How many hours do you spend on your computer each day? Screens dominate our homes, schools, and workplaces, which is why digital eye strain is on the rise. Also known as computer vision syndrome, this condition can lead to various discomforts such as tired, burning, or itchy eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Luckily, there are several ways to minimize the impact of digital eye strain, even if you can’t turn your screens off completely. One of the key contributors to digital eye strain is improper screen positioning. To reduce strain on your eyes, neck, and shoulder muscles, ensure your screen is 20 to 26 inches away and slightly below eye level . Additionally, consider using a blue light filter to minimize the amount of blue light emitted by your screen. Optimal lighting plays a crucial role in preventing digital eye strain. Excessive glare and reflections can intensify eye discomfort. Take control of your environment by using shades, curtains, or blinds to regulate sunlight. Anti-glare screens for your digital devices can further diminish glare and reflections. Don't forget about the 20-20-20 rule ! Every 20 minutes, shift your focus away from the screen and look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple practice refreshes your eyes and mitigates the effects of prolonged screen exposure. You can significantly reduce the effects of digital eye strain by following these tips while using your devices. Check your environment and lighting before beginning work, and take advantage of your breaks to rest your eyes. If you have any concerns about your vision, schedule an appointment with us today!
Dressing up for Valentine’s Day? Eye makeup is a great way to perfect your look, but using it improperly puts your eyes at risk for infections and injuries. Next time you’re getting ready for dinner, date night, or a party, keep these tips in mind: Always wash your hands before applying makeup. Never share eye makeup, and only use products designed for use around the eyes. When using new makeup products, introduce one product at a time to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Familiarize yourself with the ingredients in your products and seek medical attention if a reaction does occur. Never apply makeup while in a moving vehicle. It's best to let a professional apply false lashes; poor application can irritate the skin around your eyes and lead to corneal scratches. Avoid glitter and sparkle powders, which can get into the tear film and irritate your eyes. These are common causes of infection or corneal irritation, especially for people who wear contact lenses. Always remove eye makeup before sleeping. Never use exfoliating scrubs around the eyes. Replace your products regularly, and do not continue to use products that cause irritation. Do not store products at temperatures above 85 degrees F. If you develop an eye infection, throw away your eye makeup products, see your optometrist immediately, and do not use any makeup until the infection is gone. By following these makeup safety tips, you can keep your eyes healthy while looking your best! In the event of an infection or injury, call our office so you can get the treatment you need.
Tired of the burning and scratchiness associated with dry eye? In search of a non-surgical solution that alleviates your symptoms while rejuvenating your skin? Meet Envision by InMode , a ground-breaking device that revolutionizes procedures in delicate areas; namely, around your eyes. Its treatments are safe, non-invasive, and suitable for all skin types and tones. Performed in your optometrist’s office, these treatments are comfortable and involve no general anesthesia, incisions, or downtime. Your optometrist will throughly assess your condition and design a customized treatment plan for you. But what do these treatments do? Forma-I is a bipolar radiofrequency (RF) treatment; it uses RF energy to generate heat that is applied to the skin around the eyes. This targets dry eye by reducing inflammation, which opens clogged meibomian glands and improves tear production and secretion. Forma-I also stimulates collagen formation, bringing white blood cells and stem cells to the skin, which smoothes wrinkles and reduces dark spots for a brighter and more youthful appearance. Lumecca-I is an intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment that offers impressive relief from ocular rosacea, meibomian gland dysfunction, and inflammatory dry eye. Its powerful bursts of light not only tackle demodex and bacteria around the eyelids but also close off blood vessels that release inflammation. Lumecca also stimulates collagen formation, so you can say goodbye to dark circles, redness, and fine lines! Don’t wait another day! Experience a revolutionary approach to dry eye treatment that leaves you feeling and looking your very best. Schedule your consultation today!
Using your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for vision expenses can help you save money on eye exams and eyewear. Both FSAs and HSAs are offered through your employer and allow you to contribute money pre-tax to cover eligible healthcare expenses. Routine eye exams are important as they can detect signs of various health conditions. Even if you have good vision, you should get your eyes checked once every year to make sure you and your eyes are completely healthy. With an FSA or HSA, you can use the funds to pay for eye exams, prescription glasses and sunglasses, contact lenses, and dry eye treatments. An FSA has a "use it or lose it" rule, meaning you have until the end of each year to spend the funds in your account. An HSA, on the other hand, allows funds to roll over each year and doesn't have an expiration date. Take advantage of your FSA or HSA and schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Focal Point Eye Care! If you have an FSA, book your appointment before December 31st so you can use your remaining funds before the year’s end. We look forward to seeing you!
Annual eye exams are especially important for those with diabetes, who are more likely to develop certain eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy. Too much sugar in your blood can damage your retinas, which are the parts of your eyes that detect light and transmit signals to your brain. When the blood vessels that go to your retinas become blocked by the excess sugar, they may leak fluid or bleed. To compensate for these damaged blood vessels, your eyes may grow new blood vessels that are not as effective as the original vessels and are more likely to leak, causing floaters and blurred vision. Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can lead to permanent vision loss, which is why early intervention is key! Optometrists check for diabetic retinopathy as part of a dilated eye exam. This is the only way to diagnose diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related eye conditions. Those with diabetes should undergo dilated eye exams annually to detect any potential issues. By being proactive and staying informed, individuals with diabetes can protect their vision and maintain their eye health for years to come. If it's been over a year since your last eye exam, call our office and schedule yours today!
Our sunglasses lineup is growing. Our Baton Rouge optical now features brands like Gucci, Chloe, St. Laurent, and John Varvatos. Although we always recommend getting a yearly vision and eye health evaluation, anyone can stop in and update their sunglasses collection. Summertime in Louisiana can be extreme with temperatures nearing 100 degrees with an average humidity level of 73 degrees. Our exposure to ultraviolet radiation ranges from 6-8, which is high to very high, on the UV Index, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, (2020). We take precautions when staying out in the sun for a prolonged period of time. We put on sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and sunglasses. The American Optometric Association states that sunglasses should block out 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB radiation. Polarized lenses are a great addition to UVA and UVB blocking lenses because you get protection from the sun and you remove horizontal surface glare. Think of looking at the water with and without polarized lenses. With polarized lenses, you can see through the water. Sunglasses are a statement piece for your face. Active, outdoor people use sunglasses for multiple purposes, such as protection from the sun, eye protection, and color enhancement. Think about your eyes and your eye skin next time you’re in the sun. The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on your face and the first to show the signs of aging. A quality pair of sunglasses will limit your exposure to the sun, protect your eyes from harmful radiation, and show off your personality and individual style. References: Ultraviolet (UV) protection. AOA.org. (n.d.). https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/uv-protection. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). EPA. https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/sun-safety-monthly-average-uv-index.
Age Related Macular Degeneration, sounds pretty scary, right? Especially the degeneration part? Having that associated with your vision also may frighten you. Age Related Macular Degeneration, commonly referred to as AMD, is an eye disease affecting the macula.
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Can you really get a good eye exam online? Here's the truth about virtual eye exams from a Baton Rouge optometrist.
