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Category Archives: Eye Care Tips

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dry eye for men and women
Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment Posted on Tags dry eye disease, dry eye disease for woman, dry eye for man

Is Dry Eye Different for Men & Women?

Did you know that optometrists generally see more female than male patients affected by dry eye disease? There are a variety of reasons that we’ll take a look at throughout this article. First off, women are typically more inclined to seek care for their medical conditions in general than men. Secondly, dry eye tends to become more common and worsen with age. And because more Medicare-aged patients happen to be female (as women also tend to live longer), females simply make up a higher percentage of older optometry patients.

In addition to the information above, around 40 years of age, hormonal changes begin taking place increasing the risk for dry eye disease. It’s important to schedule routine eye exams with your doctor once you start noticing changes in your hormonal balance and the experts at Precision Eye Care are the number one choice for eye care in Houston especially when it comes to diagnosing and treating dry eye disease and symptoms.

Men’s & Women’s Dry Eye Disease

Men & women show similar symptoms and signs of dry eye disease: burning eyes (especially when closing eyes for several seconds), pain that often leads to headaches, blurred vision, and sometimes even foreign body sensation (this is when it feels like something may be rubbing against your eyes). In today’s tech-driven world, an incredible amount of time is spent staring at a screen which means that practically everyone- from school-aged children to those pushing retirement actively suffer from varying degrees of computer vision syndrome as well which causes everyone to blink less disturbing the eye’s natural eye function to moisten and remove debris from the eyes. Beyond these basic symptoms, the differences between the sexes become a tad more apparent:

men's dry eye disease

Through extended wear of contact lenses and cosmetics, women have a higher tendency in worsening common dry eye symptoms. Although contact lenses are worn by many men and women, research suggests that more females than males will continue to wear their lenses despite significant discomforts related to dry eyes. There are many variables to take into consideration that might impact this reasoning, but the bottom line here is that extended wear of contacts and cosmetics isn’t good for anyone. You must discard your old contacts and cosmetics at their recommended expiration date and swap them out for a fresh pair when you’re replacing them.

women's dry eye disease

  • An unknown number of male dry eye patients with severe symptoms tend to also have other medical conditions that can cause or contribute to having dry eye, including glaucoma (some medications may be responsible for creating dry eye and ocular surface inflammation). It’s important to talk to your physician if you notice any abnormalities in your bodies function because dry eye could very well be a symptom of a greater issue.
  • Systemic issues that contribute to dry eye for female patients include hormonal changes that come with age and other changes and autoimmune/inflammatory conditions such as thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren’s Syndrome—all common conditions that are typically most common in women. Make sure to communicate with your doctor any changes you may experience while on other medications to identify whether or not your dry eye could be a resulting symptom.
  • According to a report from The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, women tend to undergo more elective procedures involving the eye & the eyelids. Although laser eye surgeries, such as LASIK, is pursued by both sexes in similar numbers, women seem more inclined to have additional procedures that can cause dry eye to get worse, such as eyelid skin removal, facelift, lash extensions (NOT preferable as it is performed with the use of toxic formaldehyde glue), and eyeliner tattoos are also popular.

Treatment

Although there are certainly a few differences in the causes and frequencies of diagnosing dry eye for men and women when it comes to diagnosing and treating dry eye we follow the same standard dry eye protocols. We generally start with medical therapy such as over-the-counter lubricant drops & prescription topical medications. If dry eye symptoms worsen we can explore other options and discuss more aggressive treatment options. Contact the experts at Precision Eye Care to schedule an appointment today!

dry eye treatment
Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment Posted on Tags seasonal eyecare, winter eyecare

Winter Eye Care Tips

With winter comes some of the most enjoyed and anticipated holidays. However, winter weather, which is often extremely cold and dry, comes with its disadvantages as well. From being wary when driving and keeping warm to avoid getting hypothermia, winter comes with its fair share of hazards.

However, as most people try their best to keep hazards at bay, they often forget and neglect one thing. Our eye health is also threatened during cold seasons. This fact remains true to those who often suffer from eye issues to those who rarely do.

That said, there are a few techniques that can help protect your eyes from the harsh conditions this winter.

Keep Them Moisturized

Winter air is often dry and has low humidity. Hence, there is very little moisture in the air that tends to dry up the eyes and our skin as well. These aggravating conditions encourage the development of itchy or/and dry eyes.

Keep yourself hydrated by drinking a lot of water for the health of your skin. More importantly, keep your eyes hydrated and healthy by using eye drops. The best way to do this is by visiting an eye doctor near you for a prescription that will work for you. Eye doctors and an optometrist can also give you effective winter eye care tips.

Take Frequent Breaks from Electronics

Our current society is saturated with electronic devices. From using computers or laptops at work to using smartphone devices at home, they are everywhere. The fact that most individuals use them to perform their leisure activities makes it works.

