Parents with a struggling student may be quick to assume a learning issue is the cause. However, a vision condition that causes difficulty with eye tracking may actually be what is behind the problems. Understanding what eye tracking means, the importance of this visual function, and how to correct this type of disorder can help parents stay on top of their child’s visual health as well as their success in school.
Why Proper Eye Tracking is Important
Eye tracking, also called visual tracking, is the eyes’ ability to work in sync with each other to accurately follow moving objects. Additionally, this visual skill allows for precise movements from word to word in a line of text.
Eye tracking movements are an essential part of healthy vision and are important in everyday life. For example, some activities that require proper eye tracking skills include:
- Quick scanning for information (while reading or in the world around you)
- Following or catching a ball while playing sports
- Focusing while jumping from one spot to another
- Reading a book
- Writing in a straight line
- Maintaining attention on a task
If a child’s eye tracking skills are not properly developed, it can negatively affect their reading fluency and comprehension, writing and spelling abilities, math skills, test scores and sports performance. Furthermore, this effect on overall academic and athletic performance not only affects their potential grades, but their overall self-confidence as well.
Common Signs of an Eye Tracking Problem
A child may not always realize that they are experiencing difficulty because of a vision problem. However, there are signs to watch out for that can indicate an eye tracking issue.
- Frequently skipping lines or words or losing their place when reading
- Poor comprehension when reading
- Confusing similar words
- Writing words, numbers or letters in reverse
- Reading below grade level
- Rubbing or squinting their eyes when reading
- Frequent drowsiness after reading for short periods
- Using a finger as a marker or aid while reading
- Reduced attention span when reading
- Eye strain or headaches when doing close-up work like reading or homework
- Complains that words seem to float or move around on the page
- Poor or illegible handwriting
- Difficulty playing sports
How to Correct an Eye Tracking Issue
If you notice any of the above signs or symptoms, the best precaution is to get a comprehensive vision exam to positively identify any vision issues. It should be noted that if a child gets results from a vision screening that indicate 20/20 vision, that does NOT necessarily mean that they have perfect vision. In fact, 20/20 vision simply means they are able to clearly see a specific letter on an eye chart at a distance of 20 feet. This standard screening is not able to accurately diagnose a vision disorder, such as an eye tracking problem.
It should also be noted that a child will not simply outgrow an eye tracking issue. In essence, in order to correct an eye tracking problem, you must take specific action. In our experience, the most effective form of treatment for an eye tracking problem is a customized vision therapy program. At Family Vision Development Center, our providers are highly-trained in advanced vision therapy techniques. These programs consist of specific eye exercises that strengthen the neural connection between the eyes and the brain in order to restore normal eye movements.
Contact us at 630-862-2020 to discover how vision therapy can provide an incredible solution to your child’s school struggles. We look forward to helping your child achieve healthy vision as well as reach their full academic potential!
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
As the start of a new year rolls around, many people look for ways to improve their life for the upcoming year. This can be accomplished in many ways, and is different for each person. But one thing everyone should be focused on is how to promote better vision. Our vision is precious, and maintaining healthy vision for life is an important goal. Luckily, there are some very easy changes you can make right away to get started on that journey.
Wear Sunglasses
One of the easiest and most significant changes you can make to your daily routine to promote better vision is to make sure you wear sunglasses. Every day. Without question. Many people really underestimate the importance of this simple action. But the fact is, the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause serious vision damage. Wearing sunglasses each time you leave the house can help protect against cataracts, macular degeneration and more. As a bonus, they do not have to be expensive glasses. In fact, as long as they indicate either “100% UV protection”, “protection against UVA and UVB” or “UV400”, they should be effective at blocking rays.
Add More Vegetables into your Diet
At this time of year, many people make a resolution to start eating more healthy foods. This is a great idea in general for better health. But it can also lead to better vision. Research has indicated that certain vegetables contain a number of vitamins and minerals that are known to promote better vision. For example, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots can be good sources of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, beta-carotene, antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin. These eye-healthy nutrients can be added in throughout your daily meals to help you build better vision for life.
