In the Triangle, Give Those Eyes a Vacation

Just as people get refreshed from taking time off, their eyes also benefit from taking a vacation. Park Ophthalmology serves Triangle area patients by passing along vacation advice for good eye health. Dr. Beth R. Friedland wants all of her clients to understand how eye problems can be prevented with professional care, proper rest, and good daily vision habits.

Park Ophthalmology Offers four simple habits that contribute to excellent eye health:

• Put down the book: That latest suspense novel might seem too exciting to put down, but whether it’s on an e-reader or in hardback, reading for hours without a rest is never a good idea. The eyes need to occasionally focus on something across the room or out a window for a few minutes. For those tempted to read non-stop, use a smart phone’s timer function as a reminder to look up from the words every 20 minutes or so.
• Prevent digital eyestrain: Those who use computers more than two hours daily are at a greater risk for what the American Optometric Association calls “computer vision syndrome.” This is partly because people blink less while staring at a computer; they often are looking at a screen with a glare and don’t have the screen positioned correctly to prevent eyestrain. As with reading, the key to good eye health is to take frequent breaks from computer use and focus on something far away to rest the eyes.
• Get enough rest: It may sound simplistic, but rest and sufficient sleep keep the eyes healthy and at their optimum. Stress and fatigue can contribute to eyestrain. Just as sleep refreshes the body, sleep also allows the eyes to be replenished with essential nutrients.
• Change locations: Dry eyes can result from air-conditioning, room fans and heating systems. Any dry moving air can irritate eyes. If possible, work in an area away from the fan or heating/AC outlet. If that isn’t possible, remember the above habit of taking a break every 20 minutes from the computer, digital device or book.

The friendly staff at Park Ophthalmology can provide even more suggestions to enhance eye health. Call the office today to schedule an annual exam.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eye wear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Photo: anankkml, freedigitalphotos.net

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

 

Tags: Park Ophthalmology, Apex, Raleigh, Durham, Beth R. Friedland M.D., vision correction, eye glasses, Triangle, contact lenses, eyestrain, computers, reading, e-readers, digital eyestrain, dry air, dry eyes, sleep, eye health, rest

 

6 Ways Triangle College Students Can Maintain Eye Health

As the new school year and autumn quickly approach, Triangle area parents are helping their college-bound sons and daughters get ready for the big move to dormitory or apartment life and the exciting opportunity of higher education.

The staff at Park Ophthalmology and Beth R. Friedland M.D. offer six important ways students can maintain their eye health while away from home:

• Keep contact lenses out of water: Although it is tempting to leave contacts in place for showering or swimming, the time saved isn’t worth the risk. Exposure to water makes contacts more susceptible to transmitting an eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. Always use contact lens solution for cleaning, and never use tap water.
• Enjoy some time outside: Studies have found that scholars grow increasingly nearsighted as they spend more years in school. A study presented to the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 2011 concluded that as young people increase their time outdoors, they reduce their risk of nearsightedness.
• Wash hands: Everyone knows that hand washing is an effective way to prevent the spread of colds and flu. This simple habit also can prevent the spread of conjunctivitis, or pink eye.
• Practice the 20-20-20 rule: Prevent eye strain by resting the eyes every 20 minutes while reading or working on the computer. Look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Use a smart phone’s timer to set a reminder to look up from the books or the computer screen or device.
• Toss old makeup: Bacteria can grow in creams and liquids, including those liquid eye-liners and mascaras. Don’t share makeup with others and throw out makeup after three months or if diagnosed with an eye infection.
• Use sports glasses: Many sports, including baseball, hockey, basketball and lacrosse, put players at risk for injuries, including scratches to the eye or broken bones around the eye. Players can find polycarbonate sports glasses to cut down the risk of injury from other players and equipment.

