Understanding Dry Eyes: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Prevention/Cure Strategies

In today's modern world, screens have become a vital part of our lives, from mobile phones and tablets to computers and televisions. The extensive use of screens has made dry eyes- a common occurrence among the masses.

What is a dry eye?

A dry eye is a condition in which the eyes can’t produce ample tears, which is essential for lubrication. Inadequate tears lead to the inflammation of the eyes, which damages the eye surface and leads to eye infections. One can experience dry eyes on the plane, looking at a computer screen for extended hours, riding a motorcycle, being in an air-conditioned environment, etc. 

Causes of dry eyes

Many factors interrupt the healthy tear film and lead to dry eyes. Our eyes have three layers: Aqueous fluid, mucus and fatty oil. These layers keep the surface of the eyes lubricated and clear. The problem in any of these layers results in dry eyes, and there are many reasons for this, such as autoimmune disease, hormone changes, and many more. However, the causes of dry eyes for many are decreased tear production and increased tear evaporation. 

How to cure dry eyes

1. Stop smoking
2. Use artificial tears
3. Be aware of your environment
4. Take regular breaks
5. Stay hydrated

Read the detailed blog on our website: Dry Eye: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment. 

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FDA Eye Drops Recall 2023: What You Need to Know

Consumers should be aware of recent FDA recalls of numerous eye drops due to potential contamination and bacterial risk. This year alone, several brands have been pulled from shelves, including EzriCare, Delsam Pharma, and those sold by CVS, Rite Aid, and Target.

What You Need to Know:

• Products Recalled: EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment, LightEyez MSM Eye Drops, Dr Berne’s MSM 5% solution, many CVS Health, Rite Aid, Leader, Rugby, and Velocity products.
• Risks: Bacterial infections, including a rare drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Symptoms: Blurred vision, red eyes, sensitivity to light, swelling, watery discharge.
• Action: Stop using recalled products, visit the FDA website for more information, and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

To get the detailed list of eyedrops recalled and other related information, read the blog at our website FDA Eye Drops Recall 2023: What You Need to Know.

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What is Astigmatism? Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Prevention.

 

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular curvature, preventing light from focusing correctly on the retina. This results in blurry or distorted vision at both near and far distances.

Causes of Astigmatism

The exact cause of astigmatism is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

The symptoms of astigmatism can vary from person to person and may include:

• Blurry or distorted vision at both near and far distances
• Eyestrain
• Headaches
• Squinting or closing one eye to see better
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions
• Halos or glare around lights

Diagnosis of Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be easily diagnosed by an eye doctor during a comprehensive eye exam. The doctor will use a variety of tools to measure the curvature of your cornea and lens, and to assess your overall vision.

It can be effectively treated with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Read the detailed blog on our official website: Understanding Astigmatism: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.

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Choosing your new Glasses

Goodrich Optical provides you wide range of eyeglasses in Lansing depending upon different materials, shapes, sizes, lens type, etc. Choosing the perfect glasses frames is key to looking and feeling your best. Here are some factors to consider:

• Face shape: Choose frames that complement your face shape. For example, round faces look good with angular frames, and square faces look good with oval or round frames.
• Frame styles: There are many different frame styles to choose from, such as aviators, wayfarers, and cat-eyes. Consider your personal style when choosing frames.
• Materials: Glasses frames are made from a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, and titanium. Consider your budget and lifestyle when choosing a material.
• Lens types: There are many different lens types available, such as single vision, progressive, and bifocals. Consider your vision needs when choosing lenses.
• Fashion trends: Glasses frames are also subject to fashion trends. However, it's important to choose frames that you love and that will flatter your face shape.
• Personal style: Ultimately, the most important factor to consider when choosing glasses frames is your personal style. Choose frames that make you feel confident and comfortable.

Read the detailed blog on our website: Choosing your new glasses.  

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Eye Safety at Work: Preventing Occupational Eye Injuries

 

Introduction to Occupational Eye Injuries

Occupational eye injuries can have a devastating impact on a worker’s health and well-being. Beyond the immediate pain and discomfort, such injuries can result in vision loss, extended medical treatment, and even permanent disabilities. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and when it comes to eye safety at work, this rings especially true. This article aims to shed light on the importance of preventing occupational eye injuries by providing valuable insights into the risks, types of eye protection, safety standards, and best practices for implementing a comprehensive eye safety program. By prioritizing eye safety, employers and employees can work together to create a safer work environment and protect their most valuable asset: Their vision.