Be Diligent with Contact Lens Care
After getting comfortable wearing contacts, it is easy to sometimes neglect your care routine. Unfortunately, this common mistake can lead to vision problems if it becomes a habit. The truth is, consistent care is essential to maintain healthy vision. In this respect, it is important to properly clean and store your contacts according to your doctor’s instructions. This means using appropriate cleaning solutions (not saliva or water), washing your hands before touching your contacts, and always keeping them stored in a clean case.
Take a Break from Digital Screens
It is so easy to become engrossed in digital screens. From computer screens at work to phones throughout the day, or television screens in the evening, it seems that our entire days are spent staring at screens. But too much of this can lead to digital eye strain, with symptoms like headaches, blurry vision, dry eyes, light sensitivity and more. For better vision, be sure to take frequent breaks from your screens. A good rule to stick to is to give your eyes a break every 20 minutes, by looking at least 20 feet into the distance for at least 20 seconds (think 20/20/20).
Commit to an Annual Vision Exam
Many people take the time to see their doctor annually for a routine physical to maintain their overall health. However, it is just as important to see your eye doctor for regular eye exams, as many vision conditions are only detectable through a comprehensive evaluation. Early detection can often give you a far better opportunity to fully correct an issue. Regular exams allow your eye doctor to detect any changes in vision right away, and begin treatment faster.
At Family Vision Development Center, we want to help you achieve better vision for life. We provide essential vision care services for patients of all ages, including vision exams, vision therapy services, post-concussive vision treatment, and a state-of-the-art optical center for eyeglasses and contact lenses. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule your appointment today and make your vision a priority in the new year!
Winter months bring dropping temperatures and thoughts of holiday festivities. However, vision care may not be on the top of the list of concerns during this time. But unfortunately, cold weather can present some issues when it comes to your eyes and vision. Here are some tips to keep your eyes protected against winter dangers.
Wear sunglasses
Sun protection is not just a summer concern! Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the sun’s UV rays can’t harm your eyes. In fact, glare from the sun can be particularly harsh in winter, and UV rays reflecting off surfaces including snow, pavement, metal and water can damage your eyes year-round. UV exposure is associated with an increased risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Therefore, it is essential to always wear proper sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
Wear other protective eyewear
Speaking of eye protection, sunglasses are not the only eyewear you might need during winter. Many people like to partake in fun winter sports like skiing or snowmobiling. However, these activities can present risks to your eyes if the proper precautions are not taken. Wearing protective goggles can shield eyes from UV rays and hazardous glare, as well as protect against flying snow and debris.
Keep your Eyes Moisturized
Winter months are notorious for dry indoor air. Prolonged exposure to this lack of humidity can cause your eyes to become irritated, itchy and sore. Additionally, dry air can cause a burning sensation or excessive watering. To combat this, try using a humidifier in your home to add moisture back into the air. Even better, applying artificial tears directly into your eyes can help to lubricate dry eyes and add moisture to the surface of the eye.
Seek Concussion Care Immediately
Unfortunately, winter months come with icy conditions. And that means there is an increased chance of slipping and falling. If you fall and hit your head, you need to take quick action to avoid any lasting effects of a concussion. Concussions can have a significant effect on vision. For example, you might experience blurred or double vision, difficulty focusing, dizziness, headaches, eye pain or light sensitivity. Or you may not even notice any symptoms at all for several days or more.
Even a mild concussion can cause serious vision problems over time, so seek care immediately even if you are not experiencing symptoms right away. We offer specialized care in neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation following a concussion, so contact us for an evaluation as quickly as possible following an injury.
