# Site: volunteereyecare.com # URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com # Generated: 2026-08-30 03:02:51 # Version: 1.2 # File Type: llms.txt # Total Pages: 361 --- ## Omega-3 Fatty Acids Can Help Alleviate Dry Eye Syndrome URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/omega-3-fatty-acids-can-help-alleviate-dry-eye-syndrome/ ST. LOUIS, Mo. (April 2, 2012) –  Even though spring weather brings warmer, humid air, millions of Americans still experience discomfort associated with dry eye syndrome.  Dry eye is a condition where the tears produced by the eyes lack sufficient moisture and lubrication, which is necessary to maintain good eye health and clear vision.  Tears not only wash away dust from the eyes, but also soothe the eyes, provide oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, as well as help defend against eye infections by removing bacteria. “People with dry eye can experience a variety of symptoms,” said Paul Karpecki, O.D.  “The frequency and severity varies but may include irritated or gritty eyes, redness, burning, a feeling that something is in your eyes, blurred vision and even excessive watering.” Dry eye syndrome can result when one or more of the eye’s layers fail to produce the right quantity or balance of tears.... --- ## Helping Infants to Establish a Lifetime of Healthy Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/helping-infants-to-establish-a-lifetime-of-healthy-vision/ Dr. Steven Elliott is a participant in InfantSEE.  Please take advantage of this program by having your baby’s eyes checked by an InfantSEE provider.  To find out more about the InfantSEE program or to learn more about the development of your baby’s eyes please visit: https://infantsee.org/ --- ## January Is National Glaucoma Awareness Month URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/january-is-national-glaucoma-awareness-month/ Sight Unseen: Glaucoma Takes Sight without Warning—How to Protect Yourself? What are you going to do differently this year? Take better care of yourself? Will you exercise more, eat healthier, or make an effort to see the doctor as often as you should? Finding time in your busy schedule to implement those well-intentioned resolutions often proves challenging. But don’t underestimate the importance of those doctor visits – and more specifically, visits to your eye doctor. A quick trip to your optometrist may not only be sight-saving but potentially life-saving. Optometrists can evaluate the health of your eyes and clarity of vision and they can also detect chronic and systemic diseases such as glaucoma, diabetes and even hypertension. You’ve probably heard of glaucoma, but many people don’t know how it can affect – and how quickly it can take – your eyesight.... --- ## Volunteer Eyecare Now Accepts Care Credit At All Locations URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/volunteer-eyecare-now-accepts-care-credit-at-all-locations/ The decision is clear. Putting off vision care postpones wellbeing. It doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you’re considering LASIK, need cataract surgery, or it’s simply time for new glasses or contacts, CareCredit can help you see  clearer, sooner . CareCredit is available for your entire family’s vision care. That means you don’t have to save up to finally get the vision that you and your loved ones deserve. Apply today  and  you’ll be seeing clearer in no time . --- ## Second Harvest Food Drive URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/second-harvest-food-drive/ The East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians (ETSOP) sponsored a Second Harvest Food Drive at Valley View United Methodist Church on Saturday, November 16th.  Sponsoring the event requires a monetary donation and participation to help distribute food.  Dr. Elliott (front row-second from left) and Dr. Connell (front row-far right) participated in the event and look forward to helping in the future. --- ## What is the Difference between Vision and Medical Insurance? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-the-difference-between-vision-and-medical-insurance/ Vision insurance covers routine eye care services such as periodic eye examinations and refractive services (determining the prescription.) Many vision plans will also offer benefits on materials. These benefits may take the form of an allowance toward materials and special services such as contact lens fittings and follow-up. These benefits may also take the form of covered and non-covered (“out-of-pocket”) items. Plans vary greatly and pre-approval is sometimes required. Without exception, this type of coverage is limited in scope and frequency of benefits. We are obligated to collect all out-of-pocket expenses at time of service. Medical insurance, on the other hand, covers medical eye care services such as eye emergencies and diseases, and evaluation and management visits of diseases or suspected diseases. Often, diagnostic tests such as digital imaging and visual field evaluations are covered as well.... --- ## Vision is the Priceless Sports Enhancer - Protect It Well URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/vision-is-the-priceless-sports-enhancer-protect-it-well/ Vision, just like speed and strength, is an important ingredient in how well you play your sport. Vision correction is a part of one's sporting equipment. As performance goes, it's as important as wearing the right clothing or wearing the right shoes. It's another way to enhance the game. Proper eye protection and correction can mean the difference between a successful season and a tragic one. In fact, reports show that about 30% of eye injuries among children under 16 are sports related. Children are especially susceptible to eye injuries because of their underdeveloped depth perception, fearless style of play, and athletic immaturity. Eye injuries from sports include blindness, scratches on the cornea, bleeding in the eye, traumatic cataract (cloudy lens), swollen retina, inflamed iris, and fracture of the eye socket.... --- ## The Difference Between High Quality Frames and Cheap Ones is More Than Their Price URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-difference-between-high-quality-frames-and-cheap-ones-is-more-than-their-price/ You have tried on several frames of varying prices and styles... but for some reason on in particular stands out. It feels more balanced. The finish seems more polished and smooth. It just looks better. As you try on frames your instincts tell you that one frame stands out in quality over another. But why is that? What goes on before that frame reaches your face that makes all the difference? The fact is that not all ophthalmic frames are created equal. Much of the cost of a new frame, especially new styles and materials, are in the research and development it takes to bring a new frame to market. As a medical device, in order for a frame to feel good, look great, and protect your eyes, the style must go through a multitude of tests and steps to comply with heavily regulated legal and safety standards. Materials vary greatly in both quality and cost.... --- ## Six Steps to Healthier Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/six-steps-to-healthier-eyes/ When you are making your New Year Resolutions, don't forget to include these six steps to healthier eyes: 1. Get Regular Eye Health and Vision Examinations. Tired, dry, itchy or watery eyes, light sensitivity, headaches, blurry vision, fluctuating vision, and increased spots and floaters can all be apparent symptoms that your eyes need to be examined. However, some symptoms of eye diseases such as glaucoma can actually go unnoticed in early stages when they are more successfully treated. The eye ages just before the rest of the body does, so the condition of eye health, especially in the tiny vessels and nerves inside the eye, can give clues to overall health as well. 2. Eat Right. Eating an unrefined, non-processed diet of fresh vegetables and fruits can lead to better eye health and slow the onset of some diseases such as macular degeneration, an irreversible degenerative disease of the retina.... --- ## Digital surfacing relies on a controlled combination of lens design, precisely made molds, and manufacturing technology to create the perfect lens. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/digital-surfacing-relies-on-a-controlled-combination-of-lens-design-precisely-made-molds-and-manufacturing-technology-to-create-the-perfect-lens/ Digital lenses use a new design process for lenses which take into account reading posture, near zone placement, binocular vision, and sharper central focus. Today, a computer program calculates all of these factors into a lens that gives you best vision in all areas you look through. Advanced fitting systems also take into account head tilt, eye rotation and movement, and dominate eye. Digital lenses use new manufacturing processes that allow an unlimited number of shapes and curves that can be produced on the surface of the lens. The tool used in this process is much more accurate and controlled, leading to a more precise lens surface. In the past, lenses were ground out on the back to the right distance prescription in multi-step process, known as "traditional" surfacing. Digital surfacing relies on a controlled combination of lens design, precisely made molds, and manufacturing technology to create the perfect lens.... --- ## New "Power of 3x" Rebate on Popular Products - Crizal, Transitions, Varilux and Xperio UV Polarized URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/new-power-of-3x-rebate-on-popular-products-crizal-transitions-varilux-and-xperio-uv-polarized/ oday a new rebate is available from the maker of the popular Crizal, Transitions, Varilux and Xperio UV brands of ophthalmic lens products. You may have seen the commercials on TV promoting these lenses. From now until the end of September, you can get a $10 rebate for each of three brands - Crizal, Transitions, and Varilux that you get on your primary eyewear for a total of $30. When you add Xperio UV Polarized lenses to your second pair, the rebates triple, enabling you to get up to $90 when you purchase all the products. The polarized pair must be on the same receipt as the first pair. Crizal lenses are non-glare lenses that stay cleaner longer because they include layers that resist scratches, smudges and dust. The lenses look great because they eliminate unsightly reflections on the surface of the lenses. Best of all, you will see great because Crizal lenses increase the clarity of lenses, especially at night, by reducing glare and reflections.... --- ## It's Time for Back to School Eye Exams URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/its-time-for-back-to-school-eye-exams/ Appointments are filling fast for back to school eye examinations as parents get ready for students to return to school. Eye health and vision examinations are an important part of school preparations because some studies show that as much as 80% of effective learning is the result of good vision. Good vision helps in the classroom, with reading, and activities such as sports. Good vision can also improve self esteem as the world around your student is as clear and accessible as possible. According to the Vision Council, as many as 25% of students have an undetected vision problem. While vision screenings have their place, nothing replaces a thorough eye health and vision examination to keep your student performing at their best. --- ## Sports Safety Prevents Vision Loss URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/sports-safety-prevents-vision-loss/ Basketball is one the most eye injury prone sports in this country with close to 6,000 people suffering from injuries every year according to Prevent Blindness America. In fact, 1 in 10 college basketball players will sustain an eye injury. For children 14 years and younger, air and spring guns are the biggest culprit and among older children and adults, water sports eye injuries rank second. Eye injuries from any sport can include infection, corneal abrasions, blunt trauma, inflamed iris, fracture of the eye socket, swollen or detached retinas, or even a traumatic cataract. In some cases, a significant eye injury can cause permanent vision loss. · Most eye injuries can be avoided by wearing proper eye protection. Sports protective eyewear should be labeled as ASTM F803 approved: · Make sure the lenses either stay in place or pop outward in the event of an accident. Lenses that pop in against the eyes can be very dangerous. · Fogging of the lenses can be a problem.... --- ## The FDA Warns About Improper Contact Lens Wear URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-fda-warns-about-improper-contact-lens-wear/ Eye Safety this Halloween FDA joins eye care professionals—including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists and the American Optometric Association—in discouraging consumers from using decorative contact lenses. These experts warn that buying any kind of contact lenses without an examination and a prescription from an eye care professional can cause serious eye disorders and infections, which may lead to permanent vision loss. Despite the fact that it’s illegal to sell decorative contact lenses without a valid prescription, FDA says the lenses are sold on the Internet and in retail shops and salons—particularly around Halloween. The decorative lenses make the wearer’s eyes appear to glow in the dark, create the illusion of vertical “cat eyes,” or change the wearer’s eye color.... --- ## Use It or Lose It URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/use-it-or-lose-it/ This is the time of year we start getting busier as patients hurry to use their flex spending accounts. Contact lenses, eyeglasses, and eye exams are a great way to use those benefits that, in some cases, expire at the end of the year. Also, many patients who have met their medical deductible for the year are using their insurance for preventive care such as eye examinations. Medicare is an example of an insurance that will cover your eye examination for the medical portion of your visit. The refraction ("which is better 1 or 2") or vision part of the visit is not covered by Medicare. Make your appointment early and beat the rush! --- ## New Years Eye Health Resolutions URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/new-years-eye-health-resolutions/ Many people use the new year as a time to set new goals and refocus priorities. As your eye doctor, we couldn't wish for better resolutions than a year of safe and healthy vision. Try adding these to your plan for 2016: Replace and care for contact lenses as prescribed and make it a point to go to all office visits and exams Wear safety goggles when working around the house and while playing sports - that is when most eye injuries occur Eat a diet rich in antioxidants (green, leafy vegetables for sure) that studies have shown may prevent and reduce the effects of retinal disease Have an eye health and vision examination every year to ensure that your eyes are healthy and you are seeing your best - many eye diseases begin without noticeable symptoms but are much more successfully treated if diagnosed early #newyearsresolution --- ## Costa Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/costa-sunglasses/ We are excited to announce that we now have a large selection of Costa Sunglasses in stock at our Volunteer Eyecare North location. These sunglasses are unmatched when it comes to providing clear, comfortable vision for fishing or any outdoor activity. Costa lenses are available in glass for extreme clarity or polycarbonate for extreme protection and clarity. Costa sunglasses are the choice for all activities that take place on or around water due to the reduction in glare and ultraviolet protection provided by their 400 or 580 lenses. Stop in to try a pair on or bring your prescription to us to be custom fitted for your next pair of prescription sunglasses. --- ## Relief From the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/relief-symptoms-seasonal-allergies/ One of the side effects of the beautiful explosion of color known as Spring is itchy, red, watery eyes from seasonal allergies. According to the  American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology , seasonal allergies develop when the body becomes sensitized and overreacts to something in the environment. By their estimates, as many as 50 million people suffer from it. In the spring it is hard to get away from the allergens causing the reactions, but there are some treatment options available in both prescription and over the counter. Antihistamines  reduce allergic reactions by blocking the attachment of histamine to cells in the body that produce an allergic response. Decongestants  shrink swollen nasal passages for easier breathing and reduce the size of blood vessels on the white (sclera) of the eye to relieve red eyes. Mast cell stabilizers  cause changes in mast cells that prevent them from releasing histamine and related mediators of allergic reactions.... --- ## Do children really need sunglasses? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/do-children-really-need-sunglasses/ ### According to most eye doctors and researchers, the answer is an emphatic " yes ."  Because children tend to spend more time outdoors than most adults, experts say nearly half of a person's lifetime exposure to ultraviolet radiation can take place by age 18. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and blue light (also called high-energy visible, or HEV, light) from sunlight appear to increase the risk of multiple age-related eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Researchers say the more exposure you've had to the sun's harmful UV and HEV rays during your lifetime, the more at risk you may be for these sight-threatening conditions. Children are even more susceptible to damage to the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye from UV rays because the lens inside a child's eye is less capable of blocking UV than an adult lens, enabling more of this harmful radiation to penetrate deep into the eye.... --- ## Summer can be Dangerous for Adults over 60 URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/summer-can-be-dangerous-for-adults-over-60/ Most of us look forward to summer but hot weather can be dangerous, particularly to adults over 60. A University of Chicago Medical Center study found that 40% of heat-related fatalities in the U.S. were among people over 65. There are several reasons why boomers and seniors are more vulnerable to heat stroke and heat exhaustion and even heat-related deaths. • As we age, we lose the ability to notice changes in our body temperature. • Health conditions that may come with age can also make it more difficult for older adults to adapt to heat. • Some medications can contribute to dehydration. • Keeping cool in summer is essential. Follow these tips: • Drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty. • Avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages contribute to dehydration. • Wear Appropriate Clothes like light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat.... --- ## Five Features of Children's Sunwear that are Musts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/five-features-of-childrens-sunwear-that-are-musts/ In addition to having lenses that block 100 percent of the sun's UVA and UVB rays and a significant amount of potentially harmful blue light, children's sunglasses should also have these features: 1. Impact-resistant lenses. The best lenses for children's sunglasses are made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate lenses  are up to 10 times more impact-resistant than standard plastic lenses for superior eye protection during  sports  and other play. Polycarbonate lenses also are lighter than glass or standard plastic lenses for greater wearing comfort. 2. Large, close-fitting frame. For the best protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays and to keep dust and other debris from getting in your child's eyes, a relatively large yet close-fitting frame is the best design for children's sunglasses. 3. "Unbreakable" frame material. Look for children's sunglasses that have flexible frames to avoid breakage and potential eye or facial injury from a frame that snaps upon impact. 4. Spring hinges.... --- ## Your Children's Vision and Success in School URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/your-childrens-vision-and-success-in-school/ ### Early eye examinations are crucial to make sure children have normal, healthy vision so they can perform better at schoolwork or play. Students may give up on their classwork rather than admit they can’t see what their teacher is writing on the board.  This seemingly simple issue can become a significant barrier to learning and may contribute to further problems, being labeled as a bad student and possibly leading to school dropout. Studies have shown that children who are in correctional facilities have a 30% higher rate of need of vision correction.  Is there a possibility that some of these children may have been in challenging vision situations in school and just had difficulties learning due to their vision needs? Early eye examinations are crucial to make sure children have normal, healthy vision so they can perform better at schoolwork or play.... --- ## School and Sports Have Tremendous Visual Demands URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/school-and-sports-have-tremendous-visual-demands/ The school year is almost here! As kids prepare to work their brains, keep in mind that being a student also places great demand on their eyes. Time for an Eye Exam It’s always a good idea to have your student’s eyes checked at the start of a new school year. As much as 75% of learning is visually-based and students with undiagnosed vision problems often have issues with academic performance. Tips for Student Athletes It seems apparent that most sports require good vision for peak performance. There are an estimated 42,000 sports-related eye injuries each year and almost half of those occur in children younger than 15 years old.  Proper eyewear protection is critical for many sporting activities, especially those using a ball and involving physical contact. Too Much Computer Time Today’s students are staring at screens most of the day.... --- ## Add an Eye Exam to your Back to School Checklist URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/add-an-eye-exam-to-your-back-to-school-checklist/ Back-to-school time is upon us and while many students’ lists include backpacks, rulers, and new shoes, there’s one more thing parents need on their back-to-school checklist – a comprehensive eye health and vision exam for their student. ### Studies show that as much as 75% of all learning comes through vision. Other studies show that a significant amount of vision problems go undetected in children leading to struggles in school and sports. Vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, are the most common and most identifiable types. However, a comprehensive and thorough eye exam can also find health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and eye problems such as glaucoma and lazy eye. Besides parents, teachers are also in a position to identify vision problems in the classroom. Headaches, burning eyes, double vision, squinting, and rubbing eyes are some of the signs of vision problems.... --- ## Fall Sports Concussions URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/fall-sports-concussions/ ### It’s Football Season Again! Football season opens more discussions about concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) but they are not isolated to football – soccer and field hockey are also sports with risks for head injuries.  In fact, cheerleaders have the fifth most frequency of concussions of all sports! TBI’s are defined as a blow or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Seventy percent of all sensory information comes through the eyes.  When a person suffers a TBI the brain and eyes no longer process information together.  Post-concussion vision syndrome is real and your eye doctor is in the best position to be able to identify and treat those who have suffered the injury. Proper precautions to keep kids safe have definitely improved over the years:  awareness and ability to recognize the symptoms; as well as keeping the child off the field for precautionary reasons is something that we see more often now.... --- ## Keeping an “Eye” on your Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/keeping-an-eye-on-your-eyes/ Healthy eyes are an important part of your overall health plan.  There are many things you can do to keep them healthy and make sure you are seeing your best.  Follow these simple steps as you age: • Have a comprehensive dilated eye exam . Your vision may seem fine to you but the only way to make sure your eyes are healthy is to be seen on a regular basis by your eye doctor.  Having a dilated exam allows your eye doctor to see the entire interior of your eyes for early detection of common eye diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD.)  Most of these eye diseases have no warning signs and early detection is critical to successfully administer treatment and save vision. • Know your family’s eye health history . This is especially true of parents.  Many eye diseases are hereditary and you would be at higher risk if your parents also had eye diseases such as glaucoma. • Eat healthy . Carrots aren’t the only healthy food for your eyes.... --- ## Do you have Dry Eye Syndrome? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/do-you-have-dry-eye-syndrome/ In the U.S. there are between 20-30 million dry eye sufferers. Unfortunately only about 5% of those have been diagnosed with the disease and treated. Millions of people are unaware that there is a solution to their discomfort. Dry Eye Syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the natural protein content of the tears is not high enough. There is a simple test that the doctor can perform to determine if the disease is present and what course of treatment is recommended. Treatment may include supplements, drops, tear duct occlusion, environmental changes, or a combination of options. Some facts about dry eye: • Because of the way we live today with computers, pollution, and lighting, it is hard to tell if the symptoms are serious or are just a result of our environment. • Dry eye is a progressive disease so it is important to know if you really have it. It can affect your vision and your overall eye health.... --- ## Are you considering LASIK? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/are-you-considering-lasik/ ### Are you considering LASIK? Here are a few of the questions to ask during your appointment: • Is my prescription within the approved range?   LASIK is approved by the FDA to treat certain degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness and certain types and degrees of astigmatism. • Am I the right age for it? Eyes and visual acuity fluctuate to about age 25, during pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause, and after age 40-45 (when presbyopia and other aging eye changes may begin). • Have my eyes been relatively stable? • Are my current work, family life, and sports and recreation choices compatible with LASIK? • What results can I reasonably expect? What might be the best and worst case scenarios? • If LASIK results do not meet our goals, what might be involved in retreatment? • About how long does it take for eyes to recover and adjust after LASIK? What kinds of adjustments at work or home might I need to make during this time?... --- ## Top 5 Holiday Eye Safety Tips URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/top-5-holiday-eye-safety-tips/ 1. Sharp-Edged Toys As gifts are opened Christmas morning, take the time to check for any sharp/pointy edges. Eye injuries often occur on Christmas Day when excited children play with new toys. 2. Mistletoe Collisions The mistletoe is meant to be a surprise, but sometimes it's a bit too much of one right in the eye! Tall guys and gals out there need to keep an eye out for that unexpected mistletoe hanging. 3. Christmas Lights Christmas lights can break or older styles could even explode. The glass is extremely thin and small shards pose another eye safety risk. Use caution when untangling strands. 4. Christmas Tree Branches Even something as innocent as watering the tree or adjusting an ornament can result in eye injury since tree branches often come dangerously close to eyes during these activities. Pay attention to tree branches and make sure they avoid contact with your eyes. 5.... --- ## Medically Necessary vs Elective Contact Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/medically-necessary-vs-elective-contact-lenses/ With good communication between us and your vision insurance carriers, we can often get vision plan benefits to apply to medically necessary contact lenses. Elective contact lenses for cosmetic purposes are often covered as well. It all starts will all of us being on the same page about the expected outcome and necessity of them. ### Elective Contact Lenses When an individual requires vision correction, he or she often misinterprets a prescription as a medical necessity:   “I have poor vision, and my eye doctor wrote the prescription for contact lenses, which improves my vision.  So, my contact lenses are medically necessary.”  Unfortunately, this is not quite right. In most instances, an individual can receive vision correction through eyeglasses, contact lenses, or sometimes laser surgery.  However, eyeglasses are considered the professional standard of care, providing an agreeable and cost-effective treatment.  The other two options are elective and considered cosmetic.... --- ## Eyeglasses vs Contacts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eyeglasses-vs-contacts/ ## “Eyeglasses? No thanks, I wear contact lenses” #### Your eyecare professional will guide you through the decision process but the best vision solution for your eyes often includes both eyeglasses plus contact lenses. Choosing to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses for vision correction is not an “either or” question. Lifestyle, comfort, convenience, budget, and aesthetics should all factor into your decision-making process. Keep in mind that one is not necessarily better than the other; each has its pros and cons in terms of vision, ease of use, and eye health. Using them in combination is always the best solution. Eyeglasses offer many benefits over contact lenses. They require less cleaning and maintenance and you don't need to touch your eyes to wear them - decreasing your risk for eye infections. Glasses also can act as an extension of your personality and make a great fashion statement! Contact lenses have many advantages over glasses.... --- ## Learn to Love Your Glasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/learn-to-love-your-glasses/ There may have been a time when glasses were considered “nerdy” or “geeky” but today “geek is chic” and bold eyewear that make a statement are in style. Best of all, glasses can enhance your appearance as well as your sight. If you are embarrassed of your eyewear, here are some reasons why you should learn to love your glasses: #### Fashion Accessory It can be fun picking out the perfect shoes, handbags, earrings, belts, and ties, but wearing glasses gives you another way to accessorize. You get to choose the color, style, and size frame you want. Picking the right pair can enhance your natural features and look - or stand out and make a statement. #### Good Vision People take the power of glasses for granted. You’re able to strengthen one of your five senses simply by putting corrective lenses in front of you. Straining to read can not only cause headaches and neck pain, it can distort your facial features as you squint or tilt your head to focus.... --- ## Colored Contact Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/colored-contact-lenses/ ### All contact lenses, whether they correct vision or not, require a prescription and proper fitting from an eye doctor If you have ever wished that your eyes were a different color or that you could give them a different “look,” you might understand why decorative contact lenses appeal to some people. Costume Play (CosPlay) is a very popular today and actors quite often want to change their eye color based on their target appearance. There are many names for contact lenses that are used to change the appearance of the eyes, including cosmetic, theatrical, Halloween, circle, decorative, costume, or colored contact lenses. These types of lenses may also be used to correct vision. Whether they correct vision or not, all contact lenses require a prescription and proper care to lower the risk of eye infections and other complications. ### All contact lenses require a prescription All contact lenses are medical devices that are regulated by the U.S. government.... --- ## Getting High Performance from your Eyewear URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/getting-high-performance-from-your-eyewear/ Interest in high performance sunglasses has been booming in recent years.  There is a growing selection of products available to address vision challenges unique to sports such as mountain biking, skiing, golfing and many other outdoor activities.  Providing safety and being able to get the best vision in a quickly changing environment is equally important. Sunglasses are a critical part of your overall vision solution and high performance lenses are available to improve your vision for everyday use.  The best visual acuity requires the use of sophisticated digitally-manufactured lenses.  Digital lenses are available in most lens types including single vision and no-line bifocal choices. If you appreciate the sharpness of the picture you get with a high definition television, you will appreciate the benefits you get in digital ophthalmic lenses.... --- ## Safe at Home URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/safe-at-home/ Nearly Half of all Eye Injuries in this Country Happen at Home Home is where we feel safe, comfortable, and at ease but is also the setting for nearly half of all eye injuries. From flying wood chips to weed whacker debris to even an errant champagne cork, our eye safety is at risk at home. Imagine a homeowner who returns from the hardware store with the proper tools to do the job, but has forgotten to pick up a pair of protective glasses. Reluctant to return to the store or postpone the project, he or she forges on with the work — and risks injury. Family members — especially children — are more likely to take an interest in home improvement projects. In some cases, the parent performing the work may be protected but a child standing nearby at a lower height actually is closer to the action than the person operating the equipment.... --- ## Protecting Your Eyes at Play URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protecting-your-eyes-at-play/ In sports, we take precautions to protect ourselves from broken bones, bruises, concussions, and other injuries, but how do we protect our eyes? An unprotected eye can be injured in numerous ways and nearly all sports pose some type of risk: • Baseball – Risks include a wild pitch, a thrown bat, or a pop-up ball lost in the glare of the sun. Players should wear sport eyewear with polycarbonate lenses or sport eye goggles. • Basketball –Risks include flying elbows and fingers and off-thrown basketballs.  Players should safety-approved eye goggles • Soccer – Risks include a wayward elbow, ball, or foot. • Football – Like other contact sports, players should wear eye guards and a full face guard to prevent injury. • Hockey – Risks include sticks, pucks, and flailing arms and legs and players should be equipped with a full mask to prevent eye and other facial injuries.... --- ## Contact Lenses That Enhance Sports Performance URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/contact-lenses-that-enhance-sports-performance/ #### Many athletes choose  contact lenses  because of the competitive advantage they can provide. More than half of American adults have vision problems such as  nearsightedness ,  farsightedness ,  and astigmatism  and need corrective lenses. Eyeglasses should be your first choice of vision correction but even if you've worn contact lenses in the past and found they weren't that comfortable after a long day, you could try them part-time for sports and recreation. ### Advantages of Contact Lenses for Sports Compared with eyeglasses, contact lenses offer a number of advantages to enhance your vision for sports competition: • Better peripheral vision.  