• What is a routine eye exam?
• • A routine eye examination is much like a routine physical, but for the eyes. Typically, there is no specific problem with the eyes other than the need for lenses to correct your vision. The insurance companies consider the need for corrective lenses to be routine.
    
    A complete examination includes a glaucoma pressure check, a muscle evaluation, observation for external eye disease, examination of the retina and refraction..

• What's the difference between a routine and medical exam?
• • These two terms refer to the way an examination is billed out by the office. Both examinations are performed the same way by the doctor. The diagnosis, which is billed out by the office, depends on the chief complaint of the patient, as related to the doctor or technician.
    
    Scenario #1 The patient comes to the office with a history of diabetes. He/she is healthy and has no eye problems, but wants his/her eyes examined. This is considered a medical examination because the patient has a disease which can affect the eyes and the physician needs to evaluate the patient's eyes in light of this disease.
    
    Scenario #2 The patient comes to the office with a complaint of difficulty seeing the newspaper, but no problem with distance vision. This would be considered routine in nature because there are no medically related problems.
    
    Scenario #3 The patient comes to the office with pain in the eye and tearing. These complaints are considered medical symptoms and the eye examination would be billed as a medical exam.

• What should I bring with me for my appointment?
• • Please bring the following on the day of your visit to our office:
    • Photo ID
    • Current insurance cards
    • Current medication list
    • All recent glasses and contact lenses (both distance and near)
    • Co-payments
    • An insurance referral if your plan requires one

• Should I wear my contacts to the office  and bring my glasses too for my exam?
• • Yes, especially if you want the doctor to evaluate the fit and vision of the contact lenses in your eyes. You may be asked to take the contact lenses out of your eyes during the examination, so please bring all recent glasses (reading and distance) with you to your exam.

• How long does a thorough exam take?
• • Your stay for a complete eye examination generally takes from 45 minutes to an hour.

• If my eyes are to be dilated, how long will my eyes stay blurry after the exam?
• • After your eyes have been dilated, the blurriness may last from 2 - 4 hours, with vision improving every hour. This blurriness is for close-up vision, but you will be light sensitive for distance as well. Please bring your sunglasses with you to the office.
    
    You may want to consider bringing someone with you to drive you or help you navigate to where you want to go when you leave our office.

• Will my insurance cover my eye exam?
• • It is the responsibility of the patient to know his/her benefits. Most insurance plans will differentiate between a routine eye exam and a medical eye exam. You must decide if the reason you need an eye exam is because you have a specific complaint or just because you would like your eyes examined.
    
    Any examination that takes place as a result of a patient's complaint or symptoms (ie: dry eyes, headaches, eye infection, etc.) would be considered medical in nature and should be covered under your medical insurance. Any eye exam conducted at the patient's request without a specific complaint would be considered routine. This type of exam would only be covered if your insurance contact specifically states routine eye coverage is a benefit.

• Is a school vision screening just as effective as a full eye examination by a doctor?
• • Vision screenings at your pediatrician or school are useful to pick up gross problems, but they do not take the place of full eye exams. A study that was funded by the National Eye Institute and was published in the April 2004 issue of Ophthalmology found that 36-39% of preschool children with one of the targeted vision disorders was missed.
    
    The requirements for grade school vision screenings consist of testing the distance visual acuity. Even near vision, which is a critical component in learning, is sometimes not tested. Farsightedness can easily be missed. Many other important tests especially for the at-risk students are left out. Thus it is very important to have a full eye examination at least before kindergarten.

• How do you test an infant or toddler that can not talk?
• • We have many tests that look at their prescription, eye alignment, basic visual acuity, eye health, focusing and tracking. One test for infants involves two cards. There are black and white stripes on one card and only a gray color on the other. Babies tend to look at the more interesting target (the stripes) and will do so if they can see them. The size of the stripe-pattern is varied to help determine how well they can see with each eye.
    
    Another example is a test for a two year old. We use the Lea chart, which has simple pictures of a house, heart, square and circle. When they are presented, the child points to a card that matches the shape they see.

• My child is struggling in school but his last eye doctor said his eyes are fine. Was something missed?
• • Unfortunately all examinations are not created equal. Most exams include eye clarity, eye health and gross eye alignment. Other tests that are equally important will look at fine eye alignment, depth perception, color vision, eye tracking and focusing.
    
    These additional tests can help determine if vision is a component in a child’s learning struggles. If these tests are not performed, visual problems can be overlooked leading to frustration for the child and the teacher.

• My child can see airplanes and street signs that I can't see. Does he still need an examination?
• • Yes! This shows that the child can see well at a distance out of at least one eye. The other eye may be very blurred and the child will not complain because they are unaware. Children can have double or blurred vision with reading and not complain because it has always been that way. They believe that everyone sees the way they do and that their vision is normal, even when it is not.

