Brush Optical
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Frequently Asked Eyecare Questions Paducah KY

FAQ

Eyeglasses FAQ

Q: Why do some frames cause a reaction on my skin?

A: There can be many reasons that your glasses may be causing a reaction, and it has to do with your own allergies and sensitivities. While some materials are hypo-allergenic, nickel can cause a reaction as can other materials based on your allergies.

Q: I have no vision problems, do I need to see an eye doctor?

A: Even though you may not be experiencing any eye issues. It’s important to schedule regular checkups to ensure you can catch any silent diseases that may not be showing any symptoms yet.

Q: Do I need bifocals?

A: The most common use for bifocals is presbyopia, which usually occurs in patients 40 or older. To truly determine your eyewear needs, schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye examination at Brush Optical.

Q: How can I stop night and computer glare?

A: This is a common problem that many have with their glasses. However, usually, this is easily corrected with anti-refractive lenses. However, you need an eye exam to determine the true cause of the glare problems.

Q: How often should I get a new pair of glasses?

A: This depends on you. If you like to switch out eyeglasses as an accessory, buy as many as you like. However, the only real need to change your glasses comes when they don’t meet your ocular needs any longer (too big, vision gets worse, etc.)

Q: Are transition lenses okay for sunglasses?

A: Transition lenses do block some of the light when you’re outside. However, they are not sufficient for driving as the sun-blocking tint keeps the lenses from transitioning. Real sunglasses should be used when your eyes will be in direct contact with the sun.

Q: What’s the difference between visible and invisible light?

A: This all has to do with the wavelength of the light rays. Visible light is light from the sun that you can see. However, there are also ultraviolet lights that are invisible to the human eye, yet can still cause severe eye damage.

Q: Why are my lenses thicker than normal?

A: Your prescription, measurements, and the size of the frames all determine the thickness of your lenses. Many times, it is possible to have the lenses thinned out or replaced with thinner ones. Talk to our staff about your options.

Q: Can I use no-line bifocals with smaller frames?

A: Yes. These are called progression lenses, which allow you to use smaller frames for the same lenses. The visual channel progresses as your perspective changes.

Q: Can sunglasses help night vision?

A: Yes. If you work outside or are exposed to the sun throughout the day, wearing sunglasses will help your eyes readapt when the sun goes down.

Q: Do regular glasses protect my eyes from the sun?

A: Slightly, however, it’s recommended to use proper sunglasses for complete protection whenever you’ll be exposed to the sun. Regular glasses are not sufficient to protect your eyes.

Contact Lenses FAQ

Q: Are contacts right for me? What kind do I need?

A: With advances in eye care, contacts are a solution for just about anyone that needs to correct a vision problem. The type of contact lenses that you need will depend on your specific vision problems that must be diagnosed by a certified optometrist.

Q: What’s involved in a contact lens exam?

A: A contact lens exam will seem much like a regular eye exam. However, some measurements and tests may be performed to determine specific needs such as astigmatism correction.

Q: Should I get a yearly contact lens exam?

A: You should get a yearly exam if you wear contact lenses. Everyday wear can cause wear and tear on the eye that must be looked at. Additionally, vision can change, which would lead to a new prescription.

Q: Can I swim with contacts?

A: It’s smart to NOT swim with your contact lenses in for two reasons: 1. To prevent lens contamination; 2. To avoid losing a lens.

Q: Can kids wear contacts?

A: Children can tolerate contact lenses, but it depends on the child’s maturity level whether or not we would prescribe them.

Q: What If I wear my contacts for longer than I’m supposed to?

A: You may wear them without noticing any problems. However, it’s important to stick to the contact lens schedule decided on by your doctor.

Q: Can I wear my contacts at night?

A: Some types of lenses may be worn overnight, while others can not. Please contact your eye care physician for detailed information on this subject.

Pediatric Vision FAQ

Q: Is a school vision screening good enough?

A: School vision exams are only good for catching large, noticeable problems. It’s important to have yearly screenings to prevent problems that may not show signs or symptoms.

Q: How do you test children that cannot talk

A: There are many tests that we can use to test children that can’t talk. Advances in ocular medicine have cleared the way for modern techniques that help doctors identify problems early.

Q: My child is struggling in school. Is it their eyes?

A: While it may be their eyes, there are plenty of things that could affect your child’s school performance. If your child’s problems are reading or writing related, it’s smart to have him checked out by an eye doctor.

Q: My child’s vision is better than mine. Do they still need an exam?

A: Your bad vision isn’t a reason to neglect your child’s proper vision care. Get a yearly exam to ensure there are no underlying issues.

LASIK FAQ

Q: Am I a good candidate for Laser Vision Correction?

