Northcenter Eye Care

Digital devices at bedtime can reduce sleep

February 9, 2016

Over the past few years the optometry community has been paying more attention to the growing concern of digital eye strain, its short-term symptoms and the possible long-term effects of blue light. But this kind of light also has an immediate impact — on your sleep.

Because we use digital devices for many of our daily activities, they are often at our bedside for things like checking the next day’s weather, checking messages, reading and for use an alarm clock. We can’t deny the convenience, but we need to be aware of the risks. A growing number of studies are finding that having a digital device on at bedtime has a negative impact on sleep patterns.

A University of Texas-Austin study found that college students lose an average of 46 minutes of sleep by using their digital devices to answer phone calls and check messages in bed.
Research published in Photochemistry and Photobiology found that a week of blue light exposure at bedtime results in 14 fewer minutes of sleep.
Multiple studies have shown that exposure to blue light at bedtime alters our melatonin levels and delays our circadian clocks.

Another big clue that blue light exposure should be taken seriously is the response of the companies who make digital devices. Recently both amazon.com and Apple announced changes to their products that alter the light from screen readers when clocks indicate evening or night hours, or in low-light conditions. Read more about these features in this article from the American Optometric Association.

One concerning statistic from all this research on digital eye strain is that 90 percent of patients do not talk with their eye doctors about their digital device use. There are several ways we can help alleviate symptoms of eye strain as well as protect your eyes in the longer term, including special lenses for patients who spend a significant amount of time in front of screens.

Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net/Tuomas_Lehitnen

Back-to-school time can reveal vision problems in children

August 18, 2015

Children’s eyes get a bit of a break during the summer with less time spent in the classroom. The increased visual demands of the new school year sometimes reveal issues that weren’t apparent over the summer break.

Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism are the most common issues among school-age children. But other problems also can exist, including misalignment of the eyes (strabismus), reduced vision in one eye (amblyopia or ‘lazy eye’), color vision problems and a variety of others.

Be aware and let us know if you witness your child doing any of the following, as they are signs of a potential issue:

Squinting
Sitting too close to the TV or holding a book too close
Frequently losing place when reading or using a finger as a guide
Closing one eye when reading
Frequent eye rubbing
Sensitivity to light and/or excessive tearing
Avoiding reading or computer use
Complaints of headaches or tired eyes

According to Prevent Blindness America, one in four children has a vision problem that, if left untreated, can affect learning. So if you suspect your child is having vision problems, it’s important to schedule an eye exam.

* Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos/Stoonn

Your child’s eyes — an important tool for learning

July 27, 2015

As learning becomes more digital, taking care of kids' eyes is important than ever.

As classroom learning becomes more digital, taking care of kids’ eyes is more important than ever.

With back-to-school time approaching, we want to remind patients how important healthy eyes are to learning.

According to experts, 80 percent of what students are taught is presented visually, which makes healthy eyes one of the most important tools for the classroom. But that’s not the only reason to stay on top of regular check-ups and eye care.

According to the American Optometric Association, more than 41 percent of parents report their children use digital devices more than three hours a day. With increasing use of technology at school and home, it’s important to stay on top of issues related to digital eye strain.
One in four children has a vision problem that could affect learning if left untreated, per Prevent Blindness America. A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect, prevent and treat vision problems.
The Vision Council reports that eye care providers are seeing an increase in myopia among children. Research points to the rise in near-vision activities like using digital devices and a decline in time spent outdoors in natural light as possible contributors.

Unfortunately, many parents are unaware of the importance of annual eye exams for kids. More than half (60%) don’t feel an eye exam is an essential part of a child’s healthy checkup schedule, based on a recent survey of more than 1,000 parents. You can find more information on eye health for children here.

The State of Illinois requires that all students entering a public, private or parochial schools, starting at kindergarten, have their eyes examined by a licensed optometrist. Even if your child is returning to the same school, annual exams are recommended for keeping their eyes healthy.

Second pairs — a great investment in your eyes

July 22, 2015

Do you work on a computer? Enjoy time outdoors? Spend a good portion of time driving?

If you wear glasses and do any of these things, you might consider getting a second pair.

When it comes to having an extra pair of glasses, convenience is important, but there are other reasons to build your eyewear collection.

Computer work. People spend time in front of computer screens more than ever before, and for many patients it’s mandatory for their jobs. Unfortunately, computer eye strain is a common outcome.

There are two primary ways that computer work impacts vision. One is that computer screens are situated in what is called the “intermediate” zone for vision. Most vision correction addresses distance or near vision, not intermediate, so there is a good chance your current prescription isn’t quite right for computer work. Second is that computers emit “blue light,” which studies indicate is harmful to the eyes because of its high level of UV rays.

Glasses specially prescribed for computer work factor in the typical distance of a monitor or laptop screen and include tints to reduce glare and block blue light. They are an ideal solution for anyone who spends four or more hours on the computer most days of the week.

Time spent outdoors. While photochromatic lenses that darken when exposed to UV rays are an option for people who wear glasses, a second pair in the form of prescription sunglasses is sometimes preferred. Contact lens wearers should consider opting for prescription sunglasses in places like the beach and the pool, where contacts can be less convenient.

