There are three main reasons to replace your eyeglasses or contact lenses. One, if your prescription has changed, resulting in headaches and dizziness when you’re wearing them. Two, if they are too old or damaged for continued use. And, while it may not be as pressing as the first two, the third reason is when you […]
What Happens if Your Eyes Have Different Refractive Powers?
Whether you wear eyeglasses or not, it’s perfectly normal for individuals to have some slight differences in the refractive power of their eyes. There is no such thing as perfect 20-20 vision as most eyes can differ in refraction by about 5%. This doesn’t usually pose any problems as the differences are too small to notice. However, […]
What Can You Do to Relax Your Eyes and Prevent Eye Strain?
Also called computer vision syndrome, digital eye strain refers to a group of eye- and vision-related problems caused by extended use of computers, cell phones or tablets. It’s usually characterized by headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and neck and shoulder pain. Poor lighting, uncorrected vision problems, poor sitting posture and incorrect viewing distances typically trigger […]
Different Ways to Promote Glaucoma Awareness
Millions of Americans have glaucoma, which is a group of diseases that harms the optic nerve. This eye condition can lead to vision loss and even blindness. If you are at risk of glaucoma, you must see your eye doctor regularly. It is because it does not show signs until it is in its later stages.
All About Genetics and Vision Problems
From our hair and eye color to the shape of our nose, there are several characteristics that we inherit from our parents. Things indeed run in families, but are vision problems one of them? It might seem like a simple question, but the answer is quite complicated.
Comparing Prescription and Over-the-Counter Reading Glasses
You may need reading glasses if your eyes are already having a hard time focusing on small text and items held within arms’ length. When purchasing a pair, you might be wondering if it is worth purchasing the type prescribed by an eye doctor, or will the more affordable, over-the-counter (OTC) ones do?
How Often Should You Have Your Eyes Checked?
Even if you don’t need new contact lenses or if your eyes seem fine, you should still make it a point to regularly visit an eye doctor. But how often is “regularly”?
The Basics of Astigmatism
Astigmatism is an eye condition where a person suffers blurred or distorted vision. But what are the causes of this issue?
Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Your Needs
Different types of contacts can be used depending on the specific needs of a person. These requirements can range from purely cosmetic to vision correction. Your local eye care center will likely suggest the most appropriate lenses for your needs. But just to give you an idea of the considerations you need to make when buying […]
Early Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that causes your central vision, which is typically used for activities like reading and driving, to blur. It often happens in older people and affects a particular part of the eye called the macula. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people aged 50 and […]
3 Possible Causes of Watery Eyes
We usually tear up because a foreign body got into our eyes. Whether it’s a speck of dirt, dust or an eyelash – anything that lodges into them triggers the body to produce more tears until it’s flushed out. But sometimes, watery eyes are an indication of a more serious issue.
4 Must-Know Tips for Scleral Lens Wearers
Scleral contact lenses refer to large, gas-permeable lenses that lie on the sclera or the white outer layer of the eye. They offer a simple and effective way to treat a number of cornea conditions, allowing for clearer and healthier vision. But to get the most of these advanced lenses, and ensure your safety and […]
Eye Freckles: Causes, Types and Possible Complications
Eye freckles are more common than you think, and they are usually not a cause for concern. Genetics and sun exposure are their usual causes. However, your eye doctor may still need to keep an eye out for it. While rare, they can become a type of cancer or melanoma. Whether you’ve always had them […]
August: Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
While 1 in 20 children ages 3 to 5 have a vision problem that can lead to vision loss, 80% of preschoolers don’t undergo eye exams. This Children’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month, we encourage parents to do their part in taking care of and protecting their children’s eyesight.
Dry Eye Syndrome Management for Contact Lens Wearers
Close to five million Americans have problems with dry eye syndrome, which causes the eyes to stop producing enough tears or lubrication necessary to maintain comfort. As more than 30 million people in the country wear contact lenses, having dry eye syndrome is bad news for sufferers. Dry eye syndrome can be present whether you wear […]
Are Your Headaches Connected to Vision Problems?
There are different possible reasons for a headache; some more serious than others. Many people believe one of the leading causes of headaches is eye strain. It’s always a good idea to see a professional if you have recurring headaches to find out about any possible underlying causes. If you suspect it has something to […]
Tips for Eye Allergy Relief
Eye allergies typically result in eye redness, itching, burning and clear, watery discharge. They can also accompany other allergic symptoms like sneezing, stuffy nose and sniffling. So, it’s important to take steps to relieve eye allergy symptoms.
