Frequenty Asked Questions
Insurance
What's the difference between vision plans and health insurance?
Health insurance covers the cost of basic healthcare needs, such as physical exams, emergency care, medically necessary procedures, and some prescription drugs. Many health insurance plans include coverage for sudden eye injuries or disease, but not general vision care.
A vision plan covers the cost of care for maintaining healthy vision. This can include annual eye exams, vision tests, some eye surgeries, and prescription eye medications. Some vision plans cover prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses either at reduced cost or offer discounts.
Will my plan cover my new glasses?
Most insurance plans only cover a portion of the cost for a new pair of glasses. While your insurance may provide a great saving to you, it may still cost you to have the quality of protection and comfort in vision you are hoping for.
Why do I need to provide my health insurance information when I have a vision plan?
Comprehensive Exams
I see fine. Why do I need to see an eye doctor?
Regular eye exams are the only way to catch “silent” diseases such as diabetes, glaucoma and other conditions in their early stages, when they’re more easily managed or treated.
Considering mass-produced, over-the-counter reading glasses? You are truly doing yourself a disservice, both financially and medically. One-size-fits-all reading glasses not only do not work well for most people who have a different prescription in each eye, and/or astigmatism, or whose lens and frame parameters are not measured correctly. Moreover, they bypass the opportunity to have their eyes checked for early detection of many manageable diseases or conditions. For those insisting on selecting glasses not measured specifically for their eyes, headache and eye fatigue are common symptoms.
At what age should I bring my child in for an eye exam?
6 months old, 3 years old and 5 years old. Those ages are chosen based on critical development milestones between the eyes and the brain and the overall visual system. During each of those visits there are specific signs that we look for to ensure the good development of your child's visual system. including binocular development and depth perception. The specific components of the exam are tailored to the age of your child. All children entering school should also have their eyes examined because seeing is a vital component to learning in school.
Why do I need to bring a list of my medications to my eye appointments?
In addition to being “windows to the soul”, your eyes are also a clear indicator—or window—to your overall general health. That’s why it’s so important to understand the relationship between your eyes and any medications you may currently be using. Since eye doctors can use your eye health as a predictor or measure of your general health, all medications need to be discussed with your eye care professionals.
Because of its rich blood supply and relatively small mass, the eye is susceptible to certain drugs and toxic agents. Many medications, both prescription and nonprescription (over the counter) can alter the quantity or the quality of your vision or pose a threat to your future eye health.
Your current medications and healthy sight go hand in hand so it is important to bring an updated medication list to every eye exam.
Why do I have to have my eyes dilated?
A truly comprehensive eye exam almost always includes eye dilation—the addition of special eye drops that “open up” the pupil at the front of the eyeball. This allows for a maximum amount of light to enter the eyeball, giving your eye doctor the best possible visibility during a variety of specific eye tests.
Several eye diseases and conditions are detected at their earliest stages during a thorough eye exam: diabetes, eye tumors, high blood pressure, infectious diseases, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.
What is the air puff test?
Most people who’ve had a comprehensive eye exam are familiar with the puffer test. A puffer test is what it sounds like: With your head resting in the chinrest of a diagnostic machine called a slit lamp, your eye doctor uses a puff of air across the surface of the eye to measure the intraocular pressure, “inside” pressure, of the eye. High pressure is a key indicator of glaucoma, a series of eye diseases that attack the optic nerve.
Puff tests are quick and largely without discomfort. You’ll look at a light inside the machine while your eye doctor blows a gentle puff of air across the surface of your open eye. A device called a tonometer measures the eye’s resistance to the air and calculates your internal eye pressure.
This usually takes only a few moments, and while your eye might water slightly, the procedure is generally over before you know it!
Do I need an optometrist or an ophthalmologist?
Both are eye doctors that diagnose and treat many of the same eye conditions. The American Optometric Association defines Doctor of Optometry (optometrist) as: a primary health care professional who examines, diagnoses, treats, and manages diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. They can prescribe glasses, contact lenses, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy and medications as well as perform certain procedures.
The main difference between the two is that an ophthalmologist performs surgery, where an optometrist would not. The optometrist, however, would handle the pre-and post-operative care of these surgical patients, collecting accurate data, educating the patient, and ensuring proper healing after the procedure. In addition to specializing in eye examinations, glasses and contact lens related services, an optometrist can treat most eye conditions like glaucoma, eye infections, allergic eye conditions, dry eyes, etc., including the use of topical or oral medications, if needed.
