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Safely Viewing the April 2024 Solar Eclipse in Buffalo, NY

As the April 2024 solar eclipse approaches, excitement builds in Buffalo, NY, where observers anticipate a breathtaking event. According to NASA, the partial eclipse will commence at 2:04 p.m., with totality beginning at 3:18 p.m. However, it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety during this awe-inspiring moment. Buffalo, NY, finds itself in the path of totality, offering a rare opportunity to witness the sun completely obscured by the moon. Here at ECVA, we’re dedicated to guiding you on safely viewing this extraordinary phenomenon. 

Where to Get Eclipse Glasses in Buffalo 

Thanks to Erie County’s support, free eclipse glasses are now at the Buffalo Museum of Science (limit: two per person). You can also get them at all 37 branches of the Buffalo & Erie County Library System. Call your library ahead to check availability. If buying your own, choose reputable sellers like RainbowSymphony.com. Make sure the glasses are certified for solar viewing and meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard for direct observation of the sun. 

Dangers of Unprotected Viewing 

Staring directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe eye damage or even permanent blindness. The sun’s intense rays can burn the retina, leading to solar retinopathy, a condition where the cells of the retina are damaged by solar radiation. Therefore, it’s crucial to emphasize that looking at the eclipse without proper eye protection is extremely dangerous. 

Why Can’t I Wear My Sunglasses to Watch The Eclipse? 

 While sunglasses are essential for shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays during regular daylight, they are not suitable for viewing a solar eclipse. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against the intense brightness of the sun during an eclipse. Staring at the sun through them can still cause significant damage to your eyes. 

Using Specialized Eclipse Glasses 

The safest way to view a solar eclipse is by using specialized eclipse glasses. These glasses are equipped with solar filters that block out harmful ultraviolet, infrared, and visible light rays. When choosing eclipse glasses, ensure they meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard to guarantee sufficient protection for your eyes. Additionally, inspect the glasses for any damage or scratches before use, as compromised lenses can allow harmful light to penetrate. 

Making Your Own Solar Eclipse Viewer 

If you’re unable to procure specialized eclipse glasses, you can create a simple solar eclipse viewer using household items. One method involves constructing a pinhole projector using cardboard or paper. By poking a small hole in one piece and allowing sunlight to pass through onto another surface, such as a piece of paper or the ground, you can safely observe the eclipse’s progress without looking directly at the sun. 

Our Focus is on Care 

Whether you’re using specialized eclipse glasses or crafting a DIY solar eclipse viewer, take the necessary precautions to safeguard your vision. Let’s make this celestial event a memorable and safe experience for everyone in Buffalo, New York. 

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How Can I Fix My Vision Problems?

If you’re experiencing shifts in your visual acuity, you may wonder if there are steps you can take to fix the vision problems you’re noticing. While many vision issues require treatment from an eye care provider, there are steps you can take to ensure your eye health. In some cases, that may even resolve specific kinds of problems that are impacting your vision.  

Fortunately, many of the recommended steps are relatively simple to follow. Here’s a look at some things you can do to correct or avoid specific vision problems.  

Eat a Healthy Diet  

Specific vitamins and minerals are critical for eye health, and some may even prevent or slow the development of certain eye conditions that can rob you of your vision. Generally, eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to ensure you get the nutrients you need. For example, they can help make sure that you’re consuming enough lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E. Enjoying food with omega-3 fatty acids is also recommended for good eye health.  

Maintain a Healthy Weight  

Maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact your eyes in several ways. First, it may lower the likelihood that you’ll develop Type 2 diabetes, which can harm the blood vessels in your eye and lead to conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, it may lead to better circulation, lower blood pressure, and other health benefits that are also helpful if you want to preserve your vision.  

Properly Manage Health Conditions  

A variety of health conditions can harm your eyes and vision if they aren’t adequately managed. Type 2 diabetes is one example, as uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to diabetic retinopathy. High blood pressure can also damage your eyes, as well as conditions connected to chronic inflammation. By following your treatment regimen, you are more likely to address the concerning symptoms, reducing the odds of eye damage.  

Wear Protective Eyewear  

Protective eyewear, like safety goggles, reduces your odds of experiencing eye injuries that can harm your vision. Plus, goggles reduce your chances of accidental chemical exposure that could damage your eyes.  