Understanding the Risks:

Common Causes of Eye Injuries at Work

Let’s face it, there are countless hazards lurking in the workplace that can target our precious eyes. From flying objects like wayward metal shavings or a shattered grinding wheel, to chemicals that can irritate and burn, we must be on the lookout. And let’s not forget about sawdust and other particles that can sneak their way into our eyes, causing discomfort and potential damage. Oh, and if you’re working with lasers, radiation or in the magical world of welding, you’ve got a completely different set of eye risks to worry about. It’s like we’re playing dodgeball, except with hazards. Time to put on our protective gear!

Implementing a Comprehensive Eye Safety Program

Alright, team, it’s time to put our safety glasses on and get proactive! Implementing a comprehensive eye safety program is key to keeping our peepers in top shape. Start by conducting a workplace risk assessment to identify potential hazards and areas for improvement. Then, establish eye safety policies and procedures, because nobody wants to be known as the workplace daredevil. The one who doesn’t care about eye safety. Ensure that everyone has access to adequate eye protection equipment, because sharing is great, but not when it comes to eye safety. And don’t forget about regular maintenance and replacement of your safety gear. Let’s keep that safety eyewear in tip-top shape!

Remember people, eye safety in the workplace is no joke. You only have one pair of eyes, and we want to keep them bright and working their best. So, protect those peepers, be aware of the risks, and be diligent about implementing an eye safety program. With a little wit, a lot of wisdom, and some snazzy protective gear, we can conquer the workplace hazard dodgeball game and keep our vision crystal clear. Also schedule your regular eye checkup from the center of best Eye Examination in Holt or the one which is at your nearby location.

Importance of Employee Training

When it comes to eye safety, knowledge is power. Proper training is essential for ensuring that employees understand the risks involved and know how to protect their eyes at work. By educating employees about potential hazards, proper use and fit of eye protection, and the importance of eye safety, companies can significantly reduce the risk of occupational eye injuries.

Proper Use and Fit of Eye Protection

Wearing eye protection is crucial, but it’s equally important to wear it correctly. Employees should be trained in how to properly wear their eye protection to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Ill-fitting eyewear can be as ineffective as not wearing any at all, so it’s essential to teach employees the right way to protect their peepers.

Promoting a Culture of Eye Safety

Eye safety should be ingrained in the company culture. Employers should encourage employees to be vigilant and proactive about eye safety, creating an environment where everyone looks out for each other’s well-being. By fostering a culture that prioritizes eye safety, companies can effectively reduce the number of workplace eye injuries.

Periodic Refresher Courses and Updates

Eye safety is not a one-time lesson. To ensure that employees stay informed and up to date on best practices, periodic refresher courses and updates should be conducted. This will help reinforce their knowledge and keep eye safety at the forefront of their minds.

Emergency Preparedness: Responding to Eye Injuries in the Workplace

Establishing First Aid Procedures

In the event of an eye injury, knowing what to do can make a critical difference. Employers should establish clear first aid procedures specific to eye injuries, ensuring that employees are aware of the proper steps to take in such emergencies. Immediate action can help mitigate the severity of the injury and prevent further damage.

Creating Eye Injury Response Kits

Having easily accessible eye injury response kits can be a lifesaver. These kits should include essential items such as sterile eyewash solutions, eye patches, and adhesive bandages. By having these kits readily available, employers can expedite the initial response to an eye injury while waiting for medical assistance.

Emergency Eye Wash Stations and Showers

For workplaces where exposure to hazardous substances is a possibility, emergency eye wash stations and showers are crucial. These stations provide a quick and effective solution to rinse away any chemicals or foreign particles that come into contact with your eyes. Ensuring that these stations are properly maintained and easily accessible can help minimize the damage caused by eye injuries.

Seeking Immediate Medical Assistance

Not all eye injuries can be treated with a simple rinse or eye patch. It is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance for any eye injury, regardless of its severity. Prompt medical attention can help prevent further damage, facilitate proper treatment, and potentially save vision. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our precious peepers!

Conclusion: Protecting Your Vision, One Safety Measure at a Time

The Importance of Eye Safety at Work

Don’t take your eyes for granted, especially when it comes to your job. Eye safety is not just about following regulations; it’s about protecting that most precious sense and preserving your vision for years to come. Your eyes deserve the best. The best care and the best protection, and that starts with prioritizing eye safety at work.

