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How Blue Light Affects Our Eyes

Most people have heard that they should reduce their exposure to blue light. But it’s common to have questions, including why blue light could be harmful and how it affects the eye. If you’d like to find out more about blue light, here’s a look at what it is and how it could impact your eyes.  

The Light Spectrum  

Sunlight is a natural light source that appears white. However, it’s made up of a full-color spectrum, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet light. That’s what allows rainbows to happen. Water droplets in the air separate the colors visually, creating the rainbow look.  

Different colors of light have different wavelengths. Red rays have a longer wavelength, causing them to have less energy. In comparison, blue rays’ wavelengths are shorter and have more energy.  

Where Blue Light Comes From  

Blue light is produced by a range of sources. The sun is a natural source of blue light, for one. However, there are also numerous sources of artificial blue light, including:  

  • Smartphones  
  • Tablets  
  • Computer screens  
  • Televisions  
  • LED lightbulbs  
  • CFL lightbulbs  
  • Fluorescent lightbulbs  

Blue light isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it can provide some benefits, including boosting alertness and supporting the body’s natural wake cycle.  

While the sun is technically the largest source of blue light, there are concerns regarding artificial blue light exposure. Mainly, this is because people tend to be close to the sources and spend a substantial amount of time focused on them.  

How Blue Light Affects Our Eyes  

When blue light reaches your eyes, nearly all of it passes through the cornea and lens, allowing it to reach the retina. Practically none of it is blocked or reflected, causing it to be absorbed mostly. While our eyes are designed to deal with blue light, artificial sources mean we are taking in far more than we would from natural sources alone. And prolonged exposure could have negative impacts.  

One of the most common effects is digital eye strain. When you look at a screen, you tend to blink less, causing your eyes to fatigue and get dry. Additionally, exposure to artificial blue light may harm circadian rhythms, especially when it occurs late at night.  

Some studies suggest that blue light may actually harm the retina. It could be triggering chemical reactions in the eye that have a toxic effect on retina cells. When that occurs, visual acuity could be damaged over time. There may also be an increased risk of certain conditions, including age-related macular degeneration.  

Protecting Your Eyes from Blue Light  

While getting some exposure to blue light is a good thing, it’s wise to take precautions against prolonged exposure, especially from artificial sources. Begin by limiting your screen time when possible, and take breaks when you use devices to rest your eyes.  

Additionally, consider purchasing screen filters. These can decrease your exposure to blue light by stopping some of the blue light from passing through. Yellow-tinted computer glasses and anti-reflective lens coatings may also help block blue light.  

If you would like to learn more about the effects of blue light and what you can do to keep your eyes healthy, your eye doctor can help. Schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our skilled team will listen to your concerns and provide you with guidance, empowering you to make sure your eyes remain as comfortable and healthy.  

woman getting an eye exam
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Learn How to Properly Clean Your Contact Lenses

If you’re new to contact lenses, you might have questions about correctly cleaning them. Since proper hygiene is critical for infection prevention and other issues that can arise from a subpar cleaning, knowing the right technique is important. If you want to make sure you are handling your contact lens cleaning the best way possible, here’s what you need to do. 

Wash Your Hands 

Before you hand your contact lenses, you need to wash your hands. Use an antibacterial soap and make sure to rinse thoroughly. Also, dry your hands with a lint-free towel to make sure you don’t get any fabric particles on your lenses or in your eyes. 

Use the Rub and Rinse Method 

Even if your solution says that it’s “no rub,” the rub and rinse cleaning approach is still a better option. It ensures that debris that may be stuck to each lens is removed, providing a superior clean. 

Begin by taking one lens and placing it in the palm of your non-dominant hand. You want to edge of the lens to be up, like an upright cup. 

Place a few drops of fresh cleaning solution (not just saline) on your palm next to the lens as well as directly on the lens. Next, use the fingers of your dominant hand to gently rub the contact. Make sure you don’t use your fingernails when you rub as that can damage the lens. 

Then, rinse the lens with fresh, sterile solution. Finally, put the lens in the case to soak and repeat the process with your other lens. 

Long-Term Contact Lens Storage 

If you are going to keep your lenses in a case for an extended period, then you may need to re-disinfect them before you wear them. Review the instructions that came with your contacts and your solution to see if they have a timeline for re-disinfection. 

