Corneal Scarring or Corneal Infection: How to Tell the Difference

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Corneal scarring and corneal infection are two different conditions that can end up feeling the same. We’ll look at the differences so it’s easier to tell one from the other.

Blurry Vision and Eye Pain: Common Symptoms

Both corneal scarring and infection are typically accompanied by blurry vision. However, despite this trademark symptom for the two conditions, it may manifest differently depending on which one you have. For example, an optometrist in North Syracuse, NY, may see patients whose vision blurs at peak times based on the lighting.

Typically, with an infection, the blur will be brought on faster than with scarring, so if you notice rapid changes in how well you can see, it may be due to an infection. Similarly, infections cause eye pain, which may or may not occur if you have scarring. Eye pain due to an infection can be exceptionally severe, so it’s important not to live with it in hopes that it goes away. An infection can lead to a corneal ulcer which, left untreated, can lead to blindness.

Additional Indicators

We’ll look at some of the major indicators between the two eye diseases in North Syracuse, NY:

  • Pus: Corneal scarring will not result in watery discharge or pus, whereas an infection may cause this.
  • Redness: Corneal scarring may cause a very mild redness in the eyes (if it causes redness at all), whereas an infection will result in obvious color changes.
  • Light sensitivity: You’re more likely to be sensitive to light if you have an infection. With scarring, vision changes are far more gradual and tend to be stable, whereas infections are more sudden.

See an Eye Doctor in North Syracuse, NY

If you’re trying to decide which condition you have, the bottom line is that it’s fairly difficult to ignore an eye infection. However, if you have some blurriness in low lighting due to scarring, it would be much easier to chalk up to changes in your night vision. At McPherson Optometry, our staff can tell you that you should have both types of conditions assessed sooner rather than later. Contact us today for an evaluation, so you can get the treatment you need.

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.

Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?

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Need another good reason to get prescription sunglasses in North Syracuse, NY? If so, the fact that your eyes can get sunburned may be all you need to know to spur your decision. Check out more about what sun exposure can actually do to the eyes below.

Photokeratitis: A Closer Look at Sun Damage to the Eyes

The medical term for eye sunburn is photokeratitis. This condition is caused by excessive UV light exposure, and the outcome can be painful. Oftentimes, people develop photokeratitis when they have spent a long day in the sun without proper eyewear protection. However, photokeratitis can also stem from spending a few minutes in a tanning bed without eye protection or being exposed to certain types of intense light.

Symptoms of Sunburned Eyes

Most people will be able to clearly tell when their eyes have had too much exposure to the sun because of how their eyes feel. An eye sunburn can be painful with the eyes feeling highly uncomfortable. Symptoms of eye sunburn can include:

  • Eye redness
  • Feeling like there is something in the eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Eyelid twitching
  • Sensitivity to sunlight or bright light
  • Headache

How Long Does Eye Sunburn Last?

The duration of symptoms of eye sunburn can vary from person to person. In most cases, the symptoms will start to dissipate after a few days as long as you strive to protect the eyes from further UV exposure while you are healing.

What Should You Do If Your Eyes Are Sunburned?

Unless you are having intense pain or severe vision changes, the best plan is to give your eyes a rest for a few days. You can use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to soothe some of the irritation. If you normally wear contact lenses, be sure to leave them out until your eyes get better. Lastly, wear protective sunglasses if you have to be outdoors.

Talk to a North Syracuse Eye Doctor

If your eyes are especially sensitive to the sun, it is always important to wear the best sunglasses. If you would like guidance about finding prescription sunglasses to protect your eyes, be sure to talk to a North Syracuse eye doctor for advice. Reach out to McPherson Optometry to schedule an appointment.

How Often Should Eye Prescriptions Be Updated?

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Understanding when to update eye prescriptions is a crucial part of maintaining good ocular health. In North Syracuse, NY eye prescriptions can be updated with a simple visit to your eye doctor. But how often should eye prescriptions be updated?

The Standard Rule of Thumb

Typically, it’s recommended that eye prescriptions be updated every six months to one year. However, this frequency can vary depending on several factors such as age, eye health and whether or not there are underlying ocular health conditions present.

When Should Eye Prescriptions be Updated?

If you’re starting to find that your corrective eyewear isn’t working as well as it used to, that could be a sign that your vision has changed, or the lenses are deteriorating, especially in the case of contact lenses. This is a time when you should get your eye prescription re-evaluated.