Get a vision exam
Yes, this one can apply at any time of year. But because regular vision exams are so important to maintaining your overall eye health it should be on the list. Winter weather is often dreary, and outside activities can be more limited. So make excellent use of this opportunity to make your appointment for your vision exam! A comprehensive vision exam is often the only way to detect certain vision disorders. And that means you may not realize there is a problem without it. Early detection can mean an earlier opportunity for treatment to begin and a better chance of fully restoring impaired vision. So don’t delay. Make your appointment by calling Family Vision Development Center at 630-862-2020.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
Holiday break will soon be here, much to the delight of students everywhere. In all likelihood, their to-do lists for this time probably include gaming, friends, food and more gaming. Without a doubt, kids should relax and have fun during their time off from classes. However, parents do need to understand that setting some limits on how much time is spent gaming can be necessary to protect their kids’ vision. Here is some essential information on the dangers of too much screen time plus important ways to make gaming safer for your kids.
Gaming can lead to Digital Eye Strain
Extended gaming sessions can have consequences when it comes to vision. The main concern often cited by kids who spend a lot of time in front of a screen is digital eye strain. Also referred to as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), digital eye strain is a group of vision-related problems that are caused by prolonged use of electronics such as televisions, computers, tablets, gaming systems, or smartphones.
The longer a person uses these types of devices, the greater effect there seems to be on eye discomfort and vision problems. And while not every person is affected in the same way, most will see one or more of the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Tired eyes
- Dry eyes
- Neck and shoulder pain
Digital eye strain should not be ignored. In fact, prolonged instances can result in symptoms becoming more severe, and existing eye disorders such as farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia can also worsen.
Ways to Lessen the Impact of Eye Strain while Gaming
Because of the many ways gaming can impact your vision, it is important to take as many precautions as possible to limit those effects. The following actions can help contribute to healthy eyes and vision while playing.
- Don’t sit too close to the screen. The optimal distance should be at least 20 inches away for larger screens and 13 inches away for smaller screens.
- Follow the 20/20/20 rule. According to this rule, players should pause their gaming every 20 minutes and look at something more 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple action will help relax your eyes and reduce the strain of continuous play.
- Reduce glare from the screen. There are several ways to help reduce glare while gaming. For one, playing in the dark or in bright sunlight can increase glare from the screen. Therefore, you should play indoors and adjust the light to the proper levels to match the screen brightness. Additionally, you can install a glare-reducing screen or even wear anti-glare glasses while playing.
- Limit play time. This will not be a popular choice by many kids, but it is a very easy way to lessen the effects of a digital screen. The fact is, gaming for hours at a time is just not healthy for their eyes. Keep it to a minimum and also try to stop all digital use at least an hour before going to bed in order to avoid the blue light affecting the ability to fall asleep.
- Get a vision exam. This one may sound very unrelated. However, digital eye strain is often worse in kids with other vision issues, such as farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia. Therefore, treating these other vision conditions can help to alleviate the symptoms associated with gaming and other use of digital devices.
Schedule your Vision Exam at Family Vision Development Center
Our team is here to help ensure that you can enjoy your gaming while also maintaining your eye health! Our comprehensive vision exams will help detect any vision conditions or diseases that need to be treated. And our state-of-the-art vision center offers a variety of frames, lenses and coatings to match your needs and lifestyle. Additionally, if advanced treatment is necessary, our vision therapy programs provide an effective solution for patients of all ages. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to learn more or to schedule your appointment.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
One popular benefit offered by many employers is the flex spending account. With this benefit, employees are allowed to contribute money, tax-free, into a type of savings account throughout the year. This money can then be used to pay for certain vision, medical or dental expenses incurred during the plan year. It can be a guessing game as to the appropriate amount to contribute each year. And you typically will lose any money saved but not spent. So, if you find that you have a surplus at this time, here are some great ways to take advantage of your account balance.