Taking Responsibility for Eye Safety

Protecting your eyesight is a shared responsibility between employer and employee. Employers must provide comprehensive training, suitable eye protection, and emergency procedures. At the same time, employees must actively participate in safety programs, wear properly fit eye protection, and be vigilant about potential hazards. Together, employer and employee can create a work environment that is safer and healthier for everyone.

Implementing Proper Safety Measures

Eye safety is not a checkbox to be ticked; it’s an ongoing commitment. Employers should continuously assess and improve safety measures, provide necessary resources, and encourage employees to report all safety concerns promptly. By working together and implementing proper safety procedures, we can minimize the risk of eye injuries and create a workplace where everyone feels safe and protected.

Working Towards a Safer Future

Eye safety is a journey, and there is always room for improvement. As technology and workplace practices evolve, so should our safety measures. By staying informed, embracing innovation, and continuously striving for a safer future, we can ensure that eye injuries become a thing of the past. Let’s work together to protect our vision and create a brighter future for all.

In conclusion, prioritizing eye safety at work is essential for preventing occupational eye injuries and ensuring the well-being of employees. By understanding the common risks, providing appropriate eye protection, implementing safety programs, and promoting awareness through training and education, companies can significantly reduce the occurrence of eye injuries. Remember, protecting your eyes is not just a personal responsibility but a collective effort that benefits everyone. By embracing a culture of eye safety, we can create workplaces that prioritize the health and safety of all employees, ensuring that they can perform their duties with confidence and peace of mind.

For More Information

If you are interested in implementing a comprehensive safety eyewear program, contact Goodrich Optical. We will begin by conducting a workplace risk assessment to identify potential hazards and help develop a program to fit your needs.

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Stress – See What it Does to our Eyes and Vision

Stress is the common term used to describe the emotional and physical fatigue that occurs when the body is overworked or under constant pressure. Unfortunately, stress can impact our vision in various ways as well. It is crucial to understand how stress affects our eyesight and what we can do to manage our stress levels effectively. 

By taking care of ourselves, we can contribute to presenting our eyesight and living a balanced life. 

Read the detailed blog on our website.

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Understanding Ocular Migraines: Prevention Strategies and Insights

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Top Tips for Maintaining Healthy Eyes During Save Your Vision Awareness Month - March

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Can Obesity affect your Eyesight

Obesity affects millions of Americans. Each year, the number of people who have been diagnosed with obesity increases. Obesity isn't just a physical condition, though. It can also affect the eyesight of an individual if they're not careful about their diet and exercise habits. 

Vision loss due to obesity can range from mild to severe

There are three levels of vision loss due to obesity: mild, moderate and severe. 

• Mild vision loss does not require treatment as it does not affect your ability to perform everyday tasks. You may have trouble seeing distant objects or reading smaller print in dim light, but this can usually be managed with glasses or contact lenses. 
• Moderate vision loss requires immediate treatment as it affects your ability to complete daily activities without assistance from others (such as driving). Your doctor may recommend surgery if the condition becomes acute enough that it interferes with your daily routine; however, there are other options available before resorting to surgery such as medications like eye drops and oral medications which work by increasing blood flow around the retina so they can get nutrients more efficiently while reducing swelling around them at night when they're sleeping so they don't wake up feeling tired all day long because their eyes feel swollen shut due to fluid buildup inside.

Eating healthy foods, maintaining a proper weight, and exercising regularly can help manage vision loss

A healthy diet and lifestyle can help you maintain your vision. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly are all important for maintaining good health. Exercising regularly can also help prevent obesity-related eye diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

The most common cause of vision loss from obesity is diabetic retinopathy

Diabetes is a disease that causes the body to have high blood sugar levels. It can damage many parts of your body, including your eyes. The most common cause of vision loss from obesity is diabetic retinopathy, which affects about one in four people with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood vessels in the retina become damaged or blocked by hard deposits called new blood vessel growth on the surface of the retina (neovascularization). This leads to bleeding and swelling behind the eye (retinal detachment), which can cause permanent vision loss if not treated early enough. Diabetic retinopathy often progresses without symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, so it's important for people with diabetes who are at risk for this condition to get regular dilated eye exams by an ophthalmologist who specializes in diabetic eye disease every year or two after age 40; more often if any signs of early diabetic retinopathy appear during an exam; more frequently if you're over 60 years old; and even more often if you have other risk factors such as smoking or high blood pressure.