According to emarketer.com, the average US adult spends at least 215 minutes a day on his smartphone alone. This is without taking into account the time spent on computers and the Television. Numerous studies reveal that people engaged in the use of an electronic device blink less. This then leads to digital eye strain.

The less you blink, the less likely your eyes will be able to manufacture and produce tears. Tears keep our eyes moisturized, but the lack of it causes dry or/and itchy eyes. If you have to use an electronic device, take frequent breaks.

Wear Your Sunglasses and Eye Goggles

Winter weather is often cold and gloomy, yet, we still need to protect ourselves from UV rays. Moreover, the UV rays tend to reflect off the snow harshly increasing the amount of light present. This is often referred to as bright winter light and can cause eye pain or irritation.

Hence, you should always wear your eyeglasses or any other form of protective eyewear. For extra protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat as well.

For those that love to participate in sports during winter times, purchase some quality eye goggles. This is not only to help protect you from the harsh winter light, but also from the winter wind. Winter sports such as skiing can expose your eyes to debris and harsh dry winds.

Watch Your Diet

Diet is a prerequisite to protecting the health of your eyes during the extreme winter seasons. Other than staying hydrated by drinking a lot of water, try and consume more fruits and vegetables as well. Additionally, Omega- 3 supplements are very beneficial for optimum eye health.

Treat Them Immediately

If you keep experiencing chronic eye pain on a day to day basis, you need to visit an eye doctor. If you are looking for high- quality treatment, visit eye care Houston, otherwise referred to as Pearland Eye Care. The eye care center, as the name suggests, is based in Houston, Texas.

Additionally, those experiencing other winter dry eye symptoms should visit an eye doctor. Winter dry eye symptoms include and are not limited to itchiness, redness, excessive tearing and blurry vision. Such symptoms, if left untreated, can lead to further complications.

Ensure that you reach out to Pearland for the best comprehensive eye exam Houston can offer. Also, for the best eye exam Houston can offer, be sure to visit Pearland Eye Care.

dry eye treatment
Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment, Vision problems Posted on Tags dry eye causes, dry eye symptoms, dry eye treatment

Dry Eye – Are You Suffering From Dry Eye?

Tis’ the Dry Eye season! Dry eye syndrome is a commonly found syndrome among people these days. It is usually caused because of chronic lack of adequate moisture or lubrication on the surface of your eye. If this syndrome is not taken seriously, it can have huge repercussions ranging from eye irritation to severe inflammation.

Also known as dry eye disease or “dry eye”, this syndrome can be medically explained as:

  • Dysfunctional tear syndrome – Emphasizes that quality of tears is as important as quantity
  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca – Describes the dry eye that affects both conjunctiva and cornea
  • Keratitis sicca – Describes dryness and inflammation of the cornea

Dry eye – symptoms

Some of the commonly observed symptoms in someone having dry eye are:

  • Stinging or scratchy sensation in the eyes
  • Fatigued eyes
  • Redness of the eye
  • Blurred vision
  • Photophobia or sensitivity to light
  • Watery eyes

Dry eyes – causes

The dry eye causes are fairly limited and can be cured easily. The main cause of dry eyes is because of lack of adequate tears. The tears in a human eye are a mixture of water, mucus, and fatty oils. It usually keeps the surface of the eye clear and smooth while also protecting the eye from infection.

Other reasons might be due to lack of tear production, increased tear evaporation, and even due to the imbalance in the makeup of tears.

Dry eyes –check if you have dry eyes by scheduling your eye exam, in Houston TX

Various tests and procedures can be carried out to determine the cause and state of your dry eyes. Some of them are:

    • A comprehensive eye exam – If the doctor gets the general idea of your eye health history and your overall health, they can give you the exact cause of dry eyes and help you go for the right dry eye treatment at Precision Eye Clinic, Houston TX.
    • Measure the tear volume – Schiermer’s test can be used by doctors to measure the tear production. In this test, the doctor places blotted strips of paper under the patient’s low eyelids. After waiting for 5 min, the doctor will measure the amount of paper that is soaked in tears.
    • Determine the tear quality – Another method is by using dyes in eye drops for determining the condition of your eye surface. The doctor will look for staining patterns of the cornea and measure the time taken for the tears to evaporate.

Dry eye – measures to prevent dry eye

    • Try to add more moisture in the air. Make use of humidifiers for indoor air.
    • Avoid blowing air in or around your eyes. Try to decrease the use of hair dryers and car heaters as they affect your eyes.
    • Take eye breaks constantly whenever you have to look at the screen or read or doing something that needs visual concentration.
    • Adjust the position of the screen and keep it below eye level. If the screen is above your eye level, you will need to open your eyes wider which can easily affect your eyes.
    • Stop smoking and avoid going nearby smoke. If you have a habit of smoking, try to quit smoking as it will help improve your overall health as well.

