What’s a Virtual Visual Field?

/0 Comments/in /by

Eye diagnostics have changed over the years, thanks to everything from emerging research to new technology. A virtual visual field can be used for patients with special needs. For instance, those who have medical conditions that make them unsuitable for standard exams. We’ll look at what a virtual visual field is in Riverdale, NJ, and how it’s used to both determine and monitor diseases.

What Is a Virtual Visual Field?

The term refers to the visual capabilities of a patient in the virtual world. In the real world, the visual field is used to determine what a person can see if they don’t swivel their eyes back and forth. In the virtual world, an optometrist has a little more leeway. Using head-mounted displays, the staff can essentially replace a patient’s regular field of sight with a virtual environment.

How Virtual Visual Fields Are Used

How the virtual visual field is used will depend on the condition the patient has. In general, though, the optometrist will both prep the equipment and the patient for the procedure. The expectations for the patient are minimal, though, and merely require people to be sitting in front of the device. The head-mounted displays are easy to wear and won’t need to be on for very long.

The patient will be told what they need to do to help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis. There are different testing protocols for your visual fields, but these tests often start with identifying a central point and then responding to a variety of other stimuli in their visual field. From there, the doctor will map out the field, analyze the data, and interpret the results.

Finding an Eye Doctor in Riverdale

The right optometrist in Riverdale, NJ will invest in advanced diagnostic equipment. Not because they want to impress their patients with gadgets, but because they’ve seen just how much these devices can help patients maintain their eyesight over the years. At Riverdale Vision Care, you’ll meet a staff that has gone the extra mile for their patients and purchased the tools they need to provide more accurate treatments. Contact us today to learn more about how a virtual vision field could work for you.

Can I Get Blue Light Protection In My Prescription Eyeglasses?

/0 Comments/in , /by

Extended exposure to screens, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, exposes your eyes to blue light, a high-energy visible (HEV) light. This prolonged exposure can lead to eyestrain, headaches, and disturbed sleep patterns. Consequently, many individuals wonder if they can incorporate blue light protection into their prescription eyeglasses instead of having to get a completely different pair of blue light glasses.

Integrating Blue Light Protection into Prescription Eyewear

Fortunately, it is possible to incorporate blue light protection into prescription eyeglasses. Numerous eyeglass manufacturers now offer lenses specifically designed to block blue light. These lenses feature a unique coating that filters out blue light while permitting other types of light to pass through. Mention this request during your eye exam in Riverdale, NJ.

Choosing Between Clear and Yellow-Tinted Lenses

There are two primary types of blue light-blocking lenses: clear and yellow-tinted. Clear lenses provide an excellent option for those who wish to block blue light without altering their vision’s color. However, some individuals find yellow-tinted lenses to be more effective in reducing eyestrain and enhancing visual comfort.

Consulting with Your Optometrist or Optician

To explore blue light protection options for your prescription eyeglasses, consult with your optometrist or optician in Riverdale, NJ. They can help you select the appropriate type of blue light-blocking lenses based on your unique needs and preferences. They may also recommend other methods to minimize blue light exposure, such as adjusting your electronic devices’ settings or utilizing a blue light filter on your computer screen.

Additional Benefits of Blue Light-Blocking Lenses

Apart from reducing eyestrain and enhancing visual comfort, blue light-blocking lenses may offer other advantages. Some research indicates that they can improve sleep quality by decreasing blue light exposure at night. This is particularly important for individuals who use electronic devices before bedtime, as blue light can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

If you’re concerned about blue light’s harmful effects on your eyes, rest assured that you can obtain blue light protection in your prescription eyeglasses. Blue light-blocking lenses are an excellent choice for individuals who spend considerable time in front of screens, as they can help alleviate eyestrain, enhance visual comfort, and potentially improve sleep quality. Contact us today to schedule your next eye exam.

3 Things Your Optometrist Can Tell You About Your Health During an Eye Exam  

/0 Comments/in , /by

The main goal of an eye exam is always to reveal the inner workings of your eye. Whether you need corrective eyewear or not, regular exams help catch eye problems when they’re most treatable. However, there are other reasons why you should visit an eye doctor in Riverdale, NJ, and they have nothing to do with your contact lenses.

1. Blood Pressure Health

Bleeding eyes may sound exceptionally scary, but most eye bleeds are actually harmless. There are cases, though, where high blood pressure can cause the arteries within the retina to stiffen, which can end up pressing against a blood vessel until it bursts. During an eye exam in Riverdale, NJ, your doctor can clarify the type of bleed you have and whether it requires additional attention.