Time spent behind the wheel. One place that photo chromatic lenses aren’t as effective as prescription sunglasses is in the car. Because the windshield blocks a certain amount of UV rays, these lenses do not darken enough for most drivers’ comfort. Prescription sunglasses do a better job of reducing glare while driving.

Participation in sports. The vast majority — an estimated 90 percent — of sports-related eye injuries are preventable. If you wear glasses and participate in sports, make sure you have the proper eyewear. Most protective eyewear for sports is made of impact-resistant polycarbonate, which also offers the bonus of being UV protective, and has features to boost comfort and wearability during the action.

To make it easier on our patients, we offer 20 percent off second pairs. This is also a great way to use any healthcare flex spending funds you have. Please schedule an appointment if you’d like to talk more about your second pair needs.

*Photo courtesy of usamedeniz/freedigitalphotos.net.

Tips for keeping summer fun easy on the eyes

June 16, 2015

Summer is a beautiful season here in Chicago, but it can be hard on the eyes. Following are some common summertime eye health issues and ways to avoid them.

After-swim irritation. If you hit the pool, make sure you wear goggles or a mask during swims or water play. Chemicals used in pools can cause a high level of discomfort. Even “natural” water environments, like lakes and ponds, can contain irritants that affect the eyes.
Harmful UV rays. We recommend wearing sunglasses year round and especially in the summer. Longer days and more time spent outdoors leads to greatest exposure to UV rays, which has been linked to the development of eye diseases like cataracts and AMD. In the short term, lack of protection can result in photokeratitis, which is sunburn of the eye. Symptoms are pain, redness and a feeling that something gritty is in the eye.
Fireworks. According to the American Academy of Opthalmology, 2,000 fireworks-related eye injuries happen every year, and one third end up causing permanent damage. Leave the fireworks to the professionals, and if you are one, protect your eyes with safety goggles.
Insect bites. Insect bites around the eye can cause swelling and irritation, often more so than on other parts of the body, as skin around the eye is more tender. Never use any products to prevent or soothe insect bites that aren’t recommended for use around the eye. Use a cold compress to decrease swelling. Call our office if you are concerned about any insect bites near the eye. We have several options for treatment.
Sports-related injuries. Summer sports such as baseball, water sports and racquet sports have some of the highest rates of eye injury. If you or someone in your family participates in any of these, talk to us about options for protective eyewear. We can counsel you on what works best for specific sports. Keep in mind that 90 percent of sports-related eye injuries are estimated to be preventable.

As always, please get in touch with us for eye health concerns you have over the summer or any time of year.

* Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos/zirconicusso

Decrease your risk of cataracts this summer

June 2, 2015

One of the most common eye health problems people encounter is cataracts. It is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and even in the U.S. where we have effective treatment options, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts by the time they turn 80.

June is National Cataract Awareness Month. As with any health issue, there are misconceptions about cataracts, including that it is only a concern for elderly people. The truth is there are risk factors for developing cataracts at a younger age, and the earlier you start taking good care of your eyes, the better your chances of avoiding cataracts.

Wear your sunglasses. Studies indicate that exposure to harmful UV rays is linked to the development of cataracts.
If you smoke, stop. Smoking is linked to so many health issues, including cataracts.
Protect your eyes from injury and disease. Make sure you have an annual check-up to stay on top of eye health issues, and wear protective lenses any time your eyes are at risk during sports, on the job or with other activities.
Stay on top of your health. Other diseases such as diabetes and hypertension increase your risk for developing cataracts.

One of the most challenging aspects of treating cataracts is that symptoms often aren’t noticeable in the early stages. Regular eye exams are critical for early detection. Some symptoms to be aware of are:

Cloudy or blurry vision.
Faded colors.
Glare. Light from headlights, lamps and sunlight may appear too bring. A halo effect may appear around the lights.
Night vision problems.
Double vision or multiple images in the eye.

If you need to schedule your annual exam, summer is a great time to do it. If you have questions about the level of UV protection your sunglasses provide, we are happy to take a look. As always, please get in touch with any questions or concerns you have about your eyes.

Warm weather is good for your eyes

May 18, 2015

Photo courtesy of Ray-Ban

Warm weather benefits more than just our moods after a long winter and chilly spring. Research shows that it is also good for our eyes to go outside.

Recently Dr. Siegel attended a seminar presented by the Illinois College of Optometry on strategies for addressing the progression of myopia. One topic that really stood out was the difference in rates of myopia in populations with increased exposure to the outdoors versus those confined indoors for a greater part of the year.

For example, the incidence of myopia in people in their twenties and thirties in the U.S. is 36 to 44 percent. In Canada, it is 72.4 percent. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of seven cross-sectional studies published in 2012 indicates that time spent outdoors can be an effective strategy for addressing myopia.

More recent research backs this up. Last year a study of more than 1,300 young adults (ages 19 to 22) in Australia was published that showed further support of an inverse association between outdoor activity and myopia. In other words, higher levels of time spent outside is correlated with lower levels of myopia.

Though it is good to be outside, for many reasons, be mindful of UV exposure. Research does not indicate that there is any reason to leave the house without your sunglasses. This is a great time to make sure yours provide 99 to 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. All sunglasses at Northcenter Eye Care meet this criteria, and we have a great selection for the upcoming warm months.

As always, if you have any questions about your eye health, please feel free to call, email or message us on Facebook.