A third “O” that often is overlooked is the optician. An optician is not a doctor, and they cannot examine your eye under their own license. However, a highly trained optician plays an indispensable role in the most successful eye doctor’s offices. An optician most often handles the optical, contact lens, and glasses side of things. Based on their vast knowledge of lenses, lens technology and frames, they manufacture eyeglasses, as well as assist in the selection of eyewear based on the requirements of each individual patient.
Refractive Eye Conditions
What is a refractive error?
A refractive error occurs when the eye is not able to refract (or bend) the light that comes into a single point of focus, therefore not allowing images to be seen clearly. Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism are the most common types of refractive error.
What is Myopia?
Nearsightedness, technically known as myopia, is a condition which causes difficulty focusing on objects at a distance, while near vision remains normal. Myopia is one of the most common vision problems worldwide and it is on the rise.
Myopia is a refractive error caused by an irregular shaped cornea that affects the way light is focused on the retina. For clear vision, light should come to a focus point directly onto the retina. In myopia, the cornea is longer than usual, resulting in a focus point that falls in front of the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry, while close objects can be seen normally.
What is Hyperopia?
Hyperopia is a refractive error in which distant objects are clear, while close objects appear blurry. Also called farsightedness, hyperopia is a common vision problem that can cause headaches, eyestrain and trouble reading.
Hyperopia is usually caused when the shape of the eye is shortened or the cornea (which is the clear front surface of the eye) is flatter than normal. This prevents light that enters the eye from focusing properly on the retina and rather focuses behind it. This condition causes close objects to appear blurry, while typically objects at a distance remain clear.
What is Amblyopia?
Sometimes called lazy eye, it is the underdevelopment of central vision in one or sometimes both eyes; it also prevents both eyes from working together.
What exactly is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, the front surface of the eye. Instead of being a perfect sphere, like a ball bearing or a marble, it can become a little more like a football, being more curved in one direction than the other. This brings light into focus at more than one point on the retina at the back of the eye, resulting in blurry or distorted vision.
Why can I no longer focus on objects up close?
Vision changes occur naturally as you age. When you reach your 40’s, focusing at close range becomes difficult. This is a natural part of the aging process caused by a gradual hardening of the eye’s crystalline lens, reducing its ability to change shape and focus at near. This condition is called Presbyopia.
Eyeglasses
Do I need to use an anti-glare filter on my computer screen?
Anti-glare filters for the computer can be effective at reducing reflections from the computer screen, which may improve comfort for some. However, computer screen anti-glare filters will not help if you have eye fatigue due to visual problems associated with the constant focusing and refocusing of the eyes while working on computers. An evaluation with your eye doctor may determine that you may need prescription computer eyewear.
Kids can be hard on glasses. Are there effective glasses for children today that last?
Yes. Tough, shatter and scratch resistant lenses are available along with flexible frame materials and durable hinges. Prescription sports goggles and swimwear may be an option as well.
What are bifocal glasses?
Bifocal glasses are old technology originally designed by Benjamin Franklin. They have a line which divides the lens with distance on the top and reading down below. There is no midrange, so computer work is very difficult. Our office seldom uses bifocal lenses since midrange like dashboards and computer monitors are out of focus with a traditional bifocal design.
What are progressive lenses?
Progressive lenses are also called no line bifocals or multifocals. We like the term multifocal because it describes what they do: they focus at multiple distances at a time. For example, if you were shopping at the grocery, you would need to see far away to see the signs to find out what aisle you need, that is distance. Once you are there, you need to scan the shelves to find the item that you wanted, that is mid-range. Once you find the item, you pick it up to read the ingredient, that is near vision. Progressives allow you to see different distances without having to lift your glasses or reach for readers.
What are progressive computer glasses?
Progressive lenses let people clearly see objects at multiple distances by incorporating a prescription for distance, midrange, and near vision. Since they are used full time for all activities like driving and watching TV, the upper portion you see through when looking straight out is for distance vision; you must lift your chin a little to see the computer through the midrange portion. Progressive computer glasses, however, are made for heavy computer use. When looking straight ahead, your eyes focus on your computer and when you look down, you can read. Some lenses can focus out 5 feet, others out to 10 feet. Generally speaking, progressive computer lenses are for computers and reading due to their larger midrange zone and are not recommended for driving. They can be perfect for anyone who spends long hours in front of a monitor.