If your college-bound student needs an eye exam and check-up, call the office of Park Ophthalmology today to schedule an appointment. Our staff and Dr. Friedland are always happy to share tips on eye health with our patients.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Photo: nenetus, freedigitalphotos.net

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

 

Tags: Park Ophthalmology, Apex, Raleigh, Durham, Beth R. Friedland M.D., college, university, nearsightedness, myopia, studying, eye strain, sports vision, makeup, eye infections, contact lenses

 

Park Ophthalmology Shares the History of Eyeglasses

For anyone who has trouble seeing and needs vision correction, it’s almost impossible to imagine life without eyeglasses or contact lenses. Across the Triangle, Raleigh, and Durham, Dr. Beth R. Friedland and Park Ophthalmology offer patients the latest innovations in eye health and vision correction. Of course, we all know that even in 2015, the classic way to see more clearly is through the use of prescription glasses. And it is interesting to note that eyeglasses have a long history, going back 800 years to the late 1200’s in Italy. Today in California, the Museum of Vision in San Francisco has compiled an extensive collection of information on the history of Ophthalmology. It “sees” thousands of visitors a year so let’s “look” at some interesting innovations.

Park Ophthalmology shares six museum facts about the history of eyeglasses:

• Invention: As earlier stated, the first known eyeglasses were crafted in Italy. Used mostly by scholars and monks, these spectacles were either balanced on the nose or held up to the eyes, as they were made without any temple pieces.
• Side pieces: In the 1700s, eyeglasses took great leaps forward, the first of which was the addition of side or temple pieces that fit over the ears. No longer did they have to be balanced or held in place.
• Bifocals: The second key invention in the 1700s was the development of bifocals by Benjamin Franklin. Today, patients are more likely to opt for progressive lenses, which remove the characteristic bifocal line. Progressive lenses were first developed in 1959 and have grown in popularity since then.
• Sunglasses: Although not always used for vision correction, sunglasses play an important part in protecting eyes from harsh glare and sun damage. They first became culturally popular in the 1930’s, but World War II gave sunglasses an additional boost in popularity as military pilots discovered the benefits of lenses that absorbed ultraviolet and infrared light.
• Fashion statement: During the latter half of the 20^th century and on into the 21^st, eyeglasses have become fashion statements. Prescription sunglasses allow people to carry their fashion look into any activity.

 

Whether you need an updated look, or new prescription for eyewear, Dr. Friedland and the staff at Park Ophthalmology can merge vision-correcting lenses with the latest fashion frames. It is important to add prescription sunglasses to protect the eyes from sun damage.

Call the offices of Beth R. Friedland M.D., the Triangle’s Eye Specialist, to set up an exam time. In the Triangle, clarity now offers many choices with the experts at Park Ophthalmology.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Photo: photostock, freedigitalphotos.net

 

The Human Eye Offers a Window into a Patients’ Health and Well Being

Of all the complex parts of the human eye, the pupil is the easiest to observe at work. The pupil grows or shrinks, depending on light conditions. A complete eye exam Park Ophthalmology usually includes pupil dilation, which allows Dr. Beth R. Friedland the best possible view of the inner parts of the eye.

Park Ophthalmology has gathered five fascinating facts the about pupils to share with our Raleigh-Durham area patients:

• Shape: Human pupils are circular; interestingly, a trait they share with dogs, wolves and Siberian tigers. House cats have vertically slit pupils, while goats, horses, and frogs have horizontally slit pupils. Scientists speculate that these differences are connected to when animals are most active and their need to see in different light conditions.
• Dilation and constriction: Muscles that run through the iris like the spokes of a wheel control the dilation (enlarging) and constriction (closing) of the pupil. Dilated pupils allow more light to reach the retina, aiding vision. In bright light, the iris makes the pupils smaller to cut down on glare and protect the eye.
• Pupils and attraction: When humans look at people they find attractive, their pupils become larger. In fact, a study focused on pupil size discovered that men found photos of women with larger pupils more attractive than those with smaller pupils.
• Changes with age: As a human ages ages, the muscles that control dilation and constriction lose strength and the pupils do not react as quickly to changes in light. It may be more difficult to go from a brightly lit environment to one with dim lighting, such as a movie theater.
• Dilation for examination: If an exam requires dilation, eye drops will be used to enlarge the pupils. Some conditions diagnosed during dilation can include diabetes, high blood pressure, macular degeneration, retinal detachment and glaucoma.

