Can Astigmatism Go Away Naturally?

Can Astigmatism Go Away Naturally?

An astigmatism is one of several types of refractive errors your eye doctor may diagnose you with if you are noticing a change in your vision.

It is relatively common and affects around 30% of the population. If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism, it’s important to understand your diagnosis and how your symptoms may change over time. Learn everything you need to know about a future with astigmatism here.  

What Is Astigmatism? 

Astigmatism is an optometrist-diagnosed eye condition that develops when the cornea (the transparent tissue covering the front of the eye) is irregularly curved, resulting in out-of-focus vision. It is usually treated with eyeglasses, corrective contact lenses, or refractive surgery. 

To be able to see clearly, the eyes should be able to focus light onto a single plane at the retina’s surface. The term “astigmatism” is derived from the Greek words “a” for “without” and “stigma” for “spot.” A refractive error occurs when a spot (or pinpoint) of light concentrates on two separate planes, resulting in impaired vision, a symptom of this condition. 

What Do People with Astigmatism See? 

Astigmatism causes distorted vision at both close and long distances. The degree of the condition, type of image viewed, and time of day all influence how much distortion a patient experiences. 

Regardless of these circumstances, those with the condition may expect some blurriness, fuzziness, or distortion. 

How Common Is Astigmatism? 

Refractive error tends to be one of the most prevalent conditions diagnosed at the doctor’s office. One in every three people is estimated to have some degree of astigmatism. 

Can Astigmatism Worsen With Time? 

Just like any other part of the human body, your eyes will age. The anomaly can develop or progress with age due to a lack of muscular strength in the eyelids. By maintaining pressure, your eyelids help to keep the curvature of your cornea. As muscle tone deteriorates, the cornea loses support which may generate more defects.  

Can Astigmatism Go Away on Its Own? 

No, the condition doesn’t go away without intervention. It will either remain the same or deteriorate over time. While this can be overwhelming, the good thing is that there are many ways to ease your symptoms and see clearly. 

How Can Astigmatism Be Treated?  

If you’ve been diagnosed with this condition, there are several ways to treat it. 

Eyeglasses 

Corrective lenses can help correct blurry vision caused by astigmatism. Just as they would correct any other refractive error (i.e. nearsightedness and farsightedness), prescription lenses are designed in a specific way to bend light appropriately and allow for good vision. 

Patients who use glasses to correct severe distortion may experience an adjustment period and report that the walls or floor appear to tilt. The adjustment period for the eyes will vary, but typically the skewed effect will face after about a week.

Overall, eyeglasses are an excellent way to correct most levels of astigmatism.

Contact Lenses 

Your doctor can treat your astigmatism with specialized contact lenses. Toric lenses are soft contacts for astigmatism that stay in position despite the irregularly shaped eye. Hard contact lenses are another solution that is most effective for severe astigmatism. 

Surgery 

Doctors may also look to laser eye surgery (LASIK) to help correct the shape of the eye. It can be a highly successful therapeutic option, but you should thoroughly consider its advantages and disadvantages before surgery.

Are Glasses Required For Correction?  

While glasses are a common means of correction, they are only sometimes necessary. You may not require any correction if you have minor astigmatism that does not interfere with your visual demands or general daily tasks. However, if you need to fix your vision and don’t like to wear glasses, you can try the other options listed above.  

What Exactly Is the Distinction Between a Common Astigmatism and One That Is Irregular?  

When the curve of the eye is uneven yet symmetrical, you have regular astigmatism. For example, if you squeeze your eye in one direction, it would look similar to a football shape. 

Irregular astigmatism is similar to regular astigmatism in that the eye is also misshaped. However, with irregular astigmatism, that irregularity is uneven and can come from any direction, or in more than one direction or form.

Regular astigmatism is far more common than irregular astigmatism. However, an eye injury almost always causes irregular astigmatism.   

Will I Go Blind? 

A deviation in the shape of the eye causes astigmatism. It is not a sickness or a severe illness. While degrees of distortion may deteriorate with age, astigmatism itself cannot cause blindness.

Will It Affect My Night Vision? 

While astigmatism can impact your vision during the day, it is more noticeable at night. Lights, in particular, may look blurry or ringed by a halo, glare, or streaks. Therefore, persons with astigmatism must use corrective glasses when driving at night. 

How Much Astigmatism Is Harmful? 

The optical power of a refracting lens is measured in diopters. The more severe the refractive error the more diopters required to correct it.

An eye that can see perfectly without distortion or blurriness may have a prescription that is quantified as zero diopters. Although there is no consensus for what level of astigmatism is considered clinically significant, many people with smaller levels of astigmatism (under 0.75 diopters) may not require correction depending on their visual demands. 

In general, astigmatism can be categorized based on severity. Mild astigmatism is often seen as requiring less than 2 diopters of correction, moderate astigmatism as anywhere between 2 to 4 diopters of correction, and severe astigmatism as anything above 4 diopters of correction.

Get Help with Your Astigmatism

Can astigmatism go away? No, but all in all, this is a common eye condition. Over the years, optometrists have learned how to ease the symptoms, and many people with astigmatism may even forget they have it. Those with astigmatism can see very well with special contact lenses, eyeglasses, or surgery. 

If you are having vision problems, you should consult your eye doctor so that they can accurately diagnose your eyes. Schedule an appointment today with the top optometrists at True Eye, and get back to seeing the world in all its glory.

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Why Am I Suddenly Getting Ocular Migraines?

Why Am I Suddenly Getting Ocular Migraines?

Have you ever suffered from an ocular migraine at the worst possible time?

Maybe you were working on a project or enjoying the Tampa Riverwalk. Migraines can be highly disruptive and downright annoying. A migraine with aura is most common among migraine sufferers, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

Thankfully, you can better prevent or reduce their occurrence by learning more about this type of migraine and the factors that might contribute to them.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to migraine symptoms. So if you’re wondering why you suddenly get ocular migraines, read on to learn more.

What Are Ocular Migraines? 

An ocular migraine is an intense experience that can throw you for a loop. Generally speaking, it affects both eyes. This type of migraine causes a partial or complete loss of vision in both eyes, often resulting in a visual disturbance known as an aura.

Some report a loss of vision for up to one hour. Ocular migraines are also known as migraines with aura. According to the American Migraine Foundation, migraine aura occurs in 25-30% of people with migraines.

This type of migraine is often confused with a retinal migraine. Typically, retinal migraines occur in only one eye. Retinal migraines are rare, but they share similar symptoms with ocular migraines.

Ocular Migraine Symptoms

Experiencing a visual disturbance or migraine aura may cause you to see flashing lights, blind spots, blurry vision, no vision, or possibly zig-zag lines. 