Is it bad to wear my old designer glasses with an old prescription? What's the best way to replace them?
It is not a good idea to wear any old prescription lenses, other than as a back-up or supplement to your corrected vision. If you prefer to keep your old frame, and it is still in condition to handle the new lenses of your updated prescription, then by all means! We have opticians that would be happy to thoroughly inspect the condition of your frames and accommodate your request to replace the old prescription lenses with new ones.
Why shouldn't I buy my eye wear over the internet?
We feel it is important that proper measurements are taken and the frames are fitted for your face when choosing eyewear. There are certain measurements we utilize outside of just the "PD" (pupillary distance, which is the measurement between the eyes) that ensure a proper fit and centration of the lenses in the frame. This will enhance the optics of the lenses and the comfort of the prescription. This is especially important with patients who have astigmatism, high prescriptions and patients who are progressive wearers.
What is the difference between buying eyeglasses online or from a Doctor of Optometry?
With all the options we now have for online purchasing, the question often comes up about buying glasses online. The bottom line is beware of doing this. There are several parameters of glasses that your doctor, the optician, and the optical lab work together to make glasses custom to your eyes and prescription. Ordering glasses online makes it very hard to get all these parameters correct. In fact, in a recent study, researchers found that nearly half of all glasses ordered online either contained an inaccurate prescription, or didn't meet safety standards designed to protect the eyes. We strongly recommend buying your glasses through your eye doctor and be fit for them correctly by a licensed optician.
Contact Lenses
I have eye allergies, are daily contact lenses better for me than monthlies?
The main benefits of daily disposable contact lenses are comfort, convenience and eye health; it's often worthwhile even though they cost a little more. Daily lenses only stay in your eyes for one day, and then get thrown away, eliminating any buildup of bacteria on the lenses that could cause infections or allergic reactions. So, for patients who suffer from allergies, dailies are better than monthlies.
Can I wear contacts while I sleep?
Generally, we do not recommend sleeping in contact lenses on a regular or prolonged basis. The eye is a dark, warm place while you are sleeping. Bacteria thrive in dark, warm places. There are contact lenses FDA approved to sleep in, but they should always be removed and thoroughly disinfected every week.
Can I wear my contact lenses at the beach?
Technically, no, it's not a good a good idea to wear contacts at the beach, because there's a risk of infection. However, disposable contact lenses that you'll throw out when you get home from the beach would be okay. Just make sure that, if you experience any redness or irritation, you remove them and flush your eyes out with a saline solution if available, or clean water. If the redness or irritation continues, call our office for further instructions.
Can children wear contact lenses?
Yes! Once a child is mature enough to learn how to insert and remove contact lenses as well as take care of them, they can wear contact lenses. The best option for children is daily disposable contact lenses. Kids greatly benefit from contact lenses, especially when playing sports and during other extracurricular activities. They also help with a child's self-esteem and confidence.
I have astigmatism and wear bifocals. Is there any chance I could ever wear contacts?
Yes! This is one of the most common questions from patients, especially those who tend to use reading glasses over their existing single vision contact lenses. Now more than ever, patients can enjoy newer technology lenses that allow a patient to see all distances without sacrificing quality of vision or relying heavily on reading glasses. Depending on your prescription and visual needs, your eye doctor will determine if monovision, soft multifocal contacts, or gas permeable multifocal contacts are right for you.
Can you explain what multifocal contact lenses are and who can wear them?
Multifocal contact lenses are soft contacts or rigid gas permeable contact lenses that are appropriate for anyone with a prescription for distance vision and near vision, common in patients with presbyopia. They are available in different modalities, from single-use disposable lenses to monthlies, or even much longer. Most designs have one power in the center that changes toward the periphery of the lens and they can be adjusted to emphasize better distance or near correction for either eye as required. The advantage is that patients can reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses while maintaining good distance vision. People in their 40s and later are good candidates for multifocal lenses, as this is the time when it becomes increasingly difficult to focus at near. Often these patients are already wearing contact lenses so making the switch is a natural thing to do. Motivation and flexibility, as well as healthy corneas and a good tear film improve the likelihood of multifocal contact lens success. A trial fitting will give you a good idea if these lenses are right for you.
What are the pros of daily disposable contact lenses?