No matter what, if your lenses have been stored for 30 days or more, go through a re-disinfection process. Or, if you are using disposable lenses that are designed to last a month or less, switch to a new pair and throw the old ones out. 

Replace Your Lenses According to the Instructions 

Even if you are exceptionally good at cleaning your lenses, you still need to throw them away and open a new pair according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The material is only designed to handle so much wear and tear, so waiting could mean putting a damaged lens in your eye. Plus, soft contact lenses can end up with deposit build ups or other forms of contamination, increasing your risk of infection if you exceed the recommended amount of time. 

Keep Your Case Clean Too 

Proper contact lens care also includes cleaning your case. Otherwise, the case can become a source of contamination, potentially leading to an infection. You can use sterile solution to clean your case every time you remove your lenses. Then, leave it open so that it can dry during the day. 

Additionally, replace your case every three months. If it becomes cracked or damaged, start using a new case right away. 

If you are interested in getting contact lenses or your prescription may be out of date, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our skilled team works diligently to ensure your eye health by performing thorough exams, correcting vision issues, and providing customized treatment options designed to meet the needs of our patients. 

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Cataract Surgery 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Procedure

While hearing that you have cataracts and need surgery can be scary, the condition is surprisingly common and fairly easy to treat. Many older people will have cataracts at some point during their golden years. But, by undergoing cataract surgery, their vision can usually be restored.

A cataract is a form of clouding that happens on the eye’s lens and is usually a normal part of the aging process. The condition causes vision loss that can’t be fixed with corrective lenses or corneal refractive surgeries.

However, modern cataract surgery is a highly effective procedure and is also very safe. If you need cataract surgery, here’s everything you need to know about the procedure.

Before Your Cataract Surgery

Ahead of your cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will measure your eye. This allows them to determine the right focusing power for your intraocular lens (IOL), the artificial lens that will be placed to correct your vision.

You may also get a prescription for medicated eye drops. The drops will help reduce swelling and prevent infection after your procedure.

Your Cataract Surgery

Cataract removal surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. You won’t have to stay overnight at a hospital. Instead, you’ll be allowed to go home once your ophthalmologist clears you after the procedure.

When its time to begin your cataract surgery, a numbing eyedrop or injection is used to numb your eye. You may also be given medications that help you relax, ensuring you remain comfortable during the procedure.

You are awake during cataract removal surgery. While you’ll be able to see light and movement while the procedure is underway, you won’t be able to see what your ophthalmologist is doing to the eye.

Once your eye is numb, your ophthalmologist will examine your eye with a specialized microscope. Then, small incisions are made near your cornea’s edge, allowing your surgeon to reach the lens. Using specialized instruments, your ophthalmologist removes the lens with the cataract after breaking it into small pieces. Once removed, your surgeon places your IOL.

In most cases, stitches aren’t necessary to close the incision. Instead, it will “self-seal,” closing on its own with a little bit of time. Your ophthalmologist will place a shield over your eye, ensuring it stays protected after the procedure. Then, you’ll be taken to recovery, where you’ll rest for about 30 minutes. After that, you can typically go home.

Cataract Surgery Recovery

The recovery process for cataract surgery is fairly simple. You’ll use special eye drops to promote healing. Additionally, you’ll have to take special care around your eyes.

For example, you want to avoid getting water or soap in your eye. You also shouldn’t rub or press on the eye. To make that easier and to further keep your eyes safe, your ophthalmologist might have you wear a shield or eyeglasses for protection.

Your surgeon will also let you know if you need to avoid certain activities – like exercising or driving – until you are fully healed. They will tell you when you should be able to participate in those activities again.

Once healing is complete, your vision will typically be as good, if not better, than it was before the appearance of the cataract. Many IOLs can correct near- or farsightedness, so you may not need a corrective lens for that eye once the healing process is finished.

Ultimately, cataract removal surgery is generally a safe procedure. Before taking part, your ophthalmologist will discuss any risks and considerations you need to be aware of, allowing you to make a decision regarding whether you feel the surgery is right for you.

If you haven’t had your vision checked recently or are looking for an ophthalmologist to perform cataract surgery, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our skilled team works diligently to ensure your eye health, performing thorough exams, allowing vision issues to be corrected, and providing treatment options designed to meet the needs of our patients whenever the need arises.