Flex Spending Expires Soon
For those not aware of their plan rules, the flex spending benefit at many companies typically requires the insured person to use their benefit before the end of the year. That is not always the case, however. For instance, some companies may offer a short grace period which would extend into the next calendar year in which to spend the funds from the account. It is always best to check with your employer to verify the exact date in order to ensure you meet the deadline.
Vision Exam
If you haven’t already had a vision exam this year this is definitely the time to do it! This is one of the most important ways to maintain healthy vision. And luckily, any co-pay or charges not already covered by insurance would be covered by a flex spending account. Even if you do not have any current symptoms of a vision problem, a comprehensive vision exam is the best way to catch and treat vision issues early on. So don’t put it off any longer. Those flex spending dollars are just waiting to be put to good use.
Upgrade your Lenses
Use your flex spending dollars to try out a new pair of designer frames, specialty lenses or even a great pair of prescription sunglasses! We have so many options in our expansive optical center for you to explore. You can try out a new frame style or trendy new color, or finally splurge for the specialty lens coatings you’ve been wanting. Take advantage of those saved dollars and treat yourself to the perfect pair of glasses. Or if you’re already happy with your glasses, it’s always a good idea to have an extra pair on hand as a back-up, or to leave in your car or at the office.
Try Contacts
Have you been contemplating the thought of trading your glasses for contact lenses? Then use those flex spending dollars and give them a try! Many people love the advantages that contacts offer and give up their glasses completely. But others comfortably switch between the two. Our helpful team will answer all of your questions, suggest the right lenses to meet your needs, and go over proper care techniques. As a bonus, flex spending accounts even cover extras like contact lens solutions to care for your new lenses.
Vision Therapy
Vision therapy is a very effective treatment option for many kinds of vision disorders. If you have been diagnosed with a binocular vision disorder such as lazy eye, crossed eyes or focusing issues, but have not explored this option, talk to us soon! However, vision therapy can also provide surprising benefits you may not have realized. For instance, it is an excellent tool for athletes to sharpen their performance skills. Additionally, kids with special needs often find great success with this type of program as a form of vision correction. Schedule a consultation to learn how beneficial vision therapy can be!
Don’t Lose Your Flex Spending Dollars
Whatever you do, use those flex spending dollars. If you don’t meet the deadline, you will likely lose whatever you have put into the account. We are happy to offer additional flex spending ideas. But make your appointment quickly, as the end of the year is coming fast. To accommodate our patients, we offer convenient scheduling options to work with most schedules. Give us a call at 630-862-2020 to learn more!
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
Concussions are a serious matter for our patients of any age. But kids who participate in sports are especially susceptible to the danger of a concussion. If not treated quickly and properly, a concussion can have lasting effects, especially on vision. Optometric phototherapy is a highly effective form of post-concussive treatment for a number of vision-related symptoms.
What is a concussion
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that results from a bump, blow or jolt to the head or the body that is violent enough to cause the brain to hit the skull. This type of head injury can have a serious effect on the brain, and should be dealt with appropriately. In fact, properly responding to a concussion can make a big difference in preventing further, long-term negative effects.
What is optometric phototherapy
Optometric phototherapy is an advanced form of vision therapy in which various colored lights are used to target and correct a variety of vision problems. Research has shown that applying light through the eyes to affect the regions of the brain that are responsible for the body’s hormonal and chemical balance, as well as visual function, can help restore balance in the body and improve vision problems.
Which concussion symptoms does optometric phototherapy help treat
A concussion can result in a number of visual impairments. Therefore, all methods of treatment should be considered in order to address the issues and find the best solution. The optometric phototherapy programs that we provide in our office have shown a remarkable ability to improve visual symptoms of a concussion such as:
Accommodative insufficiency – the inability to maintain clear, comfortable focus on near objects, or to easily change focus from near to far. Some indications of this disorder include blurred vision, fatigue, headaches, double vision or a lack of concentration.