As a result of the headaches, migraine auras and retinal migraines may develop, along with the following migraine symptoms:

  • Headaches lasting up to 72 hours
  • Headache on one side of your head
  • Visual disturbances without headaches
  • Nausea
  • Sensitivity to light and sound

Ocular Migraine Causes

These migraine symptoms are due to reduced blood flow to the eyes or spasms of the blood vessels in the eye.  

A closer look at the neurology of the nervous system and its effects on the blood vessels and blood flow play a significant role in understanding why these migraine attacks occur.

Consider if you have a family history of migraines as the cause of your ocular migraines. However, it is the migraine triggers that you need to investigate, such as those listed below.

Dehydration

Keeping our bodies hydrated is essential to a healthy lifestyle—for physical well-being and to ward off pesky migraines. Dehydration can be a culprit of frequent ocular migraines.

Pain relief and prevention could start with something as simple as reaching for several daily glasses of water.

Stress

The American Psychological Association reports that more than three-quarters of adults suffer stress-induced migraines and other symptoms.

Dietary Factors

Adjusting your diet can be your best solution to prevent migraine triggers. Reviewing what you ate 24 hours before having an ocular migraine may reveal a food allergy.  

Aged cheeses, processed foods, red wine, and – unfortunately for chocolate lovers – chocolate can be the culprit of a migraine aura.

Alcohol or Caffeine Intake

With the ingredients of cocoa and caffeine, the chocolate you love may cause a migraine attack. In addition, drinking alcoholic spirits, including red wines, can cause dehydration. 

As a result of blood vessel relaxation caused by alcohol consumption, increased blood flow to the brain causes migraine auras. Alcohol consumption causes the release of large amounts of electrolytes, resulting in a migraine because of dehydration.

Changes in Altitude or Air Pressure

While traveling in high altitudes, a migraine attack may occur. When traveling in high altitudes, less oxygen is available to breathe, and a migraine aura can occur. Getting medical advice before traveling at a high altitude may be your best option to prevent migraines.

Dry Eye and Visual Strain

It’s long acknowledged that viewing your laptop or other blue light devices is straining your eyes. Therefore, you should take intermittent breaks to rest your eyes.

Several studies show the connection between those who suffer from migraine aura to having dry eyes. The risk factors surrounding this type of headache require more research. 

However, some symptoms of dry eye may precede the sensation of an aura, such as light sensitivity, blurry vision, and then, of course, a painful migraine.

If you’re dealing with dry eyes and visual strain, we can help. True Eye Experts have a variety of dry eye treatments available and can provide dry eye relief tailored specifically for you!

Hormonal Swings

Several factors contribute to women suffering from these migraines more than their male counterparts, including hormonal changes, menstrual cycles, and menopause.

Ocular Migraine Treatment

Over-the-counter medication is usually the first go-to for those who suffer from ocular migraines. However, it’s always a good idea to visit your medical doctor to ensure nothing more serious is the cause.

Beta-blockers are often prescribed by a medical professional for those who have chronic migraine and experience frequent migraine attacks. 

When you notice that ocular migraines occur frequently, you experience sensitivity to light, or scotomas (blind spots), call True Eye Experts immediately.

We will give you a comprehensive eye exam and ensure we rule out a more severe condition. If we determine that you are having visual migraines, you have options from migraine glasses to transition contact lenses.  

The migraine glasses and transition contact lenses aim to help you navigate fluctuating exposure to light. Light sensitivity is a common symptom of ocular migraines.

Ocular Migraine Prevention

A simple solution to prevent ocular migraines may be to avoid migraine triggers. For instance, you may recognize that you experience migraines when you are under stress or have low blood sugar.

Migraine triggers include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Dehydration
  • Birth control/contraceptives
  • Smoking
  • High altitude

Changing your diet, staying hydrated, and exercising are all important. However, if you have tried everything without success, you have options. Discuss your migraine symptoms with your medical doctor and eye doctor.

Talk to Your Optometrist About Your Ocular Migraines 

Now that you understand ocular migraine causes and symptoms, are you ready to get help? 

We understand the challenges migraines can create. Ocular migraines can cause pain and discomfort, but treatment options are available. Talk to one of our optometrists today. You don’t have to suffer in silence. 

We can develop the right treatment plan for you by conducting a comprehensive exam. Schedule your appointment today!

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How Progressive Lenses Can Help You

How Progressive Lenses Can Help You

Do you feel like you are constantly switching around your usual prescription glasses or your non prescription reading glasses throughout the day to see clearly at distance and up close? Are you curious about how progressive lenses work? Learn more about these commonly prescribed lenses and determine with your eye doctor whether they’re right for you.

How Do Progressive Lenses Work?

Progressive lenses are specialized eyeglass lenses that have different prescriptions as the wearer looks up and down the lens. Some people call these types of lenses a no-line bifocal. They should not be confused with transition lenses that tint when you go outside.

Unlike reading glasses that are often placed lower towards the tip of the nose so as not to affect distance vision, progressives can be worn normally and sit centered around the eyes. Progressive lenses can be built into most frame styles and shapes and can even be filled as sunglasses. 

Progressive lenses correct for computer length or intermediate range below the fitting height of the lenses in addition to correcting for distance through the top and reading at the bottom.

Who Needs Progressive Lenses?

Progressive lenses are a great option if you have a different prescription for distance and near vision. As we age, our near vision gets weaker. This condition is called presbyopia, and as a result, many of us require a reading prescription.

How Do Progressive Lenses Work?

Progressive lenses are complex in the way that they are designed. However, these lenses are very easy to use.

When properly fitted, a patient can simply look straight through the top of the lens and have sharp vision for distant objects. As the eyes slowly gaze downward through the bottom of the lens, there is magnification in the lens that “progressively” gets stronger. 

This gradual change in prescription going down the lens means that the wearer will be able to see clearly at intermediate ranges (such as for a desktop or laptop) before getting to the full reading prescription at the bottom. You would work with your eye doctor to determine how much of a reading prescription is necessary based on your daily tasks and what you are trying to focus on.

What Are Progressive Lenses, and How Are They Different From Bifocals?

Progressive lenses and bifocals are not the same types of glasses, and each provides specific benefits to your eyes. Learn more about how to tell the difference between these two reading aids and how progressive lenses work to improve your vision.

How Do Progressive Lenses Look?

Progressive lenses can be a solution for people who need help seeing both far-away and close-up objects. They look like normal glasses, but when you’re wearing them, you’ll notice a difference in the way you see when you look through the top, middle, and bottom of the lens.

Do Progressive Lenses Have Lines?

No, progressive lenses don’t have lines. Bifocals and trifocals are designed to delineate where the prescription changes (for bifocals, it’s two sections divided by one line, and for trifocals, you’ll see three sections divided by two lines). 