Signs That You May Have Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the clear, natural lenses of the eye begin to harden and yellow, creating a cloudy and opaque spot over the lenses. This condition prevents light rays from passing through the lens, making it difficult for a person to see. It is common in older people, and it’s the leading cause of blindness […]
Why Ortho-K Is a Great Option for Young Athletes
Wearing prescription eyeglasses isn’t always an option for athletes or active adolescents, particularly those who play contact sports. That’s why LASIK eye surgery and contact lenses are quite popular among athletes. However, these aren’t the only options available to athletes. A lesser-known but equally effective option is orthokeratology (ortho-k) or corneal refractive therapy. What […]
3 Signs of Hidden Vision Problems in Kids
Healthy vision is essential to a child’s development because children learn by watching. As such, vision problems, which are quite common, can be detrimental to their learning. Vision problems are the single most widespread disabling condition that affects American kids, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By the time American children […]
Vision Insurance: Which Plan Suits Your Eye Care Needs?
Keeping your vision clear can come with a hefty price tag. However, know that there is a vision insurance plan that can help you meet your eye care needs affordably. It usually covers the cost of prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses as well as eye exam visits. You can either get coverage through your employer […]
Contact Lens Discomfort: Possible Causes and Remedies
Despite the prevalence of contact lenses as the medical device of choice for correcting refractive errors, many are still experiencing discomfort while wearing them. So, what are the possible causes and remedies for this issue?
What’s the Connection Between Dry Eye and Migraines?
Are you experiencing dry eyes and migraines at the same time? This may not be an odd coincidence. In fact, there have been recent studies revealing a possible connection between the two.
How to Ensure Eye Safety in the Workplace
A study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that about 20,000 eye injuries happen in the workplace every year. It can be alarming just how common these cases can be, and they may range from simple eye strain to serious trauma that can lead to vision loss. That’s why it pays to take […]
Using Playtime to Help With Your Child’s Vision Development
Playtime is a critical part of your child’s physical and mental development. Furthermore, toys and games can be used to stimulate and sharpen their visual skills. To assist you with ensuring your child’s eye health, here are some toys and games that are perfect for every stage of your child’s vision development.
How to Select the Best Ortho-K Doctor for You
Orthokeratology (ortho-k) has been around for decades, and it’s one of the safest treatments that you can try to help delay the progression of nearsightedness. Of course, a critical part of its effectiveness is the skills and knowledge of your eye doctor so it’s important to select the right one.
Is Your Medication Affecting Your Vision?
Some medications may come with a variety of effects on your eyes. If you’re older, and you have been using medication at a high dose for a long period, your risk of experiencing side effects may be higher. While these are usually minor and temporary issues, you also have to be wary of any permanent […]
Basic Things You Should Know About Glaucoma
Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that affect the optic nerve, which links the eye to the brain. It’s one of the leading causes of visual disability, but experts say that such diseases can be prevented with early diagnosis and proper treatment.
All About Contact Lens-Related Eye Infections
Contact lenses are a reliable vision correction option – that is when they are used properly. Contact lens-related eye problems are becoming a major concern because many don’t follow or are unaware of the do’s and don’ts when it comes to handling their contact lenses.
Is Eyelid Hygiene Important?
When it comes to keeping your eyes in good health, it involves a lot of steps. Apart from having an eye exam regularly and eating eye-friendly foods, you must be able to perform basic eye hygiene, too – starting with some of the most underrated parts of your eyes: the eyelids.
Sports Eye Safety: How to Protect Your Kids’ Vision
Not a lot of parents worry about their kids getting sports-related eye injuries since they’re not a risk anyone would immediately tie to sports. However, they’re a lot more common than you think. Statistics say every 13 minutes, the emergency room treats a sports-related injury. And, one in three of these cases involves kids.
Terminologies: Understanding Your Eyeglass Prescription
To get your new pair of eyeglasses, all you need to do is to hand over your prescription to your local optical shop. However, it wouldn’t hurt to know about what your eye doctor wrote. Here’s what certain terms on the prescription mean.
How to Pick the Right Eyewear for Your Child
Coming to the eye care center to pick eyewear for your child is a different experience from getting a pair for yourself. Kids usually have different needs, and you have to consider those things to ensure they’re comfortable wearing eyeglasses.
Is 20/20 Vision “Perfect” Vision?
Having a 20/20 vision is often attributed to having a “perfect” vision – but is this really the case? Guilford Eye Center discusses a few vision-related terms that would help clarify this common perception about 20/20 vision.
Vision Care: The Common Causes of Red Eyes
Red eyes are usually the product of mild irritation that will quickly go away. If, however, this problem keeps happening, red eyes may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Guilford Eye Center, your local eye doctor, list the common causes of red eyes as well as their short- and long-term solutions for […]
Myopia Control and How It Can Help Your Kid
Vision problems can hamper a child’s development significantly. That’s because, in the early stages of childhood, children learn primarily learn through touching and seeing. One of the most common vision problems in childhood is myopia or nearsightedness.
