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.

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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

 

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!

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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

 

 

Catching Glaucoma Early Can Prevent Childhood Vision Problems in the Triangle

Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects older people, yet it also can affect children. In fact, three million Americans of almost every age have glaucoma, including thousands of people in Raleigh, Durham, and the Triangle. Many of our Park Ophthalmology patients have this disease as well.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness, and as we said earlier, it’s not just for the Baby Boomer and senior population, Glaucoma can even strike newborn infants:

• Glaucoma occurs in one out of every 8,000 children in the U.S.
• Of those, 50 to 70 percent are cases of primary congenital glaucoma (PCG).

Primary Congenital Glaucoma

Primary congenitalglaucoma (PCG) is just one type of Glaucoma, which affects children between birth and three years of age. Although rare, it is a serious condition requiring immediate attention.

In a healthy human eye, fluid leaves through a network of cells and tissue in a drain-like fashion. Meanwhile, the normal eye continues to make just the right amount of fluid. In cases of Glaucoma, there is an imbalance, causing a buildup of fluid and increased pressure on the eye.

The high pressure of the optic nerve can cause a cloudy cornea, enlargement of the eye or even permanent damage to the optic nerve.

Glaucoma symptoms include:

• Involuntary protective closing of the eyelids
• Painful oversensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing
• Cloudiness of the cornea, the normally clear front layer of the eye
• Enlargement of one or both eyes
• Red eye

Treatments

Glaucoma treatment can be in the form of eye drops or pills that will help the fluid exit from the eye. In some cases Dr. Beth Friedland, here at Park Ophthalmology, will use glaucoma surgery to control eye pressure. Doctor Friedland will assess and determine which approach is best for the patient based on his or her physical and emotional needs.

Early Testing is Best Cure

Catching glaucoma early in children is one of the easiest ways to prevent blindness. If the disease is found and treated early, most youngsters respond well and often do not experience future problems.

That is why it is important for young children to visit the Dr. Friedland at Park Ophthalmology regularly to check not only for vision problems but other issues related to eye health.

**

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 different eye colors is brought to you by the professional team atPark 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

Photo: photostock, freedigitalphoto.net

Sleep Apnea and Eyesight in the Triangle NC

The ability to sleep properly each night affects many organs in the human body, including our eyes. Everyone in Raleigh and Durham who notice excessive sleepiness during the day may have a disorder called Sleep Apnea, in which the throat muscles block the airway, causing breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep.

These continuous pauses can last from a few seconds to a few minutes and may occur up to 30 times per hour. The pauses cause the body to move out of a deep sleep into a lighter sleep, leaving sufferers sleepy during the day.

According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 12 million people in the United States have Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

If you live in the Triangle and think you have this condition, Park Ophthalmology and Beth R. Friedland MD (pictured) are just a phone call away from evaluation.

Sleep Apnea is a risk for several eye conditions such as:

• Glaucoma: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can cause two types of Glaucoma which is the second most common cause of blindness. People with harsh cases of sleep apnea tend to have more severe cases of glaucoma. People with OSA should receive an annual eye examination to check for Glaucoma, especially if they experience any changes in vision.
• Floppy Eyelid Syndrome: This disorder has an odd name, but is uncomfortable to those who have it. It causes the eyelids to turn inside-out spontaneously during sleep, which leads to eye watering, stickiness, and blurred vision.

• Non- Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Nueropathy (NAION): While painless, people with this condition experience sudden vision loss in one eye, usually noticed upon wakening. Up to 6,000 people annually in the United States are diagnosed with NAION, which can cause irreversible vision loss.
• Papilledema: Obstructive sleep apnea may also cause Papilledema, or swelling of the optic nerve. This swelling can lead to pressure, worsening vision and, in some cases, blindness.

Although the links between these conditions and Obstructive Sleep Apnea are not always clear, knowing the links may exist can help ophthalmologists stay alert for these problems. Talk to Park Ophthalmology if you experience any signs of these conditions or excessive sleepiness. Remember that regular eye exams are critical to eye health.

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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 Sleep Apnea is brought to you by the professional team atPark 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

 

What to Expect During an Eye Exam at Park Ophthalmology

Many people move to the Triangle each and every week. And when they bring family as well, they need doctors, dentists, and even a good auto repair facility. The first eye exam with a new Ophthalmologist can be a very positive experience.  Many Raleigh and Durham residents who come to Beth R. Friedland M.D. and Park Ophthalmology for the first time are extremely pleased at the experience.