Though  sports eyeglasses  can be made with large, wraparound-style lenses, most prescription eyeglasses have small, relatively flat lenses and small frames. This significantly limits  peripheral vision  essential for many sports. • Unobstructed field of view.... --- ## Protect Your Most Cherished Sense URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protect-your-most-cherished-sense/ For most of us, the eyes are the most cherished of our senses. Yet we potentially expose them to danger simply by going outside. Over time, the sun’s rays can seriously damage the eyes and surrounding skin, sometimes leading to vision loss and conditions from cataracts and macular degeneration to eye and eyelid cancers. However, simple daily protective strategies will help keep our eyes and the sensitive skin around them healthy.  Ultraviolet A and Ultraviolet B light:  Ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB), powerful, invisible rays with wavelengths shorter than visible light, are the most dangerous parts of sunlight. They can cause cataracts, eyelid cancers and other skin cancers   and are believed to play a part in macular degeneration, a major cause of vision loss for people over age 60. In addition, UV rays can prematurely wrinkle and age the skin around the eyes.... --- ## Choosing Sunglasses for Children URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/choosing-sunglasses-for-children/ Children usually get more sun exposure than adults because many of their activities are outdoors including recess, sports and playtime. This increased exposure to sunlight also increases children’s exposure to damaging ultraviolet (UV) light – an invisible, radiation emitted by the sun. Children’s eyes cannot filter UV light and prevent it from reaching their retinas as effectively as adults because the lenses in their eyes are not developed well enough yet to filter out a lot of those damaging rays. As a result, children are exposed to more UV light and susceptible to retinal damage if they are not adequately protected Two of the most important features parents should look for when purchasing sunglasses for their children are comfort and a style because if the child doesn’t like them, they won’t wear them.... --- ## Protective and Sports Sunwear URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protective-and-sports-sunwear/ If you play sports, you should keep two things in mind related to your vision: protection and vision performance. Sports lenses protect the wearer’s eyes. Sports such as tennis, baseball, softball and racquetball may have ball speeds of 90 mph or more. In baseball alone, there are over 500,000 injuries per year! Most eye injuries occur in basketball where an elbow or a finger jabbed into the eye can cause corneal abrasions, fractured bones, retinal detachments or even blindness. Polycarbonate lenses are more resistant to impact than glass or plastic and offer protection for 90% of eye injuries. Protective eyewear fits well, features a padded bridge, has prescription or non-prescription lenses, and has a deep-grooved eye wire to prevent the lenses from falling out. Insist on quality when buying sports eye protection – it is worth it. Specialized lenses can also optimize your vision. Depending on your sport, certain lenses are more appropriate than others.... --- ## Good Vision for School Students URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/good-vision-for-school-students/ Good Vision….Important for a Successful School Year for Students Parents everywhere are racing to get the entire back to school checklist completed; school supplies, new clothes, bigger shoes and physical exams at the Pediatrician.  Eye exams need to be worked in right at the top of that list.  Good vision is a fundamental necessity to being able to learn in school. Too often parents rely on a screening that was done as part of a well-child check or in a school setting.  In fact, this screening is not a substitute for a full comprehensive eye exam.  While screenings can be very good at detecting nearsightedness or myopia (inability for a child to see clearly in the distance) they can miss farsightedness or hyperopia (inability to focus at near), astigmatism, lazy eye, and other eye teaming and ocular health related issues.... --- ## First Aid Tips for Eye Injuries URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/first-aid-tips-for-eye-injuries/ Even a minor eye injury can cause serious, lifelong eye damage. Bleeding in the eye caused by an eye injury may lead to glaucoma later in life. Eye injuries can cause loss of vision or complete loss of an eye. Eye injuries can happen at any time anywhere. Children in school, athletes at play, and do it yourselfers at home are all at risk for vision-threatening eye injuries. ## If you get a speck in your eye: • DO NOT RUB your eye • DO NOT use tweezers or other sharp implements to remove it • Flush the eye with large amounts of clean water • See your eye doctor to make sure there are no debris left or secondary injuries ## Cuts, punctures, or foreign objects in the eye: • DO NOT WASH out the eye • DO NOT TRY TO REMOVE a foreign object stuck in the eye • Seek immediate medical attention • Try to avoid rubbing the eye ## Blows to the Eye: • Seek immediate medical attention ## Chemical Burns • Immediately flush the eye with cool, clean water • Open the... --- ## Are Contact Lenses a Good Choice for Kids? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/are-contact-lenses-a-good-choice-for-kids/ A common question many parents have is: "When is my child old enough to wear contact lenses?"  Contact lenses can offer several benefits over other forms of vision correction for kids but how do you know the timing is right? Physically, your child's eyes can tolerate contact lenses at a very young age. In fact, some babies are fitted with contact lenses due to eye conditions present at birth. In a recent study that involved fitting nearsighted children ages 8-11 with one-day disposable contact lenses, 90% had no trouble applying or removing the contacts without assistance from their parents. A Matter of Maturity The important question to ask yourself is whether your child is mature enough to insert, remove, and take care of their contact lenses. How they handle other responsibilities at home will give you a clue.... --- ## Flex Your Dollars URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/flex-your-dollars/ ### FLEX YOUR DOLLARS, LOVE YOUR EYES: 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS “Tis the season to be jolly” and tax-savvy as well.  As the year end approaches, it’s time to remember your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and put it to good use. What better way to use your FSA than protecting your precious vision. Did you know that Flexible Spending Account covered items include Rx sunglasses, eye exams, and even colored contact lenses? So find our about your FSA—and then snag those stylish eyeglasses you’ve been wanting (or even turn your brown eyes blue.) WHAT is a Flexible Spending Account? Established by the US government, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is a tax-free financial account that can be set up through your employer to help pay for out-of-pocket medical and health-related expenses. You can set aside up to $2,600 annually in your FSA, which is deducted incrementally from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis.... --- ## LASIK surgery: Is it right for you? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/lasik-surgery-is-it-right-for-you/ LASIK eye surgery may mean freedom from dependence on corrective lenses - but it's not right for everybody. Learn whether you're a good candidate and what to consider as you weigh your decision. LASIK is a type of refractive eye surgery that uses an advanced laser system to reshape the cornea and bend light into the proper place for good vison.  There are several variations of laser refractive surgery. LASIK is the best known and most commonly performed. Most people who have laser-assisted eye surgery achieve 20/25 vision or better, which works well for most activities. But most people still eventually need glasses for driving at night or reading as they get older. LASIK surgery has a good track record. Complications that result in a loss of vision are rare and most people are satisfied with the results. Certain side effects, particularly dry eyes and temporary visual disturbances, are fairly common.... --- ## 7 Visionary New Year’s Resolutions URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-visionary-new-years-resolutions/ Happy New Year! As we ring in a fresh, new year, it’s human nature to consider ways to improve our life experience. These can range from the simple ( Drink more water ) to the complex ( Raise funds for a passion project ) to the philosophical ( Bark less, wag more ). Better health is often on the agenda; eyesight is a critical component of that. As eye care professionals, we offer six simple, effective ways to ensure your eye health in 2018:   • 1.     Know Your Family’s Eye Health History Knowledge is power! Many eye diseases and conditions including age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy have a genetic component and tend to run in families. Familiarize yourself with your family’s eye health history and share it with your eye doctor so you can catch any potential signs of disease early, when treatments are most effective. • 2.     Follow Proper Contact Lens Protocol Remember the first time you tried contact lenses?... --- ## February: Low Vision Awareness Month URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/february-low-vision-awareness-month/ The National Eye Institute has designated February as Low Vision Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about visual impairment and rehabilitation for those living with the condition. An estimated 3 million Americans age 40 and older are living with low vision, which can greatly impact their functionality, productivity and general enjoyment of life. What is Low Vision? Low vision is defined as having 20/70 vision or poorer in the “better eye” with maximum correction. The diagnosis often means that a person must live with blurred vision, tunnel vision or blind spots. Following are the definitions of visual acuity, according to the World Health Organization. These ratings are for vision in the better eye with the best possible prescription corrective lens: 20/30 to 20/60: Mild vision loss, but near-normal vision 20/70 to 20/160: Moderate low vision 20/200 to 20/400: Severe low vision 20/500 to 20/1,000: Profound visual impairment Less than 20/1,000: Near-total... --- ## Optic Neuropathy: Do You Know the Signs? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/optic-neuropathy-know-signs/ Brain Awareness Week is March 12-18, 2018, a time when the National Eye Institute focuses on brain neuropathy and how it impacts vision—because without the complex function of our brains working in conjunction with our eyes, we couldn’t see. The optic nerve is the pathway that relays all visual information from the retina to your brain, including brightness, color and contrast so that we can make sense of our world visually. When something goes wrong with the optic nerve, our vision is impacted. The term “optic neuropathy” is what we call damage to the optic nerve that affects our visual system. Nerve cells are very delicate and can be injured in a lot of different ways. Unfortunately, nerve cells don’t typically regenerate once they are significantly damaged, which means vision loss from optic neuropathy could be permanent. Optic neuropathy has various causes, each with different symptoms.... --- ## Do Your Glasses Work and Play as Hard as You Do? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/glasses-work-play-hard/ If you’re like most Americans, you or your kids may be involved in multiple sports and have specific safety gear and helmets that you use when skiing, playing football or riding your bicycle. Similarly, you likely have specific footwear for those same activities. Given how important your vision is, it also makes sense to have a specific pair of glasses to enhance the activities you enjoy, especially since improved vision during those activities can enhance your performance. Eyewear can be customized for specific tasks, from working on a computer to playing sports including tennis, football and basketball, to working in a setting such as a construction site or warehouse. The importance of the highest quality eyewear in each of these settings cannot be underestimated. Here are a few examples of how your eye doctor can help customize glasses for the specific tasks during which you need the highest possible visual acuity. Don’t see your activity listed below?... --- ## Retinal Detachment: Are You at Risk? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/retinal-detachment-are-you-at-risk/ We explored the critical role the retina plays in maintaining healthy vision in our previous blog post and offered lifestyle adjustments that promote retinal health for you and your family. Here’s a brief recap: eat lots of orange veggies (carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, peaches) in addition to those leafy greens (kale, broccoli, spinach), protect your eyes from UV rays every day, and exercise regularly. While these changes can support overall retinal health, there are still serious potential problems that can impact the retina and therefore your vision. Retinal detachment is one of them. What is a Retinal Detachment? The retina is a delicate layer of tissue in the back of the eye that communicates with the optic nerve to provide visual signals to the brain. When the retina becomes detached from the wall of the eye, it is separated from its normal position and can suffer from a loss of blood flow leading to tissue death.... --- ## 4 Ways to Safeguard Your Retinal Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/4-ways-to-safeguard-your-retinal-health/ ### 4 Ways to Safeguard Your Retinal Health The eye is second only to the human brain in complexity, performing its work with precision nearly continuously during all of our waking hours. In fact, your eyes are more efficient than the fastest camera. Try this: glance quickly around the room, focusing on a variety of different objects at varying distances as fast as you can. Think a camera can do that? It can’t: it would take up to a second for the camera to focus on each object. Pretty cool, right? Comparing the eye to a camera can help us understand how it functions. In this comparison, the cornea acts as a lens, responsible for focus and taking the light entering the eye and bending it through the pupil. The pupil and iris work together like a camera’s aperture, opening wider in low light to let in more light, and constricting under bright conditions to let in less light.... --- ## Floaters URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/floaters/ Seeing Small, Shadowy Spots? You May Have Floaters You’re gazing up at the beautiful blue spring sky, and suddenly, you see them: small shadowy spots, squiggles, or trailing thread-like strands floating through your line of sight. As you try to focus on them, they seem to shift, elusively moving away. When you give up chasing them and refocus on the sky, they quickly reappear, slowly drifting across your field of vision once more. You’ve got floaters. What are floaters? To understand what you’re seeing, let’s review eye anatomy, specifically the vitreous body. This portion of the eye is between the lens at the front of the eye and the retina, which lays against the back wall of the eye. The vitreous is a clear, jelly-like substance that fills about 80 percent of the eye and helps it maintain its rounded shape. When we are born, the vitreous has a gel-like consistency.... --- ## Reduce Your Risk of Computer Vision Syndrome URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/reduce-your-risk-of-computer-vision-syndrome/ 8 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Computer Vision Syndrome With just about everything in the world accessible at the touch of a screen, our techy lifestyles keep us constantly connected. But for many of us, all that screen time comes at a price: We suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome, also referred to as “digital eye strain.” What is Computer Vision Syndrome? Like carpal tunnel syndrome but affecting the eyes, Computer Vision Syndrome is a repetitive motion injury. Watching a video, reading a screen of text, or looking up and down between papers on your desk and your screen requires significant effort from your eye muscles. As you engage with your screen, your eyes follow the same path over and over, adjusting again and again. The longer you spend behind the screen, the harder your eyes must work. When your eyes grow fatigued because of this repetitive motion, you may begin to experience symptoms such as eye pain, irritation, redness or dryness.... --- ## My Cataract Experience Part 1 URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/my-cataract-experience-part-1/ ### Patient Testimonial Part 1: My Cataract Experience June is National Cataract Awareness Month, so it’s the ideal time to learn more about this condition, which is a leading cause of vision impairment in the United States. Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens that affects vision, causing blurred vision, glare sensitivity, faded color perception and reduced night vision. The condition may make it seem like you’re looking through a cloudy piece of glass. Cataracts, a common age-related eye disorder, impact more than half of Americans by age 80. Fortunately, the vision deterioration caused by cataracts can be surgically corrected. One of our patients recently underwent cataract surgery. We thought it would be interesting to track her journey from blurry, cataract vision to sharp, corrected vision. The patient has given permission for her story to be written. She’s a 78-year-old woman in good overall health.... --- ## Cataract Surgery and Recovery Part 2 URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/cataract-surgery-and-recovery-part-2/ ### Patient Testimonial Part 2: Cataract Surgery and Recovery Do you or someone you know suffer from cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens that can negatively impact your vision? By age 80, more than 50% of Americans notice deteriorating vision due to cataracts. When the condition advances to the point of interfering with daily activities such as reading, driving or working, surgery is warranted. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common operations performed in the U.S.; about 90% of patients report improved vision after the procedure. Continuing our observance of National Cataract Awareness month, we’re following the story of a patient of ours who recently had surgery to correct her cataracts. We interviewed her before and after. The patient gave us her permission to write about her experience. She’s a 78-year-old woman in good overall health. Be sure to read our previous blog about her experience leading up to the cataract surgery.... --- ## 7 Questions About Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-questions-about-sunglasses/ July is UV Safety Month, and while we are huge proponents of applying SPF 30 (or higher) on our skin before going outside in the sun, the primary focus in our office is the importance of protecting your eyes from damaging UV rays. It’s common knowledge that staying too long in the sun without protection on your skin causes a sunburn. But are you also aware that the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can cause serious damage to your eyes? While the eyes can get sunburned (a condition called photokeratitis), it’s the cumulative UV exposure that often causes problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration or even eyelid cancer or cancer of the skin around the eyes. Both the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can burn your eyes as well as your skin. So how do you protect your eyes from the long-term, irreversible damage that UV rays cause?... --- ## Scratched Cornea? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/scratched-cornea/ ### Scratched Cornea? What to Do―and What Not to Do July is Eye Injury Prevention Month, which makes it the perfect time to highlight one of the most common eye injuries, corneal abrasions. #### What are Corneal Abrasions? If you’ve ever scratched your cornea (the front surface of the eye that focuses light so you can see clearly), there’s no doubt you’ll know it: The cornea is full of nerve endings ready to alert your brain as soon as something foreign enters your eye, so even a tiny corneal abrasion can be extremely painful. If you’ve ever had an eyelash fall into your eye, you know how intense sensations in your eyes can be—that tiny intruder feels like a giant branch poking you in the eye. But unlike a rogue eyelash, corneal abrasions involve actual damage to the surface of the eye, which means the pain is there until the scratch heals.... --- ## School Vision Screening URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/school-vision-screening/ ### Is a School Vision Screening “Good Enough” for Your Student? It’s August! Where did the summer go? In just a few short weeks your kids will be heading back to school in a flurry of photos and emotions as you watch them start the new school year. You want them to learn as much as possible, so consider this: With 80% of learning tied to vision, is your student starting the semester with all the tools necessary to have the best school year ever? Each year, most schools provide a vision screening for students. The goal of such screenings is to identify students with undetected vision problems. However, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA), these screenings can’t be relied on to provide the high level of results that a comprehensive eye exam by your optometrist does. Why school vision screenings aren’t enough to safeguard your student’s vision So, what do school vision screenings test for?... --- ## Attention Parents: Amblyopia Treatment URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/attention-parents-amblyopia-treatment/ ### Attention Parents: Earlier is Better for Amblyopia Treatment What is Amblyopia? As the leading cause of visual impairment among children, amblyopia affects approximately 2 to 3 of every 100 children. The condition occurs when vision in one eye is reduced; though the eye may appear normal, the eye and the brain are not working together properly. Rather than taking the images from both the left and right eyes and combining them to make a 3-D image, the brain favors one eye’s image over the other. Over time, this scenario can lead to reduced vision in the weaker eye, which can cause amblyopic individuals to be slower with close-up tasks such as reading or computer work. Additionally, using one eye instead of two diminishes the field of vision and reduces depth perception, leading to frequent tripping or bumping into things. What causes Lazy Eye? Sometimes called lazy eye, amblyopia has two primary causes. 1. Strabismic amblyopia is the most common version of lazy eye.... --- ## Digital Eye Strain - Students URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/digital-eye-strain-students/ ### Is Your Student at Risk for Digital Eye Strain and Fatigue? With an ever-increasing amount of technology in schools, back-to-school season can mean more screen time, and that puts kids at risk for digital eye strain and fatigue. What is Digital Eye Strain? From the moment we wake up until our heads hit the pillow, our eyes are hard at work, and that’s especially true of staring at digital devices. With the numerous screens that support our tech-centric lifestyles, it’s no wonder digital eye strain is on the rise. Also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, digital eye strain is a repetitive movement injury that stems specifically from the use of screens. Sufferers may experience eye soreness, tiredness, burning, watering, dryness, or itchiness. Eye strain can lead to light sensitivity, headaches, and difficulty focusing ― all of which can pose classroom challenges for kids. What causes Digital Eye Fatigue?... --- ## Prevent Pink Eye - Students URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/prevent-pink-eye-students/ ### Back to School Tip: Prevent Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Now that kids are back in school, they’re around lots of other kids--and lots of other kids’ germs. Viruses and bacteria are present on objects kids touch every day, including door handles, keyboards, tablets, railings, restroom facilities, desks, playground equipment, pencils and art supplies. When you consider how many times students touch these objects per day and that, on average, humans touch our faces hundreds of times per day, you can understand how viruses and bacteria quickly spread from student to student.  This means an increased risk of infectious diseases, including the most common eye infection in school-age children: conjunctivitis, also known as “pink eye.” What causes Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)? Conjunctivitis is a swelling or inflammation of the thin, transparent layer of eye tissue that covers the white part of the eye, known as the conjunctiva. The infection can affect one or both eyes.... --- ## Keep Your Eye on the Ball URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/keep-your-eye-on-the-ball/ ### Keep Your Eye on the Ball: Student Athletes Need Good Vision It’s Fall, and for a lot of kids, that means it’s prime sports-playing time. Whether you have a student athlete participating in soccer, tennis, football, basketball, softball, baseball or lacrosse — or any other action-packed sport — you know it’s essential to help your child take care of both body and mind as they train for the game. But how healthy are your child’s eyes? Visual fitness can make or break an athlete’s game. Student athletes need healthy eyes We all know 20/20 vision is synonymous with ideal visual acuity, but seeing clearly is just the beginning when it comes to how vision impacts an athlete’s performance on the court, field or pitch. Playing sports also requires visual skills including eye teaming, tracking, focusing and visualization. Collectively, these skills are known as “functional vision.... --- ## Protect Your Student Athlete URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protect-your-student-athlete/ ### Protect Your Student Athlete from Eye Injuries If you have children who play sports, it’s critical to protect their eyes from injury while on the court, field, mat or pitch. According to the National Eye Institute, there are approximately 100,000 sports-related eye injuries in the U.S. each year, with 33,000 of those involving children. Kids ages 11 to 14 are most likely to injure their eyes while playing sports, and such eye injuries are a leading cause of blindness in children. It’s easy to imagine how the eyes could be injured: ball speeds in tennis, softball, baseball and racquetball can reach 90 mph or more. If that fast-moving ball hits the delicate eye area, players can suffer injuries including retinal detachment, bone fractures or even blindness. Sports such as basketball, football and wrestling have a different component that can also be dangerous to the eyes.... --- ## Don’t Let Diabetes Steal Your Vision! URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dont-let-diabetes-steal-your-vision/ November is National Diabetes Month, and that means communities across the country are teaming up to raise awareness about the many ways diabetes impacts the lives of Americans. With diabetes causing more deaths per year than breast cancer and AIDS combined, raising awareness is crucial to connecting those at risk with resources to support them. WHO IS AT RISK FOR DIABETES? Most of us know that diabetes has to do with blood sugar and the sugar-processing hormone, insulin. Though the exact reason for diabetic insulin resistance or depletion is still unknown, it appears both genetics and environment factor into the equation. Those with a family history of diabetes generally have a higher risk of developing the disease. Additionally, specific ethnic populations seem to be at greater risk: the incidence of diabetes is higher among African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans than it is among Caucasians.... --- ## Dangers of Diabetic Retinopathy URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dangers-of-diabetic-retinopathy/ The Dangers of Diabetic Retinopathy More than 100 million Americans are living with diabetes. Over 84 million more have prediabetes. These statistics seem staggering, but so is the list of possible complications from diabetes. Individuals with diabetes face an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, nerve pain and damage, hearing impairment, kidney failure, and even Alzheimer’s ― and that’s not even a comprehensive list. As such a complex list of possible complications reflects, diabetes is a systemic condition, affecting numerous areas of the body at once. At its core, diabetes occurs when the body either becomes deficient in insulin or develops insulin resistance. Insulin is the sugar-processing hormone; without the right levels of insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. High levels of sugar in the bloodstream can damage nerves and blood vessels. The longer blood sugar levels are elevated, the worse the symptoms and complications get. WHAT IS DIABETIC RETINOPATHY?... --- ## Not seeing Red or Green This Season? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/not-seeing-red-or-green-this-season/ ### Not seeing Red or Green This Season? You May Be Color Vision Deficient For many of us, the holiday season includes festive displays of red and green. But for those with color blindness, the season takes on an entirely different hue. THREE TYPES OF COLOR BLINDNESS Color blindness affects one in every 12 men and one in every 200 women, but not all those who have it see things the same way. The human eye contains light-sensitive cells called photoreceptors; different photoreceptors help us see different colors. While some people truly cannot see any colors at all, most people who identify as colorblind can still see most colors. However, some of their photoreceptors don’t work properly, so they may struggle to distinguish between certain colors or hues. When individuals can see some colors but not all, “color blindness” is more accurately known as color deficiency. The three types of color vision deficiency are: 1.... --- ## New Year, New You: LASIK Vision Correction URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/new-year-new-you-lasik-vision-correction/ ### Is LASIK Laser Vision Correction Right for You in 2019? January is the perfect time to consider your goals for the coming year. Are you considering swapping glasses and contacts for LASIK? If you do, what benefits will you receive? To get answers, we interviewed a LASIK patient who underwent the elective eye surgery herself at age 29. Here’s what she shared. Q: Before LASIK, what vision challenges did you have, and what made you choose LASIK? A: I was 8 years old when I realized I couldn’t see as well as other kids in my class; glasses became part of my daily attire shortly thereafter. As a responsible eldest child, I was fortunate that my parents allowed me to start wearing contacts as early as sixth grade, but by the time I reached my late twenties, I had been wearing glasses and contacts for nearly two decades. Because I couldn’t function without vision correction and knew a lifetime of glasses and contacts was in my future, I decided enough was enough.... --- ## LASIK: One Patient’s Story URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/lasik-one-patients-story/ ### My LASIK Laser Vision Correction Experience: One Patient’s Story It’s hard to believe that LASIK laser vision correction has been around for nearly 30 years! Since so many of our patients are curious about LASIK, we interviewed a patient who underwent the procedure seven years ago at age 29. Here’s her first-hand account of the procedure: “My LASIK procedure took place in 2012. I might have done it earlier, but it wasn’t until my late twenties that my eyesight finally stabilized enough to consider the procedure. Once my vision stabilized and I realized LASIK was a possibility, I did a lot of research about what, exactly, I was signing up for. I learned the doctor would essentially reshape my cornea using a laser so that my eye could more accurately focus light, thus sharpening my vision.... --- ## AMD: What is it? Who’s at Risk? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/amd-what-is-it-whos-at-risk/ Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): What is it? Who’s at Risk? February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Awareness Month. As we age, there are increased risks that may cause us to lose visual acuity, which is a significant and noticeable loss since we rely on our eyes to sense about 80% of our surroundings. Low vision, as defined by the World Health Organization, is measured as having less than 20/70 vision in our “better eye” when wearing the highest possible vision correction. Low vision can be caused by a number of diseases and conditions, including retinitis pigmentosa, diabetic retinopathy, amblyopia, traumatic brain injury, cataracts that are inoperable, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. Let’s take a closer look at Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). What is AMD? The macula is the center of the retina—the light-sensitive membrane at the back of the eye that receives light images.... --- ## AMD: Who’s at Risk? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/amd-whos-at-risk/ Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Who’s at Risk? Bette Davis, the gorgeous American actress and star of film, television and screen in the 1930s through 1980s, is famously quoted as saying, “Old age ain’t for sissies.” Though we don’t know exactly what health concerns she faced in her final decade, her words ring true. Another popular actress, 84-year-old Judi Dench, is reportedly suffering from Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a progressive disease that impacts the center of the retina—which is called the macula—and causes patients to lose their sharp, central vision that plays such an important role in seeing faces of the people you’re speaking with or reading books, or in Dench’s case, movie scripts. She is reportedly coping with the problem by using large-print scripts and having someone read her lines to her. But AMD doesn’t only impact great actresses—it’s the most common cause of visual impairment in the U.S., affecting more than 9.... --- ## Protect Your Eyes, Inside and Out URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protect-your-eyes-inside-and-out/ March is Save Your Vision Month, a time to remember that we’re born with one pair of eyes to last our entire lives, and serious injuries can happen in an instant. With a focus on awareness and adopting a few simple best practices, you can protect your eyes for a lifetime. Protect Your Eyes from Injury Protecting your eyes—and the eyes of your loved ones—from injury is one of the most important actions you can take to maintain good vision. Up to 90% of eye injuries seen in doctor’s offices and emergency rooms could have been prevented by simply wearing protective safety glasses or goggles! Many people incorrectly believe that eye injuries are most common at work, such as in manufacturing settings or on construction sites, and aren’t on the lookout for eye dangers in our daily lives. But nearly half of all eye injuries take place at home, not at work. And 40% of those injuries occur while playing sports or engaging in other recreational activities.... --- ## Top 5 Features of Performance Eyewear URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/top-5-features-of-performance-eyewear/ If you wear glasses, you’re probably thankful that they help you see clearly. But what else can your glasses do for you? Some eyewear goes above and beyond the call of clear vision, supporting and protecting your eyes and vision in innovative ways. Today’s performance eyewear offers a wide array of features and benefits to help you see clearly and live fully every day of the year. Here are our five favorite features for frames and lenses that enhance and protect your vision: 1. Ultraviolet (UV) Protection One of the most basic and important ways glasses can help support your eyes is by providing UV protection. Without this feature, exposure to UV rays can put you at risk for potential eye problems both in the short term as well as the long run. Do you often spend days at the beach or on the water without proper UV protection for your eyes? Such exposure to UV rays can lead to corneal sunburn.... --- ## What Do Eyes Say About Health? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-do-eyes-say-about-health/ What do eyes say about health? Believe it or not, they say quite a bit. From stress to diabetes, abnormalities in your eyes and vision can show us a world of signs about our physical condition. Of course, don't try to figure out these things on your own. If you have any worries about your eye health, simply speak to your optometrist . But for the curious, we're breaking down some of the common flags that our eyes give us. Read on to learn more! ## Stress You might think of eye twitches as something you only see mad scientists do in movies, but they're actually much more common than it seems. Having an eye twitch can be quite annoying, but it's not the end of the world. Sometimes, you might just be too stressed. That's right. Most people do believe that eye twitches come from stress, and there's quite a bit of truth in this. If you think that's the case, avoid stress for as long as you can, and cut out caffeine. Over time, you should see your eyes relax.... --- ## Eye Allergies: What You Need to Know URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-allergies-what-you-need-to-know/ Did you know that over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year? And many of these people are stuck dealing with a dry, puffy mess called eye allergies. Starting in the Spring, eye allergies can often mean an itchy and red year for those who have to deal with them. If you're one of these people, you know how frustrating it is to deal with eye allergies. Eye drops, doctor visits, and sometimes even medication can take time and energy out of you. Knowing a bit more about the allergy, cures, and symptoms will give you an upper leg when you're trying to defeat your allergies this year. This article will tell you everything you need to know. Read on to learn more! ## Eye Allergy Symptoms For some, eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, don't start developing until later in life. This is because our immune systems eventually start to recognize a new substance, called an allergen, as harmful. Often, this is something simple like pollen or dust.... --- ## Help! What Are the Eye Allergy Symptoms? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-allergy-symptoms-what-are-they/ Are you stuck suffering with allergies? Eyes are one of the most common places we get allergies, but if you aren't sure what the symptoms are, you might be a bit lost when your eyes start to hurt. Not knowing might mean you accidentally try to treat the wrong eye issue. In fact, many people think that they are showing signs for pink eye when it's just their allergies are flaring. On the other hand, you don't want to brush off a serious eye issue as allergies and end up with long-term problems. That's why we're going to break down some of the top eye allergy symptoms here. Read on to learn more. ## 1. Red Eye Red eye is arguably the most obvious symptom of eye allergies. But here's the thing: red eyes can mean plenty of other things as well. Red eyes can come from pink eye, dry eye, injuries, and even more serious diseases. At the same time, it can sometimes be just that you haven't had enough sleep lately. So, don't assume the worst if you have red eyes.... --- ## Why Kids Need High-Quality Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-kids-need-high-quality-sunglasses/ Are you a safety- and health-conscious parent? You are if you teach your kids the importance of brushing their teeth, buckling their seatbelt, and wearing the proper protective equipment for sports including shin guards, helmets and knee pads. But are you overlooking how critical it is to protect kids’ developing eyes from the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun? UV radiation is an invisible spectrum of light that is present in our atmosphere 365 days a year and reaches the earth’s surface even on cloudy or overcast days. UV damage is cumulative—it builds over time--and irreversible. You’re probably also aware that kids spend more time outside than adults do. Some studies estimate that up to 50% of lifetime UV exposure accumulates before age 18.... --- ## Why Do We Have Eye Allergies? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-do-we-have-eye-allergies/ Did you know that over half of all Americans have some kind of allergies? That means that even if you don't have them, you likely know plenty of people who have to deal with allergies each year, and you may even develop them later in life. Whether you have severe symptoms or just a small cough, allergies can get pretty annoying. Eye allergies are one of the more frustrating types of allergies to deal with during the Spring. Symptoms include dry, itchy eyes and redness. Unlike other allergies, it's also pretty easy for people to tell when you're dealing with eye allergies. While you're dealing with the itching and swelling, you might be wondering why you have these symptoms in the first place. After all, allergies seem to be one of the most common health issues in our society. If that's you, stick around. We're answering the question "Why do we have eye allergies" here. Read on to learn more! ## Why Do We Have Eye Allergies?... --- ## Optometry Myth Busters: Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/optometry-myth-busters-sunglasses/ ### Optometry Myth Busters: 6 Facts You Need to Know about Sunglasses Did you know that the first sunglasses were invented in 12 th century China? They weren’t quite as sophisticated as the styles you’ll see in our office, but they served their purpose: a cut piece of smoky quartz—a grayish rock that can be seen through--were held against the face to block the sun’s rays. Since then, sunglasses have made considerable strides in popularity, convenience and sun protection. But as our ability to protect our eyes from the damaging UV rays of the sun advances, there is often confusion about certain aspects of these important vision protecting devices. Here, we’ll bust 7 myths about sunglasses: 1. When it comes to sunglass lenses, the darker, the better. FALSE. Dark lenses may seem like they offer more sun protection than lighter lenses, but in fact, the opposite can be true. Since dark lenses block more sunlight, your pupil will dilate, opening wider to let in more light.... --- ## Eye Allergies vs. Pink Eye: What's the Difference? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-allergies-vs-pink-eye/ Eye allergies vs pink eye: how do you know which you are dealing with? If you've had either symptom, you might know that they are very similar to each other. There's plenty of overlap with the symptoms, and most people will likely get one or the other at some point in their lives. The way you deal with the symptoms is different though, and if you're trying to soothe pink eye with eye allergy cures, chances are you're going to have a hard time. That's why we're breaking down the main differences in this article. Read on to learn more! ## Eye Allergies vs. Pink Eye: Season Matters One of the more obvious ways to spot the difference between eye allergies and pink eye is to recognize what time of year it is. This won't give you all the answers you need, but it will give you a good start. Eye allergies are most common in the Spring and early Summer .... --- ## What Are the Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-wearing-sunglasses-2/ Are you ready for summer? Of course you are! For most people, summer means vacations, warm weather, and time off. But getting ready for summer also includes getting ready for the sun, and we're not talking about sunburns here. Along with sunscreen, you should also be wearing polarized sunglasses to help protect against the sun's damage to your eyes. This is one of the biggest benefits of wearing sunglasses, but there are a few more we'd like to break down in this article. Read on to learn more! ## 1. Sunglasses Protect Your Vision As you know, the most important thing about sunglasses is that they can protect your vision. Unfortunately, harmful UV rays can hurt your eyes if they are exposed to the sun, but with polarized sunglasses, you can keep that from happening. Look for glasses that block out UVA and UVB radiation. Most good brands of sunglasses will block 99 to 100 percent of radiation. ## 2.... --- ## 5 Advantages of Prescription Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-advantages-of-prescription-sunglasses/ If you wear prescription eyewear, have you ever experienced this scenario? For whatever reason, you don’t have contact lenses in. Maybe you don’t wear them, or if you do, maybe it’s allergy season, or you ran out of contacts or perhaps you just forgot. So, you’re wearing prescription glasses, and find yourself in an incredibly bright, sunny situation where the sun’s light is making you squint uncomfortably. You try holding your hand up over your eyes to get relief, but your arm gets tired. You silently wish you had a better solution, but since you don’t, you do the unthinkable: Put your regular sunglasses on “over” your prescription eyewear. It’s a bad idea, because not only are you risking scratching and stretching both your sunglasses and your prescription eyewear, but also wearing two pair of glasses simultaneously hurts the bridge of your nose and irritates the top of your ears.... --- ## How to Choose Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-choose-sunglasses-knoxville/ Sunglasses make up a $4 million dollar industry in the United States alone, which means we can assume that people are buying sunglasses all the time. But picking out your next pair of sunglasses can sometimes feel like a burden. Between all the options, knowing what looks best on you can be hard. Plus, you want to make sure the frames not only look great but also improve your life. If you're in this situation, look no further. In this article, we're breaking down everything you need to know how to choose sunglasses. Soon, you'll be an expert on choosing sunglasses. Read on to learn more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPck87upark ## 1. How to Choose Sunglasses: Face Shape Comes First Before you begin choosing sunglasses, you need to figure out what kind of face shape you have. While this might sound a bit trivial, it will help you narrow down what looks best to you. Once you've determined your face shape, figure out what types of frames match your face best.... --- ## Cataracts: What You Need to Know URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/cataracts-what-you-need-to-know/ Did you know that over half of all Americans have cataracts by the time they are 70? That's quite an astonishing amount of people dealing with them, and it means that it's likely that you will have cataracts one day as well. But how much do you know about this common disease? If your answer is "not much," then you're in the right place. In this article, we're breaking down what you need to know about cataracts. Let's get started. ## What Causes Cataracts? The reason that cataracts are usually considered an age-related disease is that the disease starts from wear and tear on the lens of our eyes. As we age, tissues and other materials around the eye begin to break down and clump together over the lens. As the lens breaks down, it becomes more difficult for light to pass through the eye, which can make it harder to see clearly. This can mean blurry vision for early developing cataracts.... --- ## What Causes Cataracts? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-causes-cataracts/ June is National Cataract Awareness Month, a common eye condition which is now a leading cause of vision loss in the United States for adults over the age of 40. It’s also a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Cataracts are a progressive cloudiness, yellowing and hardening of the typically transparent natural lens in the eye. About 50% of all Americans will either have a cataract or have had surgery to remove a cataract before the age of 80. There’s a good chance you know someone who has had the surgery―or might soon need it. The number one cause of cataracts is the number of birthdays you’ve celebrated. As we age, cataracts are more likely to form because of normal changes to the eye that begin around age 40. The proteins in the eye’s natural lens begin to break down, causing the lens to cloud. But it can take years to start noticing that cloudiness.... --- ## 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-frequently-asked-questions-about-cataracts/ What do you know about cataracts? If you said "not much," you're not alone. While plenty of people get cataracts each year, people who haven't had the disease might not have a good idea of what it can cause. Even those with cataracts might still have some questions about treatment and recovery. Whether you've had them or not, you're in the right place. In this article, we're answering some frequently asked questions about cataracts. Read on to learn more. ## Before Questions About Cataracts Before we get into the weeds with questions about cataracts, let's make sure to have a strong understanding of what cataracts are. In short, cataracts are an eye disease that causes clouding in your eyes. This can impact your vision and make it quite difficult to see. For more details on this, check out our last blog Cataracts: What You Need to Know . ## 1. Are Cataracts Common? One of the first questions you might have if you have cataracts is if they are common or not.... --- ## What are the Symptoms & Treatment for Cataracts? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-are-the-symptoms-treatment-for-cataracts/ June is Cataract Awareness Month, an ideal time to familiarize yourself with the causes, symptoms and treatment of one of the most common eye conditions affecting aging people worldwide. A cataract is a progressive change to the eye’s naturally clear and flexible lens, which gradually becomes cloudy, yellow and inflexible. There is not a cure for cataracts, but there is a very effective surgical treatment to correct the condition. Cataract Symptoms If you’re one of the 50% of the population who will have a cataract or cataract surgery by the age of 80, here are some of the visual changes you may experience with cataracts: • Blurry vision • Increased light sensitivity • Double vision (seeing two images instead of only one) • Color perception changes – for example, you may see a color as maroon, but it’s actually red or pink: The yellowing of the eye’s natural lens distorts the color you see.... --- ## 5 Fourth of July Eye Safety Tips URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-fourth-of-july-eye-safety-tips/ The Fourth of July is one of the most exciting times of the year, but for your eyes, it can also be one of the most dangerous! In this article, we're looking at a few ways that you can save your eyesight from the dangers of at-home fireworks. By the end of this article, you should have an idea of how to keep you and your family members safe. Read on to learn more about Fourth of July eye safety! ## 1. Wear Safety Glasses Safety glasses aren't expensive, and they can save your eyesight if the worst happens. Don't forget to buy these glasses when picking out your fireworks. Many fireworks stores will probably sell them anyway! If you're using sparklers, safety glasses aren't a necessity, but any large explosives mean that you'll need safety glasses. ## 2. Stay Away For those that aren't shooting off fireworks, it's best for them to stay away from the spot the fireworks would go off from.... --- ## UV Rays and Eyes: What You Need to Know URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/uv-rays-eyes-what-you-need-to-know/ Ah, summertime. Hours upon hours of fun, no school, and vacation. You're not the only one enjoying the longer days. The sun is also out for more hours each day, and while that means more time for your activities, a dangerous byproduct comes from this. This byproduct is called UV rays. You've likely heard about them when talking about skin, but they can also pose a risk to your eyes. In this article, we'll let you know what UV rays are and how you can protect yourself against them. Read on to learn more about UV rays and eyes. ## What Are They? Before we get into the details of the impact of UV rays on your eyes, it might help to understand what UV rays are. For the most part, UV rays come from the sun, but artificial light sources like tanning beds can also produce UV rays. UV rays are stronger depending on the time of year and location. There are three different types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.... --- ## How Do I Protect Myself from UV Rays? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-do-i-protect-myself-from-uv-rays/ How much do you know about UV Rays? As you may know, UV rays can cause damage to your skin and hair. But did you know even your eyes are at risk to UV radiation? While damage likely won't occur immediately, long-term exposure can cause your eyes to lose their strength. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to protect your vision, skin, and hair from UV rays, and it doesn't take that much effort. Read on to learn a few quick and easy ways to protect yourself from UV rays. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2DvzZOqdIc ## Wear Sunscreen to Protect from UV Rays Wearing sunscreen is one of the best and fastest ways to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Especially with children, it's important to apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. In general, the best kind of sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher. Dermatologists suggest this as it blocks around 97 percent of UVB light. Keep in mind that sunscreen isn't just for the beach and avoiding sunburns.... --- ## What is Dry Eye Disease? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-dry-eye-disease/ You’ve likely heard of Dry Eye disease and the discomfort it can cause. But what is this condition, and who is most likely to suffer from it? Your eyes require tears to lubricate and nourish the cornea – the front surface of your eye. Tears serve many functions, including lubrication so that the eyelid can smoothly open and close, lowering your risk for eye infections, and washing away dirt or other foreign matter that gets into your eye. Your tear film is, therefore, a critical aspect of eye health. If you don’t produce adequate tears or the tears aren’t of good enough quality, Dry Eye disease can occur. July is National Dry Eye Awareness month, an ideal time to explore this multifaceted eye condition that affects an estimated 25 million people in the United States. What factors lead to Dry Eye? Two essential factors play a role in Dry Eye disease: 1. Not enough tears.... --- ## Why Kids Need Annual Eye Exams URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-kids-need-annual-eye-exams/ Summer is coming to a close, and kids are getting ready to go back to school. While you might be busy packing up backpacks or picking out pencils, you might also want to make time to visit with your eye doctor before your child goes back. Whether they have glasses or not, annual eye exams are important for school-age children, and in this article, we're going to discuss why you should make sure your child is seeing their optometrist before school every year. Read on to learn more! ## 1. Kids Need Annual Eye Exams to Catch Problems The risk of poor academics isn't the only reason kids need to have eye exams. In some cases, it can be much more about their health than anything else. Annual eye exams can catch lazy eyes, color blindness, and diseases unrelated to the eye. For kids with diabetes, eye exams are even more important, and catching diseases that impact our eyes, like diabetes, is easier with regular eye exams.... --- ## Dry Eye Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dry-eye-disease-diagnosis-and-treatment/ Dry Eye Disease occurs when your body doesn’t produce enough tears or the tears produced are not high enough in quality to create a nourishing, lubricating tear film over the front of the eye to protect it. The condition is progressive and often gets worse as you age. It has a myriad of causes including age, gender, medications, medical conditions and environmental factors. Diagnosing Dry Eye During your annual comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will ask specific questions to establish your health history, any medical conditions you have, medications you take, and environmental factors that may impact your eye health. If you’re at risk for Dry Eye or exhibiting symptoms of the disease, your optometrist may conduct additional testing to determine whether your tear film is stable and of good quality.... --- ## 17 Visual Skills Kids Need to Succeed URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/17-visual-skills-kids-need-to-succeed/ ### The 17 Visual Skills Kids (and Adults) Need to Succeed in Life Back-to-school season is an ideal time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam for your children. Why? Because it’s critical to ensure that they’re seeing their absolute best and that all aspects of their visual system are functioning well to help them learn during the school year. The American Optometric Association recommends that school-aged kids—those 6 to 18 years old—receive a comprehensive eye exam before they start the first grade and annually each year afterward. Your child’s eyes change rapidly as they grow, and any interference with healthy development could result in a visual change that could impact their ability to learn. While many such changes are easily corrected if identified, the longer they go uncorrected, the more your child could suffer from the consequences, and the more difficult the issue may be to correct.... --- ## Student Athletes Back to Sports URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/student-athletes-back-to-sports/ ### Are Your Student Athlete’s Eyes In Top Shape for the Season? Fall is in the air! If you haven’t already had your first pumpkin spice latte or seen your first football game—what’re you waiting for? Now that the school year is in session, for many students that also means “back-to-sports.” So we have to ask: Are your student athlete’s eyes ready for back-to-sports season? With 80% of learning tied to a child’s visual system, it’s important that all students–from athletes to mathletes—are seeing their best to maximize their ability to learn. Telltale Signs Your Student Athlete’s Vision is an Issue Not all kids like sports, but for those who do, watch for signs that indicate a need for further vision testing. These include: • A typically athletic child seems less excited about playing a favorite sport enjoyed in previous years. • Your child has noticeable difficulty seeing the ball (or other players) clearly.... --- ## Ways to Protect Students Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/ways-to-protect-students-vision/ ### 5 Ways to Protect Your Student’s Vision This School Year Kids all over the country are back to school, burying their noses in computers and books in pursuit of the knowledge necessary to succeed in school and in life. The connection between good vision and learning is significant: The American Optometric Association reports that up to 80% of learning in school occurs through a child’s visual system. Therefore, protecting your student’s vision is critical. Good vision is the most important tool in their learning toolbox. The human eye is incredible—under favorable conditions, the human eye can see a single candle flame from a distance of 1.7 miles ! While our eyes are somewhat protected by their position in the hollow eye sockets of our skulls, eyes are still vulnerable to physical damage from a variety of environmental factors including flying objects, chemicals, ultraviolet light and overuse.... --- ## How The Eyes Different Parts Power Your Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-the-eyes-different-parts-power-your-vision/ March is Save Your Vision Month, as designated by the American Optometric Association (AOA). This month is an ideal time to increase awareness of the importance of scheduling a comprehensive annual eye examination with your optometrist. Optometrists diagnose eye diseases through annual eye exams and help you see your best with the right prescription and advice on the optimal type of correction for your lifestyle. Did you know that they can also diagnose other types of disease during an eye exam? For example, in 2014, during comprehensive eye exams, optometrists diagnosed diabetes in 401,000 patients who were not aware they had the disease! The AOA reports that more than 40 million aging Americans are at risk for reduced vision and potentially even blindness because of age-related diseases. Your optometrist is your first line of defense to prevent reduced vision and blindness.... --- ## Exploring the Facts Around Eye Cancer URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/exploring-the-facts-around-eye-cancer/ The good news about eye cancer is that it is not a common cancer: Only 5 in every 1 million adults will develop it in their lifetime. However, though uncommon, it’s in our patients’ best interest to understand the basic facts around the disease. Types of Eye Cancer Eye cancers can be grouped into two basic types: 1. Cancer affecting the outer portions of the eye . These include the eyelid and the inner or outer corners of the eye. It’s worth mentioning that there are many benign, non-cancerous growths that can form on the eyelid or even within the wall of the eye. 2. Cancer that originates inside the eyeball itself. This is called intraocular cancer. In adults, it can be either lymphoma or melanoma. In kids, retinoblastoma is the most common form of eye cancer and forms in the cells of the retina. Eye cancer—just like any form of the disease--can spread to other areas of the body, a process known as metastasis.... --- ## What is 20/20 vision? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-20-20-vision/ It sounds so futuristic; it’s a new decade and a year we’ve been eagerly anticipating here in your optometrist’s office. Why? Because we want to help all of our patients to enjoy 20/20 vision both in the year 2020 and for many years into the future. Which brings up an interesting question: What exactly do we mean when we say someone has 20/20 vision? The term 20/20 vision represents a benchmark in visual acuity that means a person has excellent vision. Having 20/20 vision is the gold standard of visual acuity or “clarity,” and it’s the level of quality in vision we aim to achieve with each patient by providing the highest possible level of comprehensive eye care and vision correction. Let’s examine some of the aspects around how we measure your vision when you come in for your annual exam. What is visual acuity? Visual acuity is the term used to express how sharp your vision is.... --- ## What is Diabetic Eye Disease? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-diabetic-eye-disease/ Diabetes is a chronic, progressive disease that can cause extreme changes to your eye health, and is a leading cause of blindness for those under the age of 74. Because the condition causes changes in the blood vessels that feed the eyes, it can cause eye problems known together as Diabetic Eye Disease. These conditions include diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. Having diabetes also doubles a person’s risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma. What is Diabetic Retinopathy? The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of your eyes. The retina is responsible for converting the images you view into electronic signals that the optic nerve carries to the brain. In short, the retina is essential to your ability to see clearly. In people with diabetes, high blood sugar can cause damage to the blood vessels that supply blood to the retina , a condition called diabetic retinopathy.... --- ## How a Flex Spending Account Saves Your Tax Dollars URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-a-flex-spending-account-saves-your-tax-dollars/ It’s December already, and we’re counting down the final days of 2019 before we get to the year 2020—and you know that’s going to be a favorite year for all of us in optometry, right? After all, 20/20 vision is the measurement of ideal visual acuity. Because it’s December, it’s a critical time to determine whether you’re one of the 38 million Americans who has a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)―a tax-free savings account offered by your employer. An FSA is where your employer sets aside a percentage of your paycheck each month to be used only for medical expenses. It’s a great benefit from a tax savings perspective, enabling you to spend “pre-tax” money (money diverted to the FSA before taxes are deducted from your paycheck) on medically necessary services and products that your health or vision insurance doesn’t cover.... --- ## 7 Ways to Save Your Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-ways-to-save-your-vision/ It’s Save Your Vision Month, which the American Optometric Association (AOA) decrees as the perfect time to bring awareness to the importance of good vision, healthy eyes and steps you can take to achieve both. Did you know that more than 40 million Americans are at risk for reduced vision and potentially even blindness because of age-related diseases? Did you know that just because you have good visual acuity and can see well, it doesn’t necessarily mean your eyes are healthy? The best way to ensure that you’re seeing your best with healthy, well-functioning eyes is to make an annual appointment with your optometrist for a comprehensive vision exam. Your optometrist will perform a thorough examination and evaluate your eyes with a 360-degree approach to make sure you’re healthy. But what can you do during the other 364 days of the year to make sure your eyes stay healthy? Here are 7 ways to save your vision: 1. Buy and wear high-quality sunglasses.... --- ## 5 Ways to Cultivate a Gratitude Practice URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-ways-to-cultivate-a-gratitude-practice/ It’s easy to feel sorry for ourselves or experience anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. We didn’t want our lives to change so dramatically, and we didn’t do anything to “deserve” this complete change in lifestyle, and yet here we are, enduring it together. But there’s a way we can get through this in a better state of mind: By incorporating a gratitude practice into our daily lives. Psychology Today notes that there are at least 7 scientifically proven benefits of gratitude : 1. 2. 1. Gratitude paves the way to better relationships 3. 2. Gratitude improves your physical health 4. 3. Gratitude improves your mental health 5. 4. It enhances empathy and lowers aggression 6. 5. Grateful people sleep better 7. 6. Gratitude can improve self-esteem 1. Gratitude increases your mental strength and resilience So, how can you take advantage of this powerful (and free!) benefit in your daily life?... --- ## Our New Safety Protocols to Prevent Virus Spread URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/our-new-safety-protocols-to-prevent-virus-spread/ We are as eager to get back to normal as you are! However, we also need to do our best to protect you and our eye-care team during these trying times. We have always taken steps to sanitize patient areas, reduce contact with sick people, and provide comfortable distances for people. Under the current circumstances, when we are all doing our part to reduce the spread of a dangerous virus, we are taking extra precautions: • When you call to schedule and also when you arrive for your appointment, we may ask you more questions than we usually do . • Please let us know if you have any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. • Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include: fever, dry or productive cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle aches or muscle pain, dizziness, confusion, headache, sore throat, lack of appetite, airway bleeding, runny nose, chest pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, loss of sense of smell, presence of conjunctivitis, recent travel to virus “hot spots,” and contact with... --- ## How to Pick Sunglasses for Your Face Shape URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-pick-sunglasses-for-your-face-shape/ It’s incredible how many different styles of sunglass and eyewear frames there are to choose from, isn’t it? Wouldn’t it be great if you could narrow your selections down, rather than trying on pair after pair to determine the ideal frame selection for your unique facial features? Good news: You can! Below, we describe the six most common face shapes and offer suggestions for the frames that will look best on you. It’s easy to determine your unique face shape. Look at yourself in the mirror with your hair pulled back, and—standing an arm’s length from the mirror--use a bar of soap to trace the outline of your face. Then, step back and look at the shape you traced to decide whether it’s oval, round, rectangular, square, heart-shaped or triangular. See below for details on which frame shapes will flatter your facial features. ## Oval Face If you have an oval face , your face is slightly longer than it is wide.... --- ## Keeping Sight of Age-Related Macular Degeneration URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/keeping-sight-of-age-related-macular-degeneration/ As the US population ages, cases of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) are expected to double .  