Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration

“I have a family history of macular degeneration.  Is there anything I can do to help keep this from happening to me?”

Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss, affecting more than 10 million Americans, and at present is considered an incurable eye disease.
Macular Degeneration is caused by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, the inside back layer of the eye that records the images we see and sends them via the optic nerve from the eye to the brain. The retina’s central portion, known as the macula, is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye, and it controls our ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces or colors, and see objects in fine detail.

Our diets include many processed foods that are lacking in the nutrients required to maximize macular pigment.  In addition, exposure to blue light from digital devices can contribute to macular disease and limit visual performance.

Recently a company has come out with a supplement that seems to be helping patients maintain a healthier macula.  Studies have shown that visual performance can be improved at any age following supplementation with a formulation that contains all three of macular pigment’s constituent nutrients.  MacuHealth with LMZ3 has been shown to appreciably improve visual performance and has also been shown to outperform alternative formulations.  We have started recommending this supplement to our at risk patients to help protect their macula from lifelong retinal injury, and reduce the risk of developing macular disease. 

We are now carrying this supplement in our office.  If you feel that you would like to try this, please call the office for an appointment with one of our eye doctors.

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SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY - PART 4

FINAL SOLAR ECLIPSE TIPS AND FACTS

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SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY - PART 3

HOW TO VIEW THE SOLAR ECLIPSE

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon blocks any part of the Sun. On Monday, August 21, 2017, a solar eclipse will be visible (weather permitting) across all of North America. The whole continent will experience a partial eclipse lasting 2 to 3 hours. Halfway through the event, anyone within a roughly 70-mile-wide path from Oregon to South Carolina (http://bit.ly/1xuYxSu) will experience a brief total eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face for up to 2 minutes 40 seconds, turning day into night and making visible the otherwise hidden solar corona — the Sun’s outer atmosphere — one of nature’s most awesome sights. Bright stars and planets will become visible as well. 

Looking directly at the Sun is unsafe except during the brief total phase of a solar eclipse (“totality”), when the Moon entirely blocks the Sun’s bright face, which will happen only within the narrow path of totality (http://bit.ly/1xuYxSu). 

The only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses” (example shown at left) or hand-held solar viewers. Homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the Sun. To date four manufacturers have certified that their eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard for such products: Rainbow Symphony, American Paper Optics (A Memphis Company), Thousand Oaks Optical, and TSE 17.

 • Always inspect your solar filter before use; if scratched or damaged, discard it. Read and follow any instructions printed on or packaged with the filter. Always supervise children using solar filters. 

• Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up at the bright Sun. After glancing at the Sun, turn away and remove your filter — do not remove it while looking at the Sun. 

• Do not look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device. Similarly, do not look at the Sun through a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while using your eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewer — the concentrated solar rays will damage the filter and enter your eye(s), causing serious injury. Seek expert advice from an astronomer before using a solar filter with a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device. 

• If you are within the path of totality (http://bit.ly/1xuYxSu), remove your solar filter only when the Moon completely covers the Sun’s bright face and it suddenly gets quite dark. Experience totality, then, as soon as the bright Sun begins to reappear, replace your solar viewer to glance at the remaining partial phases. 

An alternative method for safe viewing of the partially eclipsed Sun is pinhole projection. For example, cross the outstretched, slightly open fingers of one hand over the outstretched, slightly open fingers of the other. With your back to the Sun, look at your hands’ shadow on the ground. The little spaces between your fingers will project a grid of small images on the ground, showing the Sun as a crescent during the partial phases of the eclipse. 

A solar eclipse is one of nature’s grandest spectacles. By following these simple rules, you can safely enjoy the view and be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime. More information: 

eclipse.aas.org                  eclipse2017.nasa.gov

As a service to our patients, Memphis Family Vision will be sharing several articles about safely viewing the eclipse.  These articles come directly from the American Optometric Association, the leading authority on quality care and an advocate for our nation's health, representing more than 44,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.), optometric professionals and optometry students. While the doctors at Memphis Family Vision recommend never looking directly at the sun, they realize the excitement surrounding the eclipse and want patients to take the utmost care and caution when attempting to view this phenomenon.

SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY - PART 2

SOLAR ECLIPSE - SAFE VIEWING TIPS ARE YOU READY FOR THE SOLAR ECLIPSE ACROSS AMERICA? On Monday, August 21, 2017, all of the United States will have a solar eclipse. The moon will cover at least part of the sun for 2 to 3 hours. Halfway through, anyone within a narrow path from Oregon to South Carolina will experience a brief total eclipse. The moon will completely block the sun's bright face for up to 2 minutes 40 seconds. Day will turn into night, and (weather permitting) one of nature's most awesome sights will become visible: the sun's shimmering outer atmosphere, or corona. The American Optometric Association, in partnership with the American Astronomical Society, is providing detailed information so that you can safely view the eclipse. Here are four ways to safely view a solar eclipse:   Use approved solar eclipse viewers. The only safe way to view a partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as "eclipse glasses" or viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2 for safe viewing. Sunglasses, smoked glass, unfiltered telescopes or magnifiers, and polarizing filters are unsafe. If you can't find eclipse viewers, build a pinhole projector to watch the eclipse. Technique of the pros. Before looking at the sun, cover your eyes with the eclipse viewers while standing still. Glance at the sun, turn away and then remove your filter. Do not remove the filter while looking at the sun. Totality awesome. Only within the path of totality-and once the moon completely blocks the sun-can eclipse viewers safely be removed to view totality. Once the sun begins reappearing, however, viewers must be replaced.  Visit your doctor of optometry. If you should experience discomfort or vision problems following the eclipse, visit your local doctor of optometry for a comprehensive eye examination.    As a service to our patients, Memphis Family Vision will be sharing several articles about safely viewing the eclipse.  These articles come directly from the American Optometric Association, the leading authority on quality care and an advocate for our nation's health, representing more than 44,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.), optometric professionals and optometry students. While the doctors at Memphis Family Vision recommend never looking directly at the sun, they realize the excitement surrounding the eclipse and want patients to take the utmost care and caution when attempting to view this phenomenon.

SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY - PART 1

SOLAR ECLIPSE SAFETY

American Optometric Association Encourages Safe and Fun Viewing of August Eclipse

Memphis Family Vision Wants to Help You Take in the Stellar Moment

On August 21, a total solar eclipse will touch the U.S. mainland for the first time since 1979, following a path that crosses the country from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Tens of millions of people who live within a 70-mile radius of its cross-country track will witness the eclipse in totality (the sun completely blocked by the moon) while millions of others outside of it will enjoy a partial eclipse. The American Optometric Association (AOA) is urging Americans to view the eclipse with proper eye protection to avoid any temporary or permanent eye damage from the sun.

“The eclipse is a rare moment that the whole country is able to share,” said THE DOCS. “As America’s primary eye health and vision care experts, doctors of optometry are excited to help everyone enjoy it safely by protecting their eyes.”

To ensure spectators won’t miss the remarkable sight, the AOA is sharing a few tips for safe viewing:

·       Get centered and enjoy the view. Within the path of totality, you can safely witness the two or more minutes when the moon completely covers the sun with the naked eye. Otherwise, your eyes should always be protected by verified viewing tools. Never look directly at the sun without eye protection, even briefly. Visit eclipse.aas.org to access eclipse duration charts.

·       Know your duration. Outside of the path of totality, always use solar filters. O.D.s want to reinforce that the only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters or other ISO-certified filters, such as “eclipse glasses” or handheld solar viewers. The AOA encourages ordering solar eclipse glasses in advance and recommends referring to the American Astronomical Society’s (AAS) site for a list of manufacturers.

·       Be aware of harmful solar exposure. If you stare at the sun without protection, you may experience damage to your retina (the tissue at the back of your eye) called “solar retinopathy.” This damage can occur without any sensation of pain, since the retina does not have pain receptors. The injury can be temporary or permanent. Visit your local doctor of optometry immediately if an accident occurs.

·       Visit your doctor of optometry. Check in with the Doctors at Memphis Family Vision for information about safely viewing the eclipse. If you experience any problems with your eyes or vision after the eclipse, our office will be able to provide you with the medical care you need.

To access additional information and educational materials on the solar eclipse, visit aoa.org/2017eclipse.

As a service to our patients, Memphis Family Vision will be sharing several articles about safely viewing the eclipse.  These articles come directly from the American Optometric Association, the leading authority on quality care and an advocate for our nation's health, representing more than 44,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.), optometric professionals and optometry students. While the doctors at Memphis Family Vision recommend never looking directly at the sun, they realize the excitement surrounding the eclipse and want patients to take the utmost care and caution when attempting to view this phenomenon.