It is interesting to note that eye exams are actually easy to do and are completely painless. And these exams truly discover how healthy the sense of sight is for our patients.

Here is the breakdown of a patient visit to Park Ophthalmology:

What to Bring

• A list of any prescription or non-prescription medications. Include vitamins, herbs and other non-traditional remedies.
• Eyeglasses
• Contact lens prescription
• Insurance information

The Appointment Process

First, visitors check in at our helpful front desk and fill out a form about personal family health history and any history of eye problems.

Then, one of our eye care staff guides patients to a small room where they take a few eye tests. For most of the tests, patients are asked to look into what looks like a periscope.

These tests determine any eye health problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts. One of these tests people readily is the big chart with the letter “E” at the top.

These tests help Dr. Beth R. Friedland (see picture) determine whether someone is nearsighted, farsighted, or has a stigmatism. She will also check to see how someone’s eyes work together as a set. A few more tests are needed for people who want or need contact lenses.

Depending on the exam results, Dr. Friedland will discuss whether someone might need glasses or contacts to correct vision, or whether any other eye health issues should be corrected.

Cost of an Eye Exam

Paying for an eye exam is very simple at Park Ophthalmology, where our team will answer questions about billing and insurance. The cost varies based on a person’s insurance, out of pocket, or Medicare.

After their first eye exam, most people realize how important it is to get a checkup each year, especially if the patient is over age 40. Our team at Park Ophthalmology is happy to answer any questions from people who want to know more about eye exams. Please call our offices listed below.

**

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 benefits of eye 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 Credit:

Locations in the Triangle NC:

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: parkeyemd@gmail.com

Follow us https://twitter.com/ParkOphthNC

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

Are Different Color Eyes Trauma Indicators?

Beth R. Friedland M.D. at Park Ophthalmology spends a lot of time staring into people’s eyes. The human eye tells a wide variety of stories to a skilled Ophthalmologist. The color of the iris is not something eye doctors usually check, but July 12^th, 2013 is Different Colored Eyes Day. This national observance recognizes a condition called Heterochromia. Max Scherzer, current 13-0 as a Detroit Tiger Starting Pitcher and an  A.L. All Star this season, has this very uncommon condition seldom found in humans.

About Eye Color
Eye color is determined by the amount and distribution of melanin in the iris. That’s why babies tend to have blue eyes when born; the melanin has not yet been produced.

Most Raleigh and Durham residents have two eyes of the same color, but that’s no reason not to celebrate the diversity among different eye colors and the varying shades of blue, brown, green and hazel. The most common eye color is brown. Green is more rare; less than two percent of the world’s population is born with green eyes. It’s most often found in Northern Europe and Nordic countries. Even more rare is violet, amber or red-colored eyes, which are usually found in albinos.

Different Eye Colors

Fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. have Heterochromia, a condition that’s usually caused by a disease or syndrome. In some cases, those with Heterochromia have one iris with two different colors.

While it may be tough for those with two different eye colors to pick one for a driver’s license, it’s generally not harmful. However, eye colors changing later in life might be a sign of an injury, trauma or developing health problem such as:

• Bleeding/trauma
• A foreign body in the eye
• Inflammation in the eye
• Glaucoma or some medications used to treat it
• Waardenburg syndrome
• Neurofibromatosis

Sudden changes in eye color are a sign it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Friedland. A thorough eye examination is needed to be sure this isn’t a symptom of a medical problem.

Fun with Eye Color

While the general concept of dominant genes seems to work most of the time in eye colors, it is still possible for generations of brown-eyed people to produce a blue-eyed individual because eye color is a multi-gene trait. Still, just for fun, check out this eye color calculator.

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Beth R. Friedland M.D. and Park Ophthalmology welcome 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 different eye colors is brought to you by the professional team and the offices of Beth R. Friedland M.D. atPark 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

What is Laser Eye Surgery?