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 .

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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 .

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    How to Properly Read Your Eyeglasses Prescription

    When you read your eyeglasses prescription, all you may see is a series of strange numbers and letters. While it looks mysterious, each of those notations has a specific meaning. By understanding what your eyeglasses prescription says, you can learn more about the current state of your vision and the corrections your optometrist or ophthalmologist ordered. If you want to read yours properly, here’s what you need to know.

    OS, OD, and OU

    OS, OD, and OU are Latin abbreviations that identify which eye your doctor is referring to on the prescription. OS stands for oculus sinister, which means your left eye. OD is oculus dextrus, which refers to your right eye.

    If you see OU, which stands for oculus uterque, that is a reference to both of your eyes. OU isn’t always present on an eyeglasses prescription, as not all patients have points that apply to both of their eyes.

    Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

    Near the OS and OD headings, you’ll usually see numbers and plus (+) or minus (-) signs. They may be in a column labeled “sphere” or “S.” These describe your prescription’s strength.

    The number represents diopters (which may be abbreviated as “D”), a unit of measurement that correlates to the amount of correction that is necessary. 1.00 stands for one diopter. However, the correction can be measured in one-quarter diopters. For example, 1.25 is one and one-quarter diopters.

    Typically, the further away from zero, the stronger the prescription. For example, 3.50 means that more correction is needed in comparison to a 2.25.

    The plus and minus let you know if you are near or farsighted. When a plus sign is in front of the number, that means you are farsighted. In farsighted individuals, objects closer to your eyes are typically blurry, but further away objects are clear.

    When there is a minus sign in front of the number, that means you are nearsighted. Typically, objects close to your eyes seem clear, and those that are far away appear blurry.

    If your prescription reads -2.00, that means you are two diopters nearsighted. If your prescription said +3.50, you are three and a half diopters farsighted.

    Astigmatism

    If you have astigmatism – a condition that can be caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or a lens curvature – you may see some additional numbers. Usually, the numbers are written in an S x C x Axis format.

    The S is the “spherical” part of the prescription, usually noting the degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness as described above. The C, or “cylinder,” actually represents the astigmatism. It is also measured in diopters and can be positive or negative.

    The Axis is a number that can be anywhere between 0 and 180 degrees. It describes how the astigmatism is oriented, noting the nature and direction of the curvature. This ensures that any astigmatism corrections in your glasses are positioned in the right way to make the needed correction.

    If you have astigmatism, here is an example of what that prescription might look like for one eye:

    -2.25 +1.00 x 45

    That example means the patient has 2.25 diopters of nearsightedness, 1 diopter of astigmatism, and an axis of 45 degrees.

    Add and Prism

    Your glasses prescription may also have numbers in the “Add” and “Prism” columns, but they may not. “Add” is used when a patient needs multifocal lenses and notes how much power needs to be added to the lower portion of the lens. This allows the lower part to offer stronger magnification, making it easier for glasses wearers to read or do other up-close work.

    The “Prism” section indicates prismatic power. If there are eye alignment issues, a prism may be used to correct the problem. It is measured in prism diopters (p.d.) and is commonly accompanied by a notation for the prisms position (or base) in the lens, such as up (BU), down (BD), toward the wearer’s nose (BI or base in), or toward the glasses wearer’s ear (BO or base-out).

    After reviewing the information above, you should be able to understand your eyeglasses prescription. If you haven’t had your vision checked recently, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our skilled ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians work diligently by performing thorough exams, allowing vision issues to be corrected and ensuring eye health.

    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 .

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    Shield Your Eyes: Why UV Sunglasses Are Important

    Most people understand that exposure to ultraviolet light in the sun’s rays can lead to sunburns or cause skin cancer. However, not as many people realize that UV light can harm their eyes as well, potentially leading to some serious health problems.

    By wearing sunglasses that offer UV protection, you can prevent at least some of these harmful rays from reaching your eyes. If you want to know more about why UV sunglasses are important, here’s what you need to know.

    Eye Problems and UV Light

    Exposure to UV rays from the sun has been linked to several eye-related issues. Cataracts, photokeratitis, macular degeneration, pterygia, and pinguecula have all been connected to UV exposure, either as a potential cause or as something that can accelerate the condition.