Glaucoma and eye strokes are also associated with obesity

Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, which connects your eyes to your brain. The damage causes vision loss and can lead to blindness if not treated quickly. Eye strokes are caused by bleeding in the brain, usually from high blood pressure or diabetes. They're more common in people who are overweight or obese because they have higher rates of both conditions than normal weight individuals do. 

Also read - What is the link between Blurry Vision and Diabetes?

Obesity causes inflammation, which impacts the arteries that bring blood to the eyes

If you're obese, the inflammation can affect the arteries that bring blood to your eyes. Inflammation is caused by fat deposits and other substances in your body. This can lead to blocked arteries that may cause vision loss or damage to other parts of your body like kidneys and heart. Obesity also increases risk for high blood pressure, which is another risk factor for eye disease because it damages both eyes. High blood pressure causes fluid buildup between layers inside an eye lens, a condition called cataracts and increases risk for glaucoma. 

Your eyesight can be affected by obesity 

Your eyesight can be affected by obesity. The most common cause of vision loss from obesity is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the blood vessels in your retina (the tissue at the back of your eye). This can lead to a number of complications, including macular edema and retinal hemorrhage. Other causes include glaucoma, which increases pressure on the optic nerve; and eye strokes caused by high blood pressure or atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), both risk factors for heart disease and stroke. 

Conclusion 

To sum up, obesity can cause a variety of vision problems including glaucoma and macular degeneration. These conditions are treatable with laser surgery or medications, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. If you have diabetes, be sure to watch out for signs of retinopathy (such as floaters or blurry vision) that may indicate eye damage could be developing if left untreated. And remember: prevention is the best cure!

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What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the central portion of the retina. The macula is a small area at the center of your eye that allows you to see objects directly in front of you and perform tasks like reading and driving. When your macula gets damaged, some vision loss occurs over time. There are two types of AMD: dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD tends to affect older people (typically age 50 or older), while wet AMD usually happens earlier in life (usually before age 40). 

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S. 

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S., affecting one in three people over age 65. It's also one of the most common causes of vision loss overall, affecting nearly 10 million Americans each year—more than any other condition! 

Macular Degeneration occurs when the macula begins to deteriorate due to aging or other factors like diabetes and high blood pressure. The retina becomes damaged, sometimes causing a blind spot on your line-of-sight to one side or another; this can affect how well you see objects at varying distances from your face as well as colors and light intensity level throughout day/night cycles during daylight hours.

There is no cure for macular degeneration, but it can be treated to slow its progression. 

There is no cure for macular degeneration, but it can be treated to slow its progression. AMD is a progressive disease that causes the loss of central vision and affects about 3 million Americans over age 65. Early detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss from getting worse or from affecting your ability to see colors or shapes accurately. There are treatments available that can slow the progression of AMD: 

There are several types of eye drops that can help with dry eyes and reduce inflammation in the eye.

Acetazolamide (Diamox) — This drug slows down how quickly your body breaks down vitamin A, which is important for good vision. It may also work better than other treatments when combined with other medications such as beta blockers or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium (Aleve). However, this drug isn't available generically in the U.S.; you'll have to go through an insurance company's coverage before getting it covered by Medicare Part D plans if you fall into this category.* Triamcinolone acetonide ointment (Kenalog 0.1 percent) — This medication reduces swelling by blocking certain enzymes involved in these reactions.* Glaucoma eyedrops such as timolol maleate 0.5% injection; betaxolol hydrochloride 0%; esmolol tartrate 1%; metaraminol bitartrate 2%; timoptic drop formulation containing dexamethasone phosphate 1%. 

You should go to your doctor for regular checkups if you have macular degeneration because early detection is key in treatments for this condition

You should go to your doctor for regular checkups if you have macular degeneration because early detection is key in treatments for this condition. Treatment can slow its progress, but there's no way to prevent AMD from worsening over time without a cure. 

You should also see an eye doctor regularly so that he or she can check for signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts. 

Conclusion

Macular degeneration is a common condition that can cause vision loss if not treated early on. If you get diagnosed with macular degeneration, start your treatment right away so you don’t lose your eyesight. Your doctor may recommend a special diet or medications to slow down the progression of this disease. You should also see an eye specialist every year for annual checkups to ensure no new problems are developing in your central vision area at any time during the year

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What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of wearing Contact Lens?