• What is a Cataract?
• • A cataract is the clouding of the crystalline lens in your eye. This opacity obstructs the passage of light resulting in a reduction of clear vision. Normally, light passes through the clear lens and is focused onto the Retina. However, the natural aging process can cause the lens to become cloudy, or milky. The cataract blocks the passage of light through the eye and causes distorted or blurred vision, glare, or difficulty seeing in poor lighting conditions.
    
    There are three types of cataracts:
    » A nuclear cataract forms in the lens. Those over 65 are more prone to develop this type of cataract. More than half of all Americans over the age of 65 will develop a cataract.
    » A cortical cataract forms in the lens, then grows from the outside to the center of the lens. Diabetics are more prone to develop this type of cataract.
    » A subcapsular cataract forms in the back of the lens. Those with diabetes, high hyperopia (Far-sightedness) or retinitis pigmentosa may be at a higher risk to develop this type of cataract.

• What are the symptoms of a Cataract?
• • You may not notice a slight change in your vision, as cataract starts out very tiny, but as it grows from the size of a pin head, you may notice that your vision is becoming blurry, and you may feel you are looking through dirty lenses. Object edges may appear to fade into one another and colors may not appear as bright as they should.
    
    The most common symptoms of a cataract are:
    » Cloudy or blurry vision.
    » Problems with light, headlights that seem too bright, glare from lamps or very bright sunlight.
    » Colors that seem faded.
    » Poor night vision.
    » Double or multiple vision.
    » Frequent changes in glasses or contact lenses.
    » Optical aids such as eyeglasses or contact lenses are no longer effective.

• How is a Cataract treated?
• • Cataract surgery is a selective and successful solution to restoring vision when the cataracts seriously impair your vision and affect your daily life. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States, with millions of surgeries done each year. Cataract surgery is a routine and relatively painless procedure.
    
    Cataract surgery is generally performed on an out patient basis. You will not need to be hospitalized or put to sleep for your doctor to perform your surgery. The procedure normally takes less than 15 minutes and you can return home shortly after your procedure. Most people will enjoy improved vision by the day after surgery or within a few days following the procedure.
    
    To begin, your surgeon will administer a light sedative which will relax your nerves and keep you comfortable during the procedure. Anesthetic eye drops will be used to completely numb the eye. The entire procedure is performed through an incision that is smaller than 1/8 of an inch and does not require stitches to heal.
    
    Once the cataract is removed, an intra-ocular lens (IOL) is placed where the cataract lens was removed, to restore your sight. Most patients will not require an eye patch and will not have any discomfort.

• What causes a Cataract?
• • It is not known why cataracts occur in all instances but studies on the cause of cataracts will soon teach us how to more successfully treat and prevent them. The most commonly known type of cataract is age related.
    
    Ultraviolet light is a known catalyst for the formation of cataracts, so we recommend wearing 100% UV blocking sunglasses which will lessen your exposure over time. Other studies point to people with diabetes as a higher risk group for cataract development than those who do not suffer from diabetes. Cigarettes, air pollution, heavy drug usage and severe alcohol consumption may also contribute to your chances of developing cataracts.

• Can I be too young or old for Cataract surgery?
• • Any patient who can undergo a thorough eye examination can undergo surgery if the procedure is performed with topical anesthetic-drops alone.

• How do I decide whether to have surgery?
• • Fortunately, cataracts are not life threatening so most people have plenty of time to decide about cataract surgery. However, we cannot make your decision for you, but talking with us can help in your decision. Together, we can ascertain how your cataract affects your vision and your life. If any of the below applies to you, then please contact us for a consultation.
    
    The most obvious symptoms may include:
    » I need to drive, but I see too much glare from the sun or headlights.
    » I do not see well enough to do my best at work.
    » I do not see well enough to do the things I need to do at home.
    » I have trouble trying to read, watch TV, sew, play cards, etc.
    » I am afraid I will bump into something or fall.
    » Because of my cataract, I am not as independent as I desire.
    » My glasses do not help me see well enough.
    » My eyesight interferes with many of my daily functions.
    » You may also have other specific problems that we will discuss with you.

• Is Cataract surgery right for me?
• • Most people who have a cataract recover with no problems and improved vision. This type of surgery has a success rate of 98% in patients with otherwise healthy eyes. If you have a cataract in both eyes, we believe it is best to wait until your first eye heals before having surgery on the second eye. If the eye that has a cataract is your only working eye, we will weigh very carefully the benefits and risks of cataract surgery.
    
    You will be able to make the right decision for yourself if you know the facts. We are more than happy to explain anything you do not understand. There is no such thing as a "dumb" question when it comes to your health.

• Do regular glasses protect my eyes from the sun?
• • Plastic lenses do not protect your eyes. You need to have UV protection from UV rays, which are not inherent in a plastic lens. You can have a UV protective coating applied to a plastic lens, but polycarbonate lenses have built-in UV protection.
    
    Glass lenses protect your eyes from harmful UVB rays but not from UVA. Some experts think UVA rays might have long-term, damaging effects to your eyes and skin.