Right now more than 2 million people are affected by AMD. Although AMD is the most common cause of eyesight problems in people over 50 years old, it doesn’t affect peripheral vision or lead to total blindness. Even if your eyesight is affected, there are lots of ways can maintain your quality of life. As the name suggests, in age-related macular degeneration the cells of the macula wear out. The light detecting layer at the back of the eye is called the retina, and this is lined with cells called rods and cones. Rods are mostly at the edges of vision and are good for peripheral vision and night vision. Cones detect color and sharp detail and are most densely packed in the macula – the central part of the retina where best vision occurs.... --- ## 4 Ways to Celebrate Save Your Vision Month URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/4-ways-to-celebrate-save-your-vision-month/ Happy holidays! No, it's not Christmastime again, but if eye care is your cup of tea, it might feel like it is. March is National Save Your Vision month, and even if you haven't celebrated before, you can get into the holiday spirit too. Don't know how? Lucky for you, this article will give you some ideas for celebrating Save Your Vision Month with us. Keep reading for more! ## 1. New Glasses The feeling of wearing new glasses is a hard one to beat. Compliments from others and a fresh prescription will give you a confidence boost that will last well-beyond Save Your Vision month. If you haven't upgraded your glasses in a while, check out some new pairs to see if there are any that fit your style better. You might also want new work or school glasses to protect your eyes from harmful blue light. ## 2. Save Your Vision with Protective Wear Did you know that over 2,000 people injure their eyes in the workplace each day?... --- ## Why You Need Sunglasses to Prevent UV Ray Damage to Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-you-need-sunglasses-to-prevent-uv-ray-damage-to-eyes/ June is Cataract Awareness Month, as declared by Prevent Blindness America . There’s a strong correlation between the month of June and cataracts: Cataracts are the top cause of vision loss in America, and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays—which are most intense in summer months—are a contributing factor for cataracts, in addition to other eye conditions including macular degeneration. How do the sun’s UV rays contribute to cataract formation? The Earth’s atmospheric ozone layer is gradually disappearing. Think of that layer as a natural umbrella that protects Earth’s surface from the sun’s UV rays. Without that natural layer of protection, more UV rays make it to Earth’s surface and are absorbed by everything on it—including your skin and your eyes. When your skin absorbs UV rays without sunscreen, the short-term result can be sunburn. Over a longer time, such as after years and years of UV ray absorption, the accumulated damage can cause skin cancer.... --- ## 9 Home Safety Tips to Prevent Eye Injury URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-home-safety-tips-to-prevent-eye-injury/ If you’re like most Americans, you’re spending more time than ever at home this summer. And while you’re reaching new heights in cooking, cleaning, yard work and home projects, you may not have considered that each of these activities can cause eye injuries if you’re not careful to wear protective eye protection. Did you know that half of all reported eye injuries happen at home, while people are doing everyday chores like cutting the grass, working in the garage, cleaning and preparing meals? There are hazards in and around your home that could permanently injure or damage your eyes. Such injuries can even result in blindness. All it takes is one millisecond to cause a life-altering injury to your eyes that could steal or damage your gift of sight. Even if you’ve done such activities in the past without incident, neglecting to protect your eyes in high-risk household situations can cause an injury―and a lifetime of regret.... --- ## How Eyelashes and Eyebrows Protect Your Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-eyelashes-and-eyebrows-protect-your-eyes/ Wearing a facial covering or mask—as many of us are doing this summer—draws a lot of attention to your eyes! Because of masks, you’re likely noticing other peoples’ eyes and eyebrows more than ever. Have you ever wondered why humans evolved to have eyelashes and eyebrows, and what functions these perform in overall eye health and function? In addition to being uniquely expressive, eyebrows and eyelashes serve as the first line of natural defense against airborne debris and other hazards getting into the eyes. How do eyelashes protect your eyes? The focus on eyelashes is often for their aesthetic beauty. And indeed, mascara, eye makeup and false eyelash sales are increasing during the Covid era. However, while they add drama to the eyes, eyelashes also serve a critical function in eye safety. Have you ever gotten a piece of lint or a grain of sand caught in your eyelashes? That’s the preventive nature of eyelashes in action.... --- ## 6 Sunglass Myths: Debunked URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-sunglass-myths-debunked/ You might be spending more time outside this summer than usual, especially since many inside activities have been moved outside to lower the spread of coronavirus. Because of that, it’s more important than ever for you and your loved ones to wear high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of both the sun’s Ultraviolet A and B rays (UV-A and UV-B rays). Why? Just as the sun’s rays can cause your skin to burn, they can also damage your eyes and the skin around the eyes. Sunglasses that protect you against 100% of the sun’s harmful rays can make a big difference over the years, minimizing lifetime UV exposure to your eyes. We thought the sunny weather outside presented the ideal opportunity to debunk some of the myths around sunglasses: Myth 1: You don’t need sunglasses on cloudy days. False!... --- ## How Vision and Learning Go Together URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-vision-and-learning-go-together/ It’s back-to-school season. And whether that means in-person or virtual learning for the students in your school district, the vision needs and capabilities of school-age children remain the same. Making sure that your child has the visual skills necessary to learn effectively is an important consideration as the learning season begins. Children ages 6 to 18 require specific visual abilities to ensure they succeed at school. Vision is closely connected to the ability to learn. August is Vision and Learning month. You may be surprised to learn that one in four students have an undiagnosed vision problem that hinders their ability to learn. According to the Vision Council, 80% of what your child learns is associated with information coming in through their visual system. Vision empowers the ability to read, write, see work on the chalkboard or screen, and use computers and other learning aids that teachers employ to help your child learn.... --- ## 5 Visual Skills Your Child Needs This School Year URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-visual-skills-your-child-needs-this-school-year/ While this back-to-school season is unlike every other back-to-school season we’ve ever experienced, one thing that remains the same: It’s important that your student is seeing their best so they can take advantage of every learning opportunity presented to them. Whether it’s in-person learning in a classroom or a virtual learning scenario, your child’s visual system is responsible for about 80% of what they learn. Making sure they’re seeing their best has never been more important. We often think of good vision as having 20/20 eyesight. That number—20/20—is a measure of a person’s visual acuity . It is important for seeing well both up-close for reading and at a distance for classroom learning. Having 20/20 vision either naturally or with prescription lenses is important for all students. However, visual acuity isn’t the only important visual skill your child needs to maximize their ability to learn.... --- ## What Are Blue Light Blocker Glasses? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-are-blue-light-blocker-glasses/ The average American spends over 11 hours a day looking at screens. And while phone companies like Apple have created tools to help put your phone down, chances are you still have to use it all day. Some jobs even require you to stare at a screen for 40 hours each week! With computers at school, video games at home, and phones everywhere else, kids have to worry about this issue as well. Of course, too much technology usage has its downfalls, but did you know it can actually hurt your eyes as well? It comes from something called blue light. If you don't know what that is, stick around. In this article, we're discussing what blue light is and how blue light blocker glasses can help you and your family. Read on to learn more. ## What Is Blue Light? As mentioned before, blue light is the type of light that comes from screens, but this type of light isn't all bad. In fact, the sun emits blue light, and a healthy dose of it can make you feel awake and happier.... --- ## 6 Sports You Need Sunglasses for Now URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/sports-you-need-sunglasses-for/ About a quarter of American adults play sports on a regular basis, and even more people participate in leisurely outdoors activities like hiking or fishing. Whether you compete for fun, pride, or money, having sports sunglasses can help make sure that you are ready for the next adventure. Without them, you may find it hard to compete, and if you've never tried using sunglasses while playing sports, you could see your game improve. Want to know what sports you need sunglasses for? Read on to learn more! ## 1. Fishing Fishing is a difficult sport that takes a lot of skill, timing, and luck. But with polarized sunglasses, you can be sure to take advantage of everything you have. One thing sunglasses help with when finishing is keeping the glare out of your eyes. When you're looking down at the water, the sun is often reflecting off of it. This not only hurts your eyes, but it can also keep you from seeing fish in clear water.... --- ## 27 Telltale Signs Your Child Has a Functional Vision Problem URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/27-telltale-signs-your-child-has-a-functional-vision-problem/ It’s been a back-to-school season like no other! And whether your student is learning in a classroom or you’re overseeing their virtual learning program from home, vision is critical to how kids learn in a multitude of ways. The first way vision is critical to learning is obvious: If your student has poor visual acuity—as measured in terms of 20/20 vision—they may be unable to see the whiteboard, chalkboard, tablet or computer screen where the teaching is taking place. If a child is nearsighted or farsighted, that can present a problem for them in their current learning setting. But good vision—the kind that empowers your child to reach their full potential—is more than just visual clarity and 20/20 eyesight. Excellent vision also means that your child has strong functional vision. Functional vision is how your entire visual system—eyes, brain and the visual pathways between them—work together to help you move through and interact with your surroundings.... --- ## 10 Ways Vision and Learning are Linked URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/10-ways-vision-and-learning-are-linked/ Whether your child is back in the classroom this year or learning virtually, you want your student to learn in the most effective way possible. Did you know that there’s one key factor in learning that is sometimes overlooked? That factor is how well the eyes and the brain work together to maximize your student’s ability to learn. Vision has a significant impact on learning. Studies show that 80% of what we learn comes to us through our visual system. That’s why it’s critical to make sure your child’s entire visual system works at its best. If my student has 20/20 vision, can she still have a visual system problem? Yes. While it’s vital to have 20/20 vision either naturally or through corrective lenses, visual acuity is just one of many vision elements that affect learning. What if your student’s eyes can’t change focus quickly enough when looking up at the teacher and then back down to where he or she is taking notes?... --- ## 13 Surprising Health Issues An Eye Exam Can Detect URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/13-surprising-health-issues-an-eye-exam-can-detect/ In our previous post, we explored 7 serious health issues your optometrist can detect during your annual comprehensive eye exam. These include: 1. Diabetes 2. High Blood Pressure 3. Thyroid disease 4. Rheumatoid Arthritis 5. Brain tumors 6. High cholesterol 7. Cancer But your optometrist’s ability to detect health issues lurking within the human body doesn’t stop there. Here are 13 additional health risks and diseases your optometrist can detect by examining the ocular structures in detail: 1. Multiple sclerosis (MS). A degenerative disease that attacks the nervous system, multiple sclerosis can be potentially disabling. MS causes the immune system to attack nerve fibers and causes miscommunication between the brain and other parts of the body. When your optometrist detects optic nerve inflammation, that can indicate a diagnosis of MS. Patients with MS often also have double vision, blurred vision, or report pain when moving their eyes. 2. Lyme Disease.... --- ## Where to See Fourth of July Fireworks in Knoxville (2019) URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/where-to-see-fourth-of-july-fireworks-in-knoxville-2019/ On the Fourth of July, more than 14,000 fireworks will go off to celebrate our nation's independence. If you haven't already scouted your spot for this year's festivities, you're in the right place. There are plenty of options in Knoxville and the surrounding counties. In this article, we're telling you where to see Fourth of July fireworks in Knoxville. Then, we'll break down a few things to keep in mind about eye safety as well. Soon you'll be on your way to an awesome Independence Day! Read on to get your celebration started! ## Where to See Fourth of July Fireworks in Knoxville Here are a few spots to see fireworks in and around Knoxville. ### Festival on the Fourth From 4 p.m. until 11 p.m., the city of Knoxville will be hosting a festival in World's Fair Park. A live band will perform, and the night will end with a fireworks display. This event is free, and the show will go on — rain or shine.... --- ## Ready to Go Back to School? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/ready-to-go-back-to-school/ ### Is Your Student’s Vision Ready to Go Back to School? It’s back-to-school season! If you’re the parent of a school-age child, you likely have a list of supplies and are busily checking off items to make sure your student has everything they need for a successful school year. But are you forgetting the No. 1 most important item on every child’s back-to-school checklist? Good vision! If you haven’t made an appointment for your child’s annual comprehensive eye exam, now’s an ideal time to do so. Kids don’t have “jobs” as such, but that doesn’t mean they’re not working hard every day – their “job” is to work at learning the skills necessary to succeed in life. One of the most important tools they possess to accomplish this job is their vision, which enables them to learn to read and write, play sports, observe and learn from what’s going on in the world around them. August is Vision & Learning month.... --- ## What Is an OCT? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-an-oct/ What is an OCT? Many people ask this when they visit their optometrist for an annual eye exam. And because they might not know what it is, they often choose not to have the short test done. This means they're missing out on one of the most accurate tests for eyes, and they don't even realize it! Lucky for you, this article is going to break down everything you need to know about OCTs. After, you'll be able to decide whether you want one or not. Read on to learn more! ## What's an OCT? If you don't know yet, chances are you're wondering what an OCT is. Before understanding why it can help you, let's break down exactly what it is. OCT stands for optical coherence tomography. This is a type of imaging technique that takes a photo of your eyes at a detail that is otherwise unseen. Like a topographic map, an OCT shows you the different layers of your retina . Your eye doctor uses this information to measure layers, which helps identify diseases.... --- ## 9 Eye-Healthy Ways to Use Your Flex Spending Account Balance URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-eye-healthy-ways-to-use-your-flex-spending-account-balance/ There’s only a couple of weeks left in 2020, which means you only have a handful of days remaining to spend your Flex Spending Account (FSA) funds before they’re forfeited back to your employer. That’s right: It’s a “Use it or Lose it” situation with FSA dollars. If you don’t use them on approved healthcare expenses before December 31, you’ll likely lose them. Don’t let your employer take back your hard-earned dollars just because you forgot to use them! If you’re looking for smart strategies for using a FSA balance, here are nine ways you can use it to proactively take care of your eye health and ensure you have good vision as we start the year 2021! How to use your Flex Spending Account funds It’s easy to spend your FSA balance before the end of the year! Here are nine qualifying expenses you can use those Flex Dollars on before they’re gone: 1. Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Even with vision insurance, you likely pay for part of your annual visit to the eye doctor.... --- ## 5 Ways to Reduce or Prevent Diabetic Eye Disease URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-ways-to-reduce-or-prevent-diabetic-eye-disease/ November is American Diabetes Month. It’s estimated that more than 30 million adults over age 18 currently have diabetes, with another 84 million showing signs of prediabetes . For those over age 65, one in four have diabetes and its associated complications. Did you know that diabetes can have a significant impact on your vision, causing both blurred vision and in advanced cases, partial to full vision loss? Here are five steps to take to reduce or prevent your risk for developing diabetic eye disease and help preserve good vision for years to come: 1. Visit your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilation at least once each year. Diabetic eye disease, including diabetic retinopathy, doesn’t have noticeable symptoms in its early stages. When looking at your eyes while dilated, your optometrist can more closely examine the retina and the optic nerve for signs and symptoms of damage, likely before you notice any changes or blurriness in your vision.... --- ## 5 Questions About Flexible Spending Accounts And Vision Care URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-flexible-spending-accounts-and-vision-care/ With 2020 soon coming to an end, you have only a few weeks left to spend your designated Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds on eligible health care costs. Many patients ask us which vision-related expenses qualify for reimbursement under an FSA. We thought we’d provide information about these accounts and how you can maximize their use to see your best this season. If you have an FSA through your employer, now is a good time to double-check the “use-by date” for the funds you contribute all year long. If it’s a calendar year plan and your benefits expire on December 31, you must either use the funds in your plan by that date, or you may lose them. Here are 5 questions to help you maximize your flex spending this season: 1. What exactly is a Flexible Spending Account? The federal government established flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) in the 1970s. The program enables people to save money in a tax-free account set up by their employer.... --- ## A Thank-You To Patients and Friends URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/a-thank-you-to-patients-and-friends/ We wish you a safe and healthy holiday season! We realize that many of you — just like many of us — are ending this unprecedented year much differently than we have ever done in the past: By spending the holidays at home, canceling travel plans, avoiding large family gatherings, and adjusting long-standing holiday traditions. However you choose to spend the holidays, please know that we care about you and wish you joy — whether it’s in new traditions, small acts of kindness, or hope for the future. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe this year by wearing a face covering and maintaining a social distance while in our office. We are especially grateful that you choose us for your essential eye care and eyewear needs. It brings us joy to know that you trust us with your eye care. Thank you for your kindness and patience as we all struggle to cope with this new normal. “Happiness is the new rich. Inner peace is the new success. Health is the new wealth.... --- ## Top 5 Questions About Glaucoma URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/top-5-questions-about-glaucoma/ Many of us breathed a sigh of relief when the year 2020 with its many challenges came to an end. But the New Year brings a critical reminder: January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. It’s an important time to educate yourself, family and loved ones about this disease that is often called the “silent thief of sight.” Let’s explore the top five questions patients ask us about glaucoma: 1. What is glaucoma? Glaucoma, the silent thief of sight, is actually a group of eye diseases that gradually cause damage to the eyes and steal your eyesight with no warning or symptoms ― until it’s too late. Though the disease most commonly strikes in middle-age or later, it can also affect younger people of any age. Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which serves as the connector between your eyes and your brain. Once this nerve is damaged and vision is lost, it cannot be reversed.... --- ## Who Is At Risk For Glaucoma? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/who-is-at-risk-for-glaucoma/ The National Eye institute designates January as National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Did you know that more than 3 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with this sight-stealing disease? In our previous post, we addressed the top five questions people ask about glaucoma. In this post, we’ll focus on the specific groups who are most at-risk for developing this disease. Glaucoma is a progressive disease in which the optic nerve is damaged by excessive fluid pressure inside of the eye. The nerve damage results in permanent, irreversible “blind spots” within your field of vision. While there is no cure, when caught early, glaucoma can often be managed to prevent or delay further vision loss. To the question, “Who is at risk for glaucoma?” the answer is: Everyone. Everyone is at risk for glaucoma. Anyone, at any age, can develop this group of diseases, which can rob you of your precious sense of sight.... --- ## 8 Ways To Love Your Eyes On Valentine’s Day And All Year Through URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-ways-to-love-your-eyes-on-valentines-day-and-all-year-through/ On Valentine’s Day, our thoughts turn to those we love—our significant others, our families, pets and friends. We think about how much we love and appreciate all that these wonderful people and animals do. But have you ever thought about how much you love and appreciate your eyes for all they do? Arguably your most important sensory organ, the eyes enable us to take in up to 80% of the information we gather from our environment through our sense of vision. And that includes seeing our loved ones and all the things they do! This Valentine’s Day, we present 8 ways to love your eyes today and all year through: 1. Limit Time Spent Staring at Screens More than ever before, we’re spending hours each day using digital devices, including cell phones, tablets and laptops. But spending hours looking at these devices and the high-energy blue light waves they emit can cause eye fatigue and even damage the eyes over time.... --- ## February Is Low Vision Awareness Month: Are You at Risk? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/february-is-low-vision-awareness-month-are-you-at-risk/ The National Eye Institute designates the month of February as Low Vision Awareness Month in order to increase awareness about this visual impairment condition. It’s estimated that more than 3 million Americans age 40 and older are experiencing low vision, which can significantly affect their productivity, functionality, and overall enjoyment of life. What is Low Vision? Low Vision is a condition where a person’s vision is impaired so dramatically that it cannot be corrected or improved any further with prescription lenses, medication or surgery. People with severe Low Vision have an extreme visual impairment – about 20/200 or worse as measured on the scale where ideal visual acuity is 20/20. That means that people with severe Low Vision can’t read the top line of an eye chart from 20 feet away (and yes, we’re talking about the largest letter at the top of the chart). Below, we explore the seven leading causes of Low Vision. Are you at risk? 1.... --- ## How To Protect Against Blue Light and Digital Eye Fatigue URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-protect-against-blue-light-and-digital-eye-fatigue/ March is Save Your Vision Month, so we thought we’d address a common challenge we see in our offices: Digital eye strain, resulting from spending excess time staring at digital screens that emit blue light. You’ve likely heard about blue light and its effect on the human body in the news. But what exactly is “blue light,” and why should you be concerned about it? Those are the two questions we’ll answer in this post. #### What is blue light? Blue light is our name for a visible light spectrum that exists in the range from 420 to 480 nm—which means that it’s very near on the light spectrum to the invisible ultraviolet (UV) light emitted by the sun. Blue light is a short wavelength, high-intensity light that can be both harmful and beneficial. On the positive side, blue light is what makes the sky look blue. On the negative side, it can cause glare or hazy vision, and long-term exposure to it may be harmful to your eyes.... --- ## 10 Safety Tips For Eye Makeup URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/10-safety-tips-for-eye-makeup/ If you’ve found yourself wearing more eye makeup in the past 12 months, you’re not alone. According to Fortune magazine , interest in and sales of eye makeup products have surged since March 2020. So-called “above-the-mask” beauty has become a buzzword and beauty mandate for people worldwide. But though you may like how your eyes look when you apply makeup to accentuate them, your eyes don’t always react well to wearing makeup. To help you wear eye makeup safely, here are some tips and best practices to incorporate: 1. Beware of eye irritants That sparkly new eye shadow may be all the rage, but if it contains glitter, metals, crushed gems, minerals or mica, it could leave microscopic deposits on the surface of your eye. Your eye perceives those ingredients as foreign bodies and will react with redness, inflammation and irritation in the whites of your eye – turning it red. Red, irritated eyes are not the ideal result from applying the newest eye makeup.... --- ## Are Your Eyes Suffering From Seasonal Allergies? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/are-your-eyes-suffering-from-seasonal-allergies/ Ah, Spring! The birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and the trees are “leafing out” all over. After a long winter, the arrival of Spring is a welcome one. In fact, some of us get so excited by the warmer Spring weather that we completely forget that Spring is also allergy season for many people. If you’re a seasonal allergy sufferer, you remember all too well how annoying allergies can be. The sneezing! The sniffling! The runny nose! But do you also experience allergic symptoms in your eyes, including redness, swelling, itching and eye-watering? Season allergies that affect the eyes result in a condition called allergic conjunctivitis. It’s called that because the “conjunctiva” is the white part of your eye and “itis” is the medical term for inflammation. If you’re experiencing allergic conjunctivitis, what can you do to get relief? Let’s explore the causes and symptoms of “allergy eyes.” What causes allergic conjunctivitis?... --- ## 6 Options for Treating Allergy Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-options-for-treating-allergy-eyes/ In our previous post, we explored the symptoms of seasonal allergies that affect the eyes—what we call allergic conjunctivitis. These include itchy, watery, swollen red and irritated eyes. If you’ve had them, you know how annoying and uncomfortable the condition can be. Let’s explore 6 options for treating this seasonal condition: 1. Over-the-Counter Allergy Eye Drops There are a variety of over-the-counter allergy eye drops on the market that you can buy to find relief from red, swollen, or itchy allergy eyes. Many of these eye drops have antihistamines or block your body’s mast cells to help reduce your body’s allergic reaction. In addition, preservative-free artificial tear eye drops can help to soothe the discomfort of allergic conjunctivitis. Here’s a tip: For an added cooling effect on warm Spring days, store your eye drops in the refrigerator before use. 1.... --- ## Top 5 Reasons To Wear High-Quality Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/top-5-reasons-to-wear-high-quality-sunglasses/ May is Healthy Vision Month , a time when we focus on steps we can take today to keep our vision healthy for a lifetime. Sunglasses are an essential tool in your long-term eye health toolkit, and we recommend that you wear them every time you go outside, in every season. Yes, even if it’s cloudy. The weather’s getting warmer (and pollen season is ending), inviting us to spend more time outside. When you do step out—whether it’s for 15 minutes or the entire day—be sure to wear high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. And it’s not just because your sunnies complete the outfit or look cool. Here are the top 5 reasons to wear high-quality sunglasses this season—and every season. 1. UV Protection, Short-Term Benefits You wouldn’t spend time in the sun without protecting your skin with sunscreen, but many people don’t think about protecting their eyes. Fact: your eyes can get sunburned! And it hurts!... --- ## How To Choose the Best Sunglasses for You URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-choose-the-best-sunglasses-for-you/ If you don’t yet wear your sunglasses daily, today’s the day to start! Overexposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays over time causes eye and vision damage that can result in diseases with the potential to steal your sight. It’s a slow accumulation of damage, but one that you can avoid by wearing the proper protection of high-quality sunglasses. If you wear prescription lenses, having a pair of prescription sunglasses is a best practice that we highly recommend. The lenses we provide will not only help you see your best in bright sun or cloudy conditions, they’ll also feature the strongest possible protection from both the sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays. For those who don’t need prescription lenses in their sunglasses, we recommend high-quality sunglasses from our optical department that are guaranteed to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays. When you purchase sunglasses from a standard retailer, they may not block 100% of harmful sunlight.... --- ## 5 Signs of Cataract Formation URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-signs-of-cataract-formation/ If you live long enough, there’s a good chance you’ll get cataracts. Your risk for developing cataracts increases as you age, beginning around age 40. By age 65, more than 90% of the population will have at least one cataract, though it may or may not be affecting their vision. Yes, that’s right. You can have a cataract developing in one or both eyes, but it may not yet be affecting your vision. Your eye doctor will monitor the cataract and advise you when it’s time to have a procedure to address the condition. What signs will I notice if I’m developing cataracts? Some people function well with very little vision loss in the early stages of cataracts, while others may notice significant vision loss and need to have them corrected. Here are 5 signs that you’re developing cataracts: 1. Increased Glare A cataract is an opaque growth on the lens of your eye. Before cataracts develop, your eye’s natural lens is transparent so that light can go through it.... --- ## 5 Benefits of Cataract Removal URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-benefits-of-cataract-removal/ As we age, our cells and tissues start to break down in predictable ways. Some of these familiar age-related ailments include arthritis of the joints, osteoporosis of the bones, and atherosclerosis of the arteries. Changes that occur in the eye as we get older cause proteins to break down and stick together on the eye’s lens, causing cloudy or blurred vision. That’s a cataract. Cataracts are a common condition that people confront as they age. Cataracts are estimated to be detectable in more than 90% of people by age 65. Each year, more than 2 million people undergo a routine procedure to correct the vision challenges associated with them. Cataracts often develop slowly. If you are over age 40, you may already have an early-stage cataract but not yet realize it. Symptoms of cataract formation include heightened sensitivity to glare, blurred or cloudy vision, seeing halos around lights (especially at night), double vision, and seeing colors as faded or yellowed.... --- ## 10 Fun Facts About Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/10-fun-facts-about-sunglasses/ July is UV Safety Month. In our optometry practice, eye safety is always top-of-mind. Did you know that the sun’s harmful rays can damage your eyes if you don’t protect them? You slather on the sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn before you go outside, right? In addition, you need to protect your eyes—and those of your children and loved ones―with a high-quality pair of sunglasses that block 100% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Here are 10 fun facts about sunglasses: 1. The term “sunglasses” isn’t correct —at least, not anymore. While the lenses of sunglasses were once made from glass, today’s high-performance plastic lenses add various improvements, including lighter weight and shatterproof lenses. However, “sunplastics” just doesn’t sound as cool, so let’s keep calling them sunglasses. 2. Sunglasses have history … They were first seen around 2,000 years ago in a very snowy climate. The Inuit Eskimos fashioned crude snow goggles from animal bone, wood and leather.... --- ## 6 Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses Every Day URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-benefits-of-wearing-sunglasses-every-day/ Sunglasses are an essential part of summer! You’ve probably been wearing them since you were a kid when mom or dad would remind you to put them on before going outside to play. Then, as a teenager they became a cool accessory. And as an adult, you may wonder: What are the benefits of wearing sunglasses? There are many benefits to wearing your sunglasses 365 days a year, rain or shine. The sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays are present in our atmosphere every day, so protecting your eyes from those rays every day is a priority. Here are 6 reasons to wear your sunglasses more often: 1. Protect eyes from UV and other elements Though you’ll wear different clothes whether you’re sitting on the beach, lounging by a pool, out for a run, biking, waterskiing, or snow skiing―the one item you should wear in every one of those scenarios is your sunglasses!... --- ## Back to School: Beware of Computer Vision Syndrome URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/back-to-school-beware-of-computer-vision-syndrome/ August is Vision & Learning Month. The goal of Vision & Learning Month is to increase awareness among parents and teachers about the prevalence of undiagnosed or misdiagnosed vision problems. Vision problems can often present as learning challenges, and should be top-of-mind when parents or teachers see a child struggling in the classroom. One often undiagnosed vision challenge is Computer Vision Syndrome, also called digital eye strain, and it’s becoming more and more common. If there’s one thing we’ve all done in excess this past year, it’s staring into screens more often and for longer amounts of time. Staring at your phone, tablet, e-reader or computer screen for work, school or personal Zoom meetings takes a toll on your eyes. That’s because the human eye wasn’t meant to stare at any object 12 to 24 inches from our eyes for hours at a time. So much screen-gazing can result in a group of eye and vision-related issues known as Computer Vision Syndrome or digital eye strain.... --- ## 6 Tips to Enhance Vision in Learning URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-tips-to-enhance-vision-in-learning/ It’s back-to-school season! And while everyone hopes that students will be able to attend class in person this year, computers and other digital screens will likely still play a significant role in your student’s education. Here’s the challenge digital learning presents for our eyes: The human eye wasn’t mean to stare at screens all day long. Staring at a screen for 6 to 8 (or more!) hours per day is like asking your eyes to run a marathon. And although your student’s eyes are young and vibrant, it’s important to act now to take excellent care of their vision so they can keep seeing their best for decades to come. Good habits learned in youth can last a lifetime! Beware of Digital Eye Strain, a.k.a. Computer Vision Syndrome Students and their parents should be aware of the combination of problems known as Digital Eye Strain, and also called Computer Vision Syndrome. It’s the (unfortunate!) result of gazing into a digital screen for hours on end.... --- ## Why Depth Perception is Critical for Student Athletes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-depth-perception-is-critical-for-student-athletes/ Back to school season often means back to sports—so it’s a smart move for parents to bring their student athletes in for a comprehensive eye exam before sports seasons begin. This exam may be a game-changer for your student athlete. Young eyes grow and change rapidly, and we often see significant changes in students’ eyes from year to year as they mature. Good eyesight is the key to good grades, too: An estimated 80 percent of your student’s ability to learn is tied to their eyes and visual ability. In addition, here’s why it’s critical to find out if your student athlete’s eyes are ready for the 2021 sports season: Depth Perception for the Win! Whether it’s a tennis ball zooming across the court at warp speed toward your student athlete, or a lacrosse ball coming at them across the field, depth perception is the key to judging how far away or close an object is.... --- ## Sunwear is Good Eye Health Care: Six reasons you should wear sunglasses more often. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/sunwear-is-good-eye-health-care-six-reasons-you-should-wear-sunglasses-more-often/ ### According to a 2016 UV protection report by the Vision Council 75% of Americans are concerned about UV eye exposure yet only 31% wear sunglasses when they go outside. ### There are six main reasons why you should wear sunglasses more often, especially when you are enjoying the outdoors this summer: 1. Prevent Sun-Related Health Problems • Skin Cancer – 90% of all skin cancer occurs from the neck up and because UV damage is cumulative and irreversible, it is important to begin protection at an early age – research shows that young eyes are even more susceptible to UV-related damage. • Cataracts & Glaucoma – the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 20% of all cataract cases in the U.S. are attributed to UV radiation and are preventable.... --- ## How Adopting an Attitude of Gratitude Can Help You Through The COVID-19 Crisis URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-adopting-an-attitude-of-gratitude-can-help-you-through-the-covid-19-crisis/ We’re all in this together. There’s a global pandemic in our midst. Businesses are closed, sporting events have been canceled, kids are home from school for the foreseeable future, and we’re all facing difficulties: financially, socially and psychologically. With the added anxiety, stress and worry, it’s natural to wonder how to get through this crisis with our mental health intact. Is there something we can do to help us feel better about the state of the world? What’s the answer? In a word: Gratitude. What is gratitude? What is gratitude, exactly? Besides being the focal point of Thanksgiving? It’s been described as a moral virtue, an attitude, a way of life, a habit, a personality trait and a coping mechanism. It can be all of those at once. And though it may not come naturally during this crisis, it might be one of the most important things you can do to protect your mental health and relationships amid so much uncertainty.... --- ## The Curious Case of an Eye Cancer Cluster URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-curious-case-of-an-eye-cancer-cluster/ In our most recent post, we explored the rare diagnosis of eye cancer—specifically ocular melanoma, which occurs in about 5 people out of a million. That’s around 2,000-2,500 cases diagnosed per year in the US. Risk Cancers for Eye Cancer Eye cancer is very rare. It’s not unheard of for an optometrist to see thousands of patients per year for decades without diagnosing a case. However, there are risk factors that raise the likelihood of developing this uncommon type of cancer. These include: • People age 50 or older have a higher than average chance of being diagnosed with eye cancer. The most common age of diagnosis is 55. Interestingly, people tend to “age out” of this diagnosis--it’s even more rarely diagnosed in those over age 70. • It’s slightly more likely that you’ll develop ocular melanoma if you’re male than female. • People of Caucasian descent have a higher risk for ocular melanoma than African American or Hispanic people. • Individual medical history.... --- ## How an Annual Exam Can Help You URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-an-annual-eye-exam-is-important/ Did you know that over 11 million Americans over the age of 12 need vision correction? And, in some cases, those people don't even know it! But not everyone takes the time for their eye exam. If you're wondering why you need an annual eye exam, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll break down a few of the reasons these exams should be on your priority list. Keep reading for more! ## Changes in Prescription The most obvious reason to have your annual eye exam is to check for changes in your prescription. Changes can happen at any age, and they can be big or small. It's possible that you haven't noticed any changes, but an updated prescription can make sure that you're seeing your best. Plus, making sure you go every year will help avoid drastic changes when you do go back. ## Check for Eye Health Eye health doesn't take a lot to track. In fact, going to your annual eye exam is often enough for many people.... --- ## Why Do I Need an Annual Eye Exam? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-do-i-need-an-annual-eye-exam/ Is your annual eye exam coming up soon? If so, that's great! Between all the hustle and bustle, making time to go to an eye appointment can be hard. Whether you're on the books or not, you might be wondering why you need to go. Each year you go, and if you haven't had anything drastic happen to your vision, you might feel like it's a waste of time. But actually, it's one of the best things you can do for your health, and in this article, we're going to show you why. Read on to learn more! ## Prescription Changes The most obvious reason for annual eye exams is to make sure that your prescription hasn't changed. Although you may not have noticed a difference in your vision, your eyesight still might have changed enough to warrant new glasses or contacts. Children and older adults will see more changes than teenagers to 40-year-olds, but that doesn't mean your prescription can't change at those ages.... --- ## Diabetes and Your Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/diabetes-and-your-eyes/ November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, an ideal time to take a deeper dive into the disease we hear so much about. As eye care professionals, one of our areas of concern is that uncontrolled diabetes can affect your vision, and is a leading cause of blindness for individuals under the age of 74. What is Diabetes? Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of sugar, or glucose, in your blood. Having low levels of glucose in your bloodstream is normal, as sugar is the nutrient that provides energy to your body on a cellular level. Your pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that enables cells to convert the glucose in your bloodstream into energy. However, if your pancreas isn’t making enough insulin or your cells resist the effect of insulin—or if both conditions are present— you’re at high risk for diabetes.... --- ## How to Avoid Lens Fog... URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-avoid-lens-fog/ ## How to Avoid Lens Fog while Wearing a Mask with Glasses The White House coronavirus task force has confirmed that there is clear scientific evidence that wearing face masks is an effective way to limit the spread of coronavirus. People should wear face masks if they can’t maintain a proper social distance of 6 feet even when outside. For those of us who wear glasses, this creates a new challenge: How to keep your eyeglasses from fogging up while wearing a face mask to slow the spread. It’s a frustrating new dilemma to solve. Is it even possible? We say yes, with a few simple tweaks and some preparation. First, let’s explore why glasses tend to fog up in the first place. Why do glasses fog up while wearing a mask? It’s a scientific fact: When warm air hits a cool surface, condensation is the result. It’s similar to how your glasses fog up when you open a hot oven, or in the summertime when you walk outside from an air-conditioned building into the heat.... --- ## How To Prevent Pink Eye URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-prevent-pink-eye/ Back-to-school can mean back-to-germs. And while you’ve likely coached your kids on proper handwashing techniques this year, it’s also critically important to teach them not to touch their eyes without washing their hands first. Viruses and bacteria—including the ones that cause conjunctivitis—can live on the common, everyday objects kids touch. These include but are not limited to keyboards, tablets, door handles, grab bars, railings, restroom doors and handles, playground equipment, desks, writing tools and art supplies. When your student touches one of these objects and then touches their face or eyes, they’re at risk for contracting a virus or bacteria. Conjunctivitis or “pink eye” as it’s often known, is one of the more common eye infections that school-age kids pass around the classroom and playground. Here’s what it is and how to help your student avoid contracting it. What is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?... --- ## 7 Diseases Your Eye Doctor May See in Your Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-diseases-your-eye-doctor-may-see-in-your-eyes/ We hear a lot about early detection when it comes to successfully treating diseases and health conditions. Did you know that your annual visit for a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist also serves as an early detection checkup for a variety of health conditions? The eyes are the single place in the human body where there’s an accessible, unobstructed view of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue—without the need for surgery. During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist can gain an overall understanding of your health and see the beginning stages of many health concerns before they manifest in painful symptoms. Early detection of health concerns is a big benefit to optometric patients because knowledge is power. Knowing about a health condition early gives more time for effective treatment. Following are 7 health conditions your optometrist can detect during your annual comprehensive eye exam. 1. Diabetes Blurry vision is an early sign of diabetes.... --- ## Protect Your Eyes From Costume Contact Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/protect-your-eyes-from-costume-contact-lenses/ It’s Halloween season! It’s also the time of year when optometrists worry about their patients risking eye safety and injury from using illegal medical devices during Halloween celebrations. Which illegal medical devices are we talking about? Contact lenses. Specifically, the large array of costume contact lenses that make eyes look incredibly creepy and spooky—but that can also leave you with life-changing damage to your eyesight. Beware of Halloween Contact Lenses These cosmetic contact lenses are all over the internet and in local stores. They claim to be legal and FDA approved—but when they’re sold without a prescription, they’re illegal. Such lenses go by a variety of names, including: • Costume Contact Lenses • Cosmetic Contact Lenses • Decorative Contact Lenses • Theatrical Contact Lenses • Color Contact Lenses • Halloween Contact Lenses The lenses themselves are indeed creepy.... --- ## 6 Eye Care Tips for People Living With Diabetes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-eye-care-tips-for-people-living-with-diabetes/ November is National Diabetes Awareness month. If you or someone you love are living with diabetes, you likely understand the importance of controlling blood sugar levels to stay within the target range your doctor sets. When blood sugar levels are well-controlled, it can help prevent or delay serious, long-term health issues including vision loss, heart disease, and kidney disease. Diabetes can have a severe impact on your eyes, resulting in vision changes, vision loss, and even blindness. That’s because high blood sugar damages the tiny capillaries in the eye’s most sensitive tissues that relay information to your brain to produce good vision. Once high blood sugar levels cause damage to the retina, the vision loss you suffer is irreversible. But there’s hope! By following your doctor’s advice, monitoring blood glucose levels, and keeping blood sugar levels under control, you can prevent or delay serious eye damage.... --- ## 15 Facts About Diabetic Retinopathy URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/15-facts-about-diabetic-retinopathy/ Diabetes is a disease that affects approximately 25 million American adults and children. For anyone diagnosed with diabetes, one very real concern is vision loss from the onset of diabetic retinopathy. What is Diabetic Retinopathy? So what is diabetic retinopathy? It’s a condition brought about by high blood sugar, the hallmark of uncontrolled diabetes. When blood sugar is high, it damages the tiny blood vessels that supply the retina, the light-sensitive tissue layer in the back of your eye. This in turn causes vision changes that—left untreated—can cause vision loss or even blindness. Early Diabetic Retinopathy The first signs of diabetic retinopathy are weak and bulging blood vessels in the retina. This is painless, and most people don’t notice any change in their vision until damage is already done.... --- ## 5 Questions About Vision Care and Flex Spending Accounts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-vision-care-and-flex-spending-accounts/ With just a couple of weeks remaining in 2021, time is running out to spend your designated “Flex” funds from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) on eligible healthcare costs. If you or your spouse have an FSA account through an employer, now’s the perfect time to double-check when your benefits expire. If it’s a calendar year plan, your benefits likely expire on December 31 – which means it’s time to “use it or lose it.” Essentially, if you’ve saved money from each paycheck into an FSA plan but don’t use it on eligible health care costs by the expiry date, you forfeit those funds and can’t use them at all. Our patients often ask which vision care expenses are reimbursable through an FSA. We address that question and others below in our round-up of questions about Flexible Spending Accounts: Here are 5 questions to help you maximize your flex spending this season: 1. What is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?... --- ## Flex Spending 2018 URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/flex-spending-2018/ ### Flex Spending: Time to Use it Or Lose it Nothing says “happy holidays” like a brand new pair of designer glasses! If you enjoy holiday shopping but dread the inevitable January credit card bills, treat yourself this year by using your Flexible Spending Account, or FSA. Not only is the list of FSA-eligible items surprisingly long, flex dollars often come with an end-of-year expiration date. Use ‘em or lose ‘em! WHAT IS FLEX SPENDING? A Flexible Spending Account is a tax-free way to pay medically necessary expenses that are not covered by your insurance. FSAs are designed to complement health or vision insurance, and, in the event that an individual does not have health insurance, an FSA can even stand alone. Flex dollars, as the name suggests, offer a wide degree of flexibility when it comes time to use them.... --- ## Contacts or Glasses: Which is Right For You? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/contacts-or-glasses-which-is-right-for-you/ According to the Vision Council , more than 194 million people in the U.S. wear prescription lenses – either contact lenses or eyeglasses. If you’re one of them, and you’re trying to decide which type of corrective lenses are right for you, read on. There are four main reasons people need prescription eyewear to see clearly: • Nearsightedness (Myopia). People with myopia have difficulty focusing on objects that are far away. • Farsightedness (Hyperopia). People with hyperopia find it hard to see close-up objects sharply. • This age-related condition typically begins after age 40 and causes a loss of “near vision” as the eye’s natural lens ages and becomes less flexible, making it impossible to focus on close-up tasks. • This condition describes an eye that is not perfectly round, but rather it has an asymmetric curve to the cornea, causing difficulty for your eye’s lens to focus.... --- ## 6 Tips For Living With Glaucoma URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-tips-for-living-with-glaucoma/ January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to draw attention to one of the leading causes of blindness and vision loss in the United States. Glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight” because it doesn’t have any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. It’s not painful or uncomfortable—but if you have glaucoma and don’t know it, it can cause permanent vision loss. Glaucoma can only be diagnosed through a dilated eye exam. That’s one reason why it’s critical to schedule a comprehensive, dilated eye exam with your optometrist each year after age 40. While there isn’t a cure for glaucoma, when caught early, proper treatment can often stop the disease from progressing and help people with glaucoma preserve what vision they still have. A glaucoma diagnosis can be discouraging and a bit scary. However, more than 80 million people worldwide and 3 million people in the U.S. are living with glaucoma.... --- ## Say Goodbye to These 6 Poor Eye Health Habits URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/say-goodbye-to-these-6-poor-eye-health-habits/ Are you doing everything within your power to protect your vision and maintain good eye health? Studies show that many Americans aren’t. But it’s not too late to turn things around and adopt good eye health practices that will benefit you now and help you see your best this year and into the future. Here are 6 poor eye health habits to focus on correcting in 2022: 1. Skipping Your Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam. It’s easy to take good vision for granted. Still, many eye conditions and diseases that can negatively impact your vision are impossible to detect without a comprehensive, dilated eye exam with your optometrist. Did you know that nearly 10% of people haven’t had an eye exam in more than five years? Yes, the pandemic played a role in that. But it’s now 2022: Time to get back on track by scheduling your wellness exams! 2. Wearing Daily Contact Lenses Overnight.... --- ## 5 Reasons To Wear Sunglasses in Winter URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-reasons-to-wear-sunglasses-in-winter/ It’s February! This most misspelled month is the shortest of the year and the final month of meteorological winter. It’s also Low Vision Awareness Month and National Cancer Prevention Month. Are you aware that protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays can impact your long-term eye health? One easy habit you can adopt to protect your healthy vision is to wear sunglasses every time you go outside. Did you know that you should wear your sunglasses not only in summer — when the sun is at its highest and brightest — but 365 days a year? Yes, even when the sun isn’t very bright! While that may seem counterintuitive, there is mounting evidence to support wearing sunglasses every day to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging UV light. Years of UV light exposure can contribute to conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration that cause low vision, and may even contribute to cancer in or around the eye.... --- ## 5 Questions About Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-age-related-macular-degeneration-amd/ February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Month, a time to promote awareness of these conditions that impact millions of Americans in their daily lives. You may know someone who has been diagnosed with or is experiencing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The condition—currently considered incurable—is the prevailing cause of blindness for people over the age of 55 in the United States. Up to 16 million Americans are living with the condition in one of its various stages. So, what is macular degeneration, and who’s at risk? Here are 5 frequently asked questions about macular degeneration: 1. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a condition of your eye’s retina. Specifically, the condition is a degeneration of the cells and function of the macula. What is the macula? The macula is a small cluster of highly specialized cells in your retina measuring about 5 millimeters in size—about the diameter of a pencil eraser.... --- ## Why the FDA Pulled Online Vision Testing URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-the-fda-pulled-online-vision-testing/ The internet provides fantastic access to information and professionals—just think about all of the things you can learn through watching YouTube videos alone! Technology’s many uses to promote human health—information sharing, video conferencing and health monitoring—are just now beginning to make an impact. However, one area in which the internet is not beneficial to human health is online vision testing. In August, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalled online vision testing from the market. The reason: Impersonal “video” eye testing represents an incomplete method for conducting a complete vision exam that can miss critical components that impact both your overall and optical health--and therefore, it represents a potential health risk to the public.... --- ## What’s Included in a Comprehensive Eye Exam? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/whats-included-in-a-comprehensive-eye-exam/ The US Food and Drug Administration recently pulled online vision testing, because that method of vision test doesn’t provide the comprehensive eye health care necessary to keep individuals seeing their best now and for years to come. In fact, online vision tests only provide 1 out of the 12 critical factors that your optometrist provides in your annual eye exam. And it’s a public health concern to provide only 1/12 of any health care check. Can you imagine only brushing 1/12 of your teeth or washing 1/12 of your body when you bathe? A comprehensive eye exam is the reliable method to ensure that your eyes―and the eyes of your loved ones―are working well together, so you’re seeing your absolute best. Proper eye care is an important aspect of health care, especially for school-age children and college-age young adults. As children grow and change, their eyes are growing and changing also.... --- ## 7 Serious Health Issues An Eye Exam Can Detect URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-serious-health-issues-an-eye-exam-can-detect/ The eyes are sometimes called the windows to the soul. That may be true, but for health purposes, they’re also a window that provides a clearer view of your total body health. Did you know that your optometrist can detect 20 or more health conditions that may be in the early stages and not yet detectable by other routine tests during a regular comprehensive eye exam? Because of their delicate structures, including nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues, the eyes can show signs of many significant health risks in the early stages. That can be critically important to patients, because catching diseases early is often the key to preventing severe outcomes. When you visit your optometrist for your annual eye exam, he or she will carefully examine your eyes for telltale signs of disease that may be impacting other areas of the body. Serious health issues an optometrist can detect include: 1. 2. 1.... --- ## Your Optometrist: On the First Line of Defense Against Diabetes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/your-optometrist-on-the-first-line-of-defense-against-diabetes/ November is American Diabetes Month, an appropriate time to raise awareness of this epidemic that impacts 34 million children and adults in the United States. What is diabetes? Diabetes is a group of diseases that result from blood sugar being too high because of problems involving insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. • In Type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar. This type of diabetes is genetic and is often diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood. • Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either becomes insulin resistant, or the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to satisfy the body’s needs. The exact reason why this happens isn’t known, but it’s likely involved with genetic and lifestyle factors, such as being inactive and overweight. In the United States, an estimated  12 to 14% of people have diabetes. In 2017, the financial burden of this disease was more than $400 billion.... --- ## Eat Your Way To Better Eye Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eat-your-way-to-better-eye-health/ As your parents always told you: You are what you eat. Science and research studies continue to confirm the fact that with every single bite or sip you put into your body, you’re either feeding or fighting disease. For example, we know that whole foods, fruits, and vegetables are very good for the body while highly processed “junk foods” with additives and high sugar content are not. Scientific research can even tell us which specific nutrients and vitamins support good eye health. This information becomes more and more important to focus on as the birthdays pile up and age becomes a factor in eye health through risk for conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. No matter your age, one way to empower yourself in fighting diseases of the eye is to add the potent vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your diet that are shown to help improve visual acuity and support overall eye health.... --- ## 25 Eye-mazing Eye Facts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/25-eye-mazing-eye-facts/ The human eye is a fascinating organ, second in complexity only to your brain. That’s why you can see clearly in both the bright, mid-day sunlight and also when you’re awakened suddenly from a deep sleep late at night. Without thinking about how you do it, your eyes focus immediately to show you what’s going on under every imaginable scenario. They’re truly “eye-mazing!” Your eyes are able to focus in high resolution at an incredible range of distances — from mere inches before your face to miles across open water. And they can (and do!) respond incredibly quickly to keep you informed about what’s happening in your surroundings: From the instant a moving object enters your field of vision, it only takes 200 milliseconds for your eyes to perceive it and relay that information to the brain. Wow! Here are 25 “eye-mazing” facts about your eyes: 1. Your eyes are the fastest muscle in the human body—able to adjust and perceive visual changes “in the blink of an eye.” 2.... --- ## 6 Must-Have Qualities For Kids’ Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-must-have-qualities-for-kids-sunglasses/ What’s cuter than a toddler in sunglasses? Not much! But does your toddler really need sunglasses? And if so, how can you get him to wear them consistently? Do toddlers need sunglasses? The answer is yes! Your toddler’s developing eyes will benefit from wearing sunglasses.  In addition to looking great, sunglasses provide a significant health benefit to every wearer by protecting their eyes from the harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) of the sun. These rays rain down on us every day—365 days a year, whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or rainy. And a child’s eyes are much more susceptible to damage from UV rays because their pupils don’t constrict as tightly as adult pupils do. That means more UV rays are absorbed by your child’s eyes, increasing their risk of developing complications from long-term sun exposure later in life such as cataracts, skin cancer, and macular degeneration. From the time your child is 6 months old, they can wear sunglasses.... --- ## How to Get Kids To Wear Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-get-kids-to-wear-sunglasses/ As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to protect your kids and give them the best possible opportunity to thrive and enjoy a healthy, happy life. It’s a tough job—overwhelming at times—but one that provides life’s greatest rewards. You’ve already done a great job by bringing your child to the optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam! Nicely done. When your eye doctor recommends that your child wear sunglasses to protect their growing eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation, you start thinking, “How am I going to get them to wear sunglasses?” You’re smart to think about it and take steps to encourage them. We can help: Here are 5 ways to get your kids to wear their sunglasses every day: 1. Find a pair that fits. And it needs to fit well! Our selection of high-quality plastic kids frames are sturdy and made to stay on active kids’ faces to protect their eyes during outside play time.... --- ## 4 Reasons You Need Multiple Pairs of Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/4-reasons-you-need-multiple-pairs-of-sunglasses/ Hooray: It’s sunglasses season! While the educated patients who read this optometric blog know that you should wear your sunglasses 365 days a year, every time you go outside, whether it’s cloudy or sunny (to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays)—we can’t help but admit that May, June, July, and August do feel more like sunglasses season than the other months. That being said, how many pairs of sunglasses do you own? Chances are, it’s more than one. If you’re like many of our patients, you have several pair, typically somewhere between three and six pairs, to be exact. But, why do we all need—or maybe we just want—multiple pairs of sunglasses? Here are 4 reasons to have more than one pair of sunglasses at your disposal this summer, and all year through: 1. A pair for every job or circumstance.... --- ## 8 Do’s and Don’ts for Cleaning Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-dos-and-donts-for-cleaning-sunglasses/ It’s sunglasses season! In our optometric practice, it’s always sunglasses season. That’s because we recommend everyone wear their sunglasses 365 days a year, rain or shine. Doing so will protect your eyes from the damaging UV rays of the sun that are present in Earth’s atmosphere daily. But when you put those sunglasses on, is something keeping you from the clean, crisp vision you experienced when you picked those gorgeous sunnies up from our optical department? We’re talking about that greasy, oily film and smudges on your lenses. How does it get there, and how can you remove it safely without damaging your sunglasses? Sunscreen, make-up, hair products, dust, dirt, pollen—a sunglass lens has a lot of enemies! Have you ever dropped yours in the sand? Yikes, that’s always a panic-inducing moment. There’s a human tendency to wipe soiled sunglass lenses on the hem of your shirt, but that’s one of the worst things you can do for the longevity of your lenses.... --- ## 8 Facts About Cataracts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-facts-about-cataracts/ June is Cataract Awareness Month, an ideal time to share information about one of the most common vision problems people experience as they age: the formation of cataracts. A cataract is a clouding or yellowing of the eye’s natural lens, which typically occurs in people over age 40, with those over age 60 having the majority of operable cataracts. Around half of all Americans will develop at least one cataract by age 75. In addition, cataracts can form in newborns due to complications in pregnant moms, such as diseases like chickenpox and measles. If you or someone you love suffers from cataracts, don’t despair. While their vision with cataracts will be greatly reduced, the condition is treatable with a common eye procedure that boasts a high 95– 98% success rate. Cataracts, which are a cause of blindness when uncorrected, are one of the most easily treatable vision-impacting eye conditions. Here are 8 facts about cataracts and cataract correction: 1.... --- ## 7 Comments From Post-Procedure Cataract Patients URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-comments-from-post-procedure-cataract-patients/ In our practice, we see a lot of patients in their 60s, 70s, and 80s. Of the eye problems and diseases this age group faces—including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and other inoperable conditions—cataracts are the one eye condition that can be significantly improved. Cataract correction is a common procedure that restores the patient’s vision with minimal downtime. If you are a patient with cataracts, we are monitoring their progression. We will determine when it’s the right time for you to schedule your cataract correction procedure. Meanwhile, you are probably noticing changes in your vision. The vision becomes blurred, clouded, and yellowed. You may see halos around lights at night and feel uncomfortable driving at night due to reduced vision. When these vision changes impact your lifestyle, it’s time for us to discuss when you should schedule your cataract correction.... --- ## Why It’s Smart To Protect Your Eyes From the Sun URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-its-smart-to-protect-your-eyes-from-the-sun/ It’s the dog days of summer! If it’s not hot enough for you in July, it never will be. July is National UV Safety Awareness Month. With more than 14 hours of sunlight each day, it’s a great opportunity to learn why you need to protect your eyes from the sun—and more specifically, from the sun’s damaging UV rays. What are UV rays? According to the American Cancer Society, “Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun and man-made sources like tanning beds and welding torches.” Notice we quoted the American Cancer Society for that definition. Why? Because one of the long-term results of accumulated sun exposure is a higher risk for developing cancer of the skin and of the eyes. There are three types of UV rays: 1. UV-C rays: These rays have more potentially damaging energy than UV-A or UV-B rays. Fortunately, that excess energy makes them react with ozone in the Earth’s upper atmosphere, where they are absorbed.... --- ## 9 Ways To Protect Eyes from UV Damage URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-ways-to-protect-eyes-from-uv-damage/ As we continue observing National UV Safety Month throughout July, we want to offer smart strategies to help you minimize the exposure your eyes have to harmful UV rays. Minimizing UV ray exposure can help maintain your healthy vision for as long as possible. UV ray exposure can cause painful short-term damage to your eyes in the form of sunburn. However, UV’s long-term, cumulative effects—cataracts, pterygium and macular degeneration—can dramatically impact your ability to see clearly and enjoy healthy vision in the long term. Here are 9 tips to protect your eyes and safeguard your healthy vision, 1. Wear sunglasses. The easy key to protecting your eyes from the sun? Wear sunglasses that are rated to block 100% of the sun’s UV rays. And wear them every day, even when it looks cloudy outside. Purchase your sunglasses from a reliable source, and double-check that they contain UV protection. 2. Don’t wear cheap sunglasses.... --- ## Why Parents Must Prioritize Back-To-School Eye Exams For School-Age Kids URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-parents-must-prioritize-back-to-school-eye-exams-for-school-age-kids/ August is Vision and Learning Month in the U.S. The goal of observing this vital link between vision and how we learn serves to enhance awareness among both parents and educators about how often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed visual problems impact a student’s ability to learn. Did you know that in our country, there is an epidemic of undiagnosed eye and vision problems? One in five preschool-age children has an existing vision problem. This means that by the time they enter school, 20% of kids will need to wear corrective lenses—though unfortunately, not all will be diagnosed and treated. This can (and will!) significantly affect their ability to learn in the classroom, play sports, and observe their surroundings. Children with a vision impairment fall behind their peers quickly; once they’re behind, it can be difficult to catch back up.... --- ## When—and Why—Your Child Needs A Comprehensive Eye Exam URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/when-and-why-your-child-needs-a-comprehensive-eye-exam/ Vision is one of the most precious of our five senses — its impact on our lives can’t be overstated. Up to 80% of the knowledge we learn and the information we perceive comes in through our eyes. That’s why protecting your vision—and the vision of your child—is so important to overall wellbeing. Early childhood is a time when the entire body grows and changes rapidly. In addition to their muscles and bones, your child’s eyes are growing and developing rapidly in their pre-school years. Depending on how the eyes grow and develop, your child could experience a vision problem. Early Diagnosis Is Key With Childhood Vision Problems Catching a vision problem early is a game-changer. Young eyes are very adaptable and respond incredibly well to treatment.... --- ## 7 Ways College Students Can Protect Their Eye Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-ways-college-students-can-protect-their-eye-health/ Are you the parent of a college student or a new college student yourself? It’s a big responsibility! College days are full of excitement and learning. Sometimes you learn in a classroom, and sometimes you learn things from friends in a dorm or other social setting. But what you don’t want is to learn a lesson at the expense of your eye health. We see a lot of college students in our practice who suffer from eye issues or diseases that could be prevented by some good basic practices to maintain eye health. When you develop good eye health habits early in life, they will help you protect your precious sense of vision for decades to come. Here are 7 ways college students—and really, everyone—can protect their eye health. 