Is my child ready for an eye exam?

It is suggested children begin having their eyes examined at 5 years old. Eye exams play a crucial role in establishing normal vision development and academic success for children of all ages. Vision is linked closely to the learning process therefore children with undetected vision problems generally have trouble in school. Often times, a child will not complain of any vision problems they are having simply because they don’t know how “normal” vision looks.

What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?

Doctors of optometry are primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.

They examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and retinal disorders; systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes; and vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Optometrists also do testing to determine the patient's ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, and to judge depth and see colors accurately. They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy and medicines to treat eye diseases. 

As primary eye care providers, optometrists are an integral part of the health care team and an entry point into the health care system. They are skilled in the co-management of care that affects the eye health and vision of their patients and an excellent source of referral to other health care professionals.

An ophthalmologist is a physician (doctor of medicine, MD, or doctor of osteopathy, DO) who specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system. They can do refractive surgery, cataract surgery and treat many serious eye diseases and disorders.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens, the part of the eye responsible for focusing light and producing clear, sharp images.  Over time, the lens clouds, making images look blurred or fuzzy. For most people, cataracts are a natural result of aging.  They are the leading cause of visual loss among adults 55 and older. Eye injuries, certain medications, and diseases such as diabetes and alcoholism have also been known to cause cataracts.

What are floaters?

Almost everyone gets occasional specks in front of their eyes. These specks are known as eye floaters and are especially common when looking directly at a light background, or when feeling light-headed. Eye floaters are little specks of debris floating through the vitreous fluid in the eyeball. Sometimes people may momentarily confuse them with dust or tiny insects floating across in front of the eye. However, they are within the eyeball and are not eliminated by rubbing the front of the eye. Specks in front of the eyes are normally clearly visible when looking into a light background. However, if they start becoming visible in every background, suddenly increase in number and are accompanied by any loss of vision, it is vital that immediate medical advice is sought. This could be an early sign of retinal detachment.

Why are my eyes dry?

The eye depends on the flow of tears to provide constant moisture and lubrication to maintain vision and comfort. Tears are a combination of water, for moisture; oils, for lubrication; mucus, for even spreading; and antibodies and special proteins, for resistance to infection. These components are secreted by special glands located around the eye. When there is an imbalance in this tear system, a person may experience dry eyes. When tears do not adequately lubricate the eye, a person may experience: pain, light sensitivity, a gritty sensation ("sand in eye"), itching, redness, and/or blurring of vision.

In addition to an imbalance in the tear-flow system of the eye, dry eyes can be caused by situations that dry out the tear film. This can be due to dry air from air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions. Other conditions that may cause dry eyes are: menopause, birth control pills, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and collagen vascular diseases.

Though dry eyes cannot be cured, there are a number of steps that can be taken to treat them. You should discuss treatment options with Dr. Wafa Abdulrazzaq. Treatments for dry eyes may include: artificial tears or ointments, temporary and or permanent punctal occlusion, medications or surgery.

Why do my eyes bother me on the computer?

Computer Vision Syndrome describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Many individuals experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing a computer screen for extended periods. The level of discomfort appears to increase with the amount of computer use. Symptoms of this include but are not limited to eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and/or neck and shoulder pain. Computer Vision Syndrome can be treated by your eye care physician to alleviate your symptoms.

Am I a good candidate for L.A.S.I.K?

Many people are great candidates for laser refractive surgery. The only way to determine if you are a good candidate is to schedule an appointment for a laser vision evaluation.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have an astigmatism or wear bifocals/progressives?

Yes, there are new, comfortable contact lenses available today for complicated prescriptions.

***Disclaimer - The above information does not in any way, shape or form, implied or otherwise, necessarily express or suggest diagnosis or treatment of any medical issue or concern.