Blue Light Protection

Blue Light Protection

The average person today spends over 10 hours per day looking at a screen*.  This can be a computer screen, a cell phone, a tablet, an e-reader or other digital device.  Blue light rays emitted from these devices may cause eye strain, headaches, and even sleep disorders. 

Eyeglass lens companies are now producing a variety of blue-blocking lenses and lens coatings. These are available in both prescription and non-prescription eyewear under a variety of names, and with a variety of purposes.

Parents are starting to realize the value of blue-blocking lenses for their school age children and have started asking for this feature in their children’s eyewear.  Many are purchasing special glasses to keep at the home computer so that it is readily available.

People who wear blue-blocking lenses have reported**:

·         98.2% have noticed significant sleep improvement

·         99.1% have noticed that their eyes feel more “relaxed” indoors

·         65.1% have noticed a significant reduction in headaches and migraines.

Remember to ask your eye doctor about which type of blue-blocking lens will best suit your needs for viewing your computer and other digital devices, and protecting your eyes from blue light.

Sources:  

*Nielson survery reported by CNN, July '16

**Blue Tech wearer survey. Bluetechlenses.com

Summer Heat and Your Sunglasses

Summer Heat and Your Sunglasses

Driving presents a challenge to eyeglass wearers, specifically the need to switch to prescription sunglasses on a sunny summer day.  Purchasing a high quality sunglass lens, with a high quality anti-reflective coating, is just as important as having a premium eyeglass lens.  While driving, you will need to move your head a lot and focus on both the near objects on the dashboard, as well as the distant objects while driving.  You will also need every tool possible to avoid the sun’s glare and the danger it causes.

Many people leave their sunglasses in the car all of the time, as that is where they are most likely to be used.  This presents a unique challenge in warm climates, because many lens coatings can sometimes crack or peel when exposed to the harsh temperatures inside your car on a hot summer day.  At Memphis Family Vision, we urge our patients to take advantage of the highest quality lens coatings we offer, as they are less likely to crack or peel when exposed to the high heat inside your “oven on wheels.”

Paris Eyewear Fashions

Paris Eyewear Fashions

Click here to see closer images from the collage above.

What eyeglasses are fashion forward people wearing in Paris?

When our eye doctors visit "fashionable" places on their vacations, they always enjoy seeing what the optical boutiques are showcasing.  This summer, one of "The Docs" went to Paris, France and really enjoyed studying the optiques to see how our optical measured up to the highest fashion capital of the world.  Here is what he noted are trends that every optique promoted:

• Heavy frames made from zyl (plastic)
• Round frames in all sizes
• Wood frames
• Matte tortoise
• Tortoise mixes with color, especially turquoise
• Visible pins on the front of the frames
• Classic 1950's looks
• Combinations of zyl, metal, wood combined together
• Lots of color with layers of color
• Fabric covered frames like denim and velvet

Some very notable brands that were showcased in their windows, that we also carry, included:

• Barton Perreira
• Oliver Peoples
• LaFont
• Alain Mikli
• Michael Kors
• Ray-Ban
• Oakley

When he got home and took stock of our optical to see how we could become more like the Parisian Optiques that he studied, The Doc discovered that our optical managers have stocked our Memphis optiques with the latest fashions and trends that are all over Paris!  So you don't have to hop on a plane to acquire stylish eyewear, just go to Memphis Family Vision or SEE Main Street and you will have plenty from which to chose!!

The Sweet Spot

The Sweet Spot

"I got my new glasses on-line and something doesn't seem right! I have eyestrain and blurred vision. What could be wrong with them?"

We have started noticing, especially when patients bring in eyewear they have purchased online, that many of the online retailers have much lower quality control standards and are shipping our patients eyewear that has the “sweet spot” in the wrong place.  We have noticed the following reasons this is occurring:

• The on-line laboratories grind the lenses in error. 
• Patients select a frame they like but it doesn’t fit their face properly.
• The eyewear is sent out of adjustment, as there is no live person to dispense the glasses.

Any of these factors can cause headaches, decreased visual acuity, and even dizziness.  It is then up to you, at your cost, to determine where the problem occurred and how the online retailer will make it right for you.