Visual Dysfunctions Commonly Observed in People With Autism
People with autism experience difficulty in processing and responding to information from their senses, making visual problems really common. Visual dysfunction is typically characterized by poor eye contact, staring at spinning objects or light, sudden peripheral glances and difficulties attending visually.
Guidelines for Proper Contact Lens Disposal
There are around 45 million contact lens wearers in America. A study from Arizona State University found that 15% to 20% of contact wearers flush their lenses down the sink or toilet. This contributes to around 6 to 10 metric tons of plastic lenses to U.S. wastewater yearly, which can be a risk to marine […]
July is UV Safety Month: Protect Your Eyes From the Sun
The sun causes you more harm than you realize. Extended exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and its artificial sources can inflict damage on your eyes and lead to serious vision problems.
Why You Shouldn’t Swim While Wearing Contact Lenses
Bacteria can easily settle in your eyes if you swim while wearing contacts. Their presence can result in eye infections, irritation and even corneal ulcer.
Features of ACUVUE® OASYS With Transitions™ Contact Lenses
The new ACUVUE® OASYS with Transitions™ Light Intelligent Technology™ lenses are the first contact lenses to effortlessly adapt to light changes. They provide contact wearers comfort and clear vision. The revolutionary lens is named as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2018.
What Is Keratoconus, and How Can It Be Treated?
Basketball star Stephen Curry says contact lenses helped him deal with his keratoconus. The condition was a factor for the player’s previous shooting slump. The sharpshooter admitted that he was squinting a lot to see clearly before he started wearing contacts.
What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the result of extended exposure to digital screens like computers, tablets and cellphones. On average, a worker spends around 7 hours a day in front of a computer.
How to Find the Right Eyeglasses
Your eyes are often the first item most people notice about you. This is why, if you wear eyeglasses, you should use a pair that complements not only your face, but your eyes and personality as well.
Supplements That Can Improve Your Eye Health
Eyeglasses and contact lenses are some of the most common treatment options for various eye conditions. However, some believe that over-the-counter supplements can actually improve your vision and eye health.
5 Common Types of Contact Lenses
Many prefer using contact lenses to help them see clearly. Not only do contact lenses provide you with better vision, but they are also convenient and easy to use. They are also a good option if you want to highlight your eyes.
Home Safety Tips for Coping With Vision Loss
Home improvements can help people with impaired vision live more independently. In today’s post, your local eye doctor from Guilford Eye Center shares home improvement tips for adults experiencing age-related eye conditions.
What Is Keratoconus?
The cornea is the clear structure covering the outer part of your eye. It’s normally shaped like a ball or a dome. However, structural problems may cause it to bulge outward and form into a cone – a condition known as keratoconus.
Raising Awareness About Glaucoma This January
January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. In observance of this event, Drs. Wood and Thurmond, the esteemed eye exam specialists at Guilford Eye Center, encourage you to raise awareness about this misunderstood eye condition. Letting your family and friends know about glaucoma can go a long way in helping preserve their eyesight.
Comprehensive Eye Exam for Adults, Explained
Comprehensive eye exams allow you and your family to learn about the current state of your or their eyes and vision. These also help you obtain the right and necessary treatments after getting diagnosed with an eyesight-related condition.
3 Different Specialty Contact Lenses and Their Features
Some patients have trouble wearing ordinary contact lenses because their eyes are hard to fit. The following conditions can make contact lens fitting challenging: dry eyes, keratoconus, astigmatism, presbyopia and giant papillary conjunctivitis. Wearing contact lenses after a LASIK surgery can also be difficult. Fortunately, there are specialty contact lenses available. Guilford Eye Center, your […]
The 6 Steps of an Infant or Toddler Eye Exam
An eye doctor needs to consider several things and make precautions when performing eye exams on infants and toddlers. Since infants cannot communicate, the eye doctor will use objective tests during the eye exam. Tests are also performed more rapidly than with older children. Typically, children in this age group perform best if the eye […]
The Visual Health Hazards of Cigarette Smoking
It’s common knowledge that certain bad habits, such as excessive exposure to blue light from gadget screens, contribute to poor eye health. However, not many are aware that smoking cigarettes can also be a factor. Lighting up might not only damage your lungs; it might also necessitate frequent visits to an eye care center.
Important Tips for Proper Contact Lenses Care
Caring for contact lenses is crucial to ensuring the lifespan of these corrective devices. Not doing so can lead to eye infections and other eyesight-related problems, including those that can cause vision loss. Dr. Wood and Dr. Thurmond, your trusted eye doctors in the area, share important tips on how to properly take care of […]
Ensuring Children’s Eye Health With the Right Toys
The month of December is the time for gift-giving, and toys are often a huge part of many shopping lists. While these bring joy to children, the need to ensure the safety of their eyes is paramount, especially when they play with them. There are various hazards in toys that may put children at risk […]