Should Progressive Lenses Be Worn All the Time?

Progressive lenses are designed to provide flexibility in terms of vision. Therefore it’s recommended to wear these lenses whenever you need clear vision at distance, intermediate and/or near.  Like any other prescription glasses, it’s okay to take short breaks throughout the day especially when not doing visually demanding tasks.

Whenever you’re adjusting to new lenses, it’s essential to wear them as much as possible.  It’s difficult for eyes to adapt to any new prescription only worn intermittently.

How Long Does It Take To Adjust to Progressive Lenses?

The process of adjusting to progressive lenses is different from that of single-vision lenses. Expect it to take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to completely adjust to progressive lenses.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Progressive Lenses?

Progressive lenses are an excellent visual tool but are not appropriate for everyone. Before going to your appointment, consider the pros and cons of progressive lenses. 

Pros

If you have several pairs of glasses used for multiple purposes, you may enjoy trading your collection for one pair of progressive lenses instead. Progressive lenses can eliminate the need to switch eyeglasses frequently.

Like bifocals or trifocals, these handy lenses use a tiered prescription that gradually changes depending on which part of the lens you’re looking through. This can be useful for people who frequently forget their reading glasses or are simply tired of switching back and forth.

Cons

Progressive lenses take a while to adjust to. They’re also more expensive than single-vision or bifocal glasses. You may notice distortion around the sides of your lenses, called peripheral distortion, when you’re adapting to these lenses. In rare instances, this phenomenon persists even after the adjustment period. For other people, the constant “switching” between prescriptions, even gradually, can cause headaches, eyestrain, or nausea.

It’s important to have your eyes examined to ensure that you have the right prescription for progressive lenses, and it’s also crucial to speak to your eye doctor to determine whether you’re a good candidate for these lenses before making the change.

What Alternatives to Progressive Lenses Are There?

When you’re struggling with your vision, it may not be for the reason you think. Yes, you may be ready for progressive lenses if you’re over 40 and have a hard time finding the right reading glasses — but a different issue may entirely cause your issues.

Suppose you’re not ready for how progressive lenses work. In that case, you and your eye doctor may investigate the following options:

  • Bifocals or trifocals that have clear lines marking the changes in prescription
  • Specialized “computer” glasses that help your eyes adjust to computer work (about 24 inches in front of your eyes)
  • An upgraded prescription for existing glasses that address your latest concerns

How Will Progressive Lenses Work for You? Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re wondering how progressive lenses work or whether they’re the right choice for your unique eyes, we’re here for you. If you are interested in new lenses, schedule an appointment with True Eye Experts today.

Our experienced and knowledgeable doctors will examine your vision, give you their recommendations, and determine whether progressive lenses are the right fit for you.

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Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Symptoms, Treatment & More

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Symptoms, Treatment & More

Most people have heard of pink eye before—it’s practically a household term for any kind of eye irritation or infection.

Here at True Eye, our optometrists regularly help patients diagnose and treat pink eye infection. In this blog, they share what patients should know about pink eye, including the different types, treatment options, and prevention tips.

The 3 Different Types of Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

The eyeball and inside of the upper and lower eyelids are lined with a membrane called the conjunctiva. This membrane is the first line of defense against any type of surface infections. Pink eye is also called conjunctivitis—and “conjunctivitis” refers to some kind of infection, inflammation, or swelling that occurs in the conjunctiva membrane.

There are three different types of conjunctivitis: allergic, bacterial, and viral. None of these are pleasant, but optometrists can help treat them all. If you suspect you may have pink eye, we recommend that you call one of our locations for further assistance. We have specialized equipment that’s able to quickly rule out and diagnose what type of infection you have. It doesn’t hurt that it usually ends up costing less at our eye doctor’s office than with any general practitioner!

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis is exactly what it sounds like: an inflammation of the conjunctiva triggered by an allergic reaction. This type of conjunctivitis is, thankfully, not contagious. Allergic pink eye is caused by an allergen (like pet dander, dust, smoke, or another irritant) getting into your eye.

The most common symptoms are weepy eyes, some itchiness, and general discomfort. Our most effective course of treatment for allergic conjunctivitis uses over-the-counter or prescription eye drops, depending on the severity of the case.

2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

When most people think of “pink eye,” they’re probably thinking of bacterial conjunctivitis. After all, its telltale symptom of bloodshot eyes is where “pink eye” gets its name. This is a bacterial infection that usually stems from someone transferring bacteria by scratching or rubbing around the eye with unwashed hands. Wearing contact lenses too long and poor personal hygiene habits are also risk factors for bacterial conjunctivitis.

Bacterial conjunctivitis often causes discomfort in the form of pain, light sensitivity, and a crusty discharge from the eyes. It’s very contagious, so we recommend washing your hands with soap and water regularly and avoiding touching your eyes.

To treat bacterial infections, your optometrist can prescribe special eye drops, ointment, or antibiotics.

3. Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis has many similar symptoms to bacterial pink eye. However, viral pink eye is caused by a virus and symptoms may appear faster than they would for a bacterial infection. You may get conjunctivitis if you have a respiratory or intestinal virus (or come into contact with someone who does) and the virus spreads to your eye.

Viral conjunctivitis may cause irritation, light sensitivity, or a watery discharge.  It is highly contagious, therefore, it is essential that you keep your hands clean by washing with soap and water and avoid touching your eyes.   

There are a few ways optometrists can treat viral infections—most commonly with a prescription course of steroidal drops or an antiviral medication.

How to Get Rid of Pink Eye

As we outlined above, the best type of treatment for pink eye depends on the cause of your infection. If you’re struggling with severe discomfort or symptoms that aren’t getting better, an optometrist can help diagnose each type of pink eye and help you find an effective treatment option.

Patients in the Tampa Bay and Fort Myers areas can click here to schedule an appointment at their nearest True Eye location. In the meantime, follow these at-home tips to reduce discomfort and prevent the spread of conjunctivitis:

  1. Always wash your hands before and after touching your eye, before going to the bathroom, or before and after interacting with children. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  2. Avoid touching your eyes and others’ eyes. Touching your eyes is the easiest way to spread an infection—so don’t rub or scratch your eyes. Skip your contact lenses until symptoms disappear.
  3. Use a warm compress on your eyes. Placing a washcloth dampened with warm water over your eyes for a few minutes at a time can loosen any crust and soothe irritation. Be sure to use a clean washcloth every time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pink Eye

What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?

