries
From sports to science experiments, kids are constantly on the move, and accidents happen. Eye injuries are one of the leading causes of vision loss in children, but many can be prevented with protective eyewear. If your child plays sports like basketball, soccer, or baseball, get them a pair of impact-resistant sports goggles before they take the field or court.
Sunglasses Aren’t Just for Adults
UV rays from the sun can harm children’s eyes just as much as they do ours. In fact, kids’ eyes are even more sensitive to UV exposure. Parents should make sure their child wears sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection whenever they’re outside, even on cloudy days.
Vision Therapy: More Than Just Glasses
If your child struggles with reading, has trouble tracking words across a page, or has frequent headaches, they might have a functional vision issue that goes beyond needing glasses. Vision therapy, a specialized program designed to train and strengthen the connection between the eyes and brain, can help vastly improve issues like eye coordination and tracking.
We are the Best Resource for Parents when it Comes to Kids’ Vision
At Family Vision Development Center, we are dedicated to protecting the visual health of our young patients. We have advanced training in specialized vision therapy techniques, plus extensive knowledge in treating the vision conditions that kids often experience. We take the time to make sure parents understand the treatment options available for their kids, and are always willing to answer important questions about their visual health. Contact our Aurora office at 630-862-2020 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.