• What is Glaucoma?
• • Glaucoma is the term for a diverse group of eye diseases, all which involve progressive damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is usually, accompanied by high intraocular (internal) fluid pressure. Optic nerve damage produces certain characteristic defects in the individual’s peripheral (side) vision, or visual field.

• Are there different types of Glaucoma?
• • There are three basic types: Primary, Secondary, and Congenital Glaucoma.
    
    Primary Glaucoma is the most common type and can be divided into open angle and closed angle Glaucoma.
    
    Open angle Glaucoma is the type seen most frequently in the United States. It is usually detected in its early stages during routine eye examinations.
    
    Closed angle Glaucoma, also called acute Glaucoma, usually has a sudden onset. It is characterized by eye pain and blurred vision.
    
    Secondary Glaucoma occurs as a complication of a variety of other conditions, such as injury, inflammation, vascular disease and diabetes.
    
    Congenital Glaucoma is due to a developmental defect in the eye’s drainage mechanism.

• How is Glaucoma detected?
• • Early detection of open angle Glaucoma is extremely important, because there are no early symptoms. Fortunately, routine eye exams are a major factor in early detection. People with a family history of Glaucoma should be checked at intervals in their 30s to establish a baseline.
    
    Initially, detection is based often on intraocular pressure readings, but also includes observation of the optic nerve as well as evaluation of optic nerve function using visual field tests.

• Can Glaucoma cause blindness if left untreated?
• • Between 89,000 and 120,000 people are blind from Glaucoma yearly. It is a leading cause of blindness, accounting for between nine and 12 percent of all cases of blindness. The rate of blindness from Glaucoma is between 93 and 126 per 100,000 population over 40.
    
    Between two million and three million Americans age 40 and over, or about one in every 30 people in that age group have Glaucoma. This includes at least one half of all those who have Glaucoma are unaware of it.

• What are the signs and symptoms?
• • In the vast majority of cases, especially in early stages, there are few signs or symptoms. In the later stages of the disease, symptoms can occur that include:
    » Loss of side vision.
    » An inability to adjust the eye to darkened rooms
    » Difficulty focusing on close work
    » Rainbow colored rings or halos around lights
    » Frequent need to change eyeglass prescriptions

• Can Glaucoma be cured?
• • Not yet. Any sight that has been destroyed cannot be restored, but medical and surgical treatment can help stop the disease from progressing.

• Can Glaucoma be prevented?
• • Not yet, but blindness from Glaucoma can be prevented through early detection and appropriate treatment.

• How can I know if I am a high risk for Glaucoma?
• • A number of risk factors for the development of Glaucoma exist. The most important of these include high pressure inside the eye, advanced age, extreme near-sightedness, or a family history of Glaucoma.
    
    The best and safest way to learn if you have Glaucoma, and to have a chance to avoid blindness, do NOT delay;
    Get an eye examination!

• What is the best defense against Glaucoma?
• • Have annual eye exams! See us immediately if you notice any symptoms or any decline in your vision.

• what is Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
• • Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease causing clear vision to fail in millions of older People.
    
    When electrical signals from the retina (the inner layer of the eye that captures light and turns it into electrical signal) are received by the brain through the optic nerve, they are translated into images.
    
    Age related Macular Degeneration is traditionally described as a form of the disease which affects individuals over the age of 55 years. However, we have recently discovered that a significant number of these individuals may have a major genetic component that contributes to the disease.
    
    

• How many types of Macular Degeneration are there?
• • There are two types of Macula Degeneration
    Dry Macular Degeneration, in which the cells of the macula slowly begin to break down, is diagnosed in 90 percent of the cases. Yellow deposits called "drusen" form under the retina between the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) and Bruch’s membrane, which supports the retina. Drusen deposits are "debris" associated with compromised cell metabolism in the RPE and are often the first sign of Macular Degeneration. Eventually, there is a deterioration of the macular regions associated with the drusen deposits resulting in a spotty loss of "straight ahead" vision.
    
    Wet Macular Degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow behind the macula, then bleed. There is a breakdown in Bruch’s membrane, which usually occurs near drusen deposits. This is where the new blood vessel growth occurs (neovascularization). These vessels are very fragile and leak fluid and blood (hence ‘wet’), resulting in scarring of the macula and the potential for rapid, severe damage. "Straight ahead" vision can become distorted or lost entirely in a short period of time, sometimes within days. Wet macular degeneration accounts for approximately 10% of the cases, however it results in 90% of the legal blindness.

• What does Macular Degeneration do to your vision?
• • Macular degeneration is the imprecise historical name given to that group of diseases that causes sight-sensing cells in the macular zone of the retina to malfunction or lose function and results in debilitating loss of vital central or detail vision.

• What are the Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
• • Macular Degeneration can cause different symptoms in different people. Sometimes only one eye loses vision while the other eye continues to see well for many years. The condition may be hardly noticeable in its early stages. But when both eyes are affected, reading and close up work can become difficult.
    
    One of the easiest ways to screen for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is to use an Amsler grid. An Amsler grid is a chart with lines and a dot at the center.
    