The most common pink eye symptoms are irritation, redness, and crusty discharge from the eye—but pink eye isn’t the only eye condition that can cause these. Some conditions have symptoms that closely mimic pink eye, including:

  • Blepharitis is when oil glands around the eyelashes become blocked. Some of the most common symptoms of blepharitis are eye dryness and scaling around the eyelashes. Similar to pink eye, blepharitis can be caused by allergies, bacteria, or viruses.
  • Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea, which is the layer on the front of your eye that protects your iris and pupil. It’s often caused by a minor injury to the cornea, like a scratch, or by wearing contact lenses for too long. You’ll need an optometrist to diagnose and treat keratitis—so be sure to visit a doctor, especially if your symptoms are affecting your vision.
  • Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, which is the part of the eye that includes the iris. In addition to redness and irritation, uveitis might also cause floaters in your vision or blurriness. Uveitis is a serious condition, so contact a doctor immediately if you notice problems with your vision in addition to other symptoms.
  • Styes are small, reddish bumps that appear around, on, or inside the eyelid. These painful, sensitive bumps happen when a small follicle near the eye gets infected. If your eye pain is limited to a single spot on your eyelid, you may have a stye instead of conjunctivitis.

Your optometrist may suspect one of these conditions if treatment for conjunctivitis doesn’t clear up the discomfort, if you experience any symptoms that aren’t associated with pink eye, or if you’re at high risk for one of these conditions.

Regardless of what you might have, it’s always a good choice to talk with a doctor if you have any concerns about your eye health.

How does pink eye spread? How long is it contagious?

Bacterial or viral pink eye spreads from person to person. Most commonly, an infected person might touch their eye and then touch a shared object, which contaminates the object with germs.

When another person touches the contaminated object and then touches their eyes, the germs can cause pink eye. It’s possible to pass along germs by sharing pillows or towels, makeup or makeup tools, phones, and contact lenses.

Bacterial and viral pink eye are very contagious—so it’s possible to pass the infection along as long as you have symptoms. To avoid getting others sick, wash your hands regularly, don’t share personal hygiene products or cosmetics, and talk to a doctor if your symptoms don’t seem to clear up on their own.

How long does pink eye last?

Pink eye usually clears up on its own in about 1-2 weeks, though there are at-home remedies and other treatments that can help relieve symptoms. 

However, you should go to a doctor if:

  • Your symptoms don’t seem to be going away or improving after a few days
  • The pain or discomfort is making it hard to sleep at night or go about daily life
  • You’re having trouble seeing (blurry vision)
  • Your eyes are sensitive to light
  • Your symptoms don’t improve after taking doctor-prescribed antibiotics

Your optometrist may be able to prescribe stronger medication to help fight an infection.

Is pink eye a symptom of COVID-19?

Doctors have learned that pink eye symptoms like redness and irritation can sometimes be a symptom of COVID-19. However, having conjunctivitis doesn’t automatically mean you have COVID-19.

If you’re having other symptoms of COVID-19, like a fever or shortness of breath, call your doctor right away and wear a mask when you’re around others.

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Protecting Your Eyes from the Desk Job

Protecting Your Eyes from the Desk Job

There are so many people who spend hours a day, if not most of the day working on a computer or mobile device. They usually do so without taking notice of the effect this has on their bodies. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can cause physical stress to your body due to improper positioning such as slouching, sitting without foot support, extending your wrists, and straining your eyes. Individuals who look at a computer or mobile screen for prolonged periods can develop computer vision syndrome (CVS) which places an enormous amount of stress on their visual system and can induce headaches and fatigue, neck, back, and shoulder pain, and dry eyes among other symptoms. Here are some tips for creating a workstation that reduces your risk of eye strain, discomfort, and the potential injury that can result from prolonged computer use.

1.     Take breaks Your eyes are at work all the time so sometimes it is good to give them a break. Since the eyes use more than one muscle group, you can do this by shifting your focus from near to far on a regular basis. How often? Apply the 20/20/20 rule – take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus your eyes on an object 20 feet away. This can prevent eyestrain and help your eyes refocus. You can also roll your eyes: first clockwise then counterclockwise briefly.

2.     Position your Monitor Ensure that your screen is placed so that the top of the display is at or slightly below eye level. This will allow you to view the screen without bending your neck. If you aren’t able to adjust the screen height, you can adjust the height of your chair to achieve this positioning, but if this causes your feet to dangle, it is advisable to use a footrest.

3.     Reduce Glare on the Screen Glare is the main cause of eye strain.  Use blinds and curtains on windows to control the amount of light entering the room. If glare is caused by overhead lights, use a dimmer or replace light bulbs with lower wattage bulbs. Sometimes you don’t have control over the lighting, like if you work in an office.  Consider purchasing an anti-glare screen to put on the monitor to help filter reflected light.

4.     Blink Frequently Make a conscious effort to blink frequently to prevent the surface of your eye from drying out. Dry eyes can be a problem with extensive screen viewing because your blink rate decreases when looking at a screen. This is particularly important if you wear contact lenses. If you find that blinking is not reducing your feelings of dry eyes, try over the counter artificial tears. Consult your optometrist about dry eye and artificial tears, because some eye drops may work better for you than others.

5.     Rest your eyes from strong lights Some holistic practitioners recommend “palming” to rejuvenate: without touching your eyes, cup your hand lightly over your eyes for 30 seconds to rest them from light. Either way, simply closing your eyes for a longer period than a blink can be comforting once in a while.

6.     Make sure your glasses fit the screen If you wear reading glasses, bifocals, or multifocals, you should be able to look at your monitor without tilting your head back. If not, adjust so that you can see comfortably.

7.     Consider Computer Glasses Computer glasses are specifically designed for prolonged computer usage. The lens power aims to relax the amount of accommodation you need to keep objects in focus at the distance of the computer monitor and provides the largest field of view. Speak to your eye doctor to explore this option. Some optometrists recommend certain lens coatings for computer use, for example blue blocker lens coatings that protect the eyes from high energy visible light (HEV).

8.     Move! Sitting at the computer for too long is not only harmful to your eyes. It can cause stiffness and pain in the rest of your body, too.  Avoid this by getting up and moving around on a regular basis.

  • Every 10 minutes, take a short 10-20 second break by getting out of your computer chair and moving around.
  • Every 30-60 minutes, take a 2-5 minute break to stretch your arms, back, and neck and walk around.

Here are some more tips on how to design an ergonomic workstation.

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Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?

Are Scleral Contact Lenses Right for You?

Scleral contact lenses are a great solution for many people who find that eyeglasses or regular contact lenses don’t work well for them. In recent years, they’ve gained popularity due to their superior visual performance, as well as their ability to fit challenging misshapen corneas and high prescriptions. 

If you’re interested in learning what scleral lenses are and whether you should ask your eye doctor about them, keep reading—we’ll explore everything you need to know about this eye care solution and whether it’s right for you. 

What are Scleral Contact Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of contact lens that rests upon the sclera—the white of the eye. They are wider than regular contact lenses, which rest on the eye’s corneal surface. 