The pupil plays a key role in delivering clear vision. Dr. Friedland and the staff at Park Ophthalmology ensure that each patient feels comfortable with the exam and treatment. Check with the office if you have any concerns about dilation during an eye exam. Remember, anything involving the eyes, call the Triangle’s Eye Specialist, Beth R. Friedland M.D.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Photo: Serge Bertasius Photography, freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

Park Ophthalmology Clarifies the Differences in Contact Lenses

Selecting eyeglasses is simple. Pick out a frame that looks good and the doctor will make sure the lenses provide vision correction. But as ophthalmology and technology continue to make advances, patients of ophthalmologist Dr. Beth R. Friedland find they have more and more choices. Park Ophthalmology offers Triangle area patients the latest innovations and the helpful staff is always available to answer questions about new products.

Park Ophthalmology shares five aspects of vision correction from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration about contact lenses:

• Prescriptions required: Contact lenses are classified as medical devices. As such, they cannot be dispensed without a valid prescription. Clients need to have their vision checked annually to make sure they have the correct prescription.
• Soft lenses: Soft contact lenses are flexible plastic and allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They may be easier to adjust to and more comfortable than rigid lenses.
• Rigid lenses: Sometimes called “hard” contact lenses, rigid gas permeable contact lenses may provide clearer vision than soft contacts and they last longer. Although they are easier to handle, some patients find them less comfortable to wear than soft lenses.
• Extended wear: Some soft lenses and a few rigid gas permeable lenses can be worn for up to 30 days, including overnight. Dr. Friedland will consult with clients to determine whether continuous wear lenses are an option and the length of extended wear that is appropriate.
• Disposable lenses: According to the FDA, most people who use soft lenses choose disposable contacts. While some people replace lenses daily, a common practice is to take them out before bed, place them in a disinfecting solution overnight and use them again the next day. Dr. Friedland will advise clients of the best cleaning solution to use for specific lenses.

Contact lenses continue to grow in popularity and ease of use. Unlike glasses, contacts provide a full field of vision, a benefit to those who enjoy playing sports. Making a choice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Park Ophthalmology welcomes all questions about the latest developments in contact lenses.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Photo: Marin, freedigitalphotos.net

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Beth R. Friedland M.D. Helps Patients Cope with Seasonal Eye Irritations

Spring is in full swing as we quickly head into May in the Raleigh-Durham area and the flowers popping up everywhere. The JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State has begun it free guided tours for the season and our local Triangle gardeners are busily planting tomatoes and squash in their backyards. But all this outdoor wonder isn’t so great if seasonal pollen causes red, itchy eyes. Dr. Beth R. Friedland of Park Ophthalmology is an expert in eye conditions and helps her Triangle area clients understand how to prevent and treat red, irritated eyes.

Park Ophthalmology presents four points everyone should know about in reference to eye irritations and how to treat them:

• Symptoms: Irritants can cause redness in the whites of the eyes or the inner eyelids. Excessive tearing, burning or blurred vision can also be signed of eyes reacting to irritants from the environment. Light sensitivity, swelling of the eyelids and itchiness are all symptoms that might require a trip to Dr. Friedland’s office.
• Why allergies are serious: Pet dander, pollen, smoke and other allergens can irritate the eyes. Histamines are created and released when the body detects a foreign substance, such as an allergen. It is this immune response that causes classic allergy symptoms.
• Don’t rub the eyes: It is natural to attempt relief by rubbing itchy eyes, but this won’t help. In fact, it may make the eyes worse by causing a release of more of the cells that first caused the itchiness. Instead, apply a cool compress, avoid makeup and wash hands often.
• Minimize the problems: If Dr. Friedland confirms that seasonal triggers are causing eye allergies, try to stay indoors on high pollen count days. Use the air conditioner and leave windows closed. Sunglasses can help keep the offending pollen away from eyes.

It’s no fun to greet the spring with red and irritated eyes. Contact Park Ophthalmology today if you notice excessive tearing, burning, or itchiness in your eyes. Dr. Friedland will determine whether seasonal allergies are the source, and then provide treatment to ease the problem.

Make an appointment today and give your eyes the break they need in the battle of the pollen!