Yes, contact lenses are safe when used as prescribed by a qualified eye doctor. In fact, the FDA has approved contact lenses for many years. The most common reasons for rejection of contact lens prescriptions are improper cleaning, or lack of care or attention to instructions. The FDA also requires that all contact lenses must be approved by the FDA before they can be sold in the United States. A contact lens prescription is valid for one year and then must be renewed by your eye doctor. 

Advantages of contacts: 

• Convenience—No need to remove your glasses every time you want to see clearly.
• Comfort—The soft plastic lens rests gently against your eye.
• Concealment—Contact lenses can be worn in any color of eye shadow or mascara without showing through on the surface of the lens. This is especially helpful if you have light eyes and want to wear dark eye shadow or mascara without having it show up through your lenses. 

Disadvantages: 

• Cost—Contact lenses can be expensive because they require special solutions and solutions may need to be replaced every few weeks depending on how often you wear them (some solutions last longer than others). Also, some people experience dryness with contact. 

Contact lenses and eyeglasses are both great for your eyes, but each has its own advantages. 

Contact lenses are an excellent choice for people who want to wear a specific type of eyewear but cannot find a frame that fits them well. They also have the advantage of being able to change their appearance instantly by switching lenses (for example, going from a tinted lens to clear). This is something you can't do with glasses. Another advantage of contacts is that they don't require any special care beyond proper cleaning and disinfecting—you simply put them in your eyes and wear them! Eyeglasses, on the other hand, are more complicated because they require frequent cleaning and maintenance. They also need to be replaced more frequently than contact lenses do.

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What are the adverse effects of Ultraviolet Light on the Eyes?

Most of us like to enjoy the sunlight with the soothing sounds of the sea waves. The sun gives a lot of health benefits, such as it creates Vitamin D in the body and helps in building a healthy immune system. But it is also associated with health risks, especially when the ultraviolet rays are the strongest (between 10 am and 4 pm). 

Hearing about sun UV light, people start thinking about the damage it can do to the skin. But a few are aware of the effect of UV radiation on the eyes. And not only from the sun, but artificial UV rays also cause a lot of damage to the eyes. It is vital to take precautions to protect the eyes from increased levels of harmful UV rays outdoors. 

Ultraviolet light 

There are several ways through which the sun sends energy to our planet: through visible light, which we can see, through infrared radiation, which we can feel (we feel this as heat) and through ultraviolet radiation, which we can neither see nor hear. Though most of the ultraviolet rays are absorbed by the ozone layer, the ongoing depletion of ozone due to the release of chemicals has made it even more essential for us to take care of our skin and eyes. 

UV rays are of three types:- 

1. UVA rays (UltravioletA) 

The ozone layer provides little protection from UVA rays, and most of it reaches the earth. These rays cause significant damage to the skin and eyes. It also reduces immunity, which helps fight diseases and increases the risk of skin cancer. 

2. UVB rays (Ultraviolet B) 

We are shielded from most of these rays by the earth's atmosphere, and the amount that can reach us depends upon the altitude, latitude and several other factors. These rays cause sunburn and slow blindness- in which the cornea gets sunburn that leads to temporary vision loss. 

3. UVC rays (Ultraviolet C) 

These rays are completely absorbed by the atmosphere (Ozone layer), so they don’t reach the surface and don’t cause any damage. In addition to the sun, some artificial sources such as welding machines also emit UV light. 

Effect of ultraviolet radiation on eyes 

Prolonged and short term exposure to UV rays, lead to certain eye conditions and diseases such as:- 

1. Cataracts- This condition makes the eyes lense cloudy, which is clear under normal circumstances. UV-B light leads to certain types of cataracts. Studies suggested that ultraviolet rays are responsible for 10% of cataracts cases all around the world. 
2. Photokeratis- Also known as snow blindness, photokeratitis happens when a person is exposed to high short term UV rays. Most of the time, this problem arise when a person takes sunbathe for long hours or went to skiing without sunglasses or other eye protection gear.
3. Pterygium- People who mostly develop pterygium are surfers, fishermen and farmers who spend long hours under the mid-day sun or near rivers or oceans. 
4. Macular Degeneration- This eye condition happens in the central black portion of the eye called the macula. It is the leading cause of blindness in old age people. The risk of macular degeneration increases with prolonged exposure to the ultraviolent light. 
5. Skin cancer- Prolonged exposure to UV light leads to skin cancer around the eyelids. 

Who are at high risk? 

