Is Pink Eye Always Pink?

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Pink eye in North Syracuse, NY is a common disorder largely associated with children, even though anyone can get it. Because its color characterizes it, conjunctivitis is fairly easy to spot. However, there is enough color range in pink eye that it helps to understand how the virus appears and what you can do to spot it.

Is Pink Eye Always Pink?

The short answer is that the eyes will appear either pink or red. This is due to the inflammation of the membrane lining the eye. However, the catch is that pink eye can show up as a very faint pink, which can make it either easy to miss or easy to dismiss (e.g., you might mistake it for just not getting enough sleep the night before).

What Is the Cause of Pink Eye?

Pink eye doesn’t have a singular cause, as it can be traced back to anything from viruses to allergens. If you have a school outbreak of pink eye, it’s likely due to the highly contagious virus, which kids can pass through anything from contaminated objects to shaking hands to respiratory droplets.

Is Pink Eye Dangerous?

Pink eye isn’t typically considered dangerous. For the vast majority of people, there are no long-term repercussions or consequences. It can cause corneal damage in rare chronic cases, but this is very unlikely. However, its symptoms are irritating for most people. Itchy eyes, gritty eyes, and generally irritated eyes can last for days without treatment.

Can Pink Eye Heal On Its Own in North Syracuse?

Yes. If you have viral pink eye, it can clear up within about a week. If you have bacterial pink eye, it can clear up within 3 – 4 days. However, most people will want to visit their eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY, as symptoms can take up to 2 weeks to fully decrease, and it’s far more comfortable to treat the condition than live with the symptoms. If you’re looking for a team to help you find a treatment plan that works for you, contact the staff at McPherson Optometry P.C. to make an appointment today!

Effects of Makeup on Eye Health

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For many people, wearing makeup is just an everyday part of life. Makeup often helps to enhance certain features, and can imbue confidence. Wearing eye makeup, in particular, is common, even when a person eschews other kinds of makeup. But it’s important to realize that makeup can impact your eyes in unexpected ways, even if you don’t wear glasses or contact lenses in North Syracuse, NY. This is because the eyes have a sensitivity that other parts of your face do not. Your skin has a protective layer, but the eyes can react to everything they are near, similar to the way they “cry” when you peel onions.

Allergic Reactions

Many people like to experiment with makeup, and few stick to just one brand their entire lives. This makes it more likely that there could be an allergic reaction to the makeup, since different manufacturers don’t all use the same ingredients. Certain ingredients like perfumes, dyes and preservatives can actually initiate an allergic reaction in the eyes. If you experience redness, itching, inflammation or irritation in the eyes, think back and see if you’ve switched makeup brands recently. It could be an allergic reaction that you’re noticing.

Infection

Depending upon how old your makeup is, or how well you’ve safeguarded it from bacteria in your bathroom or dressing room, the makeup could transmit an infection to your eyes. This is also more likely if you use poor quality makeup from an off-brand manufacturer. Also, there’s a higher chance of infection if you don’t fully remove makeup—especially eye makeup—before going to bed at night. When you sleep, the eyes are closed and bacteria have a great opportunity to proliferate. That’s why many people go to bed fine, and wake up with puffy, infected eyes.

Clogged Oil Glands

The eyelids have minuscule oil glands along their edges. These glands are essential for maintaining healthy tear film and preventing dry eyes. But many people accidentally cover up these glands when they line their eyes with eyeliner makeup. This can result in dry eyes, a gritty sensation, redness and blurry vision.

If you enjoy wearing makeup, no one is expecting you to stop. But it’s important to be mindful of how makeup and eye health are related. Talk to your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY today to learn more.

3 Benefits of Low Vision Therapy

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Low vision is a type of vision disorder that can’t be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. However, just because standard solutions don’t apply, doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to help people see better (regardless of where they’re starting). We’ll look at how low vision therapy works and what you might expect from the treatment.

What Is Low Vision Therapy in North Syracuse?

Low vision therapy in North Syracuse, NY is a series of treatments that can help people optimize any vision they have remaining. It’s used to help people with diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, among other disorders. This type of treatment is administered by a full team of people, which can include anyone from an occupational therapist to an optometrist.

3 Benefits of Low Vision Therapy

The most common benefits include:

  • Better sight: Treatments like telescopes and magnifiers have been adapted to help people optimize their visual field. This can include general sight, but also the kind of vision you need for specialized tasks, such as reading or chopping veggies in the kitchen.
  • Stronger Focus: Vision training exercises have shown promise for helping people focus on and track objects from one space to another.
  • Orientation: Mobility training, much like vision training, helps people with low vision better sense where they are and what’s surrounding them. This safety technique can reduce the odds of accidents when they’re in a new environment.