    In many cases most dehabilitation diseases can be treated or managed with early detection, so regulalary scheduled eye exams are imperative to catching many issue early, before they get unmanagable.

• Is there treatment for Macular Degeneration?
• • There is no treatment for early dry AMD, although a special combination of supplements (zinc and antioxidant vitamins) may slow progression in some people with more advanced disease. Early intervention for wet AMD can delay progression.

• What if am post-menopausal?
• • If you are post-menopausal, you should consult with your physician concerning estrogen replacement therapy. This may have a favorable impact upon cholesterol lipid levels that play a role in worsening the disease.

• What can I do to delay getting Macular degeneration?
• • While is is no cure for Macular degeneration you may be able to slow down the progression of the disease. Develop healthy habits! If you smoke, QUIT SMOKING! Exercising, maintaining normal blood pressure, cholesterol levels and eating a healthy diet is a step in the right direction. Eat food and-or supplements rich in vitamin E,C and Lutein. Lutein is a plant antioxidant found in high quantities in spinach, kale and other dark green, leafy vegetables.
    
    People who eat fish and green leafy vegetables may be at lower risk of AMD. There is no treatment for early dry AMD, although a special combination of supplements (zinc and antioxidant vitamins) may slow progression in some people with more advanced disease. Early intervention for wet AMD can delay progression.

• What is Dry Eye?
• • In medical terms,
    Dry Eye is lovingly known as "KERATOCONJUNCTIVITIS SICCA".
    The tear film consists of 3 layers: A superficial lipid (oily) layer which decreases evaporation, a middle aqueous layer which contributes 90% of the tear film, and a deep mucin layer which facilitates spreading of the tears over the cornea.

• Can Watery Eyes Be a Symptom of Dry Eye?
• • Yes. As odd as it sounds, many Dry Eye sufferers experience ‘wet eyes’ due to the tear glands overproducing watery or reflex tears to compensate for a lack of a balanced tear film.

• Can reading & TV or computer viewing cause Dry Eye?
• • During reading and TV or computer viewing, the rate of eyelids blinking reduces significantly. This causes the tear film to evaporate leading to dryness of the eyes. This may happen in some people, especially more when they are tired, or have spent long hours watching TV or computers. Computer Users tend to blink much less frequently (about 7 times per minute vs. a normal rate of around 22 times/minute).
    
    This leads to increased evaporation along with the fatigue and eye strain associated with staring at a computer monitor. Ideally, computer users should take short breaks about every 20 minutes to reduce this factor. Also, adjusting the monitor so that it is below eye level will allow the upper lid to be positioned lower and cover more of the eye’s surface, again to reduce evaporation..

• What else can cause Dry Eye?
• • Blepharitis can often cause Dry Eye symptoms due to inflammation of the eye lid margins, which is caused by a bacterial infection (Staphylococci). This condition can compromise the quality of the tear film causing tears to evaporate more quickly. The bacteria produce waste material that can cause a mild toxic reaction leading to chronic red, irritated eyes. Click Blepharitis for treatment.
    
    LASIK surgery temporarily disrupts the ocular surface/lacrimal gland unit. This condition usually eventually clears up.
    
    Diseases that may be associated with Dry Eyes include Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes (especially when the blood sugar is up), Asthma, Thyroid disease (lower lid does not move when blinking), Lupus, and possibly Glaucoma.
    
    Age - Tear volume decreases as much as 60% by age 65 from that at age 18. Dry Eye Syndrome affects 75% of people over age 65.
    
    Hormonal changes for women can cause decreased tear production brought on by pregnancy, lactation, menstruation, and post menopause.
    
    Dust, Pollen, and Tobacco - When tear production decreases, dust and pollen stay in the eye longer and are more likely to stimulate an allergic response. In addition, anything that makes an eye more irritated, including Dry Eye, will make an eye more sensitive to environmental irritants such as tobacco smoke.
    
    Other - Too much coffee drinking, smoking, wearing contact lenses, air-conditioning or heat.

• What are the warning signs and how is it detected?
• • People with Dry Eye have sandy-gritty irritation or burning in their eyes. Initially people may have symptoms only after particularly long days, or when driving, or with contact lens wear, or when exposed to extremely dry environments such as that seen in airplane cabins.
    
    Eventually symptoms become more consistent, and if someone has sandy-gritty irritation or burning that gets worse as the day goes on, and if they have had these symptoms for more than a few days, Dry Eye should be ruled out by an eye doctor.
    
    We will review your history and examine your eyes to make sure you do not have any other problems, and determine the cause for your Dry Eyes.

• Can Dry Eye syndrome come and go?
• • Dry Eye syndrome does not truly come and go, but in the early stages of the condition, or with mild Dry Eye, you may only have symptoms after long days, or with environmental conditions that decrease your blink rate (i.e. computer use) or under conditions that increase evaporation from your tear film (i.e. wind, dry air, etc.).
    