Not everyone loves wearing glasses, especially when they think they have to because of the need for vision correction. Glasses often do not fit correctly. Sometimes they can get lost or broken. But there is a solution for many people. Laser eye surgery, performed by Dr. Beth Friedland – Park Ophthalmology, can correct a variety of vision problems and make glasses a memory. Many Triangle residents, especially those in our area of Raleigh and Durham, have worn glasses or contacts for many years.  Finding the idea of being free of those glasses is very appealing. Patients who have the procedure done might even achieve vision better than 20/20. There is however, a lot to know about LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) before making a decision. Here is a short course in laser eye surgery from the Triangle’s Eye Specialist.

LASIK is the most common type of refractive surgery, or surgery that changes the shape of the cornea. The surgery can correct:

• Nearsightedness — Seeing objects clearly at close range with issues involving distance vision.
• Farsightedness — Near vision is blurry; more clarity with distance.
• Astigmatism —  Disruption of focus for near and distance vision.
• Presbyopia — Age-related eye change that results in the gradual loss of the ability to actively change focus on nearby objects.
  

It is important to note that at Park Ophthalmology, we recommend trying glasses or contacts for most vision correction before trying surgery. But LASIK can be a great benefit for a lot of people.

However, every benefit has some risk and with LASIK surgery those risks can include:

• Under correction: This sometimes occurs in individuals who are nearsighted. The surgery may not give perfect 20/20 vision, which means the possibility of corrective lenses or additional surgery.
• Over correction: If the laser removes too much tissue from your eye, the result is an over correction, which can be somewhat challenging to repair.
• Astigmatism: This occurs when the eye tissue is removed unevenly and the situation can require additional surgery.
• Glare, halos and double vision: Any of these problems may occur. Some can be treated with eye drops, but others might require surgery.
• Dry eyes: Some people may notice a temporary decrease in tear production after LASIK, resulting in dry eyes. Eye drops usually will help this issue during the first few months, but you may need another procedure if the problem is considered severe.

Please note that some patients are not good candidates for this procedure. As with any surgery, it’s important to talk to Dr. Beth at Park Ophthalmology about the pros and cons. Make sure to mention any health conditions, and be prepared to talk to her about any questions or concerns.

**

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 benefits of eye 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 Credit:Patpitchaya, freedigitalphotos.net

Locations in the Triangle NC:

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

Defeat Diabetes Eye Problems with Annual Exams

Do you have Diabetes? Then you are at a higher risk for eye problems. April is Defeat Diabetes Month. While scientists are still working to defeat diabetes, if you live in the Triangle, Raleigh and Durham residents can defeat future eye problems by taking care now and visiting Park Ophthalmology.

How Diabetes Affects Eyes
High blood glucose and high blood pressure from diabetes can hurt different parts of your eye, but retina damage is the most common problem Dr. Beth Friedland and her team can often encounter. The trouble is that it occurs slowly and most people don’t notice it until checked by the Ophthalmologist. Sometimes it can be discovered too late.

Your retinas have tiny blood vessels that can damage easily, especially if the patient has a history of high blood glucose or high blood pressure for a long period of time. The blood vessels will swell and weaken and may even become clogged. At first, a patient might not experience any sight problems, but as diabetes retina problems worsen, newer, weaker blood vessels grow and can break and leak blood into the eye. In addition, swollen and weak blood vessels can form scar tissue, possibly pulling the retina away from the eye.

Prevention is the Cure

Those with diabetes are also at higher risk for two other eye problems, cataracts and glaucoma. The good news is that you can prevent these problems by managing your health:

• Keep your blood sugar levels under control. Good blood sugar will ensure your blood vessels stay strong and healthy.
• Control high blood pressure, which can make any eye problems worse.
• Quit smoking.
• Visit your ophthalmologist at least once per year for a dilated eye exam. Opticians who only check your prescription cannot check your eyes for problems, and having your regular doctor look at your eyes is not enough for complete assessment.

Call Park Ophthalmology at 919 544 5375 as soon as possible if you have any of the following problems:

• blurry vision
• trouble reading signs or books
• seeing double
• eye pain
• red eyes that stay red
• strong eye pressure
• spots or floaters
• inability to see things out of the corner of the eyes

We hope to see you at Park Ophthalmology for your regular eye exam each year. Your eyes are too important not to have the best team in the Triangle assess your sight and your health! We can help manage eye problems related to diabetes. Make your appointment soon. We are the Triangle’s Eye Specialist.