Preventive Measures and Regular Check-ups

Prevention is the cornerstone of optimal eye health. Even if it’s not time for a prescription update, remember that regular eye exams can detect problems early, sometimes before noticeable symptoms such as blurry vision or eye strain even appear. These exams are comprehensive and can identify underlying issues, like high eye pressure or early signs of macular degeneration. This proactive approach ensures eye health, as it allows for the timely detection and treatment of potential issues that may be caught early on and just save your eyesight.

How to Know When Eye Prescriptions Should be Updated

Trust your personal experiences when it comes to your eyes. If you’re noticing any changes in vision–perhaps text is becoming harder to read, or nighttime driving feels increasingly challenging, or experiencing discomfort such as dryness or persistent redness– don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. Changes in vision can often be subtle and gradual, making them easy to ignore. It’s always better to address these changes sooner rather than later. An updated prescription can significantly improve the quality of life, ensuring clear vision and comfort.

Your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY is here to help you maintain your eye health. If it’s been a while since your last eye prescription update or you’re experiencing any vision changes, don’t wait. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Difference Between Blue Light Blocking Glasses and Computer Glasses  

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Your optometrist in North Syracuse, NY can offer you a range of specialty eyewear to deal with a range of everyday situations, including computer glasses and blue light-blocking glasses. If you’ve never heard of these before now, the first place to start is learning the difference between them.

What are Computer Glasses?

Computer glasses are a specific kind of prescription eyewear meant to be worn while using a computer. They enable the wearer to focus on reading material that’s farther away—like a computer screen—within the line of sight. Many people use glasses to treat various vision issues. But not all glasses are appropriate in every circumstance.

Computer glasses are created expressly to lessen the eye strain associated with computer work, which makes them different from ordinary glasses.

An average individual uses a computer for around eight hours each day of work. Those people are more susceptible to vision-related issues because of these lengthy hours.

Computer glasses typically come with an anti-reflective coating that assists in cutting down on light coming from the device and glare that reflects off the screen. Glass color tinting is another common feature in computer glasses that aids in boosting contrast on the screen without causing eye strain.

What are Blue Light Blocking Glasses?

Blue light blocking glasses specifically block blue light from entering the eye. The visible light spectrum, which the human eye can perceive, includes blue light. Blue light has both the most energy and has the shortest wavelength.

Roughly one-third of all the light humans perceive is blue. Blue light may be found in:

  • Sunlight
  • Computer screens
  • Smartphone displays
  • Televisions with flat screens
  • LED bulbs
  • Neon lighting
  • CFL bulbs, or compact fluorescent lights
  • Tablet displays

Natural blue light is mostly produced by sunlight, while digital gadgets only produce a small portion of what the sun does. The danger of blue light from digital gadgets might be far more hazardous than we know right now, because of how much time people spend using them and how near we typically view them.

If you’re interested in speciality eyeglasses in North Syracuse, NY that can help improve your vision experience while helping to protect your eyesight, book an appointment with us 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.

3 Ways Lack of Sleep Affects Your Visual Health

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How much sleep have you been getting lately? If you are like a lot of Americans, you simply don’t get enough sleep. About 35 percent of American adults get less than the recommended seven hours of sleep every night. Unfortunately, lack of sleep is not just bad for your general health, but also your visual health. In fact, some general vision problems in North Syracuse may be related to lack of sleep. Take a look at some of the ways lack of sleep can affect your eyes.

Lack of sleep can lead to dry eyes

When your eyes are tired, you may be more likely to have problems with decreased tear production. Over time, this can lead to issues with dry eyes, which can come along with bothersome symptoms like redness, itchiness, and even blurred vision. When you have dry eyes, your tears are not lubricating the eye lens properly, which can also mean you are more susceptible to contaminants in your environment.

Lack of sleep can contribute to eye fatigue

Eye fatigue is a serious issue, even though it is an issue that is often disregarded. When your eyes feel extremely tired, they need a break. Not getting enough sleep can mean your eyes get fatigued faster than they normally would. Tired eyes don’t produce as many tears, can suffer from damaged blood vessels, and may even have issues seeing clearly.