For more information, you can visit the official website of Precision Eye Clinic They have a team of specialists that provide quality eye exams, in Houston TX for you and your family.

pink eye treatment
Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment Posted on Tags pink eye care, pink eye symptoms, what is pink eye

All You Need To Know About Pink Eye

What is Pink Eye?

This is a common eye related problem where the eyelids and the covering of the white of your eye gets inflamed. Pink eye, called conjunctivitis in medical terms can affect anybody but school children, college and office goers, day workers and teachers are at higher risk as the condition is highly contagious. However the heartening part is, pink eye can be effectively and easily treated and if proper care is taken, can be avoided.
The inside of your eyelids called conjunctiva is transparent and contains blood vessels. These blood vessels dilate when an inflammation is triggered causing scary, pink eyes.

What causes pink eye?

  • Viral conjunctivitis: This is caused by a virus and highly contagious, but will subside within a few days. There is no need for medical treatment.
  • Bacterial conjunctivitis: This is caused by bacteria and can seriously damage your eye if you do not seek medical help. Look for the best eye care Houston and protect your eye!
  • Allergic conjunctivitis: Pollen, animal dander and dust can cause this kind of conjunctivitis.

Pink eye sometimes might be mistaken for an allergy, visit your eye doctor Houston if you experience any of the following symptoms.

Symptoms of pink eye

  • Your eye turns pink.
  • Eyes become watery and itchy if you are affected by viral conjunctivitis. One or both the eyes can be affected.
  • A sticky, greenish yellow fluid discharges from your eyes if you are suffering from bacterial conjunctivitis.
  • You will experience burning, watery eyes and running nose if you are affected by allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Seasonal allergies will, most of the time not require medical treatment, they are not contagious. However conjunctivitis will need your doctor’s attention.

Treatments for pink-eye

Pink-eye remedies depend on the kind of conjunctivitis you have.

  • Viral conjunctivitis:Apply a wet, cold cloth to your eyes multiple times a day. This will relieve the symptoms to some extent. However ensure the cloth is not shared with others.
  • Bacterial conjunctivitis: Your eye doctor Houston might prescribe antibiotics or eye ointments to treat bacterial conjunctivitis.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergy medicines can be prescribed to control the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.

Some of the above said symptoms also show up when you have other allergies. It is therefore wise to see your eye doctor Houston if you have red, watery or irritated eyes.

Prevention of Pink-eye

Take the following precautions to lower the risk of getting conjunctivitis:

  • Do not share your tissues or hand towels.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing/sneezing. Do not rub or touch your eyes.
  • Never share your contact lenses.
  • Wash your hands every now and then, especially when you are at public places such as school/ college.
  • Use a hand disinfectant.
  • Use an antiseptic cleaner to clean the surfaces such as bathroom vanities, countertops and faucet handles.
  • Avoid sharing your phone with others.
  • Wear goggles when swimming.

Take care! Visit eye care Houston at the earliest if you experience pink eye symptoms. Precision Eye Care can be a great choice!

school vision exam and comprehensive vision exam
Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment Posted on Tags school vision exam and comprehensive vision exam, what is comprehensive vision exam, what is school vision exam

School Eye Exams Vs. Comprehensive Exams

Many school kids face the eyesight problems. An eyesight problem needs to be solved at an early age to avoid any long-term damage. The main problem is parents tend to rely on school eye exams for the correct vision screening. Those screenings can be good but not good enough to be completely dependent on them.

What is school vision examination?

The main point of the screening is to check distant vision. It is done to test how well the child can read a chart from several feet away. But nearsighted vision isn’t tested in the screening. Color-vision testing is also done to check color blindness in kids. Being parents, you should never rely on such examinations. The National Institutes of Health found that professional vision screenings catch only 37% of children with poor vision. This is especially troubling because the most recent National Eye Institute (NEI) prevalence study revealed that 4% of preschoolers have significant nearsightedness, 21% have significant farsightedness, 10% have significant astigmatism, and 3% have significant strabismus (eye turning in or out), as assessed through eye examination. Vision screenings will miss the majority of children with strabismus, astigmatism and most of those with farsightedness.