What is The Sweet Spot?

In sports “the sweet spot” is the place you know will take the ball where you want it to go.  In movies, it’s the best seat in the house where the surround sound and view will be at its best.  In a garden, it’s where your flowers always look the best. 

Did you know that eyeglasses also have a “sweet spot”?  This is known as the Optical Center of the lens and it needs to be positioned exactly where your eyes need it to have for the best vision possible from your glasses.

Many things must happen before your eyewear has the “sweet spot” in the right place:

• First, you and an optician, must pick a pair of eyeglasses that are compatible with the prescription lens that your doctor has ordered, and that properly fits your face. 

• Then, the optician measures your "pupillary distance" to the nearest millimeter.  If you are getting a multifocal lens, there is an additional measurement called a segment height that tells the lab exactly where your multifocal lens needs to be placed.

• Next, a high-quality, trusted lab will take the doctor’s orders and the optician’s measurements and create the lens that will provide the perfect “sweet spot” for your unique eyes.

• Finally, a lab technician checks in the eyewear to make sure the requirements have been met before you are called to receive your eyewear. Sometimes our tech rejects the lens if they do not meet our stringent requirements and asks for a remake before you even see the finished product.

• Once it passes inspection, you are given a call from our office and an optician makes sure the eyeglasses are adjusted to your face so that the Optical Center is exactly where it needs to be.

When you buy your eyewear at our optical boutique, all of the services required to make sure your Optical Center is in the right place are part of the total patient experience, so that you have the best vision out of the eyewear you order, and that the highest quality lenses are available for you to purchase.  Warranty services and adjustments are also available at no charge when you purchase eyewear from Memphis Family Vision or SEE Main Street.

Sports-Related Eye Injuries

Sports-Related Eye Injuries

Since September is Sports Eye Injury Prevention Awareness Month, THE DOCS wanted to answer some of your questions about eye injuries caused by participation in sporting events.

1.        My child will be participating in school sports this year.  Do we need to worry about eye injuries?

According to Liberty Sport, more than 600,000 eye injuries related to sports and recreation occur each year.  Of these injuries, 42,000 are of a severity that requires Emergency Room attention.  The highest rate of injury occurs in children between the ages of 5 to 14.  The doctors at Memphis Family Vision & SEE Main Street strongly recommend that patients participating in athletic events wear protective eyewear.

2.        If I wear glasses on a regular basis, will that prevent an eye injury?

Actually, sports participants that wear corrective eyewear or sunwear are at a higher risk of eye injury than participants using no eye protection at all.  The lens could pop out and cut the eye, or the frame itself could cause injury.

3.       What should I look for when purchasing sports eyewear?

The frame you buy should be labeled as protective eyewear for sports use, such as Rec Specs.   The lenses should be polycarbonate lenses at least 2.0 mm thick.  You often see notification that the eyewear is certified ASTM F803 to maximize impact resistance. 

4.        Which sports have the highest risk of eye injury?

According to Liberty Sport, the following sports are considered a high-to-moderate risk of eye injury: Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse, Hockey, Tennis, Soccer, Volleyball, Water Polo, Football, Air Rifle, BB Gun, Paintball, Boxing, Martial Arts, Cricket, Squash, Racquetball, Fencing, Badminton, Fishing and Golf.  Please note the chart below that breaks down eye injuries by category and age.

5.       What about Contact Lenses as protection, since the cornea is covered by the lens?

No contact lens, whether hard or soft, can protect against an eye injury.  Impact to the eye can actually cause an increased chance for injury in contact lens wearers because the lens can dislodge or fold over.  Besides, many injuries are caused by blunt trauma, like being hit by a stick or a ball, which won’t be prevented by wearing a contact lens.

6.        If I wear a protective helmet or faceguard, won’t that protect against injury to the eye?

Fingers and sports equipment can still penetrate the opening of the facemask.  In addition, a helmet can be knocked off, which will leave you completely vulnerable to injury.

7.        If I get a minor eye injury, should I be worried?

Seemingly minor eye injuries can actually cause major problems.  You should check with your eye doctor if you or your child has an eye injury.  If the injury causes loss of vision, severe pain or tenderness, or a cut around the eye, you should seek medical attention.

Memphis Family Vision and SEE Main Street have a nice selection of protective sports eyewear, both prescription and non-prescription, in a variety of styles, shapes and colors.