    Some patients may notice discomfort only when they wear their contact lenses. Some people may develop symptoms only when they are dehydrated--just like your mouth becomes dry, your eyes can become dry in this way.

• What if I don't treat Dry Eye. Can I lose sight?
• • If untreated, Dry Eye can progress to a more irritable, troublesome condition called chronic conjunctivitis. It can cause considerable trouble, and Dry Eye can lead to loss of sight due to corneal scarring, so delaying treatment is not recommended.

• Is there treatment for corneal scarring caused by Dry Eye
• • When patients experience corneal scarring from Dry Eye, sight may be restored by corneal transplants. However, the original cause of the scarring should be addressed to prevent a recurrence of vision loss.

• What can I do to prevent or control Dry Eye syndrome?
• • Have annual eye exams.
    See us immediately if you notice Dry Eye symptoms or any decline in your vision..

• Why do some frames cause a reaction on my skin?
• • If metal frames cause a reaction, nickel is the culprit. Most metal frames are made of a nickel alloy. Other metals used include aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, zinc, copper, beryllium, gold and silver. Stainless, titanium, gold and silver are usually hypoallergenic.
    
    Some people can also be allergic to the nose pads on metal frames. Most are made of silicone or acetate, but they can also be made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nickel, titanium or rubber. Silicone is tricky. Certain silicones are hypoallergenic (such as medical silicone), but others can trigger allergic reactions. Both PVC and titanium are usually hypoallergenic. Most plastic eyeglass frames are made of zyl (also called zylonite, acetate and cellulose acetate) or propionate. Other materials used in plastic frames include: polyamide, nylon, polycarbonate, carbon and Optyl (a brand of epoxy resin). Propionate, polyamide, nylon and Optyl frames are all considered hypoallergenic.

• 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. Many conditions can be discovered in a carefully planned eye exam. Those who consider mass-produced, over the counter reading glasses are truly doing themselves 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, 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 there eyes, headaches and eye fatigue are common symptoms.

• How do I know if I need bifocals?
• • The most common use of bifocals is for the treatment of presbyopia in individuals aged 40 and over. Whether or not a person has needed vision correction when younger, by the early to mid-forties, the ability to accommodate or focus the eyes has diminished.
    
    Bifocals allow the wearer to see clearly both at distance and near despite the reduced focusing ability. Bifocals may also be used to help align the eyes if a person tends to over-cross his or her eyes at near. If you are over 40 or have any difficulty performing tasks at near, ask us whether bifocals or progressive lenses could be right for you.

• How can I stop glare at night or at a computer?
• • There can be many causes for this condition. However, many times this problem can be alleviated, or even dismissed, with the use of "AR" (Anti Reflective) Lenses. First and foremost, however, annual or semi annual eye exams are the ONLY avenue to your eye health and the ONLY resource to ascertain the correct reason or cause for any eye ailment!
    
    That being said and once any medical or physical condition is removed as a possibility of cause, then the perfect solution for glare on computer screens, or glare from night driving would be AR (Anti Reflective) Lenses.

• What's the secret to getting glasses that look great on me?
• • We are fortunate to be staffed with fashion experts. They not only will assist you in your desire to get the "look" that is most flattering to your features and taste, but they will ensure that your new fashionable eyewear will function nicely with your needs and lifestyle as well. This is easier said than done. That is why we have a very knowledgeable staff dedicated specifically with you in mind.

• How often should I get a new pair of glasses?
• • This is a personal concern that can address many issues. You should change your eyeglasses when you feel that your existing eyeglasses no longer are supporting your needs, lifestyle, or taste.
    
    In any case a visit to your doctor should not be only considered when you feel it is time for new glasses. You should visit your eye doctor at least once every year, unless otherwise instructed by your eyecare provider.

• Are the lenses that change colors OK for sunglasses?
• • A popular lens in plastics are called Transitions Lenses. When they're exposed to ultraviolet light, they become darker or change to a different color. However most brands are not as effective in a car or in any vehicle with the "blue or gray Stripe" on a windshield. Because of the ultraviolet blocking nature of the windshields, lenses will remain pretty light when you're driving.
    
    The ultimate sunglass experience can be enjoyed with "Polarized" lenses as these lenses offer the most protection and comfort to the eye so strain and fatigue can become a thing of the past. Transitions is a registered trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc.

• What is the difference between Visible Light and Invisible Light?
• • Visible light is the part of the sun's energy that you can see.
    It is made up of a spectrum of colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet. The eye is not equally sensitive to all of these colors. It is most sensitive to yellows and greens which it can see the best. The eye is less sensitive to reds and blues.
    