Scleral lenses bridge the cornea and are separated from the eye by a tear-filled chamber, helping to provide hydration. They are preferred by many patients who find regular lenses uncomfortable due to the lens sitting poorly on the corneal surface and who have corneal issues or degeneration. 

Dr. Samuel Teske, an optometrist here at True Eye Experts, describes his experience with scleral lenses and why he recommends them for his patients:   

“I first heard about Scleral contact lenses in 1998 when I read an article from an optometrist, Dr. Stephen Johnson. He utilized them on a patient of his that achieved 20/10 vision. This patient was home run champion and baseball star, Mark McGwire.  Mark reported, once he started using Sclerals the baseball looked more like a beach ball as it approached the plate.   

What was impressive was that Mark’s vision was especially poor without vision correction, in the neighborhood of 20/500 vision,  which is considered legal blindness.  Additionally, Mark was nearsighted and had a large amount of astigmatism.” 

McGwire’s success story was just the start—since then,  many more patients have been fitted with scleral lenses to improve their performance in sporting activities.  

Scleral lenses can even be customized for a particular sport. For example, a tennis player may have scleral lenses with a slight green tint so that the ball appears darker, making it easier to track. But you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy the benefits of scleral lenses—tinted lenses can also be used to reduce glare for patients with light-sensitivity issues due to cataracts, macular degeneration, or another issue. 

How Do They Work?

How do these lenses provide such great vision? There are several reasons to consider. One reason is that our corneas are not perfectly round surfaces, and this can alter our vision. Keratoconus—a condition where the cornea is highly misshapen—can make it extremely difficult to fit regular soft contact lenses or glasses.  

Additionally, nearly 85% of the population has astigmatism—an imperfect curve of the cornea. Severe astigmatism can sometimes be a sign of something more serious. These conditions can affect your vision, but scleral lenses are able to help by correcting the shape of the eye. 

Scleral lenses were developed in a way that regulates the shape of the eye, providing a perfectly round, spherical surface for precise vision.  The cornea—the clear tissue covering the front portion of the eye—is not a perfectly round surface.  In addition to causing vision problems, conditions that affect the shape of the cornea can also make it much more difficult to be fitted for traditional soft lenses and eyeglasses.  Scleral lenses, which are more accurately fitted to the eye, may be a better choice for these patients to provide the best vision possible.

Who Are Scleral Lenses Designed For? 

A scleral contact lens might benefit patients suffering from: 

  • Keratoconus
  • Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
  • High Astigmatism
  • Injuries to the eye from burns or chemicals
  • Dry Eye Syndrome
  • Corneal degeneration
  • Corneal dystrophy
  • LASIK-related complications like corneal ectasia

The lens avoids direct contact with the cornea, meaning that patients who have suffered injuries to their cornea or have irregularities in its surface don’t feel the discomfort caused by regular contacts.  

If you experience any of these conditions, or if you find contacts abrasive or irritating, contact your optometrist to discuss the possibility of using scleral lenses. 

Am I a Candidate for Scleral Lenses? 

You may be a good candidate if you suffer from any of the conditions listed above.  Some patients don’t know they have these conditions—they may just accept their poor vision. It is also possible that a patient’s current eye care providers may not be using the right equipment and technology to detect them. 

At our True Eye clinics, we have found many patients with these conditions (as young as their thirties and forties) who didn’t know that their poor vision could be much clearer.  We’ve had professional athletes and even surgeons that were misdiagnosed and helped greatly by scleral contact lenses.  

How Are They Fitted?

Precise measurements are essential to get great-fitting scleral lenses.  Many technologically advanced practices will use 3D scans of the cornea called corneal topography, as well as high definition ultrasound scans called Optical Coherence Tomography, or OCT imaging.

A corneal topographer is essential to detect a misshapen cornea.  A topographer measures the 3D shape of the cornea and provides the doctor with very accurate measurements of the cornea shape.

By using this technology to accurately map the surface area of the eyeball, your eye doctor will then be able to create a lens that is perfect for your eyes. This allows for the lens to accommodate unusual eye shapes, giving you the comfort and effectiveness that conventional lenses and eyeglasses may not provide. 

Are Scleral Lenses Comfortable?

Scleral lenses are very comfortable.  Why are they so comfortable?  Well, they never touch the most sensitive part of the eye, the cornea.  The cornea has the highest density of nerves in the entire body. Anything important in the body tends to have more pain receptors.  As we know, when you get an eyelash in your eye the world stops until you get it out.  Most people think they get it out, but really it just moved to the white part of the eye, the sclera.  The scleral has fewer pain nerves which helps make the lenses much more comfortable. 

While the purpose of these lenses is to avoid corneal discomfort, the feeling of the lens touching the sclera takes some getting used to. Most patients find they become accustomed to this sensation after a few weeks. Basically, it’s “different” rather than “uncomfortable,” which is the problem many patients have with regular contacts.

The extra hydration provided by scleral lenses also helps to improve eye comfort in the long term. 

How Do You Insert and Remove Them?

Scleral lenses are inserted with a similar technique that is used with soft and hard lenses.  They are larger in diameter than a Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lens and sometimes larger than a typical soft contact lens.  This can make it more difficult to insert, especially for patients that have never worn contact lenses.  

At True Eye Experts, we have many new contact lens wearers in scleral lenses, and insertion is generally never a problem after some practice. Removal is done by using a special plunger that works very well.

Much like soft contact lenses or RGP lenses, scleral contact lenses should not be worn overnight.  The lack of oxygen to the cornea can permanently damage the eyes.

Conclusion: Scleral Contact Lenses

It’s important to find an optometrist that specializes in scleral contact lenses to ensure the best possible fit. If you think you could benefit from scleral contact lenses, talk to your optometrist. Schedule an eye care appointment at a True Eye Experts location in Florida today for a comprehensive eye exam to learn which solution is best for you and potentially schedule a scleral contact lens fitting.

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How Pregnancy Affects Vision

How Vision Changes During Pregnancy

The hormonal fluctuations experienced during pregnancy can cause many unexpected changes in your body, including your eyes and vision. Most of these changes are temporary and will return to normal once you give birth, or even once you finish breastfeeding. 

It’s important to know which vision changes are normal for an expecting mother and which could indicate a problem that requires medical attention. 

Why does pregnancy cause vision problems?

As the body prepares to carry a child, it goes through major changes to nearly every system. Your eyesight can be affected by changes to metabolism, hormones, fluid retention, and cardiovascular system. 

Other temporary conditions during pregnancy can also cause a change in eyesight, such as gestational diabetes. Possible causes that should be closely monitored during prenatal care include:

Hormonal Changes

It’s widespread knowledge that the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can wreak havoc on the body. Unfortunately, this can also extend to your eyes. Water retention is often the culprit—as you start to see swelling in your feet and joints, your eyes may also be participating in ways you don’t expect. 