    Additionally, uveal melanoma is the most common form of eye cancer and is strongly connected to exposure to UV rays. It isn’t unlike most melanomas that show up on the skin; it is just limited to the eye area.

    Understanding UV Light

    UV rays are part of the light spectrum, though these rays aren’t detectable by the naked eye. Also known as ultraviolet radiation, UV rays fall into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

    UVC is potentially the most harmful form, but the atmosphere’s ozone layer blocks nearly all UVC rays. UVB does make it through the atmosphere to a degree, and the cornea can absorb 100 percent of these rays, potentially leading to photokeratitis, pinguecula, and pterygium.

    UVA has the ability to pass through the cornea and reach the retina and lens. Overexposure has been linked to some forms of cataracts, and it may lead to the development of macular degeneration.

    Why UV Sunglasses are Important

    UV sunglasses are often the best form of protection against potentially harmful UV rays. The lenses can prevent the UV rays from making their way to your eyes, reducing your level of exposure dramatically when the sunglasses are worn.

    If you want the best possible protection, look for sunglasses that block 100% of every type of UV ray. Additionally, opt for wraparound sunglasses, as they cover the eyes more completely.

    Sunglass lenses don’t necessarily have to be dark to be effective against UV rays. Even lighter or less opaque lenses can perform well if they are treated with the right coatings.

    Prescription and non-prescription sunglasses can be made with UV-blocking lenses. If you would like to learn more about UV sunglasses or want to have an eye exam to make sure your eyes are healthy, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our experienced ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians work diligently to maintain the health of the eyes of our patients, including identifying eye problems that may be the result of overexposure to harmful UV light. Additionally, our optical shop can help you select lenses that will protect you from potentially damaging UV rays, ensuring your eyes are always protected.

    Book An Appointment 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 .

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    The Telltale Signs Your Child Needs Glasses

    Vision issues in children can be detrimental. Not being able to see clearly can cause a child to struggle in school or have problems reading and identifying objects. In some cases, it can even impact their safety, as not being able to see properly could cause them to miss potential hazards.

    Detecting vision issues in children can be tricky for parents. Often, a child isn’t fully aware of changes in their ability to see, so they may not be able to tell you they are having problems seeing.

    However, there are signs your child may need glasses. If you want to monitor the quality of your child’s eyesight, here are some signals they might need corrective lenses.

    Squinting

    If your child is having trouble focusing their eyes, they may start to squint. Squinting can limit the effects of a refractive error temporarily, so they may start doing it if their vision isn’t clear.

    Head Tilting

    Head tilting is an attempt to overcome a vision issue by changing the angle. If your child tilts their head when examining an object, they may have declining visual acuity.

    Covering One Eye

    Children that start covering one eye when they have clarity issues could be suffering from a range of vision conditions. Along with a decline in clarity, there could be an alignment issue, such as amblyopia (lazy eye).

    Being Too Close to Screens and Books

    When a child starts sitting closer to the television, brings digital devices nearer to their face, or practically buries their nose in a book, that is often a sign of declining visual acuity. If your child is nearsighted, being closer to the object increases clarity, making it easier to see.

    Excessive Eye Rubbing

    If your child starts rubbing their eyes frequently, they could be suffering from eye strain, a common symptom of vision changes. However, since it could also indicate other conditions, like conjunctivitis or allergies, it is best to see a medical professional to determine whether they need glasses or another form of treatment.

    Headaches and Eye Pain

    Children who struggle with eye pain or headaches near the end of the day could be overexerting their eyes in an attempt to compensate for poor vision. Since their eyes get to rest when they are sleeping, they may wake up feeling fine, only to experience the pain after they have spent some time trying to focus during the day.

    Issues at School

    If your child’s performance suddenly drops, they may be having vision trouble, causing them to struggle to read the board, books, assignments, or computer screens.

    All the signs above could indicate that your child is struggling with declining vision and may need glasses. If you are concerned about your child’s eyesight, schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. Our experienced ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians work diligently to maintain the health of the eyes of our patients and to correct vision issues in patients of all ages, ensuring their eyes remain healthy and they can see clearly.

    BOOK AN APPOINTMENT 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 .