    Different Ultraviolet Rays have shorter wavelengths and more energy than visible light rays.
    They can have a harmful effect on the eyes immediately or cumulatively from regular exposure over a number of years. The industry has set standards for how much UV may be transmitted (passed) by types of sunglasses. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest at high altitudes, low latitudes, and in open or reflective environments (like sand, snow, or water). They are also strongest at midday. Scientists divide UV rays into three bands according to wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
    
    They can have a harmful effect on the eyes immediately or cumulatively from regular exposure over a number of years. The industry has set standards for how much UV may be transmitted (passed) by types of sunglasses. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest at high altitudes, low latitudes, and in open or reflective environments (like sand, snow, or water). They are also strongest at midday. Scientists divide UV rays into three bands according to wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
    
    UVA-short wave
    UVA rays have been shown to penetrate the under layers of the skin, causing damage and contributing to the skin's aging and cataracts. Therefore, it is certainly wise to require protection from them in sunglasses.
    
    UVB-long wave
    UVB rays, the sunburn rays, are the ones that cause the most concern. They can cause keratitis, which is similar to sunburn on the eye, and also have been linked to the development of cataracts.
    
    UVC
    UVC rays are the shortest, the most energetic, and may be the most harmful. Fortunately, they are blocked in the upper atmosphere and never reach the earth. If sunglasses protect against UVB, we can assume they protect against any possible exposure to UVC.

• Why are my lenses so thick?
• • Your prescription, your personal measurements, and the size of your frame are the three key factors that will determine final lens thickness.
    
    If you are farsighted your lenses will be thicker at their center, in contrast, if you are nearsighted your lenses will be thicker at their edges. New innovative technology in lens designs, and materials, have allowed us to reduce overall lens thickness by as much as 60% in many cases. Our staff will guide you toward the best possible results in helping you choose the best frame-lens combination for your ocular and fashion needs.

• Can the thick lenses be made thinner?
• • Absolutely! Newer, thinner lens materials are being developed all the time, and we pride ourselves in constantly being up-to-date with the latest developments and materials in the optical community. This, along with the proper grinding and appropriate frame selection could make your new fashion eyeglasses distinctly thinner. Ask one of our doctors or staff about the newest innovations in lenses today.

• Can I use no-line bifocals with fashionably smaller frames?
• • Yes. Progressive lenses will allow you to use smaller frames while maintaining terrific vision at all distances. The visual channel that progresses from distance vision to near vision is wider, and more accurate for that 'Tween' vision necessary for clarity in the area too far for close, and to close for far.
    
    It is a wonderful lens for desktop and computer use as well. Please note, that in a few of the especially small frames, not all frames can be a successful candidate for a progressive lens. With this in mind, our opticians will help you with a proper fit.

• Can sunglasses help night vision?
• • If your eyes are subjected to intense glare during the day, they will "defend themselves" by trying to adapt. This natural built-in defense mechanism will persist for several hours after the glare is removed, resulting in reduced vision.
    
    Studies show that night vision can be reduced by as much as 50% by this exposure. Wearing sunglasses during the day dramatically improves night vision.

• Do regular glasses protect my eyes from the sun?
• • Plastic lenses do not protect your eyes. You need to have UV protection from UV rays, which are not inherent in a plastic lens. You can have a UV protective coating applied to a plastic lens, but polycarbonate lenses have built-in UV protection.
    
    Glass lenses protect your eyes from harmful UVB rays but not from UVA. Some experts think UVA rays might have long-term, damaging effects to your eyes and skin.

• What are all those numbers for my prescription?
• • An eyeglass prescription is written in a standardized format so it can be understood globally. The right eye, is generally referred to as "OD" or "R", while the left eye is generally referred to as "OS" or "L". The right eye is almost always on top in a written prescription with the left directly below. Ignoring for sample sake, the right or left eye, let's look at a example below:
    
    -2.00 -1.00 x 90. The first number (-2.00) tells us the spherical refractive diopter (a unit of measurement) needed to correct (farsightedness or nearsightedness). In this example, a minus sign in front of the number indicates a correction for nearsightedness. A plus sign would indicate a correction for farsightedness. This is generally true when you are talking about the first set of numbers.
    
    The plus and minus signs on the second number, generally indicates what professional examined your eyes. An optometrist usually refracts in what's referred to as "Minus Cylinder, while an ophthalmologists refracts in "Plus Cylinder". For example, an optometrists script would be -2.00 -1.00 x 90, while the same prescription written by an ophthalmologists would be; -3.00 +1.00 x 180. Please note that the second number has a plus sign, and the last number (180, the Axis) has been transposed 90 degrees.
    
    The second number (-1.00) is for astigmatism. If there is no astigmatism correction needed then you would not see the third (180) number. Sometimes you might see the following; SPH written for a cylinder correction instead of a number and nothing written for the third number. SPH stands for "Sphere" which indicates that there is no astigmatism correction needed.
    
    The final number (180, the Axis line) is the direction of the astigmatism. Astigmatism can be measured in any direction around the clock. We use the numbers from 001 to 180 to indicate the orientation of the correction needed.
    
    Depending on your need, there may be additional numbers in a eyeglasses prescription as well. If your prescription has a set of numbers, or a single number with a symbol such as a triangle, or the letters " BI, BO, BU, or BD that would indicate a prism correction. BI = Base In, BO = Base Out, BU = Base Up, and BD = Base Down. It is not uncommon to have different base directions for either eye.
    