Daily disposable contact lenses are great for many reasons. The risk of infection is reduced, because a new sterile lens is used every day, and there is no need to clean the lens or the case. This is also a great option for patients who have allergies, contact lens solution sensitivities, or dry eye, as it eliminates the buildup of contaminants on the lenses, which can exacerbate those problems. Dailies make for a low-maintenance and comfortable option for almost any patient!
What’s your vision prescription? And does that limit what contacts you can use?
There are several factors to consider when selecting contact lenses, and your vision condition is one of the most significant – as not all lenses are ideal for all prescriptions. If you have a more complicated or acute correction, then certain lenses such as toric (for astigmatism) or multifocal, are more readily available in monthly wearing schedules. Monthlies are composed of more rigid materials, which enable them to grant highly reliable vision correction at higher magnifications. Ultimately, your eye doctor will make the final prescription decision based on your vision needs and lifestyle preferences.
Ocular Diseases and Medical Conditions
What are cataracts and what's the best treatment?
Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye, positioned just behind the pupil, changes from clear to cloudy. This causes increasingly blurry vision that a higher vision prescription cannot help. When the blurriness worsens to the point that it interferes with a person’s ability to read or drive, or otherwise hinders their lifestyle, the cloudy lens is surgically removed and replaced with a clear plastic one, restoring clear vision. These days, cataract surgery can take as little as 20 minutes, with little down-time and excellent outcomes.
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an eye disease that can occur at any stage and with any type of diabetes. In fact, sometimes diabetes is identified during an eye exam in a person who never suspected it. It is caused by damage to the very delicate blood vessels within the retina at the back of the eye. As DR progresses, these blood vessels may start to leak blood and fluid into the retina or other areas of the eye, and new vessels may begin to grow within the retina, which can cause vision loss, and sudden complications including internal bleeds and retinal detachment.
What exactly is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition in which the eye's intraocular pressure (IOP) is too high. This means that your eye has too much aqueous humor in it, either because it produced too much, or because it's not draining properly. Other symptoms are optic nerve damage and vision loss. Glaucoma is a silent disease that robs the patient of their peripheral vision. Early detection is very important.
How can I tell if I am developing glaucoma?
The real tragedy behind vision-stealing glaucoma is that most people afflicted with this eye disease do not even realize they have it. As a result, the condition goes undiagnosed and untreated, which too often leads to unnecessary blindness. Of the 2.7 million people in the United States with glaucoma, half are undiagnosed. Most are lulled into a false sense of confidence because glaucoma often displays no symptoms in its early stages. By the time it begins to affect vision, any lost sight is impossible to regain. The risk of developing glaucoma begins to increase dramatically at midlife, which is why everyone should have a baseline exam by age 40. The most important concern is protecting your sight. Doctors look at many factors before making decisions about your treatment. If your condition is particularly difficult to diagnose or treat, you may be referred to a glaucoma specialist. While glaucoma is most common in middle-aged individuals, the disease can strike at any age, with those having a family history of the disease being especially vulnerable.
If one of my parents has glaucoma, does that mean I will develop it as well at some point?
Having a parent with glaucoma does not mean that the child will automatically develop the condition too. However, those people with an immediate family history (parents, siblings) of glaucoma are at more risk to develop this disease. Patients should have a comprehensive eye examination each year to evaluate the health of their eyes and to look for signs of glaucoma. Some of these signs can be an increase in the pressure of the eyes as well as changes to the appearance of the optic nerve. Many times, there are no symptoms noticed by the patient. If there is suspicion of glaucoma, more frequent visits to the eye doctor along with additional nerve testing are often required.
What exactly is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a condition in which the eye's macula breaks down, causing a gradual or sudden loss of central vision. There are two forms called wet and dry. Patients need a detailed retinal eye exam to determine if they have this condition.
Who's at the most risk for macular degeneration?
If you're over age 65, a smoker, African American, have vascular health problems, or have a family member with macular degeneration, you have an increased risk for macular degeneration. You're also at risk if you take these drugs: Aralen (chloroquine) or phenothiazine derivatives [Thorazine (chlorpromazine), Mellaril (thioridazine), Prolixin (fluphenazine), Trilafon (perphenazine) and Stelazine (trifluoperazine)].
How does high blood pressure affect vision?
High blood pressure alone does not usually affect vision directly, however hypertension is a known risk factor in the onset and/or progression of other eye diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration, as well as blocked veins and arteries in the retina or nerves of the eye that can severely affect vision. In malignant hypertension, very high blood pressure can damage organs, and may cause swelling of the macula and acute loss of vision.