Fluid retention in the eyes can increase pressure in the eyeball, resulting in a thicker cornea that can be causing blurry vision. You may also notice puffiness in your eyelids or reduced tear production, both of which can also obscure your vision. 

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a form of temporary diabetes that affects people during pregnancy. It affects around 10% of pregnant women in the US and is caused by hormones that are produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Much like typical diabetes, there are different types determined by severity of the blood sugar imbalance, and can be managed either by diet or by insulin treatment.

Women that were diabetic before pregnancy and those with gestational diabetes need to monitor their vision closely,  as blurred vision can indicate elevated blood sugar levels. The risks of vision loss associated with diabetes is heightened during pregnancy, so it is critical to monitor blood sugar levels at all times. 

Women with gestational diabetes should get a diabetic eye exam, which includes dilating the eye and examining the retina for signs of retinopathy.

While minor changes in your eyes and vision are a normal part of pregnancy, if at any time you notice persistent eye pain, vision loss or discomfort, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. 

Pre-eclampsia

Some significant vision changes could be signs of pre-eclampsia, a potentially serious issue that occurs in 5-8% of pregnancies. This disorder is characterized by high blood pressure and often a high amount of protein in the urine. 

Vision symptoms associated with the condition include temporary vision loss, light sensitivity, blurry vision, and the appearance of flashing lights.  If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. When left untreated, it can advance to eclampsia and the onset of seizures.

 

Common Changes in Vision During Pregnancy

1. Blurry Vision

During pregnancy, you may notice a change in your vision due to hormone levels. If you find that your vision has gotten blurry or that your current prescription eyeglasses (or contact lenses) are not helping as much as they usually do, speak to your eye doctor. 

Often the change in your vision is due to fluid retention which can temporarily change the shape of your cornea. Your doctor may advise waiting until after giving birth to reassess your prescription—your hormonal levels will continue to change and often will go back to normal after breastfeeding. However, if your current prescription is making it difficult to drive or read, your optometrist may be able to offer temporary corrective glasses. 

How to find relief: Blurry vision during pregnancy is often temporary, and may be caused by a number of hormonal changes.

2. Dryness

Dry eyes are common during pregnancy, especially during your final trimester. Dryness is usually caused by hormonal changes that will go back to normal after giving birth. However, dryness can also be a symptom of a more serious condition (like gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia), so if you’re experiencing dry eyes in addition to symptoms like eye pain or seeing spots, talk to a doctor.

How to find relief: Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially on hot days. Eating fruits and vegetables can also provide you with much-needed hydration. Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to provide moisture. Using a humidifier and wearing glasses (instead of contact lenses) may also help.

3. Puffy Eyelids

Puffiness around the eyes is a common symptom during pregnancy, which is caused by water retention and other hormonal changes. Mild puffiness can be irritating or cause fatigue, but if you are experiencing further symptoms such as extreme headaches with the puffiness, contact your eye doctor. 

How to find relief: A cold compress over your closed eyes can help reduce swelling. As puffy eyelids are caused by water retention, make sure to stay hydrated and avoid high sodium foods. 

4. Flashing Lights, Spots, or Unusual Floaters

If you are seeing flashing lights and/or spots in your vision, call your doctor. When accompanied by other symptoms such as high blood pressure and significant headaches, these ocular anomalies may be a sign of pre-eclampsia.  

5. Loss of Vision

If you lose your eyesight (even if only temporarily), seek medical attention immediately. Vision loss during pregnancy can be a symptom of pre-eclampsia or another serious condition that requires help from a doctor.

Concerns? Contact Us

It’s important to stay on top of your health during pregnancy. However, some bodily changes are common enough and don’t warrant panic. Blurred vision during pregnancy is often one of these changes brought on by a number of factors.

 If you are experiencing unusual or severe symptoms related to your eyesight during pregnancy—such as headaches, eye pain, or flashes in your vision—make sure to contact your doctor. Book an appointment with us today to address any concerns you may have. 

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Answers About Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)

Answers About Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)

Are you looking for a safe, non-invasive procedure to correct vision problems like nearsightedness or astigmatism? If so, you should consider Ortho-K.

Read on to learn more about how this treatment works, who can benefit from it, and the potential risks it can pose.

What Is Ortho-K?

Ortho-K, also called orthokeratology, is a non-surgical treatment for various eye conditions. Most eye doctors consider it a cosmetic or elective procedure, but it helps you see better with no aids during the day.

As part of this treatment, patients wear eye contact lenses all night long to correct vision problems. These contact lenses aren’t like traditional ones — they’re made of gas-permeable material and focus on providing better vision in the future (instead of in the present time).

Some patients like to compare Ortho-K to dental braces, as these contact lenses reshape your cornea’s surface. Once the morning rolls around, you can take off your contact lenses and proceed with your day as normal.

Researchers first introduced the treatment in the 1960s, but it wasn’t approved for real-life use until the FDA performed a thorough study. The first hard contact lenses were approved for overnight use in the early 2000s.

How Does Ortho-K Work?

You will first need to visit one of our experienced eye doctors to begin your Ortho-K treatment, as these individuals are qualified to administer it.

Before you wear Ortho-K contact lenses, you must first get fitted for them. Your True Eye Expert will use a tool called a corneal topographer to map and measure the surface of your cornea. This process will allow your eye doctor to analyze your cornea’s shape and curves and determine if you will benefit from Ortho-K treatment.

Once you receive your custom contact lenses, they will flatten your cornea’s center and alter how light bends as it enters your eyes. Most patients wear their Ortho-K lenses while they sleep and take them off during the day.

These specialized contact lenses are robust enough to re-mold your cornea but still allow your eyes to receive enough oxygen.

What Does Ortho-K Treat?

Orthokeratology usually provides maximum vision correction within two weeks. Some patients may experience significant improvement within a couple of days, but everyone’s experience will differ. Ortho-K contact lenses tend to offer patients 20/40 vision or better, but the optimal goal is 20/20 vision.

Our True Eye Experts recommend orthokeratology to treat the following conditions:

  • Astigmatism: Astigmatism is when a patient experiences blurry or distorted vision at any distance.
  • Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, myopia is when objects in the distance appear blurry.

When you wear your orthokeratology contact lenses at night as prescribed, you will experience improved vision each day. However, if you cease wearing them, your pre-existing vision condition will eventually return. That means that you will either have to resume orthokeratology treatment or start wearing eyeglasses or traditional contact lenses.

They can also slow the growth of progressive myopia in children. As a child’s eyes grow, they lengthen—if this growth is too dramatic or happens too quickly, it causes myopia. Orthokeratology lenses help slow this growth. 

Am I Eligible for Ortho-K?