2. Heart Health

As with high blood pressure, clogged arteries can present in a number of ways. If the plaque in the carotid artery breaks off, it will travel to the eye and form a deposit there. (The carotid artery doesn’t supply all of the blood to the brain, but it supplies most of it.) Plaque can travel within the body, and not always with notable consequences. If it reaches the brain, though, it can cause a stroke.

3. Insulin Health

Underlying diabetes refers to people who have diabetes but haven’t had it officially diagnosed yet. Retinal imaging devices help doctors find what other doctors may have missed. This disorder, which is often associated with the risks of going blind, is best managed when it’s caught at the beginning. The earlier your eye doctor can see the retinal damage, the better your odds are of remaining healthy over the longer course of treatment.

Eye Exams in Riverdale, NJ

At Riverdale Vision Care, our staff is here to treat the whole person, not just their eyes. Whether you’re concerned about double vision or you’re just due for a regular checkup, we want to be a part of how you care for this vital organ. If you want to learn more about eye exams as a way to catch larger health problems before they have the chance to spiral out of control, schedule us today.

 

The Effects of Normal Aging on Your Vision   

/0 Comments/in /by

As we age, we may find our vision becoming less clear than it once was, or it may seem we need more lighting to perform close-up tasks such as sewing or reading. This is completely normal, with around 75% of people experiencing these same types of symptoms. Your vision care specialist in Riverdale, NJ, can help you find solutions to age-related vision problems such as these.

How Normal Aging Changes Vision

Many vision changes happen as a result of aging. You may find yourself having difficulty recognizing the difference between similar colors, such as where one starts and the other ends. You may also have a hard time reading or doing other close-up activities in dim lighting. Trouble focusing the eyes is extremely common as well.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, there’s a good chance they’re caused, at least in part, by getting older. If you’re over the age of 40, you are at risk of vision-related changes. Accordingly, you should schedule regular appointments with your local vision specialist to ensure the most is being done about your vision. If you’re 60 or older, at least once a year is ideal.

What to Do About Vision Changes Caused By Normal Aging

Your eye doctor can examine your eyes to determine the best solutions to any problems you’re experiencing with your vision. Products such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or LASIK eye surgery may ‌help. It’s important to take care of your vision as you get older, because you’ll need it to perform daily tasks, such as driving, reading, and writing. Also, some vision problems may have painful symptoms, such as headache or red, itchy eyes, that impact your quality of life. You’ll want to have any painful or uncomfortable symptoms resolved right away.

And if your recent vision problems are only symptoms of something more serious, seeing your eye doctor is the first step in getting an early diagnosis and receiving intervention.

Book an Eye Appointment in Riverdale, NJ

You shouldn’t have to live with the inability to see clearly, regardless of age. Eyesight is extremely important, and maintaining it should always be a priority. At Riverdale Vision Care your vision is important to us. If you are experiencing age-related vision changes in Riverdale, NJ, call our experienced and friendly representative to schedule an eye exam, or visit our website for more information.

 

Working Remotely? Protect Your Vision at Home

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Spending more time at home working remotely? If so, you are definitely part of a growing population. As of 2022, there were roughly 4.7 million people who were working remotely at least part of the time in the U.S. As great as it can be to hang out at home and fulfill your workplace duties, the added screen time can be a challenge for your vision. In fact, a lot of remote workers seek dry eye treatment in Riverdale, NJ because of too much screen time. Take a look at some ways you can protect your vision while working from home.

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

After working for 20 minutes using a screen, focus your eyes on something at least 20 feet away for around 20 seconds. The 20-20-20 rule gives your eyes a break. When spending a lot of time focused on a task, it is easy to stay glued to a screen right in front of you for so long that it becomes hard on your eyes.

2. Keep Your Lighting Right

The best lighting when you are working at a computer is natural lighting. So be sure to open up your curtains and allow some sunlight to stream into the room. Avoid working for long hours at a screen in the dark.

3. Adjust the Font Size on Your Screen

Pay attention to how your eyes feel as you work. If you recognize that you are squinting or your eyes feel more tired than usual, adjust the font size on your screen. This helps you focus on something larger instead of tiny font, which can be easier on tired eyes.

4. Negate Blue Light Exposure When You Can

A lot of modern computers, laptops, and even phones have a blue screen filter you can use to adjust the lighting being emitted from the screen. Blue light exposure may lead to permanent vision changes, so reduce exposure as much as possible.