Sunglasses can offer some light physical protection, too. However, they’re also able to block harmful UV rays if you choose lenses with UV-blocking technology. Since UV damage is connected to conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, and others, it’s a simple way to reduce your odds of developing a vision-impacting condition.  

Regular Eye Exams  

Regular eye exams are a critical part of the equation if you want to see clearly. By keeping up with your annual appointments, your eye care provider can identify changes that may require specific treatments. Additionally, they can ensure your prescription lenses are up-to-date, leading to better visual acuity.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re concerned about your vision or eye health, or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Why Does Bright Light Bother My Eyes?

Many people’s eyes are bothered by bright light. A degree of photosensitivity, as a result, isn’t uncommon overall. However, the causes of photosensitivity can vary. While some are relatively benign, others may require care from an eye care provider to resolve. 

By understanding why bright light can be uncomfortable and when you should seek medical care from an eye care provider, you can make wiser choices and protect your vision. Here’s a look at common reasons why bright light may bother your eyes, as well as when to see a doctor. 

Causes of Photosensitivity 

Many people experience mild discomfort when exposed to bright light, particularly when transitioning from a darker space. For example, leaving a darkened movie theater and walking straight out into the midday sun would cause some photosensitivity in many people, so it isn’t inherently concerning. 

However, some causes of photosensitivity are potentially troubling. Several conditions have sensitivity to bright light as a symptom, which makes getting evaluated by an eye care physician wise. 

For example, eye inflammation conditions like uveitis, episcleritis, or acute iritis can cause photosensitivity. The same is true of glaucoma, meningitis, or migraines. Even a chalazion or wearing poorly fitted contacts, or keeping contacts in for an extended period, may cause photosensitivity. 

Certain medications or illicit substances can trigger photosensitivity. Corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers, and burns to the eye can lead to issues with bright light. At times, photosensitivity is a side effect of eye surgery. 

Each of the conditions and situations above can vary in severity. Additionally, some may require treatment to ensure your vision is preserved, as they can cause other types of damage beyond light sensitivity, some of which may be permanent without intervention. 

Ultimately, photosensitivity isn’t uncommon, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. While the occasional twinge when a bright light hits the eye after being in a dark space isn’t often cause for concern, if there are any additional symptoms – such as redness or pain – it’s best to assume that something besides normal reactions to bright light may be occurring. 

When to See an Eye Care Provider About Photosensitivity 

Generally speaking, it’s best to see an eye care provider if your photosensitivity is accompanied by certain symptoms. Redness or blurry vision that doesn’t resolve within 24 to 48 hours should be evaluated by a professional, as it could be indicative of an infection or other medical condition. 

Additionally, if your light sensitivity is severe enough that wearing sunglasses indoors or turning off indoor lights is a must, set an appointment with your eye care provider. The same goes for photosensitivity that’s painful, especially if it’s severe and repeatedly occurs or lingers. 

Eye Care Providers in Buffalo, NY

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. We have four locations in Western New York; Buffalo, Orchard Park, Niagara Falls, and Williamsville. If you are experiencing photosensitivity and are concerned about its origins or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Are Dry Eyes Serious?

Dry eye is a relatively common condition where tear production doesn’t sufficiently keep the eye lubricated. The cause can vary, though it usually falls into one of two categories. First, the eye may not produce enough tears. Second, the tear composition may not provide enough lubrication, even if the quantity is high.  

For those that have dry eyes, finding relief is typically a priority. However, it’s also common to wonder whether dry eye is a serious condition. If you’re wondering whether you should be concerned about your dry eyes, what treatment options are available, and whether you should see your eye care provider, here’s what you need to know.  

Are Dry Eyes Serious?  

Dry eyes can be a serious condition for several reasons. First, the discomfort they cause can be disruptive to daily life. Itching, burning, and stinging eyes are distracting at a minimum. Second, they can harm visual acuity, as focusing may become challenging.  

Finally, dry eyes can increase a person’s odds of developing certain medical conditions. Your risk of an eye infection generally increases. In some cases, abnormal blood vessel development can happen. Scarring and corneal thinning are also possible side effects. In any of these scenarios, permanent vision changes may occur, especially if the dry eyes are left untreated.  