Lack of sleep could put you at risk of eye conditions

Certain eye conditions are directly linked to poor quality sleep. For example, people who have sleep apnea are actually at a higher risk of glaucoma. This is because sleep apnea affects the intraocular pressure on the retina, as well as the important blood vessels that feed oxygen to the retina.

Keep Your Vision in Check with the Help of a North Syracuse, NY Eye Doctor

Worried that your problems with sleep are affecting your vision? If so, it may be time to visit a North Syracuse eye doctor for advice. Even small problems can grow to be a major issue when it comes to your visual health. Reach out to us at McPherson Optometry to schedule an appointment for a checkup.

Can Strabismus be Corrected?

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Strabismus is the official term for what is commonly called “crossed eyes.” However, the word strabismus indicates any abnormal alignment of the eyes. In some cases of strabismus, the eyes are not crossed entirely, but focus in slightly different directions. In fact, some mild cases of strabismus are hardly noticeable to others, although it will nearly always cause conspicuous vision problems in the person suffering with strabismus. Untreated strabismus can result in lifelong vision difficulties, such as blurred vision, chronic headaches and worse.

Different Categories of Strabismus

Strabismus can present in various ways. The way in which it presents helps the optometrist in North Syracuse, NY to diagnose, categorize and treat the condition. The different types of strabismus are:

  • Esotropia, where eyes are turned inward
  • Exotropia, where eyes are turned outward
  • Hypertropia, where eyes are turned upward
  • Hypotropia, where eyes are turned downward

Note that one or both eyes may be affected.

Can Strabismus be Treated?

Strabismus causing vision problems, but it usually also causes emotional concerns, such as lack of ability to learn, develop and grow intellectually and socially. Because the condition is so visible to others, it can result in a lack of confidence or a tendency to withdraw and isolate from society. Thankfully, there are treatments for strabismus for people of all ages, including infants. Treatment for strabismus in North Syracuse, NY is available from your optometrist.

Treatments For Strabismus

Treatment for strabismus will depend upon the age of the person, as well as the category, form and severity of the condition. Treatment options include:

  • Corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses
  • Special prism lenses
  • Prescription eye drops and/or ointment
  • Eye patch
  • Surgery

Remember that your optometrist will bear in mind the age and condition of the patient before recommending any treatment option. For instance, an infant can’t wear contacts or eyeglasses, but an eye patch might help. Barring non-invasive results, surgery may be necessary.

Strabismus is a condition of the eye muscles. As such, treatment is readily available and highly effective. For best results, contact your optometrist early and regularly for eye exams. The sooner that strabismus is diagnosed and treated, the faster you or your loved one can get on with life with good vision. Contact us to book your appointment now.

Could Eyestrain Be Causing Your Headaches?

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Just like the other muscles in your body, your eyes get tired, too. When you stare too long at a computer screen, or when you spend long hours texting your friend from a darkened bedroom, you can overtax your eyes. This leads to a number of symptoms, including painful headaches. Your eye doctor in North Syracuse, NY, will recognize the symptoms of eye strain.

How Does Eye Strain Happen?

Eye strain is not a serious condition, and it will go away once you have a chance to rest your eyes. However, the resulting headache may linger. Many factors may contribute to eye strain, including:

  • Driving for long periods of time without taking a break
  • Sitting for too long in front of a computer, television screen, or tablet
  • Marathon reading sessions
  • Trying to read in insufficient light
  • Dry, moving air, such as that produced by air conditioning

There may be other causes of eye strain, as well. However, these are probably the most common. It’s important to take time to rest your eyes on occasion when you have to stare at an object, such as a book, for an extended period of time. This gives your eyes an opportunity to refocus and to lubricate and may help you avoid an eye strain headache.

How Do I Know Whether Eye Strain Is Causing My Headaches?

The only way to know for sure whether eye strain is the culprit is to book an appointment with your eye doctor. Headaches are generic in nature and may be caused by anything from body tension to dental problems. But there are certain symptoms that accompany headaches caused by eye strain. They include:

  • A headache that develops after a long session of staring at an object or objects
  • Pain that feels like it’s centered behind your eyes
  • No other symptoms of illness, such as nausea, present
  • Not accompanied by fever
  • Goes away when you close your eyes for a period of time

If you suspect you’re suffering from eye strain headaches in North Syracuse, NY, McPherson Optometry can help. Call today to book an appointment for a routine eye exam and a consultation with one of our experienced and friendly eye professionals.