A: You must have a consultation with a local eye care professional to make this determination.

Q: How long does LASIK take?

A: The procedure is quick, about 15 minutes for both eyes.

Q: How Soon can I return to work?

A: Most people are able to return to work the day after the surgery.

Q: Will I still need glasses

A: The point of LASIK is to limit your dependence on glasses and contacts. However, it may be necessary to wear glasses for reading, driving, and other specific activities.

Q: Do I need to schedule follow-up visits?

A: Yes, there are multiple follow-up visits needed to ensure the success of the surgery.

Q: How soon can I drive after the surgery?

A: By law, you must have someone drive you home after the surgery. However, you may begin driving when you feel comfortable to do so or two days after surgery.

Q: Is anesthesia used during the surgery?

A: There is no anesthesia used during surgery; the patient is conscious throughout the procedure.

Q: Does the surgery hurt?

A: The surgery is painless and numbing drops are used to protect your eyes. However, some patients may feel a strange sensation for a few days after the surgery.

Q: Will they treat both eyes at the same time

A: Doctors can treat both eyes at the same time or one eye at a time. This depends on your specific situation and is decided upon by your physician.

Q: How do I control dry eye symptoms?

A: You must get annual eye exams and talk to your optometrist about our options.

Glaucoma FAQ

Q: What is Glaucoma?

A: Glaucoma is actually not just one disease. In fact, it’s a group of diseases that causes damage to the optic nerve. Those that suffer from glaucoma may suffer a wide range of symptoms, and it’s vital to have your eyes checked regularly. The different types of glaucoma include primary, open angle, closed angle, secondary and congenital.

Q: How is glaucoma detected

A: This is detected based on the specific test results from your eye exams. Many times, there are no symptoms, which is why it’s important to have your eyes checked regularly.

Q: How is glaucoma treated?

A: Glaucoma may be treated with medicine, laser surgery, or even traditional surgery, depending on your specific situation.

Q: Can glaucoma cause blindness

A: Yes, these are progressive diseases that can eventually cause complete blindness.

Q: What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?

A: Symptoms include loss of peripheral vision, inability to adjust to dark rooms, difficulty focusing on close work, rings or halos around the eye, and frequent prescription changes.

Q: Can Glaucoma be cured?

A: No. You must catch it early to minimize the damage that it will cause. There is no known cure for glaucoma.

Cataracts FAQ

Q: What is a cataract?

A: Cataracts are the clouding of the crystalline lens in your eyes, which obstructs vision.

Q: What are the symptoms of cataracts? How is it treated?

A: Cloudy or blurry vision, light sensitivity, faded colors, poor night vision, and double vision are all symptoms of cataracts. It may be treated with surgery. However, not everyone is a good candidate for surgery – check with your eye care physician.

Q: Is cataract surgery right for me?

A: This depends on your lifestyle. If the cataract is not diminishing your quality of life, you may not want the surgery. However, if it makes your life more difficult, and you’re a good candidate, it may be worth it to have the surgery.

Q: Is anesthesia used during the surgery?

A: There is no anesthesia used during surgery; the patient is conscious throughout the procedure.

Q: Does the surgery hurt?

A: The surgery is painless and numbing drops are used to protect your eyes. However, some patients may feel a strange sensation for a few days after the surgery.

Q: How soon can I drive after the surgery?

A: By law, you must have someone drive you home after the surgery. However, you may begin driving when you feel comfortable to do so or two days after surgery.

Dry Eye FAQ

Q: What is Dry Eye?

A: Dry Eye is the short term for Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca which is a condition in which the eyes feel chronically dry.

Q: How is dry eye treated?

A: Dry eye is treated in two ways. First, we must stimulate natural tear production, which is done by placing drops in the eyes for a period of 4 -6 weeks. Then, we must control inflammation with topical antibiotics.

Q: Are Watery Eyes a symptom?

A: Yes, chronically watering eyes can be a symptom.

Q: Can reading or watching TV cause dry eye?

A: Yes, heavy use of the eyes can cause dry eye to develop. It’s important to take breaks whenever reading or working at a computer for long periods of time. Many other things can also cause dry eye including hormonal changes, dust, pollen, tobacco, age, and more.

Q: What are the warning signs of dry eye?

A: See a doctor if you’re experiencing a gritty irritation or burning sensation in your eyes. Dry eye is detected with a comprehensive eye exam.

Q: What If dry eye goes untreated?

A: While this likely won’t cause blindness, the irritation will get worse and more frequent, developing into chronic conjunctivitis.

Q: How can I prevent or control dry eye?

A: The most effective way to do this is through regular eye exams and communication with your licensed eye care physician.