Archive for the ‘glasses’ Category

Visual Fatigue Syndrome

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009
Visual+Fatigue+Man+(2)

Visual Fatigue

In recent years there has been a shift in the way we use our vision.  Instead of using our eyes to see most things at distance, we spend most of the day viewing objects that are within arms reach.  These items include the computer, television, cell phone, PDAs, even books are now available in digital format. Both the real world and written word have now been replaced by a constant barrage of illuminated, digital pixels. This new visual environment commonly induces visual fatigue.

 

Users of digital media may experience eyestrain, blurred vision, tired eyes, dry eyes, neck and back pain. Even those who can see 20/20 and those who do not normally wear glasses may experience visual fatigue.  Studies have shown us that 83 percent of all individuals experience one or more symptoms of Visual Fatigue Syndrome. 

 

Unfortunately most of those affected by visual fatigue are not getting the help they need.  The reason is poor education. Most people do not understand why they are experiencing problems and, in many cases, eye doctors are not properly trained to recognize the symptoms of visual fatigue. Even when an eye doctor is well informed, he or she may lack the proper tools necessary to help patients combat symptoms.

 

The eye doctors at Iowa EyeCare can teach you about proper monitor heights, angles, and distances, as well as other tips regarding visual media.  We also use various lenses and lens designs to enhance your experience with digital media and reduce visual fatigue.

 

The Essilor Anti-Fatigue lens may be prescribed for anyone who uses digital media.  These lenses may be used in both children and adults and can even be used over contact lenses.  Our patients tell us that the Essilor Anti-Fatigue lens makes things seem brighter and reduces visual discomfort.

AF+Lens+(2)

Anti-Fatugue Lens

  

For those who currently need extra help up close in the form of a lined or progressive bifocal lens, our eye doctors may prescribe the Essilor Computer lenses to increase their overall computer experience.  The Essilor Computer lens is specifically designed to maximize the intermediate range of vision, while maintaining some areas for both near and distance.

EC+Lens+(2)

Computer Lens

 

Contact us today to schedule an examination with one of our eye doctors.  Iowa EyeCare has locations in Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Robins, Iowa.

I’ve never needed glasses for reading… why now?

Monday, October 26th, 2009

By Dr. Ryan W. Nelson

 

The most common reason for reading glasses in a person who has never needed them before is a phenomenon known as presbyopia.  Presbyopia causes near vision blur when distance vision is either normal or corrected.

The cause for presbyopia is a faulty focusing system.  The focusing system of the eye is made of two major components, the “lens” and the muscle that controls it called the “cilliary body”.   The ciliary body is triggered to contract when focusing on objects at near and it directly controls the lens.  It is ultimately the lens’ flexibility which allows us to see at both distance and near automatically.  Over time, the lens becomes less flexible and is no longer able to focus light like it once could, which results in blurred vision.

In the optometry profession we say, “three things are certain: death, taxes… and presbyopia”.  Given enough time, presbyopia catches up with us all.  Most individuals will experience the early signs of presbyopia between 40 and 50 years old.  It starts when you have to hold things further away in order to see them clearly.

Near vision blur is correctable with glasses and contact lenses.  The difference is that now two prescriptions are needed: one for distance, and one for near.  Let us help you at your next eye examination.

Fashion Forward to Clearer Perspective

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

Your glasses prescription is the most important factor to consider when selecting new lenses and frames. Ask your doctor about a prescription that is specific to your occupation and hobbies.

(more…)