Binocular vision disfunction – the eyes do not align properly with one another and do not work together as a team. When this occurs, the eyes can transmit two images to the brain that are in slightly different positions. This can cause double vision, blurred vision, light sensitivity and poor depth perception.
Visual processing disorder – when the brain cannot make sense of the visual information it takes in through the eyes. This can result in confusing similar letters and numbers, losing your place while reading, or difficulty judging distances or heights.
Constricted functional visual field – the visual field is the entire area that can be seen when the eyes are fixed in one spot. A concussion can cause this area to become smaller, resulting in a loss of peripheral vision.
Family Vision Development Center provides expert optometric phototherapy treatment
Optometric phototherapy is a proven treatment option for post-concussive vision therapy. However, it is a specialized science and there are few providers in the state that are trained to provide the service. Fortunately, Family Vision Development Center is privileged to have Dr. Alia Santoyo as part of our practice. Dr. Santoyo is one of two optometrists in this area who is a Board Certified Fellow in optometric phototherapy by the College of Syntonic Optometry. That means our patients have access to the very best vision therapy treatments to aid in their concussion recovery.
To learn more about the advanced optometric phototherapy programs offered at Family Vision Development Center, contact our office at 630-862-2020.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
Cataracts are a very common, age-related condition. In fact, they affect approximately half of all Americans by age 80. As you age, the lens of your eye can harden and get denser and tissues can break down. As the tissues clump together, a clouding of the lens occurs. This clouding of the eyes is known as cataracts.
If left untreated, they can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness. Fortunately, they tend to develop slowly. This allows time to recognize the symptoms and seek treatment before too much damage has been done. Watch out for the following warning signs, as they can all indicate the presence or progression of cataracts.
Early symptoms of cataracts
- Seeing halos around lights
- Light sensitivity that doesn’t clear up quickly
- Eyeglass prescriptions that change frequently
- Appearance of a brown or yellow tint in your vision
Vision exams are essential to diagnose cataracts
The earlier cataracts are detected, the better the chance for effective management. Often times, people delay an eye exam, assuming their changes in vision are simply a natural result of aging. Unfortunately, this can lead to a progression of the symptoms of cataracts and a higher chance of surgery being required to treat them.
One important way to ensure that cataracts (and other vision disorders) are diagnosed early is to commit to annual vision exams. During this exam, we will perform the appropriate tests to determine your visual acuity and examine your lens for signs of cataracts. Seeing us regularly allows us to note any changes since your last visit and make recommendations for treatment or management as soon as these variations are detected.
Treatment of cataracts
While surgery is the only true form of treatment to eliminate cataracts, there are less-invasive ways to minimize the effects. For example, you can make changes at home to make daily life easier. Increasing the lighting in the house, wearing anti-glare sunglasses, or using a magnifier for reading can all help. In fact, there are many resources available for living with low vision. Implementing easy adjustments in your house, like keeping clutter to a minimum to avoid tripping or using clocks with large numbers can help you live with any new vision loss. And of course, another solution is to get your prescription glasses adjusted to accommodate changing vision due to cataracts.
At Family Vision Development Center, we will monitor your vision, advise on the best options to manage your symptoms, or suggest surgery to remove the cataracts when appropriate. Additionally, we can ensure that you have the most accurate and up-to-date prescription for your eyeglasses. During your visits, we will make sure you have a cataract treatment plan in place and will explain all of your options, including the possibility of surgery if your cataracts start to interfere too much with your quality of life.
Contact our Aurora office at 630-862-2020 to learn more or to schedule your appointment.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
If you have noticed that your child is having difficulty at school and it is not because of a lack of trying, the surprising solution could be to correct their vision. Even children that are interested in learning, and want to succeed in school, can have serious difficulty accomplishing that if they have underlying vision issues. When a child gets frustrated in school, it is very common for them to simply stop trying. So, it’s important to give them all the tools they need to be as successful as they want to be. That would include getting a comprehensive vision exam to ensure their vision is as healthy as it can be.