Disadvantages of school vision examination

Your child’s ability to excel in the classroom might just be dependent on their eyesight, so it’s of the utmost importance to make sure you schedule a comprehensive exam tp provide every opportunity to learn and excel academically. You should not only rely on school vision test for it. The main disadvantages of school vision examination are:

  • Many screening facilities lack the equipment and knowledgeable staff, which are essential to screen young children. Traditional screening methods by non-eye care professionals are extremely difficult for children less than 4 years of age. So, it is not safe for your children.
  • Most vision screenings test for visual acuity only. Use of a vision chart alone will identify only 5% of the vision problems in children according to the American Foundation for Vision Awareness. A child may be able to see letters 20 feet away but that does not demonstrate whether his/her eyes are able to work together to read materials 12 inches away, or if there is an eye health problem or vision perception problem. It would not bring your child’s actual problems in notice.
  • Many eye diseases like Amblyopia, poor eyesight in one eye, sometimes known as “lazy eye, is often missed if the eyes appear aligned. You might not be aware of it.

    • In many cases, a vision screening can give you a false sense of security. When a child reports says that he is seeing 20/20, parents often assume that no further testing is needed and fail to ever take the child for a comprehensive eye examination. You should always go for comprehensive eye exams.

    Advantages of comprehensive eye exams

    One of the most beneficial aspects of a comprehensive eye exam is that you can trust that it’s methodically accurate and your kids will experience the difference a comprehensive eye exam can make in their lives. The advantages are:

  • A comprehensive eye exam can detect problems with eye movement, and vision training. It can improve the ability of the eyes to track and work together. So, your kids will be equipped with everything according to the procedures of the exam.
  • You would get an accurate picture of the movement of eye and disorders related to it by comprehensive eye exams. A doctor of optometry may be the first healthcare professional to detect high blood pressure through a comprehensive eye exam. The fine blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye can help identify risks of a stroke or heart attack before they occur.

    • Eye health can often signal the presence and state of serious medical conditions, such as hypertension, which is a leading cause of a heart attack, stroke, and chronic heart failure. What’s more, the information obtained through an eye exam can help healthcare providers treat patients preventively to decrease the risks of cardiovascular disease. So, you need to always opt for comprehensive eye exams rather relying on school eye tests.

    eye-exam-in-school
    Categories Eye Care Tips, Eye treatment Posted on Tags eye exam in school, kids' vision, vision care in school, vision issues for school kids

    The Importance of Back to School Eye Exams

    The Importance of Back to School Eye Exams

    Vision plays a very vital role in learning for both children and adults. Imagine yourself sitting in a classroom full of your peers, and you are finding yourself struggling to focus on taking down the notes. You can’t even shift your focus immediately from near to far. Imagine a day without being able to read a single paragraph, everything blurry and double vision. Many children fail to realize that their struggles in the classroom are in no way correlated to intelligence or how hard they should be trying; rather they are unable to process the data put before them visually.

    How Vision Issues Negatively Impact School Performance?

    Sometimes when children find difficulty reading the board in the classroom or the books on their desks, teachers, and parents feel eyeglasses and lenses can help them, and they are right. It is very obvious vision discomforts linked to the way the eyes function and how the brain operates visual information can also restrict your child’s ability to understand. Generally, children perform poorly in school due to poor eyesight since over 80 percent of learning is visual.

    Let’s know about the “3 R’s”, which include:

    Recognition: the ability to recognize the differences between letters and numbers, i.e., the difference between “m” and “n.”

    Reading comprehension: capturing and interpreting what they are reading & learning, i.e., being able to visualize and understand the paragraph that they just read.

    Retention: the ability to recall specific information read.

    The consequences of poor eyesight on the 3 R’s can also lead to low self-esteem, as well as fatigue and headaches.

    Importance of Eye Exam in School

    One of the main reasons people don’t exactly rush to get their children’s eyes checked is because of expense. It can be challenging to pay necessary bills, food, electricity, and clothes, so, the addition of what tends to be viewed as an “optional” check-up like eye exams, doesn’t seem to make it onto a family’s monthly expense budget. But it is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s future. Timely identification of a child’s eyesight problem can be the deciding factor in a child’s ability to succeed in a classroom or fall behind in their studies. Along with some new clothing, buying the school requirements, pencils, pens, notebooks, paper, etc. and also understanding that “back-to-school” can be an overwhelming time of year.

    Your children may feel nervous about getting an eye exam done. Explain to them the procedure of eye exam and take them to see yours. Encourage them to say what they see, and there is no wrong answer. Take them for treatment when they are well rested as tiredness can affect the accuracy of the result.

    Identify even if your child says nothing at all, these are indications to detect and treat quickly before the year advances:

    • Loses their pace while reading.
    • They will start to avoid close work.
    • Will always hold reading pages closer than normal.
    • Cultivate the habit of rubbing his or her eyes.
    • Will suffer from headaches.
    • They will tend to use a finger to maintain place when reading.
    • They will skip or be confused with small words when reading.
    • The consistency of performing below potential will be frequent.

    Eye vision problems can break your child’s confidence, keep your child irritated with eye strain, and quickly become off-task in the classroom losing valuable instruction time. Provide every opportunity to learn this school year and schedule your back to school eye exam(s) today!

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