Though anyone can develop the above eye conditions when exposed to Ultraviolent radiation, several other factors such as the amount of time spend under the sun increase the risk. In addition, you are at high risk if you have recently had cataract surgery, are taking certain medications such as sulfate drugs, or are a welder or medical technician. 

What can you do to protect yourself? 

You can get exposed to UV light from many directions as the UV light radiate from the sun is reflected from the ground, ocean and snow. To protect yourself from harmful sun rays, wear proper sunglasses and hats. Your sunglasses must do the following things: 

• Screen out 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. 
• Blocks 70 to 90% of visible light 
• Consider grey colour lenses as it gives proper colour recognition. 

Some additional tips for protecting your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet radiation are:- 

• Consider wearing a hat along with your sunglasses. 
• Limit spending time in the midday sun. 
• Avoid looking directly at the sun. As it can lead to an injury called retinopathy. 
• Keep in mind that clouds do not block UV light. So, keep yourself protected.

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Effect of Smoking on Eyes

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What are Different Types of Eye Exams

An eye examination includes a series of routine vision tests to identify eye problems at their earliest stage.

These are the several different tests to evaluate the vision. 

1. Eye muscle test 
2. Visual acuity test 
3. Refraction 
4. Retinal Exam 
5. Biomicroscopy 
6. Visual Field Test 

Different types of examination test for vision health from Glenn Oliver

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Vision Screening vs Eye Exam: Is There Really a Difference?

At a first glance, “vision screening” and “eye exam” sound like they might be the same thing. But the reality is, they are quite different and serve different purposes. 

Vision Screening 

If you forget everything we talk about in the rest of this article, remember this: vision screening is exactly what it sounds like – a screening. Screens can take on an extremely wide variety of forms. If the nurse at your childs school brings along a (last time we’ll mention them) Snellen Chart and puts a class through its paces, that is a vision screening. 

If, during a routine physical, your doctor performs a similar, cursory vision exam, that is a vision screening. If you go to the Secretary of State (DMV) and have to respond to flashing lights before renewing your license, that is once again, a vision screening. 

Parents should take especially careful note of the above. A clean bill of health for your child following a vision screening might sound reassuring. It’s important to realize however, that these tests are far from the final word on your child’s eye health. 

Comprehensive Eye Exam 

Unlike a screening, an eye doctor will actively examine for multiple disorders. These include crossed or ‘lazy’ eyes, differences in acuity between the eyes (amblyopia), and a raft of other vision-related issues that a quicker checkup just cannot catch. 

Even more importantly, a trained eye doctor is much more likely to notice early signs of eye disease. Even extremely serious conditions, such as glaucoma, can have few noticeable signs during the early stages of development. Most vision screenings are designed to perform an extremely wide sweep of potential problems and can miss these apparently minor details. 

Your eyes are not the only things that could benefit from an eye examination. There is a long list of other diseases that are often first detected during a routine comprehensive eye exam. Take Ankylosing Spondylitis, a chronic type of inflammatory arthritis of which our founder suffers. Many people with AS often feel it first as non-specific back pain. This is a notoriously hard thing to pin on any one symptom. However, AS can also cause telltale irritation to the eyes. A doctor will detect this issue more easily in an eye exam than a routine physical. 

Get experts advice regarding vision screening or eye examination in holt, contact GoodRich Opticals.

Other common diseases and conditions most typically detected first in an eye exam include; Diabetes, Aneurysms, Tumors, Cancers, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Lupus, Lyme Disease, MS, Myasthenia Gravis, Sickle Cell, Sjögren's, Strokes, Thyroid Disease and STD’s (Syphilis, herpes, chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, genital warts and pubic lice can all affect layers of the eye). All are often first detected during an eye examination test. NOTE- the possibility of detecting these diseases and conditions is the reason your eye doctor takes a comprehensive health history. It may help them in finding a disease in it’s earliest stages when it can be most easily treated. 

What This Means for You 

The biggest point you should take away from the above sections is: vision screenings are not a sufficient safeguard of eye health. They are helpful, sure, but they simply are not designed to catch the majority of possible problems. When we talk about your vision, that is not nearly enough. Instead, find an eye doctor you trust. Schedule consistent eye exams and return as the doctor recommends. This goes double for children. Vision screenings can easily miss a large percentage of the many, many things that can go wrong with the eyes of a child. So, do not be content with a school screening or pediatrician’s OK; make sure your child sees an eye doctor early and often.

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