    Also, you will see "ADD" numbers for those requiring bifocals or reading glasses. The ADD number is exactly what it indicates...; an ADD, or an additional script to an otherwise already existing prescription. For example, your prescription is -2.00 for the first number. (In this example there is no astigmatism). For the "ADD " number you have a +3.00.This would indicate that by 'Adding" the +3.00 to the -2.00, your reading prescription would be +1.00 (adding a greater positive number to a lesser negative number results in a positive answer).

• What is Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) light?
• • The light we see with our eyes is really a very small portion of what is called the "Electromagnetic Spectrum." The Electromagnetic Spectrum includes all types of radiation - from the X-rays used at hospitals, to radio waves used for communication, and even the microwaves you cook food with.
    
    Radiation in the Electromagnetic Spectrum is often categorized by wavelength. Short wavelength radiation is of the highest energy and can be very dangerous - Gamma, X-rays and ultraviolet are examples of short wavelength radiation. Longer wavelength radiation is of lower energy and is usually less harmful - examples include radio, microwaves and infrared. A rainbow shows the optical (visible) part of the Electromagnetic Spectrum and infrared (if you could see it) would be located just beyond the red side of the rainbow.
    
    Ultraviolet light (UV) is an invisible light that is part of the sun's radiant spectrum. Exposure to ultraviolet light can cause the lenses of the eye to become cloudy, causing cataracts among many other conditions. Ultraviolet light causes the eye to age faster, thus can also cause macular degeneration. You can't see ultraviolet light. It affects the eye without your awareness to its being there, and the effects are cumulative. Almost everything in nature is affected by UV light, and almost everything deteriorates because of it. Not all sunglass lenses block all of the UV light, but the lens we recommend most is a polarized sunglass lens for sunglasses and polycarbonate lenses for dress wear.
    
    Infrared (IR) is an invisible electromagnetic radiation that has a longer wavelength than visible light and is detected most often by its heating effect. Part of the discomfort you feel in your eyes after being out in the sun for a while is caused by IR light. Not all sunglass lenses block all of the UV light, but the lens we recommend most is a polarized sunglass lens for sunglasses and polycarbonate lenses for dress wear. Although infrared radiation is not visible, humans can sense it - as heat. Put your hand next to a hot oven if you want to experience infrared radiation "first-hand!

• Do I need an optometrist and or an ophthalmologist?
• • Both are eye doctors that diagnose and treat many of the same eye conditions. The American Optometric Association defines Doctors of Optometry as: primary health care professionals who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. They prescribe glasses, contact lenses, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy and medications as well as perform certain surgical procedures.
    
    The main difference between the two, is that ophthalmologists perform surgery, where an optometrist would not, preferring to specialize in eye examinations, as well as eyeglass and contact lens related services.
    
    Optometrists would be involved in all of the pre- and post-operative care of these patients; collecting accurate data, educating the patient, and insuring proper healing after the procedure. An ophthalmologist is more of a medical related specialist, who would need only to be involved if some kind of surgery were being considered. An optometrist can treat most any eye condition, including the use of topical or oral medications if needed. This might include the treatment of glaucoma, eye infections, allergic eye conditions and others, to name just a few.
    
    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 doctors' 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.

• Can I wear Contact Lenses?
• • With the newest contact lens designs and materials available today, our doctors are able to fit patients who may not have had success wearing contact lenses in the past. Whether due to poor vision, astigmatism, comfort issues, or dry eyes there are many more choices in contact lens materials to meet those challenges.

• What types of Contacts Lenses are there and which lens is right for me?
• • There are several types of Contact lenses but only a thorough examination of your eyes AND your lifestyle will reveal the answer. A few types are:
    
    Daily Disposables
    The shortest replacement schedule is single use (daily disposable) lenses, which are disposed of each night. These may be best for patients with ocular allergies or other conditions, because it limits deposits of antigens and protein. Single use lenses are also useful for people who use contacts infrequently, or for purposes (e.g. swimming or other sporting activities) where losing a lens is likely.
    
    Two-week Replacement Disposables
    The main advantage of wearing disposable lenses is that you put a fresh pair of lenses in your eyes every two weeks. Another advantage is ease of care with multipurpose solutions.
    
    One-month Replacement Disposables
    Similar to two-week replacement lenses but you throw them out every 30 days.
    
    Color Contact Lenses
    Certain soft contact lenses come in colors to either enhance your eye color or completely change it.
    