Ortho-K contact lenses may seem like a complex treatment with a lot of responsibility — i.e., one that only adults should undergo. However, Ortho-K contact lenses are suitable for people of any age, from children to elderly individuals.

Orthokeratology offers the following benefits over alternative treatments. For example, Ortho-K allows patients to avoid the:

  • Risks of LASIK surgery (including under- or over-corrections)
  • Hassle of wearing glasses
  • Lack of oxygen to the eyes associated with wearing traditional contact lenses

Ortho-K is especially suitable for:

  • People who don’t want to undergo refractive surgery
  • Children and young adults who don’t want to wear glasses
  • People who work in outdoor environments or play contact sports

Schedule an appointment with True Eye Experts to discuss the benefits and risks of Ortho-K treatment. During your consultation, your eye doctor will examine your eyes and see if you are a candidate for this service. People with dry eyes, severe corneal scarring, and other conditions may not be good candidates for Ortho-K treatment.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Ortho-K?

Ortho-K presents few risks, as it is not a permanent solution. The corneal reshaping process it inflicts on your eyes is temporary. You can stop wearing your Ortho-K contact lenses at any time safely and switch to more conservative treatment like eyeglasses.

However, you should be aware of potential drawbacks before you begin Ortho-K. The two most significant risks to know about are:

  • Corneal edema: Corneal edema is when fluid builds up in your cornea and clouds your vision.
  • Corneal staining: Corneal staining refers to abrasions (scratches) on your eye.

Some other side effects you may experience include:

  • Irritation
  • Discharge
  • Redness
  • Pain
  • Tearing
  • Visual distortion

In most cases, all side effects of Ortho-K are temporary. Your eyes will need time to adjust to the new treatment, so don’t be alarmed if you experience minor side effects at first. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, you should reach out to your eye doctor for advice on how to proceed.

What about Eye Infections & Ortho-K?

Because a foreign object will rest on your eye during Ortho-K treatment, you’ll naturally subject yourself to an increased risk of infection. The infection risk is most present among children and adolescents, as these individuals will be less capable of maintaining good contact lens hygiene. 

However, you can prevent infections by following these safety tips:

  • Wash your hands before touching your lenses. 
  • Don’t wear your lenses for extended periods (i.e., forgetting to take them out during the day.)
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions for disinfecting, storing, and replacing your lenses.

Schedule an Eye-Care Appointment Today!

While Ortho-K is ideal for some patients, it may not work for everyone. For the True Eye Expert team to create the best treatment plan for your particular condition, be sure to schedule an eye-care appointment today.

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Glasses for Migraines: How Do They Work?

Glasses for Migraines: How Do They Work?

Would you be surprised to learn that you have more options for pain relief if you suffer from migraines?

If you have noticed more frequent migraines in the last two years, you’re not alone. The Journal of Headache and Pain reports that 59.6% of patient surveys report an increase in migraine frequency due to the effects of the pandemic.

Whether you have a history of chronic migraines or recently began having debilitating migraine headaches, migraine glasses may decrease your symptoms.

Admittedly, there is no 100% cure for migraines. However, those experiencing more migraine symptoms due to increased computer use, eye strain, or light sensitivity may benefit from migraine glasses.

When it comes to taking your migraine relief seriously, research your options. Glasses for migraines: research, benefits, and how they work is a great start!

Do Migraine Glasses Work?

Studies have revealed that individuals can achieve migraine relief from migraine glasses.

Those diagnosed with benign essential blepharospasm reported improvement wearing FL-41 migraine glasses and gray-tinted lenses in a 2009 study.

Chronic migraine sufferers and patients with photophobia reported relief from a 2016 study.

The patients who participated in the study wore migraine glasses with thin-notch filler lenses. The results of migraine relief were consistent with 480 nanometers(nm) and 620 (nm).

Migraine glasses are often called migraine sunglasses. FL-41 glasses are some of the most popular migraine glasses to help block harmful light. Unfortunately, for many, sunlight is the culprit and migraine trigger.

Living in the sunshine state with approximately 246 sunny days a year in Tampa alone, protecting yourself from migraine attacks is a good idea.

How Do Migraine Glasses Work?

Migraine sufferers often report sensitivity to light indoors and outside. Migraine glasses are blockers to protect you from the usual migraine symptoms. 

The glasses for migraines’ Fl-41 lenses block wavelengths of light, fluorescent lights, and blue-green light from digital screens. Migraine glasses also help stop the UV rays from the sun.

Personalized migraine glasses can be made according to your prescription if you suffer from an eye condition or currently wear glasses.

If you still have questions about how glasses for migraines can provide you relief, True Eye Experts are here to assist you. As Tampa’s expert optometrist, we can help you find the best migraine glasses.

Filter the Offending Light

Blocking bright lights in the middle of a migraine attack has proven to help relieve pain for migraine sufferers. In addition, using glasses for migraines with Fl-41 lenses helps reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

Protecting yourself from harmful light is as simple as filtering offending light from the sun and computer screens. Unfortunately, there is no cure for migraines, but migraine glasses can help.

Determining which FL-41 lenses and filters are right for you can be overwhelming. True Eye Experts are experienced optometrists who are here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

Reduce Migraine Frequency

Glasses for migraines filter light and help reduce migraine attacks. Light is important to your body, so don’t avoid it altogether. Instead, you are simply attempting to minimize migraine triggers.

Consult your healthcare provider if your migraines become more frequent or severe after using migraine glasses. 

Reduce Symptoms of Light Sensitivity

Blocking harmful light is vital to keep migraines at bay. If you are diagnosed with photophobia, migraine glasses have been proven to help symptoms of light sensitivity. 

2016 study showed that tinted eyewear helped reduce symptoms of light sensitivity. Further studies supported that migraine patients who wore Fl-41 lenses or filters experienced relief from their symptoms.

Who Should Wear Migraine Glasses?

If you suffer from chronic migraines, photophobia, or benign essential blepharospasm, migraine glasses are a great option.

Depending on your symptoms, migraine glasses may be an excellent option for those making their eyes work harder with increased digital screen time, dry eyes, or blurry vision. 

Whether you have blurry vision in one eye or two, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with one of our True Eye Experts for a consultation.

Types of Migraine Glasses

Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized glasses contain a special filter that helps block horizontal light to decrease glare. The glasses label should indicate UV400 protection, which is 100% UV protection.

There have been reports of some migraine patients feeling adverse effects such as nausea and dizziness. Talk to your optometrist or one of our True Eye Experts if you have any concerns.

Tinted Glasses for Migraines

Since they were first developed in 1991, FL-41 tinted glasses for migraines have significantly improved. 

These migraine glasses help reduce the wavelength of light, such as fluorescent lights on television screens, cell phones, and computer monitors.