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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 benefits of eye 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: Ponsulak, freedigitalphotos.net

 

5 Considerations When Buying Your Sunglasses

Spring has sprung in the Triangle! Here in North Carolina, especially In Raleigh and Durham, we know the first day of spring is often the start of warmer weather and sunnier days.

While it’s nice to see spring again, at Park Ophthalmology we are keenly aware that sunlight is the main source of UV radiation, which can cause damage to your eyes without you being aware anything is happening. Multiple studies show that long hours in the sun without sunglasses will increase your chances of developing eye problems, including cataracts. Even low amounts of sunlight can increase your risk.

As the earth tilts itself more closely to catch the sun’s rays here in Central Carolina, be sure you’re protecting your eyes from the harsh glare by wearing sunglasses every chance you can get. While any set of sunglasses is better than not wearing them at all, there are five considerations before you go out and buy a pair:

• Complete UVA/UVB Protection: Look for a label or sticker and make sure that the lenses block 99 to 100 percent of UVA/UVB rays or have UV 400 protection. The label might also say that the lenses meet ANSI Z80.3 blocking requirements, which is an industry standard.
• Polarized Lenses: If you spend a lot of time on the lake or at the beach, consider polarized lenses, which reduce glare by filtering out sunlight that reflects off surfaces such as water. Note that this has nothing to do with UV protection, but can still can help prevent squinting.
• Lens Quality: The price can often make the difference. Inexpensive sunglasses aren’t going to have the same clarity as a pair with high quality lenses.
• Size Counts: If you don’t mind the feel, choose wraparound sunglasses, which block light from the sides, offering the broadest protection against UV damage.
• Check the Fit: Sunglasses should be comfortable, yet fit snugly around your nose and ears. Choose a pair that fits close to your face around your eyebrows.

Extra tip: It’s important to note that UV eye damage is cumulative over a lifetime, so be sure your children have eye protection as well.

While we’re always happy to see our patients, by choosing the right pair of sunglasses, you’ll be less likely to stop in at Park Ophthalmology with a serious problem. Have a nice spring!

**

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 benefits of eye 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: grant cochrane, freedigitalphotos.net

Park Opthalmology Helps to See Child Eye Problems!

Everyone thinks it is easy to “see” their child’s eye problems. It is always a big clue for parents and guardians to notice children squinting or when they keep getting headaches. But whether it’s a vision correction or a serious eye health concern, it might not be something that comes from simple observations.

Early in life, babies can only see 8 to 10 inches from their faces. Eyesight begins improving at 12 to 16 weeks, but it is uncommon for eye problems to occur at that early age. If there are problems, they usually emerge between eighteen months and four years old.

At Park Ophthalmology, a childhood concern can often center on of two fairly common issues: a crossed or wandering eye, or an uneven focus.

• Crossed Eyes: Three to 5 percent of children have a crossed or wandering eye. Although it looks as though the eye itself is causing the problem, it’s actually the brain that creates the situation.

• Uneven Focus:  Sometimes, one eye is more farsighted than another. This happens in 2 to 3 percent of children. It’s often hard to find out, because children don’t realize there is a problem.

While neither of these is life threatening, if they are left untreated the brain will eventually begin ignoring messages and images from the weaker eye. The brain can even stop developing nerve connections to that eye, which might lead to permanent vision loss as early as age 9 or 10.

Early Detection is Always the Best Cure

It is important to note that many parents take their children to the dentist early in life, but wait until age seven or eight for the Ophthalmologist and that first essential eye exam. The age children begin to learn to read. These two above conditions can be discovered during regular vision screenings. Once assessed, both can be corrected if it’s discovered early enough. Remember, even if your child isn’t rubbing his or her eyes or squinting, there may still be an eye problem. Early detection and regular exams can save your child’s eyesight.

Your pediatrician assesses your child’s eyes for general problems during his or her first year of life. By age 3, regular checkups with Doctor Beth Friedland (see picture upper right) can help determine any eye issues.

Call Park Ophthalmology today to set up a check-up for your child’s eyes.

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Park Ophthalmology Renamed AETNA Preferred Provider

Across the Triangle, residents who have AETNA Insurance can use it at both Park Ophthalmology offices in Raleigh and Durham. We have again been named their preferred provider. It is now even easier for you to get the eye care you need.

Park Ophthalmology also accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and others; please call the office for further information.

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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 benefits of eye 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

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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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