Home Treatments for Dry Eyes  

If you have mild to moderate dry eye, some home treatments may be viable. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops are the most common option, as they’re readily available and reasonably affordable.  

Other steps may also help. For example, limiting screen time can help. People tend to blink less when viewing screens, which can make dry eyes worse. Having a humidifier may also help, particularly if you live in a dry climate or during the winter when heaters are in use. This increases the amount of moisture in the air, which can slow tear evaporation.  

Wearing wraparound sunglasses when outdoors can make a difference, too. That helps keep irritants out of the eye and shields your eyes from the wind. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids could also potentially provide some relief.  

Ophthalmic Treatments for Dry Eyes  

If you have moderate to severe dry eye, certain ophthalmic treatments may be more effective than home remedies. There are several prescription eye drops that can treat potential causes of dry eyes. These can include anti-inflammatories, steroids, immunosuppressants, and more.  

Certain other medications might work in specific scenarios. For example, there are oral tear-stimulating drugs that can increase tear production. You may also be a strong candidate for eye inserts that work similarly to artificial tears.  

Punctal plugs that intentionally block tear-draining ducts to keep tears in your eyes longer may be a viable treatment option. Medical procedures that unblock clogs tear glands might be worth considering as well.   

When to See Your Eye Care Provider  

Generally, if your dry eye symptoms are disruptive and don’t improve after using home remedies, it’s best to see your eye care provider. They can examine your eyes to determine the potential cause, allowing them to develop an effective treatment plan based on your specific needs.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Is a Dilated Eye Exam Necessary?

When you prepare for an eye appointment, you may discover that your eye care provider will dilate your eyes during the exam. Since that can lead to some mild discomfort in brighter lighting following the appointment and may make driving or other activities difficult for several hours, you may wonder whether dilation is actually necessary.  

Similarly, if you’ve had dilated eye exams in the past, but your eye care provider says that dilation isn’t necessary this time, you may wonder why it isn’t being used. In either case, if you want to know when and why dilation eye exams might be necessary and what to expect from these appointments, here’s what you need to know.  

Why a Dilated Eye Exam Is Important  

Dilation eye exams are important for one main reason; dilation makes it easier to see the back of your eye. When your eyes are dilated, the pupil widens significantly. This allows far more light in and gives your eye care provider a better view.  

With a dilated eye exam, your eye care provider can look for signs of various conditions and potentially spot issues during earlier stages. Some diseases and conditions they may be able to spot include: glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, diabetes, and high blood pressure.  

When and how often you need to have a dilated eye exam depends on several factors. For example, age plays a role. Essentially everyone needs dilation eye exams if they’re age 60 and up every one or two years. However, if you’re at greater risk of certain eye diseases or conditions, you usually start getting dilated eye exams every year or two, beginning at age 40.  

Your ethnic background is also a factor, as members of particular groups may have higher occurrences of specific conditions, making frequent dilated eye exams advisable. Similarly, your eye health history, current overall health matter, and the reason you’re coming in for an appointment.  

What to Expect from a Dilation Eye Exam  

Dilated eye exams aren’t any more invasive than a traditional one. Your eye care provider will apply drops that dilate your pupils, which may sting slightly for a brief period or could cause some mild eye-watering for a few moments. While somewhat uncomfortable, most people wouldn’t classify the drops as a painful experience.  

Once your pupils dilate, you may have some light sensitivity and some mild blurriness. Usually, that only lasts a few hours, as the drops wear off during that timeframe. That could make driving more difficult, even if you wear sunglasses, so it’s usually best to have someone drive you after your appointment.  

Working, studying, or similar activities may be harder while your eyes are dilated, too. As a result, it’s best to plan for several hours where engaging in those types of tasks isn’t necessary.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you would like to learn more about dilation eye exams or haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

 

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AMD Awareness – Age-Related Macular Degeneration

February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Month, a time where we share information about this devastating condition. Along with outlining what you need to know about AMD, our goal is to ensure that patients learn about actions to slow the condition and preserve their vision. With that in mind, here’s a look at what AMD is and what you can do about it.  

What Is AMD?  

AMD is a condition that impacts the retina and can cause central vision loss. While a person with AMD can see normally with their peripheral vision, they won’t be able to distinguish fine details when an item is directly in front of them, regardless of the distance.  