Visit a Riverdale, NJ Eye Doctor for an Exam

If your eyes are feeling the strain after working from home, it may be time to visit a Riverdale, NJ eye doctor for an exam. Reach out to us at Riverdale Vision Care to schedule an appointment.

3 Reasons to Remove Your Contacts Before Showering or Bathing

/0 Comments/in , /by

When you want to break free from everyday eyeglasses, contact lenses in Riverdale, NJ make sense for a lot of patients. However, when you opt for contact lenses, you also have to be mindful of proper use. Removing your contacts before showering or bathing is one rule to always follow. Take a look at some of the most important reasons to remove your contacts before showering or bathing.

1. Showering with contacts heightens risks of infection

Even though the contact lenses are in your eye, it is still possible for water to splash into your eye and get trapped behind the lens. Unfortunately, bathing water can be laden with bacteria and microbes. This can leave bacteria in close contact with your eyes for long periods, which can leave you at risk of developing an infection.

2. Showering with contacts may cause contacts to warp

Exposure to high levels of heat is always something to watch out for when you are a contact lens wearer. The material the contacts are made from can warp with excessive heat exposure, even when you have the contacts in your eyes. This not only damages the lenses, but it can also make the lenses harder to remove or lead to an injury.

3. Showering with contacts could cause lenses to stick to your eye

One of the more problematic situations that can arise due to bathing or showering with contacts is the lens getting stuck to your eye. This can occur for a few reasons, such as warpage or getting bathing products in your eyes. If a contact lens gets stuck, you may be at risk of scratching your cornea while trying to remove the trapped lens.

Talk to a Riverdale Eye Doctor About Contact Care

After a brief adjustment and following advice from a Riverdale, NJ eye doctor, contact lenses can truly be a beneficial change. Be sure to follow the guidance of your optometrist when you initially get your new lenses. If you would like to know more about contact lenses or contact lens care, reach out to us at Riverdale Vision Care to schedule an appointment.

3 Rules to Follow with Eye Makeup to Protect Your Eyes

/0 Comments/in /by

From mascara and eyeliner to false eyelashes and eyeshadow, all the ways we make our eyes pop are a lot of fun to experiment with. Unfortunately, using the wrong techniques and products could mean everything from dry eye problems in Riverdale, NJ to problems with eye irritation, infections, and more. Take a look at some simple rules to follow with your eye makeup to ensure you don’t put your visual health at risk.

1. Only buy products from reputable brands

When you buy eye makeup, opt for products from brands that have a reputable reputation. Don’t go through third-party sellers with what appears to be name-brand makeup for really low prices. In recent years, several counterfeit makeup products have been found to contain everything from carcinogens to arsenic and lead. You definitely don’t want these agents hanging out around your eyes.

2. Watch out for irritating ingredients

While makeup that does come from reputable producers must contain ingredients that are safe to use, you do still have to be mindful of irritants that may be specific to you. For example, some people find that their eyes are more sensitive to eyeliner that is waterproof. This may lead to issues with dry eyes, chalazion, and other problems.

3. Always wash off your makeup before going to sleep

Even though this is a tip that most people know, a lot of people do neglect to properly clean off their eye makeup before going to bed. When you are asleep, you may rub your eyes with your hands or get makeup in your eyes. Plus, cleaning off the products before bed gives your eyes a break from any irritants that may be in the cosmetics you use. Use warm, soapy water or an eye-safe makeup cleanser to remove all of the makeup from your eyes and eyelashes before bed.

Talk to a Riverdale, NJ Eye Doctor About Vision Protection

Whether you have experienced an issue with eye makeup you use on a regular basis or you just need advice about what products are safe to use, a Riverdale, NJ eye doctor can help. Reach out to us at the Riverdale Vision Center to schedule an appointment and keep your visual health in check.

How to Recover From UV Damage 

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Photokeratitis is a temporary but painful eye condition caused by overexposure to UV radiation. UV radiation is emitted by the sun, which is why sunglasses are recommended by youreye doctor in Riverdale, NJ. Your eyes can be overexposed to UV radiation from other sources, too, such as tanning beds and the use of UV lights in the home or garden area.

Symptoms of Photokeratitis

Symptoms of overexposure to UV radiation are impossible to miss. You may not realize that your eyes are being overexposed to UV radiation, but the symptoms will be very apparent shortly afterward. Symptoms include:

  • Painful eyes
  • Scratchy eyes; “sandy” sensation
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Seeing halos
  • Low vision or partial loss of vision
  • Teary, watery eyes

You may have multiple symptoms, depending upon the severity of the overexposure.

