Frequently Asked Questions
About Your Eye Doctor
What is an Optometrist?
An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education at a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. Optometrists are specially trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of ocular disorders including refractive error, glaucoma, eye infections and injuries such as foreign bodies. They are also able to provide pre and post operative care for cataract and refractive surgery.
Computers, TVs, Lighting and Glasses
Will working at a computer screen hurt my eyes?
Long hours of work can be fatiguing to the eyes, neck and back. Monitor glare from various light sources can also be a problem. There is mounting evidence that blue light emitted from electronic devices such as computers and tablets can cause visual discomfort and may disrupt sleep cycles. It is often helpful to take periodic break and make adjustments to your work station (angle of the monitor, height of the chair, changing the lighting, etc.). There are also blue light blocking, anti-glare lenses you can wear while working on the computer. Currently there is no evidence that working on the computer will do any lasting, physical damage to the eyes. Please see our what's new section for more information.
Why have I gradually found it harder to read without glasses?
The ability to focus on near objects decreases steadily with age and is referred to as presbyopia. Presbyopia is a natural aging of the lens. It is usually near the age of 40, when glasses or bifocals are prescribed to correct this condition.
Are sunglasses good for my eyes?
There is a benefit to wearing UV protective lenses–wearing them may protect against cataract formation and macula degeneration. The best sunglasses are those that block 100% UV rays. Wraparound, close-fitting sunglasses offer protection against stray sunlight coming from the sides.
Is my child likely to inherit my need for glasses?
Possibly. If both the biological parents wear glasses, your children are likely to need them as well.
Will reading in dim light hurt my eyes?
No, but most people are more comfortable reading with proper lighting which is bright enough to provide good illumination but not so bright as to cause glare.
How often should I get an eye exam?
It is recommended one gets an eye exam every 1-2 years.
Contact Lenses
Can my child wear contact lenses during sports activities?
Yes, contact lenses provide excellent vision for most sports. However, they do not protect the eyes from injury. Therefore, contact lens wearers should use polycarbonate sports safety goggles or glasses when participating in sports.
Can I use my eyeglass prescription to buy over-the-counter contact lenses?
No, because it does not provide the specifications for lens diameter, thickness and base curve. A new prescription must be carefully fitted by an eye care specialist to avoid serious adverse reactions.
If I wear bifocal glasses can I wear contact lenses?
There are multifocal contact lenses available for people who wear bifocal or progressive lenses. These contact lenses have multiple powers in them to focus light for the required distance as clearly as possible. They come in monthly, biweekly and daily disposables. Although not for everyone, many people have success with this modality and love being free from their glasses.