There are two main forms of AMD. The dry type involves drusen (a yellow deposit) collecting in the macula. As the drusen increase in size or number, they lead to vision distortions. As the condition progresses, cells in the macula thin, causing worsening vision. In time, those cells die, harming visual acuity even further and potentially leading to blind spots.  

With wet AMD, abnormal blood vessel activity underneath the macula causes visual distortions. Leading vessels introduce fluid into the retina, which can cause straight lines to look wavy. In time, the leaks lead to scarring, resulting in permanent central vision loss.  

Both types have similar symptoms. Along with worsening vision, there can be blurriness or distortions. Dark spots in your central visual field can also occur, and, in some cases, color perception may be altered.  

AMD is a progressive condition in many cases, leading to more severe vision loss over time. In fact, it’s the leading cause of significant, permanent vision loss in individuals over the age of 60.  

Treating AMD  

There isn’t a cure for AMD. However, the right treatments can slow the condition’s progression, keeping as much of your central vision intact as possible. Which approaches are best can depend on the type of AMD involved and the severity of the condition.  

With wet AMD, anti-angiogenesis medications may be used since they can block blood vessel growth and prevent leaking. Laser therapy can also address abnormal blood vessel activity.  

For those with dry AMD, there are fewer options available. Working with a low-vision rehabilitation specialist may help you adapt to any central vision loss, allowing you to live as normally as possible. In severe cases, a telescopic lens implant may be considered.  

Some studies indicate that certain supplements may slow the progression of dry AMD, including copper, vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zinc. However, that approach isn’t appropriate for everyone, so you’ll need to consult with a medical professional before beginning a new regimen.  

In either case, seeing your eye doctor is essential. That way, they can monitor your condition and create a treatment plan based on your specific needs.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you have signs or symptoms of AMD, want to explore AMD treatment or management strategies, or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider recently, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Fall Eye Care Tips

For many people, fall is their favorite time of year. The heat of the summer starts to fade, and the leaves start changing, introducing warm, vibrant colors to the world.  

While many people would assume that special eye care precautions aren’t necessary during the fall, that isn’t the case. If you want to make sure your eyes stay healthy, here are some fall eye care tips that can help.  

Wash Your Hands Regularly  

Many people wouldn’t think that hand washing has much to do with eye health. However, you’re less likely to contract certain infections, including conjunctivitis or pink eye, by keeping your hands clean.  

Plus, once the weather starts to turn colder, cold and flu season isn’t far behind. Since those viruses may enter the body through the eyes, washing your hands reduces your chances of catching them.  

The same goes for COVID-19. Evidence suggests that touching your eyes after contacting something that had the virus on it could cause you to fall ill.  

By washing your hands, incidentally contacting your eyes is less risky. As a result, you may be less likely to end up ill this fall.  

Prevent Dry Eye  

When outside temperatures fall, dry eye becomes more common. The outdoor air can sap moisture, and heaters inside homes, businesses, and vehicles can lead to drier conditions.  

In most cases, artificial tears are enough to keep you comfortable. However, if you have allergies or chronic dry eye, you may need something more robust. Speak to your eye doctor about your symptoms to see what’s right for you.  

Wear Sunglasses  

Since the days are shorter and cooler, many people put their sunglasses away. However, the sun produces harmful rays all year round. By wearing sunglasses with UV protection, you shield them from potential damage.  

Plus, sunglasses can help you see more clearly. You won’t have to squint in bright light, ensuring you can enjoy sunny afternoons outdoors with greater ease.  

Keep Safety Glasses on Hand  

Many fall activities can be potentially dangerous for your eyes. For example, raking leaves can increase the number of particles in the air. Without eye protection, the odds of an irritant getting into your eye go up.  

Additionally, many people begin preparing firewood in the winter. As your chopping, pieces of the log can break away, potentially striking you in the eye. There’s a barrier between you and flying debris by wearing eye protection, reducing your odds of a serious eye injury.  

Have an Eye-Friendly Halloween  

Halloween is a time for customs and fun. However, it should also be a time for eye health, ensuring you make smart choices that won’t harm your eyes.  