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Photo: Tina Philips, freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

4 Critical Facts about Color Vision from Park Ophthalmology

The Internet and social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ lit up recently over a discussion involving a picture of a dress that some people saw as gold and white while others saw blue and black. The photograph demonstrated some interesting scientific facts about how humans perceive color. With her educational and professional experience in Ophthalmology, Beth R. Friedland M.D. of Park Ophthalmology was not surprised that the photo created such a stir. Dr. Friedland understands why people sometimes see the same object as different colors.

Here are four facts about human color perception:

• Eye structure: Cells at the back of the eye, the retina, allow humans to perceive different colors. Cells calls rods help distinguish light from dark while cones interpret light waves as green, red or blue. There are about six million cones in a human retina.
• Color blindness: About eight percent of men and less than one percent of women are color blind, meaning they cannot distinguish among certain colors. Color blindness is often inherited. A person who has trouble distinguishing between colors may lack receptor cones for one color.
• Testing: Park Ophthalmology can easily test patients for their color perception. Parents who suspect that their children might be having trouble with color vision should get them tested. The patient will view several cards that contain images made from colored dots. The patient’s ability to distinguish the images helps Dr. Friedland know whether there is a deficit in color perception.
• Comparisons: Scientists have discovered that some animals don’t see the range of colors that humans do. Cats and dogs cannot perceive a human’s range of color, although they do have better vision in low light conditions than do humans. Bees and butterflies, however, can perceive more colors than humans. They can see ultraviolet light, an ability they use to detect ultraviolet patterns in the flowers they pollinate.

Dr. Friedland always helps her patients understand how human vision works and what treatments are available to provide the best vision possible. Whenever you notice any changes to your vision, contact Park Ophthalmology to schedule an eye examination.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

 

Photo: arztsamui, freedigitalphotos.net

 

Understanding Cataracts from Beth R. Friedland M.D. & Park Ophthalmology

Imagine trying to read a computer while looking through a piece of milky glass. This experience is similar to someone trying to see through advanced cataracts. Patients with cataracts here in the Triangle turn to Beth R. Friedland M.D. at Park Ophthalmology for her expertise in diagnosing and treating this condition.

The team at Park Ophthalmology offers five areas of importance summarizing information from the Mayo Clinic to help patients understand cataract causes and treatments.

Cataracts 101:

• Clouded lens: A cataract develops as the lens of the eye, located behind the iris, becomes cloudy, causing light to scatter so that images on the retina become blurred.
• Causes: Age, injury, some genetic disorders and health conditions, such as diabetes, increase the risk of developing cataracts. With age, the eyes’ lenses become more rigid and thicker. Tissues in the lenses may break down, forming clumps that cloud vision.
• Types of cataracts: Nuclear cataracts affect the center of the lens and may make it more difficult for the patient to distinguish colors. Cortical cataracts begin on the edges of the lens and often cause people to be bothered by glare. Clients noticing halos around lights at night or those who have trouble seeing in bright light could have posterior subcapsular cataracts, which form at the back of the lens.
• Diagnosis: As with other eye health procedures, Dr. Friedland will conduct a thorough examination to determine if a client’s vision troubles are related to cataracts. The exam will include the normal vision acuity test, a slit-lamp exam and dilation procedure so Dr. Friedland can examine the retina.
• Treatment: Fortunately, ophthalmologists can offer effective treatment to restore most, sometimes all, of the vision lost to cataracts. Cataract surgery involves removal of the clouded lens and replacement with a new artificial lens that becomes a permanent replacement. Surgery can be performed on an out-patient basis, so there is no need for a hospital stay.

Anyone concerned about night vision, trouble with glare, or increasing problems with reading or driving should contact Park Ophthalmology to schedule a complete eye examination. An in-office exam is the only way to know for certain the cause of vision loss.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Photo: arztsamui, freedigitalphotos.net

 

 

Park Ophthalmology in the Triangle Offers Full Range of Eye Care

When first searching out a medical professional for eye care, patients can be confused by the differences among opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists. As part of the on-going efforts to educate clients on all aspects of eye health, Dr. Beth R. Friedland of Park Ophthalmology in the Triangle area provides a quick introduction to the field of eye care. Her brief tutorial below will help Raleigh-Durham patients understand what kind of eye care professional they need to contact for their specific eye care needs:

The three types of vision care professionals:

• Opticians: Opticians are professionals who make or sell glasses and contact lenses, for the purpose of correcting vision defects using the prescriptions of ophthalmologists and optometrists. They can check the fit of eyeglasses, help clients decide on the best frames and lenses, and check products to make sure an order has been filled correctly. They also can repair and adjust glasses. Those in need of corrective lenses need to first have an exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
• Optometrists: Unlike ophthalmologists such as Dr. Friedland, optometrists are not physicians. However, they have completed bachelor’s degrees and then received an additional four years of education to obtain a Doctor of Optometry degree. They perform eye examinations, write prescriptions for corrective lenses, diagnosis eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts, and can prescribe medications for eye conditions.
• Ophthalmologists: Ophthalmologists have graduated from medical school, plus completed internships and residencies. In addition to conducting eye exams and prescribing corrective lenses, ophthalmologists also provide medical treatment for conditions such as glaucoma, eye injuries and infections. They perform surgery for eye problems that include cataracts, crossed eyes and glaucoma. Some ophthalmologists also offer plastic surgery for smoothing wrinkles around the eyes or for drooping eyelids.

Because of her extensive medical training, Beth R. Friedland MD can provide a complete range of eye health services. The friendly staff at Park Ophthalmology is always ready to answer questions about the services provided by Dr. Friedland.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ParkOphthalmology

Photo: Freedigitalphotoss.net

 

Five Quick Lessons on the Human Eye from Park Ophthalmology

Most people rely on their vision as the primary sense for understanding the world around them. But human eyes are complicated with many components that must work together for the best possible vision. Dr. Beth R. Friedland of Park Ophthalmology in the Triangle area makes it her practice to educate patients about eye health and vision understanding.

Park Ophthalmology offers an outlined summary, in simple terms, of the five major aspects of the human eye and their importance to our vision:

• Visible parts of the eye: Most people can probably name the pupil, the black circle at the center of the eye that allows light to enter. The iris is the colored portion surrounding the pupil and the white surrounding part is called the sclera. Not visible but important to vision is the cornea, a clear dome that covers the iris and pupil.
• Lens: The lens is positioned right behind the iris and pupil. The lens serves to focus light entering through the pupil to the back of the eye.
• Retina: The retina is a delicate membrane that covers the inside of the back of the eye. It translates light waves into electrical signals for the brain to interpret as vision. In the center of the retina is the macula, a small pit that provides the clearest central vision. Cells within the retina are called rods and cones, with rods transmitting black and white images and cones transmitting color images.
• Optic nerve: The optic nerve is the messenger that sends the electrical impulses from the retina and macula to the brain for processing.
• Humors: Human eyes also have two kinds of liquid, or humors, that nourish the eyes and give them shape. The aqueous humor fills in the space between the cornea and lens and the vitreous humor fills out the area between the lens and the back of the eye.

Dr. Friedland welcomes all patient questions about their vision and how human eyes work. Do not hesitate to ask questions during an annual vision examination at Park Ophthalmology.

**

Park Ophthalmology welcomes patients from all areas of the Triangle and offers a wide variety of specialized services including surgery for diseases of the eye, vision examinations, eye safety information, sports medicine protective eyewear and counseling, contact lenses and evaluation, and all types of ocular diagnosis and treatment. Many types of surgery are available, including cataract and laser surgery. We are here for you and your eye and overall health. Give us a call today!

This article about the vision care is brought to you by the professional team at Park Ophthalmology located in the Triangle Region of North Carolina.

The information contained in this blog article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not intended to be offered as medical advice by your Triangle Vision Specialist in Raleigh and Durham.

Locations:

Park Ophthalmology

5306 NC Highway 55, Suite 102 (adjacent to the RTP/ Research Triangle Park)

Durham, NC 27713

Office: 919 544 5375

Fax: 919 544 5829

**

Park Ophthalmology North

6512 Six Forks Road, Suite 105

Raleigh, NC 27615

919 846 6915

Office Manager Jenny Whitman, e-mail: jenny.brfeyecare@ncrrbiz.com.

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