As technology progresses, people are finding more and more ways to adapt that technology to different industries. For instance, it’s possible to use AR/VR equipment to help give people a stronger visual field. While still in its infancy, these kinds of solutions are getting more traction in the space, leading to more evolved options for anyone interested in low vision therapy. It’s an exciting time to get in on the action.

Find an Optometrist in North Syracuse, NY

If you’re looking for an optometrist in North Syracuse, NY who can tell you about what’s available for people with advanced vision disorders, the staff at McPherson Optometry P.C. is here for you. Our team understands not just how these disorders progress, but what can be done to slow them down, or correct them if at all possible.

 

Best Ways to Treat Blepharitis

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Blepharitis refers to an inflammation of the eyelids, and it’s a condition that affects around 25 million people in the US alone. Largely associated with dry eyes, a doctor will diagnose the condition by magnifying your eyelids or collecting oil from your eyelids to see if there’s any evidence of bacteria or allergy. We’ll look at what you can do on your end to keep your eyes as healthy as possible.

At Home

The most common blepharitis treatments in North Syracuse, NY are often the same as those for dry eye:

  • Compresses: A compress of warm water can be enough to bring down the swelling in the eyelids so you get a little relief.
  • Artificial tears: The more lubricated your eyes are, the less irritation you’ll feel in your eyelids.
  • Eyelid massages: The glands inside of your eyelid can become clogged. A massage can help loosen them up a little so the oil from inside can reach your eyes.
  • Baby shampoo: This is a great, gentle way to clean out your eyes. If you’re used to waking up being unable to see, this is a healthy way to scrub them clean.

At the Eye Doctor

A doctor may prescribe one of the following to you:

  • Antibiotics: There are both topical and oral antibiotics that you can use if you have a bacterial infection in the eyelids.
  • Steroids: This is typically used for inflammation, though it’s really a last resort for many eye doctors in North Syracuse, NY.
  • Immunosuppressives: If the doctor determines that an immune issue is causing blepharitis, they may prescribe topical ointments to control it.

Find an Optometrist in North Syracuse

There are a variety of root causes for this common condition, so it’s important that you visit an optometrist who can tell you more about what’s going on. (Certain skin conditions, like rosacea, can lead to the development of it.) It’s also usually a chronic problem, one that needs constant attention to keep it under control.

If you’re looking for a staff who cares, visiting McPherson Optometry P.C. is a great start. We’re here for more than just eye exams and contact prescriptions. Contact us today to see if you need medications to bring down the discomfort and potentially prevent future flare-ups.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Contact Lenses?

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Contact lenses present a subtle and convenient solution for vision correction, offering a welcome alternative to traditional eyeglasses. Ensuring that they are cleaned and maintained correctly is vital to prolonging their usability and keeping your eyes safe from infections.

The Importance of Cleaning Contact Lenses

Cleaning your contact lenses removes the dirt, dust, and debris that accumulate on the lenses throughout the day, preventing irritation and maintaining clear vision. It also eliminates bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms that can cause eye infections.

Contact Lens Cleaning Process

To effectively clean your contact lenses in North Syracuse, NY, start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. This step helps to prevent the transfer of bacteria and dirt from your hands to your lenses.

Next, gently remove the lens from your eye using your index finger and thumb, taking care not to damage it. With the lens in the palm of your hand, apply some contact lens cleaning solution and rinse it thoroughly to remove any debris or deposits. Gently rub the lens in a circular motion using your index finger for about 10 seconds. After rubbing, rinse the lens once more with the cleaning solution or a contact lens rinsing solution.

To store, place it in a clean contact lens case filled with fresh contact lens solution, making sure to securely close the case to avoid contamination. Repeat the entire cleaning process for your other contact lens.

Maintaining Your Contact Lenses

To ensure proper contact lens care, always use the cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist or lens manufacturer. Avoid using water, saliva, or homemade solutions, as these can damage your lenses and increase the risk of eye infection. Replace your contact lens case regularly, preferably every three months, to maintain a sanitary and healthy environment for your lenses. Lastly, follow the cleaning and replacement schedule provided by your optometrist to ensure safe and comfortable lens usage.

Thorough and regular contact lens cleaning is crucial for maintaining clear vision and protecting your eyes from infections. By following the steps outlined here and paying attention to your optometrist’s advice, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while keeping your eyes in optimal condition. To get new or replacement contract lenses or an eye exam, book an appointment with your North Syracuse, NY optometrist today.