Eye Emergencies (Pink/Red Eyes)
I recently got hit in the eye by a ball/pole/fist/other object, should I have it checked out?
I was cleaning in the shed or grinding some metal and I felt something fly into my eye and now it is irritated and watery, what should I do?
What are the signs of a retinal detachment?
A detachment of the retina may be preceded by flashes of light, increased “floater” spots in the vision or areas of “wavy, distorted vision”, etc. Most retinal detachments are painless. They can happen as a result of recent or past trauma such as falls, automobile accidents or other types of head injury. In some instances, people may be at risk for retinal detachments based on family history and increased nearsightedness. If you experience any of the above symptoms, consult your eye care professional as soon as possible.
When I close my eyes, I see flashes of light in my vision. Is that bad?
Flashes of light in your vision could be a very dangerous sign! Something is tugging at your retina and eliciting these flashes of light. Sometimes it could be the vitreous humor pulling at the retina in aging vitreous degeneration, but sometimes it could mean a dangerous retinal tear or detachment. Detachments need to be treated within 24 hours for the best prognosis in preventing permanent vision loss. Emergency minor evaluations are often covered by medical insurance.
Is it a bad sign if I see dots or strings that float around when I move my eyes?
Usually, the dots and threads you describe are called floaters, and are generally harmless. If you had a recent eye injury or an impact to the eye, see a new onset of them, see a lot of them, or if they're accompanied by flashes of light, make an emergency eye appointment with our eye doctor so that we can make sure there aren’t any concerning problems forming on your retina, such as retinal holes, tears, or detachments, which case could potentially result in permanent vision loss. Most often, floaters are just shadows caused by the jelly-like vitreous fluid inside your eyes.
What is meant by the term allergic conjunctivitis? Is that the same as “pink eye”?
Allergic conjunctivitis is the clinical term for inflammation of the lining or membrane of the eye, called the conjunctiva, caused by allergic reactions to substances. Although a patient may present with red or pink eyes from excess inflammation, the common term "pink eye" can signify a broad range of conditions and can be misleading, as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other irritating substances can cause redness resembling a "pink eye." Your eye doctor can differentiate between an allergy and a true infection, which can lead to faster healing with the right treatment.
What should I do if I have a red eye that is not getting better?
This should be checked immediately, as not all red eyes are caused by infections or allergies. Although rare, some red eyes may be due to an increase in eye pressure, which can lead to blindness. Others may be caused by internal eye inflammation which can lead to vision loss as well. We recommend that ALL red eyes be evaluated, since the exact cause needs to be professionally determined.
Dry Eyes
What happens at a dry eye exam?
To diagnose dry eye disease, the eye doctor can use a biomicroscope to examine whether there are plugged oil glands in the lid or any dry patches on the cornea present. A yellow stain called fluorescein can help us see how quickly the tears evaporate. We also look for eyelid issues like blepharitis (inflamed crusty lids) or Demodex mites which can worsen dry eye symptoms.
Are there some everyday activities that can cause dry eye?
Having heaters or fans that blow in your face, not drinking enough water or eating enough fruits & vegetables, smoking, wearing contact lenses that aren't a good match for your eyes, and using a computer for a long time without remembering to blink, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
If someone has overly teary eyes, that isn't dry eye, is it?
Ironically, yes, watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eye syndrome. The eyes try to overcompensate for the lack of good quality tears by producing reflex tears, which are usually meant to help flush out foreign bodies or function in a good "cry” and tend to spill out over the eyelids.
What are the typical treatments used to help people suffering from dry eyes?
Treatment for dry eye depends on the cause, severity, and stage of the disease. Artificial tears can be helpful in the early stages. If over-the-counter eye drops are insufficient, we progress to a prescription medication such as Restasis or Xiidra. Lid hygiene as well as omega-3 fish oil supplementation can improve symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications as well as punctal plugs are also available if needed for treatment.
Are there any natural treatments available for dry eyes?
Diet is very important for general eye health, and dry eyes. Make sure you eat plenty of green, red, and orange vegetables. Fish, especially wild salmon, also contains eye-healthy nutrients. Most people do not get enough healthy Omega 3 oil in their diet, so we recommend taking an Omega 3 fish oil supplement. Omega 3 has been shown to relieve dry eye symptoms and is also important for overall health.