When wearing tinted glasses, migraine patients report that their color perceptions aren’t as accurate. Tinted migraine glasses, however, have not been reported to cause any direct side effects. 

You should only wear these glasses when attempting to block harmful lights that trigger migraine symptoms.

Blue Light Glasses for Migraines

For many years, blue light glasses were believed to help migraine sufferers. However, recently a 2021 study revealed that blue-blocking lenses did not alter or prevent symptoms of eye strain. 

The claims that blue light-blocking glasses prevent eye strain, headaches, and long-term retinal damage remain unproven by science.

If you are working on a computer or watching television, blue light glasses and lenses block the blue light, which can prevent you from sleeping.

Many migraine sufferers report relief from blue light glasses and say they’ve had great success with them. Therefore, it is worth a try if you’re not negatively affected. Transition contact lenses are also an alternative to blue light glasses.

Rose Tinted Glasses for Migraines

Rose-tinted glasses for migraines are an FL-41 lens designed to help patients with chronic migraines or photophobia.

In 1991, children diagnosed with migraines wore a red-tinted FL-41 lens for four months. The study revealed the migraine frequency had improved from 6.2 per month to 1.6 per month.

Glasses for Migraines

Glasses for migraines can provide you with relief from photophobia and benign essential blepharospasm.

If you are experiencing severe headaches, contact us. If you believe migraine glasses may benefit you, we encourage you to schedule an appointment.

We know how debilitating migraines can be, and our goal is to help as many people as possible find relief.

Schedule an appointment today to see if glasses for migraines may be right for you!

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How to Tell if Your Child Has Astigmatism

How to Tell if Your Child Has Astigmatism

According to the CDC, about 1 in 4 American preschool children have an undiagnosed or untreated vision problem. Often, they have astigmatism, which leads to squinting frequently and eyestrain.

Fortunately, astigmatism affects children much less as they age, and effective treatments are available for the condition.

If you suspect irregularities in your child’s vision, continue reading. Here you’ll learn more about astigmatism in children and how to identify the symptoms in your child.

What Is Astigmatism? 

Astigmatism is a type of eye condition called a refractive error that causes blurry vision. It is not an eye disease. Instead, astigmatism arises when the curvature of the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, is abnormal.

The cornea’s curvature is naturally like that of a basketball. But when you have astigmatism, the curvature is more like a football or egg, altering how light enters the eye and travels to the retina. The retina is a light-sensitive area in the back of the eye. It converts light into signals for the brain.

Typically, the retina receives light at a single focal point. But with astigmatism, the retina receives light rays at several focal points, causing blurred vision.

Further, it can make objects appear blurry regardless of whether they are near or far, and it’s possible to have astigmatism in either one or both eyes.

What Causes Astigmatism in Children?

Several factors can contribute to your child having or developing astigmatism. While astigmatism can develop after an eye injury, surgery, or disease, there are more common causes. Let’s review them.

Family History 

Astigmatism typically runs in families. So if someone in your family has the condition, your child is at a higher risk of also having it.

Refractive Error

If your child already has a refractive error, they have an increased chance of developing astigmatism, including common refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness).

Maternal Smoking

Smoking during pregnancy can increase the child’s risk of developing astigmatism. Therefore, pregnant individuals should avoid smoking.

Genetics

All ethnicities can exhibit astigmatism. However, previous studies suggest that children from specific ethnicities are at a higher risk of developing astigmatism than other children. These include:

  • Black children
  • Asian children
  • Hispanic children
  • Native American 

Signs and Symptoms of Astigmatism in Children

Children may not know they have a vision problem if they’ve experienced astigmatism their whole life. Here are some signs and symptoms of astigmatism in kids to look for when observing your child.

Sensitivity to Light

Those with astigmatism see light differently. Light rays may look streaky or smeared with a high glare, which makes it difficult to focus.

Thus, sensitivity to light indicates astigmatism in children’s eyes. Take your child to an optometrist for an eye exam if they appear to have light sensitivity.

Eye Rubbing

Eye rubbing is a common sign of allergies, blurry vision, or even eyestrain. Eye rubbing can damage the eyes and surrounding tissues. If your child is continuously rubbing their eyes, encourage them not to do so. Then seek out an optometrist to evaluate why they are rubbing their eyes. 

Squinting

When someone has difficulty seeing, they may try squinting to clear their vision. You may notice your child squinting their eyes while doing the following:

  • Looking at objects in the distance
  • Reading
  • Watching TV

It’s best to schedule your child for an eye examination with an optometrist if they are often squinting to improve their vision.

Too Close to Digital Screens or Books

If your child is holding a digital device or book too close or too far, it may be a sign of vision problems and is a strong indicator that it’s time for an eye examination.

Do Kids Grow Out of Astigmatism? 

Yes, it’s possible, but you shouldn’t count on it. Research from the National Institute of Health (NIH) suggests that of the 23% of young children aged six months to one year with astigmatism, only 9% still have the condition at five or six years old. 

Yet, you cannot rely on self-correction, so it’s a good idea to schedule routine pediatric eye care exams. Severe astigmatism could lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus if not adequately treated. An optometrist can help assess your child’s vision through a vision screening and provide early treatment should the condition continue.

Treatment Options for Children With Astigmatism

Treatment options are available for those who don’t grow out of their astigmatism. Your eye doctor can outline the most appropriate treatment plan for your child. 

Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses are the most common way to help children with astigmatism. Annual eye exams can help ensure that your child’s optometrist is adjusting their eyeglass prescription to fit their changing needs.

Contact Lenses

Soft and Ridgid Gas Permeable

Corrective lenses for astigmatism are called toric lenses or rigid gas permeable lenses (RGPs). They are custom made to fit the patient and are ideal for low-grade astigmatism. 

Myopia Control Lenses

True Eye Experts also proudly offers the MiSight® 1-day contact lens, the first and only lens approved by the FDA to slow myopia progression in children aged 8-12 at the initiation of treatment. The lenses help slow the elongation of the eye while correcting the refractive error.

Orthokeratology

Another option is orthokeratology, or ortho-k, specialty contacts that children can sleep in to help “fix” their vision throughout the day. Using ortho-k lenses, a child will not need to wear their glasses throughout the day. 

Eyeglasses may offer a better solution for children who are too young or struggle with putting in contact lenses.

Refractive Surgery

Refractive surgery like LASIK is not recommended for a child under 18. Ask your optometrist the ideal age your child should reach before considering refractive surgery.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Child

Regarding eye conditions, astigmatism in children is highly treatable and shouldn’t cause much concern. But it’s still essential to see an eye doctor as soon as you notice your child having vision problems. At True Eye Experts, eye exams are recommended starting at 6 months, two years, and every year after. Schedule your child’s eye appointment for a complete vision assessment.

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