The Effects of Corrective Lenses on Common Eye Conditions

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Pretty much everyone everywhere is familiar with eyeglasses. And possibly, you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses yourself because they help you to see better close up, far away, or both. But how, exactly, do eyeglasses work? Have you ever wondered? And are there any eye conditions that can’t be improved through the science of corrective lenses? If you’re experiencing changes in your vision, and you wonder if a new set of corrective lenses can help, your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY, has answers.

How Corrective Lenses Work

Eyeglasses and contact lenses work by correcting refractive errors. There’s a light-sensitive area in the back of the eye called the retina. When light enters your eye and falls in the exact right place on the retina, you see a clear image. However, if something — usually the shape of your eye — causes that light to fall in the wrong place on the retina, the image you see may appear blurry or distorted. Corrective lenses work by redirecting the source of light so that it falls exactly where it should, thereby eliminating errors in refraction. Your vision becomes clear, and all is well again.

There are several common types of refractive errors, including:

  • Nearsightedness
  • Farsightedness
  • Presbyopia
  • Astigmatism

All occur because of the way the shape of your eye focuses light on the retina. For these common eye conditions, corrective lenses are the go-to solution, and vision can almost always be improved or completely restored.

Do Corrective Lenses Always Improve Vision?

However, there are some eye conditions that can’t be improved through the science of refractive correction. Cataracts is a good example. When you have cataracts, a cloudy film forms across the lens of your eye, impeding the retina’s access to light. Neither eyeglasses nor contact lenses will improve vision loss if you have cataracts. However, other treatments, such as removing the damaged lens and replacing it with an artificial lens, can work wonders.

Where to Find Corrective Lenses in North Syracuse

For help with eyeglasses or contact lenses in North Syracuse, NY, call McPherson Optometry. At McPherson Optometry, we specialize in finding solutions for all eye conditions — both common and uncommon. Call today to schedule a convenient time to come in.

5 Food Groups That Are Good for Your Eyes

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Any optometrist in North Syracuse, NY will tell you that your eyes are one of the most important parts of your body. Therefore, you should do everything in your power to keep them healthy. You can start by eating foods that are good for your eyes.

Five Food Groups That Are Good for Your Eyes

1. Fish

There are many types of fish that are a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, some studies have shown that fish oil also has the potential of reversing dry eye. However, that is going to vary from person to person.

The fish that have the highest amounts of omega-3 fish oil are:

  • Tuna
  • Salmon
  • Anchovies
  • Trout
  • Mackerel
  • Herring

2. Citrus Fruits and Berries

Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are all high in vitamin C. Vitamin C is used in the body to form your connective tissues, including the collagen which can be found in your corneas. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries are superfoods that help keep you healthy and your eyes functioning normally. Additionally, the antioxidants in berries have the potential of helping to prevent dry eye, lower blood pressure, macular degeneration, and other vision defects.

The best way to protect your eyes and keep them healthy is to schedule regular eye exams in North Syracuse, NY.

3. Nuts, Legumes, and Seeds

Nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and contain large amounts of vitamin E, which helps protect your eyes from age-related damage. These nuts and legumes include walnuts, lentils, Brazil nuts, peanuts, and cashews.

Seeds are similar to nuts and legumes when it comes to being high in omega-3s and being a great source of vitamin E. These seeds include chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds.

4. Leafy Green Vegetables

Leafy green vegetables are high in lutein and zeaxanthin and are a great source of vitamin C which is great for your eyes. These include kale, spinach, and collard greens.

5. Other Foods That Are Good for Your Eyes

  • Carrots
  • Bananas
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Beef
  • Mango
  • Papaya
  • Apricots
  • Eggs
  • Water

What’s Next?

If you need an optometrist in North Syracuse, NY, please Contact McPherson Optometry today. We are a leading provider of quality vision care and use only state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and eye care products. We would love to provide you with the highest level of eye care and attention you deserve.

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4 Things You Can Do to Care For Your Eyes in the New Year

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Good eye care happens year round. As we close 2022 and enter a new year, this is a time to reflect on what you can do to care for your eyes in 2023. By seeing the eye doctor, getting new corrective lenses and by watching for symptoms of vision problems, you can help maintain your eye health. Here’s what we suggest that you do to care for your eyes in the year to come.

1. See Eye Doctor for Exam

If you have prescription lenses, we recommend seeing the eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY every year or two. It’s important to visit the eye doctor regularly because prescriptions can change over time. Visiting your eye doctor, you can get an updated prescription, and then you’ll know if you need new glasses.

2. Get New Glasses

Even if your prescription doesn’t change, it’s still smart to get new eye glasses in North Syracuse, NY if your insurance will cover it. Take advantage of this benefit, so you’ll have more than one pair on hand at all times. This way, if you lose your glasses, you’ll have a spare.