If you’re dressing up this Halloween and need heavy makeup to complete the look, make sure you buy the right type. Not all cosmetics are safe to use around the eye area, so look for versions that won’t cause irritation.  

If you’re thinking about wearing cosmetic contact lenses, be cautious. Most non-prescription decorative lenses won’t fit properly, increasing the odds that they’ll scratch your eye, cause an ulcer, or lead to an eye infection. In those cases, the damage can be significant, potentially resulting in permanent vision reduction or loss.  

For decorative lenses, don’t buy over-the-counter. Instead, head to your eye doctor for a high-quality, properly-fitted pair.  

Schedule Your Eye Exam  

If you haven’t had an eye exam this year, make fall eye health season by scheduling your appointment right away. That way, your eye doctor can check your eyes and vision to see if any issues need addressing.  

At ECVA, we take the safety and health of our patients’ eyes seriously. If you need an eye exam this fall, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Caring for Your Eyes in Cold Weather

When the temperature drops, it’s essential to adjust your eye care routine. Dry heat, UV light, and outdoor activities can increase certain risks. As a result, you need to make sure you care for your eyes correctly.  

Luckily, it’s easy to adjust your routine to account for cold weather. If you want to make sure your eyes stay safe and healthy, here’s what you need to know.  

Dealing with Dry Heat  

When you turn on your home or workplace’s heaters during the winter, the air gets drier. Not only can the reduced humidity lead to dry skin, but it can also dry out your eyes, making them itchy and uncomfortable.  

One of the simplest ways to counteract the dryness is with a humidifier. This adds moisture back into the air, which can make your eyes feel more comfortable. Eye drops are also beneficial for quick infusions of moisture.  

If you wear contact lenses, make sure you select eye drops made for contact lens wearers. If you’re still struggling with dry eyes after that, consider making an appointment with your eye doctor. They may switch you to a different brand that uses a material that better combats dryness.  

Blocking Reflective UV Light  

Many people overlook the power of the sun during the winter, mainly because the temperature is lower. However, harmful UV rays do still exist, and they can bounce off of material like snow. In fact, UV light is more dangerous in snowy conditions because of snow’s reflective qualities.  

Usually, your best defense against UV light is a pair of sunglasses with lenses designed to block UVA and UVB rays. That limits the amount of UV light that actually reaches your eye, making it less likely that your eyes will be harmed.  

Contact lens wearers can also choose a brand with UV blocking abilities. This gives you an additional layer of protection against UV rays that aren’t blocked by sunglasses.  

Protecting Eyes During Activities  

Winter activities like skiing, ice skating, and snowball fights can be great options for getting exercise during the winter. However, while participating, your eyes could be at risk.  

Falls in the snow, snowballs hitting your face, and ice particles created by skating could harm your eyes. If you want to make sure that debris can’t damage your eyes, eye protection is a must. Choose options that won’t fog and that are designed for the activity, ensuring they won’t fall off while you’re having fun.  

Ultimately, just a few small changes to your eye care routine can make a big difference. It ensures your eyes stay safe, allowing you to avoid damage caused by dryness, UV light, or debris.  

Are You Overdue for an Eye Exam? 

At ECVA, our staff works diligently to care for patients’ eyes and will help you choose approaches that can keep your eyes healthy all year-long. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Good Eye Health Resolutions to Make This Year

At the beginning of the year, many people make health-oriented resolutions. If you want to make sure that your eyes are in the best shape possible, make them a priority in 2020. Here are some good eye health resolutions that are worth making this year and committing to for the long-term.  

Wear Sunglasses  

Harmful UV rays aren’t just bad for your skin; they can damage your eyes as well. By wearing wraparound sunglasses that offer full-spectrum UV protection, even on cloudy days, you are keeping those rays from harming your eyes.  

Eat Healthy and Drink Water  

What you eat and drink can also make a difference when you want to maintain good eye health. Your eyes need a variety of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to stay in the best shape possible. By consuming a diet chocked full of antioxidants and healthy fats, you are eating your way to better eye health.  

But you can’t stop there. You also need to drink plenty of water. That way, water-soluble vitamins can dissolve properly, and your eyes can stay hydrated, preventing uncomfortable dry eye.  

Take Screen Breaks  

While devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers are handy, they aren’t great for eye health. They can cause you to blink less, drying out your eyes. Plus, they can lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and eye strain, or may even lead to blurry vision.  