How to Recover From UV Radiation

Although photokeratitis is painful and scary, it is usually temporary. You can expect symptoms to abate from between six and 24 hours later. By 48 hours, all symptoms should have disappeared. To aid in recovery and help with the discomfort, do the following:

  • Take an over-the-counter medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen for any associated pain and/or swelling
  • Remove any contact lenses. Do not wear eyeglasses
  • Lie down and keep your eyes closed
  • Place a cool, moist cloth over the closed eyes
  • Do not resume normal activities like driving, cooking, etc.
  • Do not use electronic devices
  • Do not watch TV

Preventing Photokeratitis in the Future

You can prevent this from reoccurring by practicing simple lifestyle habits. Wear sunglasses outdoors or invest in transition prescription eyeglasses. Get regulareye exams in Riverdale, NJ to help keep eyes healthy. Avoid the use of UV “grow lights” and antibacterial lights.

Dangers of UV Radiation

Photokeratitis is temporary, but you can suffer long-term effects from chronic overexposure to UV radiation. Consider how your eyes were overexposed and alter the behavior that got you there. Over time, UV radiation can lead to macular degeneration or permanent vision reduction.

If you have any special concerns or questions about photokeratitis or other eye conditions, or to book an appointment, please feel free to contact us today.

Happy 2022! Is It Time for Your Annual Eye Appointment?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

2022 is here! It’s time to make an eye appointment! There are many reasons why you should see an eye doctor in Riverdale NJ once per year. Knowing those reasons can help you take care of your eyes and prioritize your eye appointments! Here’s what you need to know about making your eye appointment for 2022.

Why You Should See the Eye Doctor Annually

There are many reasons why you should see the eye doctor annually! Whether you have glasses or not, you should be making appointments with your eye doctor once annually. Here’s why:

  • Your eyeglasses prescription may change. If you have prescription glasses, that prescription may change over time. As the prescription changes, you may need more powerful lenses to continue to function in school or out in the world.
  • If didn’t need eyeglasses before, you may need them now. Just because you didn’t need eyeglasses in the past doesn’t mean that you won’t ever need them. Your eyes will change with time. The only way that you can ensure that you’ve got the right tools for maintaining good vision is to see the eye doctor regularly.
  • Your eye doctor will check for eye diseases. Some eye diseases have no symptoms until vision loss occurs. The only way to detect these eye diseases is to see the eye doctor, who will be able to run tests to find out if you have one of these conditions.

Make Your Appointment a Routine

Lots of people forget to see the eye doctor because they forget when it’s time to make an appointment. If you start making your eye appointments in Riverdale NJ at the same time every year, you’re less likely to forget to make your appointment. Choose the same month to see the eye doctor, then make your first appointment.

What You Can Do to Take Care of Your Eyes in 2022

Wondering what else you can do to take care of your eyes in 2022? Wear sunglasses. Know the symptoms of an eye problem. And see your eye doctor at least once annually. Call today to make your appointment.

How Often Should My Little One See the Eye Doctor?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

How many times have you taken your little one to see the eye doctor? Children need to visit the eye doctor for a pediatric eye exam in Riverdale NJ on a regular basis, to ensure they have healthy eyes. If you’ve never taken your little one for an eye checkup, it may be time. Below, we’ve listed a schedule of times when you should bring your child to get their eyes checked.

Once Before Age 1

Take your child to the eye doctor for the first time when before they turn one year old. This eye checkup at a very young age can help catch eye conditions early. Some eye conditions are reversible if they’re treated as soon as possible, so don’t wait to see the specialist.

Again at Three Years Old

After your child goes to the eye doctor in Riverdale NJ for the first time at age one, take them to the eye doctor again when they’re around three years old. This will catch eye conditions that your child’s eye doctor couldn’t identify in the first exam, and will allow the eye doctor to check up on any conditions they may have identified in the first examination.

Before School

Even if your child isn’t diagnosed with any conditions during the first two eye exams, they should see the eye doctor again every year before school. Eye health is vitally important for success in school. Your child needs to be able to see so they can read, follow what’s happening in the classroom and beyond.

Remember that eye conditions and eye health can change over time. Even if your child’s eyes were healthy at the first two appointments, that can change. Going to the eye doctor will ensure that your child gets the help they need to be successful in school.

When You Notice Symptoms

Any time you notice symptoms that your child is having a problem with their vision, bring them to the eye doctor. Symptoms include:

  • Squinting to see distances or close up
  • Sits close to the TV
  • Headaches
  • Complains of blurry vision

Does your child need to see the eye doctor? Call today to make an appointment.