3. Obtain Prescription Sunglasses

If you already have more glasses than you need, consider getting a new pair of prescription sunglasses. Prescription sunglasses help protect your eyes from glare and sunlight, as well as UV rays. It’s important to have prescription sunglasses for driving and participating in outdoor activities. Wearing prescription sunglasses year round – not just in summer – can help prevent eye damage from sun exposure.

4. Watch for Symptoms of Vision Trouble

Know the signs that your vision is in trouble. Symptoms include:

  • Blurry vision
  • Double vision
  • Eye pain
  • Clouded or hazy vision
  • Fading colors
  • Blind spot
  • Frequent headaches
  • Poor night vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Flashes of light
  • Halos around lights

If you notice any of these problems or any noticeable changes to your vision, talk to your eye doctor. At McPherson Optometry P.C., we’re committed to helping our patients maintain healthy eyes in 2023. Call today to make an appointment and get started with your eye care in the new year.

What Could be the Reason For Eye Pain?

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Although the eyes do have nerve endings, it’s not normal to experience eye pain. Unless you are actually touching the eye, there should be little to no sensation in the eye. If you do have eye pain, you should see your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY as soon as possible.

Common Eye Pain Symptoms

Sharp, painful, or throbbing eye discomfort might afflict either or both eyes. Eye pain may be different from the usual irritation caused by a speck of dirt or a little foreign item in the eye. In those cases, when the foreign item is removed, the discomfort subsides. Other forms of eye pain are more severe and last longer, and it might be preceded by or associated with other symptoms. Some eye discomfort might be an indication of a more serious health condition or injury, and it’s important to be seen by an optometrist as soon as you can.

Possible Causes of Eye Pain

Once you’ve determined that your eye pain is not caused by a foreign object or a stuck contact lens, there are other possible causes to consider. These include:

Glaucoma – This condition causes a build-up of pressure in the eyes, which sometimes results in eye pain. Note that glaucoma leads to vision loss, so immediate treatment is essential.

Infection – Both viral and bacterial infections can spread from other parts of the body into the eyes, resulting in eye pain.

Sinus infection – The sinuses are located right behind the eyes and an infection in the sinuses often leads to headaches and eye pain.

Allergic reaction – Allergies from pollen, prescription medication, eye makeup and contact lens solutions can all cause side effects and allergic reactions that include eye pain.

Dry Eye Syndrome – Dry eye is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough moisture. This results in eye pain as well as other symptoms.

Badly fitting contacts – If you wear contact lenses, the contact lenses themselves may be the culprit. Getting refitted for contacts may alleviate the eye discomfort.

Whether or not you have a foreign object in your eye, you should get an eye exam in North Syracuse, NY regarding eye pain. That way, any potential damage can be carefully assessed and treated by the optometrist. Contact us to book your appointment today.

3 Things to Know About Eye Makeup and Your Eyes

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From eyeliner to make your eyes pop and shadow to highlight the color of your eyes, eye makeup is a natural part of many beauty routines. These products are applied all around the eyes, so some particles can slip into the delicate organ and generate problems that require an eye exam in North Syracuse. If you wear eye makeup on a daily basis, be sure to take a look at some important things to know about eye makeup and your visual health.

1. Low-quality makeup can put your eyes at risk

When it comes to applying makeup so close to your eyes, it is ever-important to ensure you know the products well. Knock-off makeup mimicking expensive brands has grown to be a major problem over the last few years. Unfortunately, some of these products contain dangerous ingredients you wouldn’t want anywhere near your eyes. Sometimes, even low-quality brands can put your visual health at risk because of questionable ingredients. So always shop for eye makeup from brands with a reputable name, and trust only legitimate retailers.

2. Old makeup can cause problems with eyelash mites

If you have certain eye makeup products that you don’t use often, be mindful of their suggested shelf life. Also, some products should be replaced frequently. For example, mascara and eyeliner should generally be replaced about every three months. Not replacing eye makeup frequently can cause an over-accumulation of Demodex brevis (eyelash mites) in the product and around your eyes.

3. Some makeup may cause issues with dry eyes

People with sensitive eyes know that certain types of eye makeup can cause issues with dry eyes. For example, some people cannot wear waterproof mascara or eyeshadow with metallic pigments. However, in many cases, makeup can cause dry eyes for people who do not normally have issues. If you start experiencing redness, burning, and discomfort, try switching brands or types of makeup to see if the problem persists.

Discuss Eye Health with a North Syracuse Eye Doctor

When it comes to protecting your eyes, there are so many good habits to adopt now that make a difference. If you are concerned about your visual health or need tips about healthy eye makeup, talk to a North Syracuse eye doctor. Reach out to us at McPherson Optometry to schedule your appointment today.