By taking breaks, you are letting your eyes rest and escape the “blue light” that can lead to many of the symptoms above. Plus, it may help you sleep better, too, as the blue light can disrupt circadian rhythms.  

Care for Your Contact Lenses Properly  

If you don’t care for your contacts properly, you are putting your eye health at risk. Without proper cleaning, bacteria can flourish. As a result, you might end up with an infection.  

If you’ve been lax with your contact lens care, make 2020 the year you turn it around. Always follow the directions when using solutions, store your lenses properly, and replace them based on the lens manufacturer’s schedule.  

Keep Your Eyes Clean  

Failing to keep your eye area clean can also increase your odds of getting an infection. Use good hygiene and wash the area around your eyes at least daily using a mild cleanser. Also, always wash your hands before touching your eyes to reduce the spread of bacteria.  

Schedule Your Eye Exam  

By seeing an eye doctor regularly, you are supporting your eye health. Any issues can be identified early, allowing for quick intervention with the right treatment plan. Plus, it ensures that your visual acuity is as good as possible, which is also essential.  

If you haven’t had your vision checked recently, then start the year off right by visiting your ophthalmologist or optometrist as soon as possible. Schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today to help you achieve your eye health goals. Our experienced team works diligently to ensure your eye health by performing thorough exams. Plus, any vision issues can be corrected, ensuring you can see clearly. And we’ll design treatment options to meet your unique needs, whenever they arise.  

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What an Astigmatism Is, and How You Can Treat It

Many people around the world have astigmatism. However, if you haven’t been diagnosed with it personally or were recently diagnosed, you may be somewhat unfamiliar with the term. As a result, you may be a bit nervous about what astigmatism may mean or could be fearful about how it relates to eye health.

It’s important to understand that astigmatism isn’t a disease. It also isn’t an eye health problem. Instead, it’s just an issue with how the eye focuses light. If you want to learn more about astigmatism, here’s what you need to know.

What Astigmatism Is

In the simplest terms, astigmatism is a refractive error. Irregularities in a cornea’s shape prevent light from focusing properly on the retina. In patients with astigmatism, the cornea usually has a shape that is similar to a football, instead of the normal round shape. This prevents the eye for focusing light rays into a single point, causing blurriness or visual distortions, negatively impacting a person’s eyesight, and potentially leading to other unpleasant symptoms, like headaches, eye strain, and eye irritation.

Astigmatism may be present at birth or can develop over time, not unlike nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). In fact, a person with astigmatism is usually nearsighted or farsighted, as well. However, it’s important to note that not all people with myopia or hyperopia have astigmatism.

In some cases, astigmatism may occur after an eye injury or be a side effect of eye surgery. At times, a fairly rare condition called keratoconus is responsible. With keratoconus, the cornea becomes thinner over time and develops into a cone-shape.

How You Can Treat Astigmatism

Astigmatism is both easy to detect and to treat. Your eye doctor can diagnose astigmatism during a simple eye exam, just as they do with myopia and hyperopia. The same instruments and techniques are used, and they allow your ophthalmologist or optometrist to calculate the amount of astigmatism you may have as well as its characteristics.

After diagnosing your astigmatism, your eye doctor can present corrective options. Usually, corrective lenses – such as glasses or contact lenses – can correct astigmatism. Orthokeratology, where a series of rigid contacts are used to reshape the cornea, may also be a viable solution. In some cases, refractive (laser) surgery can also be an option, though it is less commonly used.

Once you are diagnosed with astigmatism, you’ll need to keep your regular appointments with your eye doctor. Like nearsightedness and farsightedness, astigmatism can fluctuate over time. As a result, you may need different corrective lenses to accommodate any changes, ensuring your vision can remain acute.

If you haven’t had your vision checked recently or believe you may have symptoms of astigmatism, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our experienced team works diligently to ensure your eye health, performing thorough exams, correcting vision issues, and providing a range of treatment options designed to meet the needs of our patients.

TALK WITH ONE OF OUR EYE CARE PROFESSIONALS TODAY!

If you have further questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of the Ophthalmologists at Eye Care and Vision Associates please call 716.631-EYES (3937) or visit www.ecvaeyecare.com .