Signs of a vision problem at school
Vision disorders are not always obvious, so your child may have a vision issue without even being aware of it. However, there are certain signs to watch for that can indicate a problem. If you notice any of the following, while your child is in school or at home, it would be wise to have them evaluated for a possible vision disorder.
- Your child has poor hand-eye coordination, which may be evident in poor handwriting, motor coordination, athletic performance, etc.
- Your child has problems walking or running, and frequently drops objects or bumps into things
- Your child holds a book or object unusually close
- Your child closes one eye or covers the eye with his/her hand
- Your child omits or confuses small words when reading
- Your child reverses words when reading (e.g., “no” for “on”) or transposes numbers (e.g., “21” for “12”)
- Your child complains frequently of headaches, eyestrain, nausea, dizziness and/or motion sickness
- Your child frequently avoids or objects to doing homework
- Your child exhibits behavior problems in school
There are many more behaviors that can indicate a potential vision problem. Contact our office at 630-862-2020 to request a complimentary Children’s Vision Checklist. This handy checklist will provide an even more comprehensive list of signs and symptoms to watch for, along with information on how to proceed if you suspect a problem.
Vision therapy solution for school struggles
It can be very discouraging when your child is struggling in school, but there is hope! Many vision disorders can be very effectively corrected through a personalized vision therapy program. This type of therapy involves using specific eye exercises that help retrain the eyes and brain to communicate better. It can help correct issues such as:
- Amblyopia – This disorder, also called “lazy eye”, occurs when the eyes and brain do not work together properly. As a result, the brain will choose to use only one eye as its primary source of visual information. The other eye will “shut off” and will not be used very often, or at all. Usually this results in one eye not being able to see 20/20. Sometimes this will cause the eye to drift in or out, but many times it remains perfectly straight.
- Strabismus – This is another type of common vision disorder that results from the brain having difficulty using both eyes at the same time. If the stress of using both eyes together becomes too challenging, the brain will often allow one of the eyes to turn out or turn in to remove the problem, since using one is less confusing. This differs from Amblyopia in that both eyes have the ability to see 20/20 but not at the same time.
- Convergence Insufficiency – This condition is characterized by the inability to move and focus both eyes inward on near objects comfortably.
- Accommodative Disorder – This type of disorder affects a child’s ability to focus their eyes properly. This happens particularly at near distances or when switching focus from near to far away.
If a child is experiencing any of the above vision conditions, they could have trouble with focusing, reading, writing, concentrating on homework, or shifting their focus from close work at their desk to activities at the front of the classroom.
At Family Vision Development Center, we want to help your child succeed in school and in life. Our vision therapy programs can be life-changing to a struggling child. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment or to request your Children’s Vision Checklist!
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
Proper vision care is extremely important for maintaining the health of your eyes. So why is it so hard to get some people to commit to a vision exam on an annual basis? There are a lot of excuses out there, but they are not valid! Here are some of the most common reasons people give for delaying their vision exam – and why they just don’t make sense.
A vision exam is not necessary
A common misconception is that if you don’t have a noticeable or bothersome vision impairment, there is no need to see an eye doctor. But everyone should understand that getting a regular vision exam is much more than just getting fitted for glasses. In fact, it’s one of the most important ways to ensure the overall health of your eyes.
Regular comprehensive vision exams can often detect changes to your vision over time, allowing us to diagnose any possible vision issues right away. In many cases, treatment options are more effective the earlier they begin. Therefore, an early diagnosis of a vision disorder could make a big difference in the overall treatment results. Additionally, vision exams can indicate signs of other health disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, thyroid disease, high blood pressure and more.
It’s not safe to go to the eye doctor’s office
When the COVID-19 pandemic first emerged, many businesses were forced to temporarily close or severely limit their operations. However, even as people have started returning to their pre-pandemic routines, some safety concerns may continue to linger. You can be assured that we take your health and safety very seriously. We follow all appropriate health guidelines and take the necessary precautions in order to keep you safe while providing the highest quality care.
