Help us bring awareness to the importance of regular eye exams. Together, we can eliminate avoidable blindness. Schedule your appointment today.
Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are over 100 million adults living in the United States that have diabetes or prediabetes. Make sure you understand the signs so you can protect your vision.
- Diabetes Can Cause Multiple Eye Problems
Patients who have diabetes are susceptible to a group of eye problems. These include glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. The last one is the leading cause of blindness in adults between the ages of 20 and 74.
- There Are No Symptoms in the Early Stages
Experiencing no symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you are okay. The early stages of diabetic retinopathy show no signs of the disease. You may not notice any problems until the condition has advanced. That’s why it’s vital to take a proactive approach to your eye health.
- If You Have Diabetes, You Need to Be Checked
Everyone should get regular eye exams, but it is especially crucial for people with diabetes. Your eye disease risk is increased. The longer you have diabetes, the more likely you are to develop a problem. Between 40% and 45% of diabetes patients have some diabetic retinopathy.
- Your Medication Will Help Prevent Eye Disease
Always take your medication as prescribed by your doctor. This will help keep symptoms under control. It can also slow or prevent problems that could affect your vision.
- Good Health and Weight Are Important
Along with sticking to your medication regimen, you should also take steps to live as healthy a lifestyle as possible. Keep your weight where it should be and eat a nutritious diet. These changes can help lower your risk of diabetic eye disease.
If you have diabetes or prediabetes, let us know. Schedule an appointment with Grosinger, Spigelman and Grey, Bloomfield Hills ophthalmologists, and take the first step in protecting your vision.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Eyes from Too Much Screen Time?
Screens have become a normal part of life in modern society. The average adult consumes five times more information daily than they did over 50 years ago. Much of this is due to the prevalence of computers, mobile phones, and the internet. It’s not uncommon for the average person to spend seven hours or more a day looking at a screen.
Blue Light and Your Eyes
The issue isn’t so much the screen itself. You can look at a screen and generally experience no long-term side effects. However, blue light emitted by digital screens can be a problem.
A recent study funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI) found that children’s eyes absorb more blue light from screens than adults do. Other studies suggest that continued exposure can lead to retinal cell damage.
You may also notice the symptoms of eye strain. If you experience dry eyes, fatigue, or headaches, it may be time to cut down your screen usage.
Protecting Your Eyes from Digital Screens
Changing your habits can help protect your eyes from the side effects of lengthy screen time. You can:
- Always hold screens 20” to 26” away from eyes and a little below eye-level
- Change lighting to lower glare and reflections or use glare filters
- Sit in a chair that allows you to adjust your position
- Wear computer glasses that block blue light
- Use anti-reflective lenses to increase contrast and lower glare
During your appointment, ask us how to protect your vision from digital screens. Our ophthalmologists can answer your questions and help you develop habits that keep your eyes healthy.
Wishing You a Sweet Rosh Hashanah
To our family, friends and patients who celebrate, Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey wishes you much health and happiness this Rosh Hashanah.
Over-the-Counter Readers vs. Prescription Glasses
Most adults need some vision support by the time they reach age 40. Some go to an eye doctor to get a pair of prescription glasses. Others head to the local pharmacy or retailer to pick up a pair of over-the-counter (OTC) reading glasses. Which option is the best choice for your eyes?
Pros of Over the Counter Glasses
- OTC glasses don’t require an examination to buy
- You can bring OTC glasses home the same day you buy them
- OTC glasses cost less than buying prescription eyewear
- Some OTC glasses come with UVA/UVB protection
Cons of Over the Counter Glasses
- Lens quality may be low or inconsistent with bubbles or imperfections
- You won’t find a pair that’s made specifically for your vision needs
- Same prescription used in both lenses even though most people have a stronger eye
- You may have to search for a pair that offers the strength you need
- Skipping the exam means you won’t know if you have a developing eye condition
Pros of Prescription Glasses
- Lenses are made based on your exact prescription for optimum sight
- Lens quality is consistent, so you get the clearest vision possible
- A different prescription can be used in each lens
- Lets your doctor build a record of your eye health
- Exams can reveal changes or conditions you didn’t know you had
Cons of Prescription Glasses
- Prescription glasses cost more than OTC eyewear
- You may have to wait days or weeks for your glasses to arrive
- You will have to schedule an exam to get your prescription
While OTC glasses may be cheaper and easier to buy, they are not the best option in the long run. Everyone should have regular eye exams to check for conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. Prescription glasses will perform better and are tailored to your vision needs.
It may not hurt to have a pair of OTC readers available to put on as a backup, but in the end, it’s best to get prescription. Contact Grosinger, Spiegelman & Grey to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
Healthy Aging and Your Eyes
Your eyesight will change as you grow older. It’s important to understand what’s normal, what isn’t, and when to see an ophthalmologist.
Common Age-Related Eye Problems
The problems listed here are common and can be treated. However, you should not delay in seeking medical advice. They could be a sign that something else is going on.
- Presbyopia – You may notice the gradual loss of your ability to see small print or close-up objects. This is a slow change that will happen as you age. You may also notice increased eye strain and headaches. Reading glasses usually correct the problem.
- Excessive Tearing – Your eyes may become sensitive to wind, light, or changes in temperature. This can lead to excessive tearing. Protecting your vision with sunglasses or eye drops can help. It could also indicate that you have a blocked tear duct, which should be addressed by a doctor.
- Floaters – Floaters look like cobwebs or specks in your field of vision. You can see them in bright light. While they are normal, they can also be a sign of a detached retina.
- Eyelid Issues – Older people sometimes experience eyelid problems. This can include redness, itching, and swelling. If you notice discomfort, you could have blepharitis, which can be treated with warm compresses.
When Should I See an Ophthalmologist?
You should schedule an ophthalmologist appointment right away if you notice sudden changes in your vision. You should also seek advice if you have:
- Eye pain
- Double vision
- Flashes of light in your vision
- Unexplained eye swelling
It is very important to have routine exams. Regular ophthalmologist visits are a big part of healthy aging. Some eye diseases can be treated if caught early. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey’s Bloomfield Hills office today to schedule your appointment.