    Toric for Astigmatism
    Toric lenses are made from the same materials as regular contact lenses but have a few extra characteristics:
    • They correct for both spherical and cylindrical aberration.
    • They may have a specific 'top' and 'bottom', as they are not symmetrical around their center and must not be rotated. Lenses must be designed to maintain their orientation regardless of eye movement. Often lenses are thicker at the bottom and this thicker zone is pushed down by the upper eyelid during blinking to allow the lens to rotate into the correct position (with this thicker zone at the 6 o'clock position on the eye). Toric lenses are usually marked with tiny striations to assist their fitting.
    • They are usually more expensive to produce than non-toric lenses
    
    Bifocal Contact Lenses
    Multifocal soft contact lenses are more complex to manufacture and require more skill to fit. All soft bifocal contact lenses are considered "simultaneous vision" because both far and near vision corrections are presented simultaneously to the retina, regardless of the position of the eye. Of course, only one correction is correct, the incorrect correction causes blur. Commonly these are designed with distance correction in the center of the lens and near correction in the periphery, or vice versa.

• What's involved in a Contact Lens Exam?
• • In an initial exam, the eye doctor will examine your eyes to determine if you can wear contact lenses. Your prescription and the curvature of your eye are measured and the doctor will discuss any special needs you may have. The doctor will then determine the type of contact lenses that best fit your eyes and provide you with the most accurate vision while ensuring that your eyes remain healthy with the lenses.
    
    If trial lenses are available in the office, you may be able to go home with lenses the same day. However, if your prescription or curvature warrant, contact lenses may need to be ordered and a contact lens fitting appointment scheduled when the lenses arrive.

• What's involved in a Contact Lens Fitting?
• • When the lenses are ready, a fitting examination is scheduled as a practice session for you to try your new lenses and to become adept at lens insertion and removal. The doctor will also look at the lenses on your eyes and determine if any changes need to be made.

• Why is a yearly Contact Lens exam important?
• • Seeing 20/20 isn't the only reason for a contact lens exam. Since the eye is a sensitive organ, it is susceptible to irritations that may be caused by contact lens wear.
    
    Problems that are undetectable to you can develop into more serious conditions. It is vital to your eye health to make sure that your contact lenses fit properly and are allowing enough oxygen to reach the cells of the cornea. During the annual contact lens exam, your eye care professional evaluates the condition of the lenses and can tell if any changes are warranted in the lenses’ fitting.

• Can I swim or shower with Contact Lenses on?
• • There are two main reasons why you should not swim or shower with your contact lenses - possible loss of the lenses and, most importantly, contamination of the lenses.
    
    Underwater, contact lenses may be washed out of your eye, or above water a small wave or splash may take the lens with it. Contact lenses, especially the soft variety, will absorb any chemicals or germs in the water. They will then stay in or on the lens for several hours, irritating the eyes and possibly causing infection.

• Can children wear Contact Lenses?
• • The deciding factor for whether a child should wear contact lenses should be that child's maturity level. Children of all ages can tolerate contact lenses well, but they must be responsible for the care of the lenses. Parents should make that judgment based on the child's personal hygiene habits and their ability to perform household chores.

• What is the difference between soft and hard Contact Lenses?
• • Hard lenses
    These lenses were the original contact lenses made several decades ago from a plastic called PMMA. For a long time they were the only kind of lens but they are seldom used anymore as they have several drawbacks and have been superseded by “rigid” lenses. Rigid, or gas permeable, lenses are similar to hard lenses in design and appearance, however as the name suggests, the material they are made of is permeable to gases.
    
    Soft lenses
    Soft lenses are slightly larger and more flexible than rigid or hard lenses. Soft lenses are made of materials which soak up water, and it is this uptake of water that allows oxygen to transfer to the cornea. Soft lens material itself is impermeable, so the oxygen is transmitted via the water.

• Why shouldn't I wear my two-week disposable lenses longer?
• • In order to maintain optimal eye health and comfort, it is important to adhere to the wearing schedule prescribed by your doctor.

• Can I safely wear extended wear Contact Lenses overnight?
• • Extended lens wearers may have an increased risk for corneal infections and corneal ulcers, primarily due to poor care and cleaning of the lenses, tear film instability, and bacterial stagnation. Corneal neovascularization has historically been a common complication of extended lens wear, though this does not appear to be a problem with silicone hydrogel extended wear.
    
    The most common complication of extended lens use is conjunctivitis, usually allergic or giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC), sometimes associated with a poorly fitting contact lens.

• Do I need an optometrist and or an ophthalmologist?
• • Both are eye doctors that diagnose and treat many of the same eye conditions. The American Optometric Association defines Doctors of Optometry as: primary health care professionals who examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions. They prescribe glasses, contact lenses, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy and medications as well as perform certain surgical procedures.
    
    The main difference between the two, is that ophthalmologists perform surgery, where an optometrist would not, preferring to specialize in eye examinations, as well as eyeglass and contact lens related services.
    
    Optometrists would be involved in all of the pre- and post-operative care of these patients; collecting accurate data, educating the patient, and insuring proper healing after the procedure. An ophthalmologist is more of a medical related specialist, who would need only to be involved if some kind of surgery were being considered. An optometrist can treat most any eye condition, including the use of topical or oral medications if needed. This might include the treatment of glaucoma, eye infections, allergic eye conditions and others, to name just a few.
    
    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 doctors' 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.