You don’t want to wear glasses
Some people may be concerned that if they have a vision exam, the eye doctor might actually discover a problem. And that could mean the possibility of wearing glasses. However, this should definitely not be a discouragement that keeps you from getting the proper eye care. We carry a very large selection of designer frames in a variety of shapes and colors. So most people are able to pick out glasses that look great on their face. And of course, for those who are completely opposed to glasses, they can explore the option of contact lenses, which also come in a variety of styles to match a range of lifestyles.
You don’t have vision insurance
While it is common to choose your medical visits and procedures based on your insurance coverage, that is not always necessary when it comes to vision care. In fact, even without vision coverage, a vision exam can still be very affordable. We will work with patients who do not have insurance coverage to offer convenient financing options if needed. Vision care is important so we do everything we can to ensure that quality, affordable care is available to all of our patients.
You don’t have time for vision exam
This is one of the most frustrating reasons people give for not making an appointment for a vision exam. The truth is, no matter how busy your schedule may seem, there is always room for something that is this important. Your vision is one of the most precious gifts you have and this is a very easy way to care for it. Proper vision can make such a difference in daily life, for both kids and adults. Almost everything we do is affected by our vision. So making the time for that annual vision exam will help to ensure a lifetime of healthy vision.
People need to realize the importance of proper vision care and stop making excuses to avoid it. The compassionate, professional team at Family Vision Development Center is dedicated to providing excellent vision care, through a wide range of services, to our patients of all ages, and we encourage everyone to schedule their vision exams regularly to maintain long-term healthy vision. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to make your appointment today!
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults over age 60. Most cases are caused by a buildup of pressure in the eye when fluid is not able to drain properly. This pressure can build slowly or rise very quickly and can cause issues such as blurry vision, severe eye pain, headache, nausea, vomiting or the appearance of rainbow-colored rings around lights. At this time, there is no way to reverse vision damage caused by glaucoma. But there are ways to help prevent further damage from occurring.
Know Who is Most at Risk of Glaucoma
While anyone can develop glaucoma, there are some factors that tend to increase the risk, including:
- Age – the older you get, the higher the risk of developing glaucoma, especially after age 60
- Race – with higher risk being associated with those who are Black, Asian or Hispanic
- Family history of glaucoma
- Having high internal eye pressure
- If you have diabetes, migraines, high blood pressure, heart disease or sickle cell anemia
- If you have corneas that are thin in the center
- If you are very nearsighted or farsighted
- If you have previously had an eye injury or eye surgery
- If you use long-term steroid medications, especially as eyedrops
People with one or more of these risk factors should be diligent about following up regularly with their eye doctor for observation and care.
Get Regular Vision Exams
The only way to diagnose glaucoma with certainty is with a comprehensive vision exam. Some forms of this eye disease can cause blindness if not treated quickly, but symptoms are often not apparent until the damage is severe and your vision has already been compromised. This is why regular eye exams are so important, as they can detect signs of glaucoma that would otherwise go unnoticed.
During a glaucoma assessment, we will measure your eye pressure, examine your optic nerve for abnormalities, inspect your eye’s drainage angle, measure the thickness of your cornea and test your peripheral vision. All of these factors are used to determine the presence of or likelihood of developing glaucoma.
Treat Symptoms as Early as Possible
Glaucoma damage is permanent and cannot be reversed. But there are a number of options that can help prevent further damage from occurring. Typically, it is treated with medicated eye drops that lower eye pressure. Other options include in-office laser surgery which can be effective in helping drain fluid from the eye, or surgery performed in an operating room which creates a new drainage channel for fluid to exit the eye.
The earlier glaucoma is diagnosed, the more effective treatment options are available. Schedule your appointment today at Family Vision Development Center by calling 620-962-2020.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative 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.