1. Never Share Your Makeup It’s tempting to try the new eyeliner or mascara that a friend down the hall raves about, and she is happy to loan it to you. But don’t give in to temptation.... --- ## Is Your Student At Risk for Progressive Myopia? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/is-your-student-at-risk-for-progressive-myopia/ In our offices and around the country, optometrists are seeing a significant—and disturbing—new trend: more and more patients are presenting with myopia, or nearsightedness. People with myopia can see close-up objects clearly, but objects at a distance appear blurry. According to the National Eye Institute, the prevalence of myopia in the U.S. population is growing quite rapidly: In 1971, the percentage of the U.S. population with myopia was 25%. Now it’s up to 42%. In Asian countries such as Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan, the percentage of people with myopia is 80% to 90%. So, what’s behind this nearly doubling of nearsightedness in recent decades? And, are you and your family at risk? What is Myopia? Myopia is an eye condition that affects the eye’s ability to focus clearly. People with myopia—called myopes—can focus on close objects but can’t focus on distant objects.... --- ## Why Retinal Detachment is an Eyecare Emergency URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-retinal-detachment-is-an-eyecare-emergency/ ### Why Retinal Detachment is an Eyecare Emergency Your retina is the extremely light-sensitive nerve tissue at the back of your eye that enables your eye to focus and see. The retina captures and processes incoming light and images, then passes that information to the brain, which results in your ability to see. A functioning retina is fundamental to being able to see. So, when retinal tissue detaches from the back of the eye and loses blood flow and oxygenation, it is an emergency that requires immediate care. Without surgery to fix the detached retina, the result will be loss of vision in the affected eye. Without immediate treatment, you can lose vision within hours as retinal tissue degenerates and dies. Let’s examine who is at risk for this dangerous condition and the symptoms it presents. ### Who is at Risk for Retinal Detachment? Retinal detachment risk increases with age—you are more likely to have a retinal detachment after age 50.... --- ## What are Eye Floaters? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-are-eye-floaters/ ### What are Eye Floaters? If you haven’t yet experienced floaters in the eye, it’s understandable that you may be puzzled about what they are and what they look like. However, as you age, floaters become more common. You will get used to seeing an oddly shaped shadow or two floating around in your visual field, and then you’ll know what they are. You will likely continue to experience them occasionally throughout your life. Floaters are a normal part of the aging eye, and most often are harmless. Floaters form when the vitreous gel that gives the eye its rounded shape starts to liquify and shrink in size. As this happens, the vitreous forms clumps of stringy cells that float around in your eye, casting shadows onto your retina. These black or gray cobwebs or squiggly shadows in your vision are known as “floaters.” ### Should I Be Concerned About Floaters in my Vision? For the most part, occasional floaters in your visual field are not a concern.... --- ## How Does Diabetes Impact Your Eyes? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-does-diabetes-impact-your-eyes/ It’s November: Time to shine a light on how diabetes impacts your eyes during Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. Did you know that diabetes often affects a patient’s vision? And that uncontrolled diabetes is a top cause of blindness for people aged 74 and under? Let’s take a closer look at how diabetes impacts your eyes and, therefore, your ability to see. Diabetes 101 Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects your metabolism. Specifically, it affects how your body turns sugar (glucose) from food into energy the body can use. Diabetes results in a higher-than-normal level of blood sugar. There are three types of diabetes: 1. Type Two Diabetes. In this type, the pancreas doesn’t produce enough of the hormone insulin, which regulates how your body absorbs and uses sugar for fuel. This is by far the most common type of diabetes and is often diagnosed in people with excess body weight who don’t exercise. 2. Type One Diabetes.... --- ## What is Diabetic Retinopathy? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy/ The US Centers for Disease Control estimate that there are 37.3 million Americans living with diabetes. That’s about 10% of our nation’s population! What’s worse: About one in five of those people are not aware that they have this dangerous chronic health condition. In addition, 96 million more Americans (more than one in three of us) have a condition called prediabetes and have elevated blood sugar levels. In total, that’s 133.3 million people at risk for diabetic eye disease that can cause blindness. People with diabetes are at high risk for eye diseases and conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. Why is this alarming? Because people with diabetes have very high, often uncontrolled sugar levels in their blood. This ongoing level of high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the entire body, putting them at increased risk for heart disease, kidney disease, and potential blindness.... --- ## Why It’s Time To Check Your Flex Spending Account Balance URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-its-time-to-check-your-flex-spending-account-balance/ Check your calendar: We’ll welcome 2023 in just a few short weeks. It’s time to ask yourself two questions: 1. What do you need to get done before the end of December? 2. What action steps can you take now to make your new year better? It’s Time To Use Your Flexible Spending Account funds The answer to question one is: Before December ends, you need to double-check whether you have unspent funds in your Flexible Spending Account (FSA). An FSA is a benefit many people get through their employer. An FSA allows you to save tax-free money to spend on medical expenses. However, if you have unspent funds, you can lose them if you don’t spend them by the end of the year (or the date your employer designates). So it’s critical to verify the date by which you need to spend those funds or you risk losing them forever. If that date is December 31, now is the time to use your funds—or lose them! The IRS says you can use Flexible Spending funds on many optical expenses.... --- ## 8 Ways To Protect Your Gift of Sight This Season URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-ways-to-protect-your-gift-of-sight-this-season/ Optometrists often receive “eye-themed” cards and gifts for holidays and birthdays — and we love it. In December, we almost always get something that mentions the movie A Christmas Story . You may remember the film – it’s the one where little Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, and everyone—including Santa!—tells him, “ You’ll shoot your eye out, kid !” Ralphie’s mom, teacher, and Santa bring up a good point: The gift of sight is one of the most precious gifts we have. It’s up to us to protect it. And there are unique eye injury threats during the month of December that are worth noting. Here are 8 ways to protect your vision this holiday season: 1. Take care when cutting your own Christmas tree. If you celebrate Christmas and do so by cutting down your own tree, wear safety goggles or glasses while doing so. Flying chunks of wood and sawdust can lodge in your eye and cause an unwanted holiday trip to the emergency room.... --- ## How Your Eye Doctor Diagnoses Glaucoma URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-your-eye-doctor-diagnoses-glaucoma/ Happy 2023! As you start the new year, it’s a common practice to assess what you’re most thankful for and consider goals and resolutions to guide you in the coming 12 months. If you’re fortunate enough to have healthy eyes and good vision, please take a moment to be grateful for your precious gift of sight. One New Year’s resolution we strongly recommend is to continue to take good care of your eyes to maintain eye health and good vision. In January, we recognize Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a group of diseases known as the silent thief of sight because they damage the optic nerve without pain or symptoms. Glaucoma is a leading cause of both vision loss and blindness in the United States. In glaucoma, it is common for fluid to build up within the eye and increase pressure within the eye, which is what causes damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision.... --- ## 9 Strategies to Adapt to Life With Low Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-strategies-to-adapt-to-life-with-low-vision/ February is Low Vision Awareness Month , a time to increase awareness of this condition which affects millions of Americans each day. Low vision is the term for a visual impairment that cannot be corrected by standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. Symptoms of the condition vary, with different stages of central and/or peripheral vision loss. People with low vision may have difficulty reading, writing, recognizing faces, and performing daily activities such as cooking, grooming, or participating in games or social activities. They may also experience difficulty with mobility and navigation, as well as social isolation and depression. There are many causes of low vision, which affects many older adults. Causes include age-related macular degeneration , diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma , and uncorrected cataracts. In some cases, low vision may be inherited or caused by a traumatic brain injury or stroke.... --- ## 10 Ways To Minimize The Progression of Low Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/10-ways-to-minimize-the-progression-of-low-vision/ In February, we recognize Low Vision Awareness Month and the millions of Americans who live with the condition. Low vision is a term used to describe a visual impairment that cannot be corrected by standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. It often results in difficulty performing daily tasks that may include cooking, reading, playing games or doing puzzles, recognizing the faces of loved ones, and generally enjoying what we often perceive as a high quality of life. Curious about what that looks like? Check out the National Eye Institute’s Virtual Reality Eye Disease Experience, See What I See . In a series of videos, you can look through the eyes of someone with low vision and understand its impact on their visual field. Low vision causes may include age-related macular degeneration , glaucoma, uncorrected cataracts and diabetic retinopathy .... --- ## Celebrating the Rise of Women in Optometry URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/celebrating-the-rise-of-women-in-optometry/ In March, we celebrate Women’s History Month. And we’re proud to say that optometry is one place women are making history. Did you know that optometry began as a predominantly male profession in the late 1800s, but today, women make up nearly half of all practicing optometrists in the United States? What a fascinating journey! First, some background basics. Optometry is the science of examining and caring for eye health, diagnosing and treating vision problems, and prescribing vision-correcting glasses and contact lenses. Though the first pair of “prescription” glasses were created in Italy in 1286, the word optometry didn’t appear until 1759 in a book called A Treatise of the Eye by a Scottish doctor, William Porterfield. Modern optometry began to emerge in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Around that same time, women were starting to gain more access to higher education and professional careers. One of the early pioneers of optometry was Dr.... --- ## 5 Causes and 6 Treatments for Digital Eye Fatigue URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-causes-and-6-treatments-for-digital-eye-fatigue/ Do you find yourself staring at digital screens—computer monitors, cell phones, tablets, televisions—for most of the day? Are your eyes tired, red, or itchy? Are they dry or irritated? If you answered yes to these questions, it’s possible that you may have digital eye fatigue. Also known as computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain, digital eye fatigue is a common problem among people who spend a significant amount of time staring at digital screens. And in 2023, isn’t that all or most of us? The symptoms of digital eye fatigue include eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Causes and Symptoms of Digital Eye Fatigue Let’s explore five causes of digital eye fatigue: 1. Prolonged screen time is the main cause of digital eye fatigue. As technology continues to advance, it entices us to spend more and more time on digital devices, whether that’s for work, entertainment, or communication. The resulting prolonged screen time can cause a strain on our eyes. 2.... --- ## How Contact Lenses Are Made URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-contact-lenses-are-made/ If you yourself don’t wear them, you almost definitely know someone who does: Contact lenses — those small, curved pieces of plastic that correct vision impairment — are one of the most successful medical device technologies. They are a part of daily life for millions of Americans. But how were these clever lenses developed, and how are they made? Contact lenses are corrective or cosmetic devices worn on the eye, typically made of thin plastic that sits atop a layer of tears over the cornea. For many of our patients, especially athletes and those with an active lifestyle, they are the preferred vision correction method over glasses because they offer convenience and freedom of movement. There are three main types of contact lenses in use today: soft, gas-permeable, and hybrid. Soft lenses are the most comfortable because they have the highest water content. The downside is that the thin plastic can rip very easily. If you wear daily lenses, you wear soft lenses.... --- ## 3 Reasons To Wear Premium Sunglasses This Sun Season URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/3-reasons-to-wear-premium-sunglasses-this-sun-season/ Spring has officially sprung! As we move into the longer days and stronger UV rays, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of wearing premium sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. We say it often because it’s important for your visual health: Just as you wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, you need to wear sunglasses every day to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only do sunglasses provide crucial protection from the sun's damaging effects, but they can also improve your visual acuity, enhance your visual comfort, and even contribute to your overall style and fashion. Sunglasses Help Prevent UV Damage to Eyes UV radiation is a well-known cause of skin cancer, but did you know it can also lead to a number of serious eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, cancer of the eyelid, and even corneal sunburn? Ouch!... --- ## 5 Eye Conditions You May Inherit from Your Mother URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-eye-conditions-you-may-inherit-from-your-mother/ It’s almost Mother’s Day — time to celebrate moms and everything they do. To all of the great moms we see each day in our offices, taking excellent care of their children’s health and wellbeing, in addition to all of the other priorities that come with raising kids in our modern world: We see you, and we appreciate you! We get so many positive things from our mothers! In addition to emotional care and support, sometimes we overlook the genetic and hereditary aspects we get from Mom. If you have brown, blue, or hazel eyes, your mother’s (and father’s) DNA plays a key role in that. Whether you have 20/20 vision, or have worn prescription lenses since you were in fifth grade, your mother (and father) plays a critical role in that, too. One key factor that impacts eye health is your family history. Many eye conditions and diseases can be inherited from your parents, including retinal diseases, glaucoma, and cataracts.... --- ## How Prescription Eyewear Is Made URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-prescription-eyewear-is-made/ Eyeglasses are an amazing invention, aren’t they? For centuries, prescription lenses have helped to restore people’s vision and protect their eyes from damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet radiation and glare, in addition to blue light that comes from electronic devices. Have you ever wondered where eyeglass lenses originated and how they are made? Today’s fashion eyewear has come a long way from its origins. While their exact origin is a bit blurry (pun intended), there are early Greek texts that reference “reading stones” in the 9 th century. Somewhere around the year 1280 in Italy, the first pair of corrective lenses were worn. They looked quite different from today’s sleek lenses: They were basically two magnifying glasses made from transparent quartz and crystal (reading stones) in a metal frame that connected across the bridge of the nose by a hinge. Eventually, glass lenses replaced quartz and beryl lenses.... --- ## 5 Eye Conditions You May Inherit from Dear Ole’ Dad URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-eye-conditions-you-may-inherit-from-dear-ole-dad/ On the third Sunday each June, we celebrate Father’s Day to acknowledge Dads and the good things they do. Though the origins of Father’s Day are much different than those of Mother’s Day, the idea is the same: Extending gratitude for the role male parents play in our lives. While you celebrate Dad, especially if he is over age 50, take a moment to ask about his eye health. This is a good idea both because we want our Dads to continue seeing their best, and because there are multiple eye conditions and diseases you might inherit from your father. Early detection is critical for successfully treating many eye conditions that could impact your ability (and Dad’s) to see well. Talking about your family’s eye health history is a great place to start. Following are 5 specific eye conditions that you may inherit from your father: 1. Color Blindness. Color blindness is a common inherited eye condition we can get from our fathers.... --- ## Do the Sun’s UV Rays Cause Cataracts? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/do-the-suns-uv-rays-cause-cataracts/ June, July, and August are when the sun’s rays are most intense in the US. That’s why June 27 is National Sunglasses Day , reminding us about the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays by wearing sunglasses every day, every time we go outside. June is also Cataract Awareness Month. It’s no coincidence that National Sunglasses Day comes during Cataract Awareness Month: Sun exposure increases the likelihood for individuals to develop cataracts. While we can’t say for sure that the sun causes cataracts, we know UV exposure over a lifetime contributes to the development of cataracts. The World Health Organization (WHO) blames the sun’s UV rays for two significant public health challenges: skin cancer and cataracts. With the ozone layer thinner now than it was 30 years ago, the sun’s UV rays reach Earth’s surface at a much higher rate than they did when the ozone layer was healthier.... --- ## How to Reduce Your Risk of Eye Injury URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-reduce-your-risk-of-eye-injury/ July is National Eye Injury Prevention Month. While about half of all eye injuries happen at work (2,000+ eye injuries a day occur at workplaces across the U.S.), you’re just as likely to injure your eyes at home. With that in mind, here’s how to reduce your risk for eye injuries. Be Aware We often feel safe inside our homes, and that feeling can lull us into a false sense that nothing bad can happen. But many eye injuries happen in and around the home. Cleaning, cooking, home improvement, and yard work are the main culprits responsible for about 40% of all eye injuries in the U.S. More than 125,000 eye injuries each year result from common cleaning product use. Only 3 in 10 people wear proper eye protection while they’re doing an activity that could result in a serious eye injury. That’s unfortunate because more than 90% of eye injuries could be prevented just by wearing the proper eye protection while doing these high-risk activities.... --- ## Sunglasses 101: Everything You Need to Know to Find Your Favorite Pair URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/sunglasses-101-everything-you-need-to-know-to-find-your-favorite-pair/ It’s summer, and sunglasses are the first accessory you reach for every day. Right!? If not, it’s time to start. Daily exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can lead to unwanted conditions as you grow older, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer of the eye or eyelid. You can help prevent these outcomes by wearing a high-quality pair of sunglasses whenever you go outside. Yes, even on cloudy days, the sun’s harmful rays are always present. If you are among the 64% of adults who wear prescription lenses, why not treat yourself to a pair of prescription sunglasses? It’s convenient and safe to see well while shielding your eyes from the sun’s rays and glare. Less squinting, more joy all year! If you are in the eyewear minority and don’t need prescription lenses (yet!), our optical department can outfit you with high-quality sunglasses that look great and are guaranteed to protect your eyes from 100% of the sun’s damaging UV rays.... --- ## 5 Concerns Parents Voice About Their Student’s Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-concerns-parents-voice-about-their-students-vision/ It’s back-to-school season! As a parent, you know that your child needs all of the tools and resources available to be successful in the classroom, on the athletic field, and at social events — as well as to maintain a positive self-image. Did you know that along with their changing bodies, a child’s vision can change as they grow and mature? Scholastically, the demands of learning change as well. Print size grows smaller, assignments lengthen, and the amount of time devoted to screen time, reading, and writing increases. And not just in the classroom; this also extends to homework assignments. Good vision includes not only the ability to see clearly, but also the key that unlocks reading comprehension — understanding the meaning and content of the written word. August is Vision and Learning Month, because there is a strong correlation between scholastic success and healthy vision.... --- ## 9 Student Behaviors That May Indicate A Misdiagnosed Vision Issue URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-student-behaviors-that-may-indicate-a-misdiagnosed-vision-issue/ Proper eye care in school-age children is invaluable to their overall health and well-being. Just look at the statistics: 1 in 5 American preschool-age children have an uncorrected vision issue. An estimated 10 million children under age 10 have vision problems. Difficulty seeing can affect their ability to learn, and in some cases, lead to a behavioral misdiagnosis. That’s a sobering fact when you consider that 80% of what children learn in their first 12 years comes through visual learning — vision is our dominant sense! School vision screenings miss 75% of vision problems If you are the parent of a child who struggles with learning or whose behavior is causing problems in the classroom, we recommend a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist to determine whether your child’s visual system is performing at its best. Your school’s annual eye screening is insufficient in identifying all the factors that contribute to good vision.... --- ## Is Your Student at Risk for Digital Eye Strain? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/is-your-student-at-risk-for-digital-eye-strain/ Technology today offers your student so many good things, but Digital Eye Strain isn’t one of them. Also called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), this condition is the result of prolonged use of tablets, computers, e-readers, and cell phones — every type of screen device that your student uses hour after hour in a long school day and at home for homework. Extended periods of digital screen time can lead to eye discomfort, and that discomfort increases proportionally with screen use time. The more time spent staring into these devices, the greater the strain on the eyes. This high visual demand makes many students susceptible to vision-related problems. We’ve listed some of the symptoms to watch for below.... --- ## Help Your Student Avoid Pink Eye This School Year URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/help-your-student-avoid-pink-eye-this-school-year/ In the U.S. alone, students miss an average of 3 million school days a year due to symptoms of conjunctivitis or “pink eye” as it is commonly known. Pink eye is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in areas of close contact, such as schools, daycares, and athletic facilities. This is due in part to shared use of digital devices, books, toys, athletic equipment, and restrooms where kids touch door knobs, bathroom faucets, and toilet handles. There are several contagious and non-contagious ways to contract conjunctivitis. Below are some important facts to remember about pink eye – its causes, symptoms, how to avoid it, and when to contact your optometrist. Common Causes and Symptoms of Pink Eye There are four common causes of pink eye: • A number of viruses, including adenoviruses, can result in large outbreaks of pink eye. These viruses are very contagious . • Pink eye can be caused by numerous types of bacteria that spread very easily.... --- ## How to Care for Your New Baby’s Vision Development URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-care-for-your-new-babys-vision-development/ ## A New Parent’s Guide to Your Baby’s Vision Development We get it: Having a baby can feel overwhelming. Caring for an adorable new life is a big job, and there’s a lot to learn. One important area of focus new parents sometimes overlook is your baby’s vision development. Many new parents are unaware that an optometric vision exam for their new baby is as important as those pre-scheduled pediatric exams. Ideally, at about 6 months of age, a baby should have their vision evaluated by an optometrist to ensure their eyes and vision are developing properly. An infant’s eye and vision health are directly connected to their motor, speech, and social development. The sense of sight  is a critical aspect in your baby’s development. Babies aren’t born with the ability to “see” as we adults perceive our sense of sight. Instead, they “learn to see” over a period of time.... --- ## 9 Surprising Health Conditions an Eye Exam Can Uncover URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-surprising-health-conditions-an-eye-exam-can-uncover/ Did you know that an annual eye exam goes far beyond making sure that you are seeing your best? It is one of the few ways to uncover possible health concerns without imaging, surgery, or blood draws. Your optometrist is actually looking inside of your body as they examine your optic nerve, retina, and lens of the eye. This “insider information” can reveal abnormalities that indicate systemic disorders and diseases before symptoms appear. Following are 9 significant health conditions that your optometrist may uncover during your annual eye exam: 1. High Blood Pressure High blood pressure (HBP) impacts one in three American adults. During a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, your optometrist may notice signs of HBP, like unusual bends or kinks in the blood vessels in the back of the eye. HBP can also cause tiny blood vessels to rupture and leak blood into the whites of the eye.... --- ## 5 Questions about Diabetes and Your Eye Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-diabetes-and-your-eye-health/ In the last 20 years, the number of American adults diagnosed with diabetes has doubled . Did you know that 37 million Americans have diabetes, and approximately 21% of those are unaware that they have it? Couple that statistic with the 96 million people considered “pre-diabetic,” and the number of individuals whose vision potentially could be affected by the disease is staggering. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in patients under age 74; with early detection and treatment, diabetics can reduce their risk of going blind by 95%! Did you know that 20% of people first learn of their diabetic condition through a comprehensive eye exam? That’s one reason why an annual eye exam is so crucial to the health of your eyes. 1. What is diabetes, and how does it impact vision? Diabetes is a progressive, chronic disease that occurs when there is too much glucose, or sugar, in the blood.... --- ## 6 Great Options To Use Your FSA Funds By End-of-Year URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/six-great-options-to-use-your-fsa-funds-by-end-of-year/ It’s that time again – the “use it or lose it” end-of-year push to make your pre-tax Flexible Spending Account (FSA) dollars count! There are a number of qualifying optometric products and services to keep in mind when caring for your eye health and that of your family. You can use your FSA plan contributions to cover your spouse, children, or covered dependents listed on this year’s tax return. It’s always best to confirm any large expenses with your plan’s administrator due to differences in employers’ coverage. Here are 6 smart ways to protect eye health with your FSA funds: 1. Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam If you’ve put off this important exam all year, now is the time to do it — even if you think your vision is perfect. A standard eye exam consists of vision tests, a glaucoma test, and a comprehensive eye exam.... --- ## 5 Flex Facts Around Vision Care and Flexible Spending Accounts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-flex-facts-around-vision-care-and-flexible-spending-accounts/ Have you enjoyed a great 2023? We hope so! The year is coming to a close in just a couple of weeks, and that means you need to act fast to use any Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds you may have already designated for eligible health care costs.   ‘Tis the season for our patients to ask if their vision-related expenses are eligible for reimbursement through their company’s FSA. These so-called “Flex Funds” are yours to spend, but the U.S. Internal Revenue Service puts specific rules around the different types of products and services that qualify. So, we’re providing answers to some common questions about FSA accounts and how to use them to your advantage. If you are fortunate enough to have a Flex Fund account through your employer, today is a good day to do a bit of double-checking. Find out what the “expiration date” is when you need to use your funds or risk losing them. For many, that date is December 31.... --- ## 5 Flex Facts Around Vision Care and Flexible Spending Accounts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-flex-facts-around-vision-care-and-flexible-spending-accounts-2/ Have you enjoyed a great 2023? We hope so! The year is coming to a close in just a couple of weeks, and that means you need to act fast to use any Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds you may have already designated for eligible health care costs. ‘Tis the season for our patients to ask if their vision-related expenses are eligible for reimbursement through their company’s FSA. These so-called “Flex Funds” are yours to spend, but the U.S. Internal Revenue Service puts specific rules around the different types of products and services that qualify. So, we’re providing answers to some common questions about FSA accounts and how to use them to your advantage. If you are fortunate enough to have a Flex Fund account through your employer, today is a good day to do a bit of double-checking. Find out what the “expiration date” is when you need to use your funds or risk losing them. For many, that date is December 31.... --- ## Red-Green Color Vision Deficiency Explained: Just in Time for the Holidays URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/red-green-color-vision-deficiency-explained-just-in-time-for-the-holidays/ Your ability to see color adds so much to life! Think of seeing a rainbow, or the bloom on a rose, or looking into your child’s or loved one’s eyes. Color helps us form memories, make decisions,  and can spark emotions. An average person can see about 1 million colors thanks to three different types of “cone” cells in your retina that distinguish red, blue, and green. The rest of the colors you perceive are a combination of those three. The holiday season is upon us, and everywhere you look you’ll see lights and decorations that often include the colors red and green. However, for those with red-green color deficiency (sometimes referred to as “color blindness”) the holiday season may look completely different. Color Blindness: 3 Types There are an estimated 300 million color blind people in the world. One in every 12 men — but only one in 200 women — are color blind to some extent.... --- ## 7 New Year’s Resolutions for “Seeing” a Bright 2024! URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/7-new-years-resolutions-for-seeing-a-bright-2024/ Who doesn’t love a good New Year’s resolution? Many people begin the New Year with a strategy of being more aware of their health and well-being. Some plan to eat healthier, exercise regularly or quit smoking – which are a great start. But there are other simple habits that can enhance the well-being of your eyes. Following are seven eye-healthy resolutions to consider implementing in 2024. These best practices will protect your “windows on the world” – those amazing eyes that enable you to enjoy the world around you. 1. Wear UV Protective Sunglasses Year-Round The result of cumulative UV-A and UV-B rays over the years can contribute to developing cataracts. Serious eye conditions including macular degeneration and rare eye cancers are also linked to prolonged exposure to the sun’s damaging rays. Wear a high-quality pair of sunglasses to reduce these risks and protect your eyes from dryness and irritation caused by blowing debris, dust, sand, snow and wind.... --- ## Guard Your Vision: It’s Glaucoma Awareness Month URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/guard-your-vision-its-glaucoma-awareness-month/ January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, which encourages us to start the year thinking about our precious sense of vision and how to safeguard it. Glaucoma is a thief – a silent “sight thief” associated with gradual and permanent vision loss caused by damage to the optic nerve. It is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Over 3 million people in the United States have glaucoma. That number, according to the National Eye Institute , is expected to increase to 4.2 million by the year 2030. The World Health Organization says that more than 2 million people are blind due to glaucoma worldwide (about 120,000 of those are in the U.S.) and that 80 million people worldwide currently have glaucoma. Many of those individuals are unaware of their condition because glaucoma steals vision so gradually, over time. A person can lose as much as 40% of their vision without noticing a change!... --- ## Low Vision: Who’s at Risk? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/low-vision-whos-at-risk/ February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Month. Many people aren’t sure what the definition of low vision is or how it manifests in patients’ lives. Let’s dive into low vision, explore its causes and symptoms, and discuss how patients can learn to navigate the challenge of not seeing clearly even while wearing corrective lenses. What is the definition of Low Vision? Low vision is the term for impaired vision that cannot be corrected by conventional eyeglasses, medications, or surgical treatments. About 4 million adults in the U.S. live with low vision, and nearly 500,000 will be diagnosed this year alone. That number is expected to increase to more than 9.5 million living with low vision in the next 30 years. Although it is permanent and incurable, low vision can be monitored to help you accomplish your everyday tasks and slow the progression of vision loss.... --- ## 4 Questions About Age-Related Macular Degeneration URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/4-questions-about-age-related-macular-degeneration/ What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)? Age-Related Macular Degeneration — called AMD for short — is an all-too-common eye disease that blurs central vision and can make it harder to drive, read, see faces or do “up-close” work. It is the most common cause of severe vision loss in people over 60. More than 200,000 cases of AMD are diagnosed yearly in the U.S., which translates to almost 20 million adults living with AMD. Globally, that number will rise to approximately 288 million by 2040. There is no cure for AMD, which is a life-long complication once it develops. However, with early detection, the condition can often be treated and managed. The aging process damages the retina of the eye, specifically the macula – the part of the eye that controls straight-ahead, central vision and the sharpness or fine details of everything you see. It doesn’t, however, affect peripheral vision.... --- ## 6 Eye Makeup Safety Tips For Healthy Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-eye-makeup-safety-tips-for-healthy-eyes/ March is “Save Your Vision” month, encompassing every aspect of eye health. On a daily basis, you must protect your eyes from various potential hazards – UV rays from the sun, eyestrain from digital screens, and environmental hazards such as projectiles and dust. But there’s another potential culprit that many of us apply to our delicate eye area every day. That’s right: We’re talking about eye makeup. Most cosmetics from reputable manufacturers are safe when properly applied, but be aware of application injury (ouch!), color additives, and the increased risk of eye infections. Let’s have a “look-see” at some of the “Do’s and Don’ts” of wearing makeup and keeping your eyes healthy. Makeup trends come and go, but protecting your precious sense of vision is forever. 1. Clean Up Your Act Misuse of eye cosmetics can be dangerous – plus there’s an “ick factor” to nasty bacterial or fungal eye infections. Not a good look for your wedding, job interview, or family photo!... --- ## Eye Safety at Home: Keep Your Family’s Vision Intact URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-safety-at-home-keep-your-familys-vision-intact/ Your home is your safe haven — or is it? About half of all eye injuries happen in and around your home! The good news? You can reduce your risk of eye injury by 90% by wearing protective eyewear. The bad news? Only three in ten people wear eye protection, even during high-risk activities. Blunt force injuries are the most common eye injury and can damage both the eye itself and also the bone and surrounding tissue. Other types of eye injuries include scratches, abrasions, cuts, chemical burns, foreign or penetrating bodies, and radiation or UV exposure from the sun or sun lamps. Be aware of the activities most likely to cause eye injury and where those injuries occur most often in and around your home. In the Yard • Home improvement projects. Power tools can create flying debris like sawdust, tree branches, nails, or metal. Drilling and hammering can fragment brick and concrete, causing it to chip off and fly into the air, posing a danger to your eyes.... --- ## 8 Eye-Healthy Tips For Viewing The April 8 Solar Eclipse URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-eye-healthy-tips-for-viewing-the-april-8-solar-eclipse/ As an optometric practice, we understand the excitement around the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Many major U.S. cities will be in total darkness when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun that day, including Dallas, Little Rock, Indianapolis and Cleveland. It’s a relatively rare event – with totality and its view of the wispy corona of the sun occurring only once every 400 years or so in any given location on Earth. So you don’t want to miss it! In most of the U.S., at least a partial eclipse will be visible on the afternoon of Monday, April 8. To explore what your view of the eclipse will look like, check out Eclipse Central and enter your city name. For example, here’s how the eclipse will appear in Charlotte, NC . Witnessing this celestial event can be a breathtaking experience, but it's crucial to prioritize eye safety while doing so. Here are 8 tips to guide you in viewing the eclipse with your eye safety as the priority: 1.... --- ## Learn How to Use Eye Drops in the “Blink of an Eye” URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/learn-how-to-use-eye-drops-in-the-blink-of-an-eye/ When it comes to eye drops, the “blink” of an eye is the problem – right? It sounds easy enough, but it’s not always as simple as following the recommended steps: Tilt your head back, look up, open your eye wide, and squeeze one tiny drop from the bottle into your eye. And voila — it’s done! Knowing how to administer eye drops properly is a life skill that takes practice. Eye drops are often used to treat ocular ailments and diseases. You may use them to moisturize your eyes, relieve redness and irritation, or treat eye conditions, including glaucoma, pink eye, allergies, dry eye, or eye infections. Improper use of eye drops may lead to insufficient treatment, so it’s important to learn how to use them effectively. About 20% of people have difficulty putting drops into their eyes because of fear, tremors, poor vision, poor circulation, or problems with the eye-hand coordination necessary to dispense them. Some people may even need assistance from a friend or family member.... --- ## Why Children Need High-Quality Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-children-need-high-quality-sunglasses-3/ May is Healthy Vision Month . A lifetime of healthy vision starts in childhood, by protecting your eyes from injury and damage and developing good eye health habits. Did you know that by the time your child turns 18, they have received 80% of their lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation? You likely recognize the importance of protecting your children’s skin from UV light, but most people aren’t aware that kids’ eyes need protection from UV as well. Overexposure to UV rays can cause severe damage to children’s eyes, and only about 5% of parents report that their child always wears sunglasses when outside. Kids spend hours outside — riding bikes, school recess, playing, participating in sports — enjoying “fun in the sun.” The result is that their annual exposure to the sun’s damaging UV rays is three times more than for adults! Why are UV rays a risk to kid’s eyes?... --- ## 5 Proven Ways To Get Kids To Wear Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-proven-ways-to-get-kids-to-wear-sunglasses/ If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you may already know that by the time your son or daughter reaches age 18, they’ve already received up to 80% of their entire lifetime’s worth of exposure to the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays! It’s a shocking statistic. That’s because kids spend so much time outside – which is healthy – but means parents must protect them from the damage that UV rays can cause to their developing eyes and tender skin. One game-changing advantage parents like you can provide their kids with is high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. And encourage them to wear their sunnies whenever they spend time outside. Yes, even on cloudy or overcast days. But -- how do you get your kids to wear their sunglasses? Here are five proven methods: 1. Let Kids Choose Their Own Sunglasses A little child psychology goes a long way: If you want your kids to wear sunglasses regularly (and you do!... --- ## 5 Questions About Cataracts URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-cataracts/ June is Cataract Awareness Month, a great opportunity to educate yourself on this eye condition that so many of us will experience in our lifetimes. By age 65, as many as 90% of people have at least one cataract forming. We’ve all heard the term cataract, but what exactly is a cataract? A cataract is simply when the natural lens of your eye becomes thick and cloudy. The lens of your eye is typically clear and easy to see through, but when proteins in the lens break down, symptoms occur – like cloudy, foggy, blurry, hazy, or even “less colorful” vision. Though they are often a natural part of aging, cataracts can negatively impact not only your vision but, ultimately, your quality of life – how you work, play, and interact with the world. 1. What causes cataracts, and when do they start? As your eye health professionals, we encourage you to become familiar with the causes of cataracts in order to be proactive with your vision health.... --- ## 8 Tips To Protect Eye Health All Summer URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-tips-to-protect-eye-health-all-summer/ Summer fun and summer chores are in full swing – school is out, vacations are planned, weekend events are on your calendar, and yard work is a weekly activity! Summer poses a number of threats to eye health and vision. You may have noticed itchy, red, or irritated eyes from summer allergens or maybe burning, red or gritty eyes from chlorinated pools or ocean water? Plus, fans and air conditioning can contribute to dry eyes. To avoid the uncomfortable “summertime threats” to your eyes, remember these 8 tips to help you navigate summer with your healthy, comfortable vision: 1. Shield Your Eyes You know that the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin, but did you know those same rays can also negatively affect your eyes? According to the World Health Organization, UV exposure is responsible for up to 20% of cataracts worldwide.... --- ## 5 Ways to Enhance How Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-ways-to-enhance-how-sunglasses-protect-your-eyes-from-uv-rays/ Are you aware that your eyes can get sunburned? Yes, just like your skin, your eyes can be burned by direct or reflected ultraviolet (UV) rays. As the summer weather gets hotter and you enjoy the season’s outdoor activities, your eyes are exposed to greater amounts of the sun’s intense and damaging UV rays. Increased outdoor activity such as yard work, warm weather sports, or a day at the beach can pose a threat to your eyes and to the sensitive skin surrounding them. Nobody wants a case of photokeratitis to slow down the summer fun. What is photokeratitis, you ask? It’s literally a sunburn to the eye that causes inflammation of the cornea — the clear, rounded structure that covers the iris and pupil. This painful sunburn can lead to redness, blurred vision, itchy, watery eyes, sensitivity to light, gritty eyes, or a headache.... --- ## 5 Questions About Dry Eye Symptoms and Care URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-questions-about-dry-eye-symptoms-and-care/ July is National Dry Eye Awareness Month. It is estimated that at least 17 million and up to 50 million Americans suffer moderate to severe symptoms from Dry Eye. Twice as many women as men experience the pain and discomfort of Dry Eye. A significant percentage of diagnoses in women can be attributed to certain types of birth control, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, and menopause. Misdiagnosis of Dry Eye can cause damage to the tissues of the eye, so it’s important that you visit your optometrist for a thorough eye exam to get a proper diagnosis, determine the contributing causes of your condition, and treat your symptoms effectively. What is Dry Eye? Your eyes constantly produce tears, creating a “tear film” to lubricate the eyes, maintain a smooth surface for light refraction, and preserve the health of the conjunctiva and cornea.... --- ## 5 Tips Your College Student Needs To Know About Healthy Vision URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-tips-your-college-student-needs-to-know-about-healthy-vision/ Are you a parent with a child gearing up for their first year of college? Or are you a student ready to embark on the excitement of university life? As you navigate the transition between the carefree days of childhood and full-on adulting, it’s easy to overlook some essential details. That’s why now is the ideal time for you and your college-bound student to have a vital conversation with your optometrist. Before you pack up the minivan with “Go State” pennants, clothes, furniture, sports gear, and every sort of technology -- don’t forget those chargers! – talk with your soon-to-be college student about a key to their academic success: maintaining good eye health. You’ve always been there to caution, cajole, and monitor your child to keep them safe and healthy. You’ve been the one who scheduled their annual eye exam and was quick to notice the signs of an eye infection.... --- ## Why School Vision Screenings Fall Short: The Importance of a Full Eye Exam URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-school-vision-screenings-fall-short-the-importance-of-a-full-eye-exam/ It’s that time again — August means back-to-school for many children. Parents are busy buying the perfect backpack, notebooks, writing utensils, and school clothes so students have everything they need for a successful school year. But did you know that August is also Vision and Learning Month? It makes perfect sense because 80% of everything you – and your kids — learn comes through the visual pathway! The American Optometric Association states that 25% of all school-age children have a vision problem that is significant enough to impact their ability to learn. That’s why it’s essential to get a comprehensive visual exam before your child begins the school year. Notice we didn’t say they need a “vision screening” – a comprehensive eye exam is the standard. Why Does my Child Need a Comprehensive Eye Exam?... --- ## How to Recognize Signs of Vision Problems in School-Age Children URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-recognize-signs-of-vision-problems-in-school-age-children/ Your eyes are more than just windows to the world. The eyes are a complex and powerful tool that enable us to experience life in vivid detail. From the moment you wake up and see the morning light to the time you close your eyes at bedtime, your vision impacts how you connect and interact with everything in your environment. It’s your eyes that capture the smile of a loved one, the beauty of a flower in bloom, and the words on a page that entertain, inform, and inspire. Your visual system doesn’t just help you see the world—it empowers you to connect, learn, and hopefully, thrive within it. For school-age children, the necessity of having a healthy, functioning visual system cannot be overstated. As kids start their education in preschool or kindergarten, they rely on their eyes as the primary way to absorb knowledge, learn, and socialize. As they grow and advance into grade school and beyond, they use their visual system more and more to learn and digest knowledge.... --- ## 9 Critical Visual Skills for Student Athlete Success URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-critical-visual-skills-for-student-athlete-success/ 9 Critical Visual Skills Student Athletes Need to Perform Their Best It’s that time of year again! Back-to-school means back-to sports—and competition is ramping up for exciting seasons of football, soccer, baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis, plus any number of other individual and team sports that require talent AND good vision! Most sports are fast-moving, and the pace of action requires multiple demands on the eyes. Each of the visual skills listed below play an essential role in enabling your student athlete to enjoy and perform their chosen sport to the very best of their ability. 9 Visual Skills Needed in Sports 1. Wide field of vision : The area of space an athlete sees when gazing in one direction – with both eyes combined, it is nearly 180 degrees! 2. Effective eye-hand-foot coordination : Informs body movements using the eyes to measure optimal timing and body control. 3.... --- ## 9 Fun Eye Facts in Observance of World Sight Day URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/9-fun-eye-facts-in-observance-of-world-sight-day/ October 10 marks World Sight Day , a global event dedicated to raising awareness about eye health, preventing blindness, the various diseases that affect our vision, and the effects those conditions can have on everyday life. The global observance day was launched by the Lions Club International Foundation’s Sight First Campaign in 2000 and is observed every year on the second Thursday of October. It was established to highlight the importance of regular eye exams, early detection and treatment, and to promote access to eye care for people around the world. World Sight Day highlights the global effort to eliminate preventable blindness and improve the quality of life for those who face living with vision loss and the difficulties associated with diminished vision. Here are five questions about blindness worldwide in observance of World Sight Day: 1. What is the most common cause of blindness worldwide? Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world.... --- ## How Guide Dogs Empower the Blind and Visually Impaired URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-guide-dogs-empower-the-blind-and-visually-impaired/ Earlier in October, we observed World Sight Day , a global event dedicated to raising awareness about eye health and preventing blindness. For people who have the gift of sight, navigating daily activities like crossing streets, shopping, and reading signs is second nature. But what if you or a loved one experiences a total loss of vision? For people who are either blind or severely visually impaired, a trained guide dog for the blind can literally transform their lives. Guide dogs empower the non-sighted population with dignity, independence, and renewed confidence by providing a reliable way that they can navigate the world safely. Though we don't have an exact count, an estimated 10,000 guide dog “teams” — a guide dog plus their visually impaired handler — are operating today in the United States. Guide dogs offer not only companionship but also a vital lifeline to independence and mobility.... --- ## What is Diabetic Eye Disease? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-is-diabetic-eye-disease-2/ 6 Questions (and Answers!) About Diabetic Eye Disease November is American Diabetes Month. With more than 38 million Americans – 15% of our country’s adult population – experiencing diabetes, it’s an important time to bring awareness to this serious condition and its many consequences. For example, diabetes affects your eyes and can cause your vision to deteriorate. Diabetic Eye Disease is not just a singular disease – it encompasses several diseases of the eye, including diabetic retinopathy (which is the leading cause of blindness in middle-aged Americans), diabetic macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts. These eye diseases are directly connected to poor blood sugar control over a long period of time. How does diabetes impact the eye? High blood sugar causes damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina, and this damage leads to a cascade of conditions that affect your vision.... --- ## 10 Ways to Safeguard Diabetic Eyes URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/10-ways-to-safeguard-diabetic-eyes/ Protect Your Vision: 10 Essential Tips to Safeguard Diabetic Eyes It’s a fact: Living with diabetes means that you are more likely to experience vision problems. But here’s another fact: You can help prevent diabetic eye disease or slow its progression by being diligent in keeping your blood sugar levels down! High blood sugar causes damaged blood vessels, which leads to diabetic neuropathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. These conditions can then cause vision loss and other health problems. After 15 years of living with diabetes, 98% of Type 1 diabetics will have some degree of damage to the retina, while 78% of Type 2 diabetics will experience irreversible problems of the retina that could threaten their ability to see. Here are 10 ways to help safeguard your eyes from the impact of Diabetic Eye Disease: 1. Exercise regularly. This is not a 2 for 1 but rather a 3 for 1 !... --- ## Flex 125 Spending Account Funds: Time to Use it Or Lose It URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/flex-125-spending-account-funds-time-to-use-it-or-lose-it/ ### 5 Scenarios To Avoid Next Year By Using Your Flex 125 Funds Today Why Your Flex Savings Account is a Tax Savings Superhero for Eyewear It’s the Holiday Season! Everywhere you look, there are decorations, lights, and people in good spirits! What a wonderful time of the year. And if you’re like most of us, it’s also a season when you try to make the most of every single one of your hard-won dollars. With holiday gifts to buy, parties to attend, and celebrations to plan, making the most of your money can be hard to do. However, if your employer offers a Flex 125 Spending Account or FSA as they are often called, that is one smart way to stretch your income to the maximum. It just takes a little bit of pre-planning. Why A Flex Spending Account Is a Tax-Saving Superhero Why is it so smart to participate in a Flex Spending Account plan? A Flex Plan is like a tax-saving superhero, without the cape.... --- ## How to Protect Your Eyes and Celebrate Safely This Holiday URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-protect-your-eyes-and-celebrate-safely-this-holiday/ It’s the MOST wonderful time of the year (cue the music) -- and it’s all about the hustle and bustle of getting a lot of things done in a short period of time! Unfortunately, most of us don’t take the time to think about the potential hazards to our eyes and vision when preparing for the holiday season. As a helpful reminder, here are some things to be mindful of during this busy (and fun) time of year. Take Precautions while Decorating • If you’re cutting down your own tree, wear safety goggles to prevent flying wood chips and sawdust from lodging in your eyes. • As you’re placing lights, ornaments, and other decorations on the tree, be alert to needles that can poke your eye or branches that can spring out when netting is cut away from a fresh Christmas tree. Children are always excited and eager to help and are at “eye level” with the lower branches, so caution them to be careful. Keep a watchful eye on the decorating crew!... --- ## Glaucoma Myths vs. Reality: 10 Things You Need to Know URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/glaucoma-myths-vs-reality-10-things-you-need-to-know/ January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a serious eye condition, but it isn’t widely understood. Called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is a group of diseases that raise eye pressure and slowly damage the optic nerve, causing permanent vision loss. The challenge with glaucoma is that there aren’t any noticeable symptoms. Glaucoma doesn’t hurt, and there aren’t any telltale signs. But your vision is being damaged and lost, usually starting with peripheral vision loss. Once you lose vision to glaucoma, it is gone forever. That’s why it is critical to raise awareness about glaucoma. The best defense against glaucoma is a good offense: Visit your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. If caught early, glaucoma is treatable and vision loss can be minimized. Glaucoma ranks as the second-leading cause of blindness worldwide. An estimated 3 million Americans have glaucoma – but 50% don’t even know they have it (yet).... --- ## 6 Winter Eye Wellness Tips URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/6-winter-eye-wellness-tips/ With winter comes dropping temperatures, cold winds, and low humidity — all of which bring unique challenges to caring for your eyes and vision. Though you might be tempted to ignore cold weather eye symptoms, don’t! Be aware of symptoms including eye mucus, sensitivity to light, redness, dry or itchy eyes, burning, a gritty feeling, a sensation of something in the eye, and/or irritation when wearing contact lenses. Enhance the joys of winter — whether you are working, playing, or just relaxing — by learning what can agitate your eyes and how to treat any resulting discomfort. Environmentally Induced Dry Eyes In winter months, humidity plummets and there is less moisture in the air … and in your eyes! Add to that the dry air inside as we ramp up the heat pumps, oil furnaces, and space heaters. Winter air is simply parched and it affects the health of your eyes.... --- ## How To Reduce Your Risk for Eye Cancer URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-to-reduce-your-risk-for-eye-cancer/ ### How To Reduce Your Risk for Eye Cancer (And All Cancers) February is National Cancer Prevention Month: A great time to review practical ways to reduce your risk for becoming a cancer statistic. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 2 million Americans were diagnosed with cancer in 2024. That is a sobering statistic, especially because 600,000 people did not survive that diagnosis. Over 40% of people diagnosed with cancer and nearly half of the deaths associated with cancer were linked to preventable causes. That is almost half. It is eye-opening to realize that 40% of cancer diagnoses are considered preventable. Let’s take a closer look at some of cancer’s most common and preventable causes, because being armed with the right information can help you reduce your risk. 5 Preventable Causes of Cancer Our modern lifestyle often contributes to creating the conditions in our bodies where cancer can grow and thrive.... --- ## 5 Tips for My Younger Self to Prevent AMD URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-tips-for-my-younger-self-to-prevent-amd/ ### 5 Tips for My Younger Self to Prevent Age-Related Macular Degeneration Who among us doesn’t wish we could step back in time and change things we did when we were younger? Maybe you bought a cool but cheap car that turned out to be a lemon, caused an accident that could’ve been avoided, or made an unfortunate career choice. We all have memories that make us shake our heads: What were we thinking? While it would be great to correct mistakes, what about more serious matters? For example, where your health is impacted? One of our patients, a 68-year-old man living with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), recently shared how much he wished he could go back in time and change some of the behaviors that increased his risk of developing the sight-stealing condition. We asked him what he wished he could tell his younger self about AMD.... --- ## Digital Eye Strain URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/digital-eye-strain/ ### Digital Eye Strain: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention In an age of digital overload, you demand a lot from your amazing eyes. Let’s take a good look at how prolonged screen time is affecting your eyes, and how you can protect your vision. You can’t remove yourself from the digital world – it’s a large and pervasive part of daily life. Work, education, and leisure time all involve screen time but you do need to be aware of just how much digital time you log and its implications to your physical and mental health. Screen Time is Steadily Increasing Global daily average screen time is 6 hours and 40 minutes, but did you know that Americans log in slightly more time – about 7 hours and 4 minutes? Device usage breaks down into about 3 hours of looking at computer screens and approximately 4 hours on mobile devices per day. Screen time is increasing across all age groups and currently accounts for more than 40% of our waking hours!... --- ## 16 Eye-Healthy Meal and Snack Ideas URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/16-eye-healthy-meal-and-snack-ideas/ ### Meal and Snack Ideas That Promote Good Vision Did you know that March is both Save Your Vision Month and National Nutrition Month? The combination makes it a good time to talk about healthy foods that are not only good for your general health but also good for your eye and vision health. The nutrients in healthy foods keep the eyes healthy and help to reduce the risk of some eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Eating a diet low in fat and rich in whole grains, fruits, fish, and vegetables is one way to help maintain healthy eyes and better vision. Let’s look at some specific nutrients and how they can affect your eyes through the foods that you eat. Vitamin A It’s one of the best-known nutrients for healthy eyes. The retina, specifically, needs lots of vitamin A to help turn light rays into the images that you see. It also helps your eyes maintain the proper levels of moisture content to prevent dry eye and is essential for night vision.... --- ## The Power of OCT Imaging for Protecting Eye Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-power-of-oct-imaging-for-protecting-eye-health/ Your eyes are your window on the world, empowering you with knowledge, indulging you with beauty, and warning you of danger. Your eyesight is invaluable, which is why, as your eye doctor, we take the responsibility of diagnosing and managing eye diseases that could affect your vision very seriously. Common eye diseases in the United States include glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. These conditions can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, but all have one thing in common: The sooner you catch them, the sooner you can start treating them for the best possible outcome. That’s where diagnostic testing shines; it is the key to early detection. It can give you the rare gift of time: A head-start on treating eye disease successfully.... --- ## The Power of OCT Imaging for Protecting Eye Health URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-power-of-oct-imaging-for-protecting-eye-health-2/ Your eyes are your window on the world, empowering you with knowledge, indulging you with beauty, and warning you of danger. Your eyesight is invaluable, which is why, as your eye doctor, we take the responsibility of diagnosing and managing eye diseases that could affect your vision very seriously. Common eye diseases in the United States include glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. These conditions can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, but all have one thing in common: The sooner you catch them, the sooner you can start treating them for the best possible outcome. That’s where diagnostic testing shines; it is the key to early detection. It can give you the rare gift of time: A head-start on treating eye disease successfully.... --- ## 8 Eye Conditions Retinal Imaging Can Diagnose and Monitor URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/8-eye-conditions-retinal-imaging-can-diagnose-and-monitor/ There is much more to your eyes than the luminous brown, green, gray, blue, or hazel orbs that look back at you in the mirror. The inner structures of your eyes drive your ability to see clearly and are of utmost importance to your eye doctor as he or she cares for your long-term visual health. One diagnostic tool that helps your optometrist look more closely at the back of your eye and monitor eye health is digital reginal imaging (DRI). DRI images are taken with a high-resolution digital camera to capture a detailed image of the back of your eye, providing critical information about the retina, macula and optic nerve – the eye structures that power your ability to see. Digital retinal imaging is non-invasive and painless. You will see a bright (and we do mean bright!) flash of light as the camera takes the image, and you may see spots for a moment or two afterward.... --- ## Seeing Spots? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/seeing-spots/ ### What You Need to Know About Eye Floaters Have you ever looked up at a bright blue sky, a blank piece of paper, or a plain white wall and realized that you’re seeing strange knobby strings, cobwebs, or dark spots floating around in your field of vision? And because you’re curious about these “squiggles,” you try to track them visually, only to see them quickly dart away or drift slowly out of your visual field. It’s a game of “Catch Me If You Can” that you will never win! Those little squiggles are called eye floaters or myodesopsias, and nearly everyone has them – or one day will have them. Most people get them around age 50, but some patients may get them as young as 35. What Causes Eye Floaters • Age-related eye changes – Most eye floaters are caused by age-related changes in the thickness of the vitreous -- the jelly-like substance between the lens and retina that helps the eye maintain its round shape.... --- ## When You Fail a DMV Vision Test URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/when-you-fail-a-dmv-vision-test/ ### How Your Optometrist Can Help When You Fail a DMV Vision Test The importance of good vision to safe driving can’t be overstated. Did you know that up to 90% of the information you process to drive safely comes from your visual system? Whether it’s identifying potential hazards, reading signs, obeying signals, staying in your lane, or monitoring your car’s speed – good vision is essential to safe driving. Why DMV Performs Vision Tests That’s why the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) performs a basic vision test when you renew your driver’s license. The test – a basic test of reading letters and numbers from an eye chart -- is given to assess whether you meet the visual acuity standards to drive safely and prevent harm to yourself and others. Each state has specific visual standards that must be met to quality for a driver’s license.... --- ## How Parents Can Protect the Littlest Eyes in Your Family URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/how-parents-can-protect-the-littlest-eyes-in-your-family/ ### Why Kids’ Sunglasses Are Now Essential Gear All Year Warmer weather is finally here and families are spending more time enjoying the great outdoors — with swimming, hiking, picnicking, and sporting events. You’re having fun and soaking up the sun. But wait! Soaking up the sun isn’t always a healthy thing, for your skin OR your eyes — and especially for children’s eyes. Soaking up the sun means simultaneously soaking up harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation! Bottom line? Children’s and adolescent’s eyes and skin need extra protection from the sun. Why? According to the World Health Organization, a child’s UV exposure is three times higher than an adult’s simply because they spend more time outside. To make matters worse, over 70% of children don’t wear protective eyewear when they are outdoors, but almost all adults do! Parents slather SPF 50+ sunscreen on their children’s skin and reapply often, but few are aware of the dangers that UV rays pose to a child’s eyes.... --- ## What Makes a Great Pair of Kids’ Sunglasses? URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-makes-a-great-pair-of-kids-sunglasses/ ### (It’s Not Just Cute Colors) Did you know that your child’s vision is the single most important factor in how they learn about the world around them? Experts say that roughly 80% of what a child learns comes in through their visual system. As a parent, that means protecting those young eyes needs to go at the top of the “most important things to do” list for your child’s visual development and health. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can start slowly damaging eyes from the very beginning of a child’s life. Cumulative radiation can cause serious and visually debilitating problems in adulthood. The solution to protecting their eyes from the sun is quite simple: Wear UV-blocking sunglasses. Sunglasses are not just a fun, cool fashion accessory. They are a very real tool that you can use to minimize the risk of skin cancer, injury to the retina, and developing cataracts or macular degeneration later in life.... --- ## What Your Optometrist Wishes Every Patient Knew Before Buying Sunglasses on Amazon URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-your-optometrist-wishes-every-patient-knew-before-buying-sunglasses-on-amazon/ If you wanted to be dramatic, you could say that the sun is like a dangerous laser that throws damaging UV rays toward the Earth and its inhabitants every day. So, let’s talk about the best way to protect your eyes from those damaging UVA and UVB rays. The answer is sunglasses. But to protect your eyes from damage, you need the right kind of sunglasses – the kind that protects eyes from 100% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses are much more than a fashion statement. They shield your eyes from the sun’s radiation and reduce light sensitivity so you enjoy comfortable vision under even the harshest conditions. Most people experience light sensitivity in two ways — brightness and glare. Sunglasses reduce both types of sensitivity and protect your eyes from the cumulative ultraviolet light that can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration, eye cancers, and growths on the eye.... --- ## What Your Optometrist Wishes Every Patient Knew Before Buying Sunglasses on Amazon URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/what-your-optometrist-wishes-every-patient-knew-before-buying-sunglasses-on-amazon-2/ If you wanted to be dramatic, you could say that the sun is like a dangerous laser that throws damaging UV rays toward the Earth and its inhabitants every day. So, let’s talk about the best way to protect your eyes from those damaging UVA and UVB rays. The answer is sunglasses. But to protect your eyes from damage, you need the right kind of sunglasses – the kind that protects eyes from 100% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses are much more than a fashion statement. They shield your eyes from the sun’s radiation and reduce light sensitivity so you enjoy comfortable vision under even the harshest conditions. Most people experience light sensitivity in two ways — brightness and glare. Sunglasses reduce both types of sensitivity and protect your eyes from the cumulative ultraviolet light that can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration, eye cancers, and growths on the eye.... --- ## 5 Unusual Home Eye Injuries URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/5-unusual-home-eye-injuries/ ### (And How To Avoid Them) Have you or a loved one ever injured your eye? It can be incredibly painful and very scary when you have an accident that could damage your vision. It’s a good reminder that our sense of vision, which we often take for granted, could be stolen from us in an instant. An estimated 2.4 million  eye injuries occur each year in the United States. Whether at home, at work, or while playing sports, the good news is that -- by simply wearing protective safety eyewear -- up to 90%  of eye injuries can be prevented. We see a lot of eye injuries in our office. A lot of them happen in our patients’ homes. Here are five of the strangest eye injuries we’ve seen, and how you can avoid them: 1. A Chili Pepper Contact Lens Catastrophe College is a learning experience in every way. When kids first strike out on their own, sometimes they learn painful lessons. A young college student came to our offices with red, swollen, painful eyes.... --- ## Why Anti-Fatigue Lenses May Benefit Your Student This Year URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/why-anti-fatigue-lenses-may-benefit-your-student-this-year/ As the new school year approaches, it’s time to prepare your student for a productive academic year filled with achievements, learning, success, and fun. Did you know that up to 80% of learning is achieved through your student’s visual system? One of the most important ways to ensure that your student starts and finishes the year successfully is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist before the school year begins. So -- why is it so important to see your optometrist before school starts? Easy answer. School time = excessive screen time = eye fatigue. Our technology-driven world can lead to extreme eye fatigue or eye strain and the annoying symptoms that accompany prolonged use of so many digital devices. Two out of three students experience one or more symptoms of eye strain -- it’s a very common complaint. As a parent, you can help by staying alert for eye fatigue symptoms that your student may exhibit -- especially at the end of a long school day.... --- ## The Smart Student’s Guide to Eye-Friendly Study Habits URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-smart-students-guide-to-eye-friendly-study-habits/ It’s back-to-school season! Time to purchase laptops, tablets, backpacks, notebooks, and pens. It takes a lot of planning and preparation for your student to step into another year of focus, growth, and discovery in the classroom. But wait -- are you forgetting something? A successful year starts with good vision, and good vision starts with a comprehensive eye exam to test for any vision issues or changes in prescription strength. Your optometrist will assess your student’s vision and, if needed, prescribe correction, recommend lens coatings, and/or special lenses that support excellent eye health for effective learning. Your Student’s Eyes Grow and Change Yearly A child’s visual capabilities can change quickly due to rapid growth during their young life. What was true of your student’s eye health last year may not be true this year.... --- ## The Role of Peripheral Vision in Student Athlete Success URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/the-role-of-peripheral-vision-in-student-athlete-success/ As the new school year starts, student athletes begin focusing not only on academic success but also athletic excellence. The path to athletic distinction is more than physical strength and stamina; a student’s vision plays a critical role. Self-image depends on so many facets of a young athlete’s life, and performing well during athletic competition is a big one. So how does peripheral vision tie into it?   Did you know that 80% of what the brain processes while playing sports comes in visually, and much of that input is courtesy of your peripheral vision?   To understand why, let’s start at the beginning: We’ll define peripheral vision and look at the reason it’s so important.   ### #### What is Peripheral Vision? Vision can be divided into two categories — central vision and peripheral vision.   1. Central vision is what you see directly in front of you – the center of your vision field. It enables you to see clearly and in color.... --- ## Home URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/ Latest on our response to COVID-19 ## Welcome to Volunteer Eyecare. Knoxville eye doctors providing comprehensive eye care: eye exams , eyeglasses , sunglasses , contact lenses , and much more! Visit one of our seven Knoxville eye clinic locations and see why we are the preferred optometrists in our region. ###### Shop Online ###### Order Contacts ###### Schedule an Eye Exam ###### Eye Conditions ###### After Hours Urgent Care ###### Our Locations #### Stay Connected --- ## Patients URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/patients/ Patient Portal Accepted Insurance Patient Forms Pay Bill Online --- ## Keratoconus URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/keratoconus/ ## Keratoconus Keratoconus is a vision disorder that occurs when the normally round cornea (the front part of the eye) becomes thin and irregular (cone) shaped. This abnormal shape prevents the light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina and causes distortion of vision. In its earliest stages, keratoconus causes slight blurring and distortion of vision and increased sensitivity to glare and light. These symptoms usually appear in the late teens or early 20s. Keratoconus may progress for 10-20 years and then slow in its progression. Each eye may be affected differently. As keratoconus progresses, the cornea bulges more and vision may become more distorted. In a small number of cases, the cornea will swell and cause a sudden and significant decrease in vision. The swelling occurs when the strain of the cornea's protruding cone-like shape causes a tiny crack to develop.... --- ## Spots and Floaters URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/spots-and-floaters/ ## Spots and Floaters Spots (often called floaters) are small, semi-transparent or cloudy particles within the vitreous, which is the clear, jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of your eyes. These spots can appear as specks of various shapes and sizes, threadlike strands or cobwebs. Because they are in your eyes, they move as your eyes move and seem to dart away when you try to look at them directly. Spots are often caused by small flecks of protein or other matter that became trapped when your eyes formed before birth. They can also appear as the vitreous fluid deteriorates due to aging. Also, certain eye diseases or injuries can cause the appearance of spots. Most spots are not harmful, and they rarely limit vision. However, spots can be an indication of a more serious problem. See your doctor of optometry for a comprehensive examination if you suddenly start seeing more spots, especially in your central vision.... --- ## Glaucoma URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/glaucoma/ ## Glaucoma Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that lead to progressive damage to the nerve that connects the eye to the brain called the optic nerve. People with glaucoma can lose nerve tissue, resulting in vision loss. The optic nerve is a bundle of about 1 million individual nerve fibers that transmits the visual signals from the eye to the brain. In the most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, the fluid pressure inside the eye increases. This increase in pressure may cause progressive damage to the optic nerve and loss of nerve fibers. Advanced glaucoma may even lead to blindness. Not everyone with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma, and some people with normal eye pressure will develop glaucoma. When the pressure inside a person's eye is too high for a particular optic nerve, whatever that pressure measurement may be, glaucoma will develop. Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness in the U.S.... --- ## Anterior Uveitis URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/anterior-uveitis/ ## Anterior Uveitis Anterior uveitis is an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye. This layer includes the iris (colored part of the eye) and the adjacent tissue, known as the ciliary body. If untreated, it can cause permanent damage and loss of vision from the development of glaucoma, cataract or retinal edema. Anterior uveitis usually responds well to treatment; however, the condition tends to recur. Treatment usually includes prescription eye drops, which dilate the pupils, in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs. Treatment usually takes several days or, in some cases, several weeks. Anterior uveitis can result from a trauma to the eye, such as being hit in the eye or having a foreign body in the eye. It can also be associated with general health problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, syphilis, tuberculosis, sarcoid, viral (herpes simplex, herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus) or idiopathic, which is no obvious underlying cause.... --- ## Lazy Eye (Amblyopia) URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/lazy-eye-amblyopia/ ## Lazy Eye (Amblyopia) ##### What is amblyopia? Amblyopia (lazy eye) is the decrease of vision in one or both eyes due to abnormal vision development during childhood. The vision process involves both the eyes and the brain. Amblyopia is the failure of the vision-sensing portions of the brain to develop normally, which results in blurry vision. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in children. ##### Who is likely to develop amblyopia? Amblyopia is generally the result of poor early visual development. It usually occurs before the age of 8. Infants born prematurely or with low birth weight are at a greater risk for developing the condition. An estimated 2 to 4 percent of children have amblyopia. The chance of amblyopia developing during adulthood is very small. ##### What causes amblyopia? Amblyopia usually results from a failure to use both eyes together.... --- ## Acanthamoeba URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/acanthamoeba/ ## Acanthamoeba Close up of irritated red bloodshot eye Acanthamoeba is one of the most common organisms in the environment, but it rarely causes infections. When infection does occur, however, it can be extremely serious and can threaten your vision. Recently, there have been increasing reports of Acanthamoeba keratitis, which is a co-infection of Acanthamoeba with a bacterial keratitis. This infection commonly occurs in the contact lens case and on the cornea, complicating prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Your best defense against Acanthamoeba keratitis infection is to maintain proper contact lens hygiene. ##### Symptoms • A red, frequently painful eye infection that doesn't improve with traditional treatment. • Feeling of something in the eye, excessive tearing, light sensitivity and blurred vision. • Red, irritated eyes that last for an unusually long time after removing your contact lenses.... --- ## Astigmatism URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/astigmatism/ ## Astigmatism Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred vision. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front cover of the eye) is irregularly shaped or sometimes because of the curvature of the lens inside the eye. An irregularly shaped cornea or lens prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, the light-sensitive surface at the back of the eye. As a result, vision becomes blurred at any distance. This can lead to eye discomfort and headaches. Astigmatism frequently occurs with other vision conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). Together these vision conditions are referred to as refractive errors because they affect how the eyes bend or "refract" light. There are many causes to astigmatism. It can be hereditary and is usually present from birth. It can decrease or increase over time. A comprehensive optometric examination will include testing for astigmatism.... --- ## Blepharitis URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/blepharitis/ ## Blepharitis Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids in which they become red, irritated and itchy and dandruff-like scales form on the eyelashes. It is a common eye disorder caused by either bacteria or a skin condition, such as dandruff of the scalp or rosacea. It affects people of all ages. Although uncomfortable, blepharitis is usually not contagious and generally does not cause any permanent damage to eyesight. Blepharitis is classified into two types: • Anterior blepharitis occurs at the outside front edge of the eyelid where the eyelashes attach. • Posterior blepharitis affects the inner edge of the eyelid that touches the eyeball. People with blepharitis may experience a gritty or burning sensation in their eyes, excessive tearing, itching, red and swollen eyelids, dry eyes or crusting of the eyelids. For some people, blepharitis causes only minor irritation and itching.... --- ## Cataract URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/cataract/ ## Cataract A cataract is a cloudy or opaque area in the normally clear lens of the eye. Depending upon its size and location, it can interfere with normal vision. Most cataracts develop in people over age 55, but they occasionally occur in infants and young children. Usually cataracts develop in both eyes, but one may be worse than the other. The lens is located inside the eye behind the iris, the colored part of the eye. Normally, the lens focuses light on the retina, which sends the image through the optic nerve to the brain. However, if the lens is clouded by a cataract, light is scattered so the lens can no longer focus it properly, causing vision problems. The lens is made of mostly proteins and water. Clouding of the lens occurs due to changes in the proteins and lens fibers. Cataracts generally form very slowly.... --- ## Chalazion URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/chalazion/ ## Chalazion A chalazion is a slowly developing lump that forms due to blockage and swelling of an oil gland in the eyelid. A chalazion is generally not an infection. A chalazion often starts out as a very small red, tender, swollen area of the eyelid. In a few days, it may change to a painless slow-growing lump the size of a pea. A chalazion is often confused with a stye (or hordeolum), which is an infection of an oil gland in the eyelid. A stye produces a red, swollen, painful lump on the edge or the inside of the eyelid and usually occurs closer to the surface of the eyelid than chalazia. Left untreated, a stye can result in the formation of a chalazion. Do not attempt to squeeze or drain the chalazion yourself. You may need treatment for proper healing.... --- ## Color Vision Deficiency URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/color-vision-deficiency/ ## Color Vision Deficiency Color vision deficiency is the inability to distinguish certain shades of color. The term "color blindness" is also used to describe this visual condition, but very few people are completely color blind. Most people with color vision deficiency can see colors, but they have difficulty differentiating between the following colors: • particular shades of reds and greens (most common) • blues and yellows (less common) People who are totally color blind, a condition called achromatopsia, can only see things as black and white or in shades of gray. Color vision deficiency can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause. It affects both eyes if it is inherited and usually just one if it is caused by injury or illness. Color vision is possible due to photoreceptors in the retina of the eye known as cones. These cones have light-sensitive pigments that enable us to recognize color.... --- ## Conjunctivitis URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/conjunctivitis/ ## Conjunctivitis Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or swelling of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Often called "pink eye," conjunctivitis is a common eye disease, especially in children. It may affect one or both eyes. Some forms of conjunctivitis are highly contagious and can easily spread in schools and at home. While conjunctivitis is usually a minor eye infection, sometimes it can develop into a more serious problem. A viral or bacterial infection can cause conjunctivitis. It can also develop due to an allergic reaction to air irritants such as pollen and smoke, chlorine in swimming pools, ingredients in cosmetics, or other products that contact the eyes, such as contact lenses. Sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea are less common causes of conjunctivitis.... --- ## Diabetic Retinopathy URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/diabetic-retinopathy/ ## Diabetic Retinopathy Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that may occur in people who have diabetes. It causes progressive damage to the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious sight-threatening complication of diabetes. Diabetes interferes with the body's ability to use and store sugar (glucose). The disease is characterized by too much sugar in the blood, which can cause damage throughout the body, including the eyes. Over time, diabetes damages small blood vessels throughout the body, including the retina. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when these tiny blood vessels leak blood and other fluids. This causes the retinal tissue to swell, resulting in cloudy or blurred vision. The condition usually affects both eyes. The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they will develop diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness.... --- ## Dry Eye URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dry-eye/ ## Dry Eye Dry eye is a condition in which a person doesn't have enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem, particularly in older adults. With each blink of the eyelids, tears spread across the front surface of the eye, known as the cornea. Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. Excess tears in the eyes flow into small drainage ducts in the inner corners of the eyelids, which drain into the back of the nose. Dry eyes can occur when tear production and drainage is not in balance. People with dry eyes either do not produce enough tears or their tears are of a poor quality: • Inadequate amount of tears. Tears are produced by several glands in and around the eyelids.... --- ## Eye Coordination URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-coordination/ ## Eye Coordination Eye coordination is the ability of both eyes to work together as a team. Each of your eyes sees a slightly different image. Your brain, through a process called fusion, blends these two images into one three-dimensional picture. If your eyes are improperly aligned, seeing three-dimensional images may be difficult. Symptoms of poor eye coordination include double vision, headaches, eye and body fatigue, irritability, dizziness, and difficulty reading and concentrating. Children with poor eye coordination might cover one eye, skip lines or lose their place while reading, perform poorly in sports, avoid tasks that require close work and tire easily. Eye coordination is a skill that must be developed. Inadequate vision development or improperly developed eye muscle control can cause poor eye coordination. Although rare, an injury or disease can also cause poor eye coordination.... --- ## Hyperopia URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/hyperopia/ ## Hyperopia (Farsightedness) Farsightedness, or hyperopia, as it is medically termed, is a vision condition in which distant objects can be seen clearly, but close ones do not come into proper focus. Farsightedness is due to the eye not bending light properly so it focuses in front of the back of the eye or the cornea has too little curvature. In these cases, your eye can't correctly focus the light that enters. Common signs of hyperopia include difficulty concentrating and maintaining a clear focus on near objects, eye strain, fatigue and/or headaches after close work, aching or burning eyes, and irritability or nervousness after sustained concentration. Common vision screenings, like the ones done in schools, often don't detect hyperopia. However, a comprehensive optometric examination will include the necessary testing to diagnose hyperopia. If needed, your optometrist can offer treatment options.... --- ## Macular Degeneration URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/macular-degeneration/ ## Age-Related Macular Degeneration Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1.8 million people have AMD and another 7.3 million are at substantial risk for vision loss from AMD. Caucasians are at higher risk for developing AMD than other races. Women also develop AMD at an earlier age than men. This eye disease occurs when there are changes to the macula, a small portion of the retina that is located on the inside back layer of the eye. AMD is a loss of central vision that can occur in two forms: "dry" (atrophic) and "wet" (exudative). Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form. While there is no specific treatment for dry AMD, studies have shown a potential benefit from vitamin supplements a Mediterranean diet and cessation of smoking.... --- ## Myopia URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/myopia/ ## Myopia (Nearsightedness) Nearsightedness, or myopia, as it is medically termed, is a vision condition in which people can see close objects clearly, but objects farther away appear blurred. People with myopia can have difficulty clearly seeing a movie or TV screen, a whiteboard in school or while driving. Myopia occurs if the eyeball is too long or the cornea (the clear front cover of the eye) is too curved. As a result, the light entering the eye isn't focused correctly, and distant objects look blurred. Myopia affects nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population. While the exact cause of myopia is unknown, there is significant evidence that many people inherit myopia, or at least the tendency to develop myopia. If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is an increased chance their children will be nearsighted. Even though the tendency to develop myopia may be inherited, its actual development may be affected by how a person uses his or her eyes.... --- ## Nystagmus URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/nystagmus/ ## Nystagmus Nystagmus is a vision condition in which the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements. These movements often result in reduced vision and depth perception and can affect balance and coordination. These involuntary eye movements can occur from side to side, up and down, or in a circular pattern. As a result, both eyes are unable to steadily view objects. People with nystagmus might nod and hold their heads in unusual positions to compensate for the condition. Generally, nystagmus is a symptom of another eye or medical problem. Fatigue and stress can make nystagmus worse. However, the exact cause is often unknown. The forms of nystagmus include: • Infantile. Most often develops by 2 to 3 months of age. The eyes tend to move in a horizontal swinging fashion. It is often associated with other conditions, such as albinism, congenital absence of the iris (the colored part of the eye), underdeveloped optic nerves and congenital cataract. • Spasmus nutans.... --- ## Ocular Hypertension URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/ocular-hypertension/ ## Ocular Hypertension Ocular hypertension occurs when the pressure in your eyes is above the range considered normal with no detectable changes in vision or damage to the structure of your eyes. The term is used to distinguish people with elevated pressure from those with glaucoma, a serious eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. Ocular hypertension can occur in people of all ages, but it occurs more frequently in African Americans, people over age 40 and people with family histories of ocular hypertension and/or glaucoma. It is also more common in people who are very nearsighted or who have diabetes. Ocular hypertension has no noticeable signs or symptoms. Your doctor of optometry can check the pressure in your eyes with an instrument called a tonometer. Your optometrist can also examine the inner structures of your eyes to assess your overall eye health. Not all people with ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma.... --- ## Presbyopia URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/presbyopia/ ## Presbyopia Presbyopia is a vision condition in which the shape of the crystalline lens of your eye changes. These changes make it difficult to focus on close objects. Presbyopia may seem to occur suddenly, but sight reduction occurs over several years. Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in the early to mid-40s, but the reduction of your focusing starts as early as childhood. Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process of the eye. It is not a disease, and it cannot be prevented. Some signs of presbyopia include holding reading materials at arm's length, blurred vision at normal reading distance and eye fatigue along with headaches when doing close work. A comprehensive optometric examination will include testing for presbyopia. To help you compensate for presbyopia, your doctor of optometry can prescribe reading glasses, multifocal glasses or contact lenses.... --- ## Retinitis Pigmentosa URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/retinitis-pigmentosa/ ## Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited diseases that damage the light-sensitive rods and cones in the retina, the back part of our eyes. The rods, which provide side (peripheral) and night vision, are affected more than the cones, which provide color and clear central vision. Signs of RP usually appear during childhood or adolescence. The first sign is often night blindness, followed by a slow loss of side vision. As the disease develops over the years, people with RP often bump into chairs and other objects because their side vision is worsening. They can only see straight ahead, as if they are in a tunnel. Fortunately, most cases of RP take a long time to develop and vision loss is gradual. It may take many years for vision loss to become severe. Currently, there is no cure for RP. However, research indicates that vitamin A and lutein may slow the disease's progression.... --- ## Retinoblastoma URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/retinoblastoma/ ## Retinoblastoma The most common cancer involving the eye in young children is retinoblastoma . In the United States, this fast-growing cancer occurs in 1 in every 20,000 children, making it the 10th most common pediatric cancer. Optometrists diagnose, refer and co-manage the care of cancers that involve the eye area. Early detection of cancer can greatly reduce the severity of the illness and increase life expectancy. Often the first sign of retinoblastoma in a child is the appearance of a white eye in a photograph taken with a flash. A child's pupil should never appear white. If it does, see your optometrist for an evaluation immediately. There are two forms of retinoblastoma: hereditary and sporadic. Although sporadic retinoblastoma occurs more frequently, children from families with a history of hereditary retinoblastoma should be assessed regularly.... --- ## Strabismus URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/strabismus/ ## Strabismus (Crossed Eyes) Crossed eyes, or strabismus, is a condition in which both eyes do not look at the same place at the same time. It usually occurs in people who have poor eye muscle control or are very farsighted. Six muscles attach to each eye to control how it moves. The muscles receive signals from the brain that direct their movements. Normally, the eyes work together so they both point at the same place. When problems develop with eye movement control, an eye may turn in, out, up or down. The eye turning may occur all the time or may appear only when the person is tired, ill, or has done a lot of reading or close work. In some cases, the same eye may turn each time. In other cases, the eyes may alternate turning. Proper eye alignment is important to avoid seeing double, for good depth perception, and to prevent the development of poor vision in the turned eye. When the eyes are misaligned, the brain receives two different images.... --- ## Visual Acuity URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/visual-acuity/ ## Visual Acuity: What is 20/20 Vision? 20/20 vision is a term used to express normal visual acuity (the clarity or sharpness of vision) measured at a distance of 20 feet. If you have 20/20 vision, you can see clearly at 20 feet what should normally be seen at that distance. If you have 20/100 vision, it means that you must be as close as 20 feet to see what a person with normal vision can see at 100 feet. Having 20/20 vision does not necessarily mean you have perfect vision. 20/20 vision only indicates the sharpness or clarity of vision at a distance. Other important vision skills, including peripheral awareness or side vision, eye coordination, depth perception, focusing ability and color vision, contribute to your overall visual ability. Some people can see well at a distance but are unable to bring nearer objects into focus. This condition can be caused by hyperopia (farsightedness) or presbyopia (loss of focusing ability).... --- ## Privacy Policy URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/privacy-policy/ ## Privacy Policy ##### Volunteer Eyecare NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES This Notice of Privacy Practices ("Notice") describes how we may use or disclose your health information and how you can get access to such information. Please read it carefully. Your "health information," for purposes of this Notice, is generally any information that identifies you and is created, received, maintained or transmitted by us in the course of providing health care items or services to you (referred to as "health information" in this Notice). We are required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA") and other applicable laws to maintain the privacy of your health information, to provide individuals with this Notice of our legal duties and privacy practices with respect to such information, and to abide by the terms of this Notice. We are also required by law to notify affected individuals following a breach of their unsecured health information.... --- ## Eyes A-Z URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eyes-a-z/ 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... --- ## Eyecare URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eyecare/ ## Eyecare Choose from a complete list of eyecare services for you and your family. --- ## About URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/about/ ### Our Beginning Dr. Elliott, as a student, once asked a private practice optometrist what it would take to be successful if he opened a practice immediately after graduating from optometry school. The answer was not shocking at all, but very simple: “Treat folks the way you want to be treated and do your best each and every day and you will succeed.” The rest is history. Dr. Elliott opened Elliott Eyecare after graduation in May of 2002 and saw his first patient in this little farm house four months later. (from left to right) Pam Tolson, L.D.O.; Alison Elliott; Steven Elliott, O.D.; Sharon Smith. The first year or two of any startup is usually slow. Volunteer Eyecare started with two full-time employees in 2002. Sharon was the first full-time employee. She has worn almost every hat there is to wear in the practice and currently serves as office manager and insurance administrator. Pam Tolson, L.D.O. was instrumental in getting the optical up and Dr.... --- ## Glaucoma Surgery URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/glaucoma-surgery/ ## Glaucoma Surgery Glaucoma is usually effectively treated with prescription eye drops and medicines that must be taken regularly. Some cases require laser therapy or surgery and our doctors co-mange these surgeries. The goal of the treatment is to prevent vision loss by lowering the fluid pressure in the eye. --- ## LASIK Surgery URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/lasik-surgery/ ## LASIK Surgery We co-manage LASIK surgery for surgical correction of vision. LASIK is an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, which means to reshape the cornea without disturbing the adjoining tissue. It is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea, the clear covering of the front of the eye, using an excimer laser to correct your nearsightedness, astigmatism, or farsightedness. The surgical technique involves using a tiny high-precision instrument called a microkeratome to separate the layers of corneal tissue and create a thin flap on the surface of the eye. This flap is then folded back and the excimer laser is applied to gently reshape the underlying tissue. The corneal flap is replaced leaving the eye almost untouched. The cornea’s new shape is what improves vision. For carefully screened patients, LASIK has the potential to greatly reduce dependency on corrective lenses and in some cases glasses may not be required.... --- ## Community Connections URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/community-connections/ ## A Mission to Give Back to Our Communities Our team at Volunteer Eyecare has a commitment to our community in which we work and live.  We are passionate about improving vision one patient at a time but we are equally excited about volunteering our time and services, such as: • Volunteering at R.A.M. (Remote Area Medical) • Vision Screenings for Norris Lions Club Vision Van • Collecting glasses for Lions Club Recycling Program • Collecting food for Second Harvest Food Bank • Supporting local High School Sports Teams through advertising • Providing eye exams and glasses through the local Lions Club Program • Providing free exams for infants through InfantSEE --- ## Giving Back URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/giving-back/ ## Giving Back Our team at Volunteer Eyecare has a commitment to our community in which we work and live.  We are passionate about improving vision one patient at a time but we are equally excited about volunteering our time and services, such as: • Volunteering at R.A.M. (Remote Area Medical) • Vision Screenings for Norris Lions Club Vision Van • Collecting glasses for Lions Club Recycling Program • Collecting food for Second Harvest Food Bank • Supporting local High School Sports Teams through advertising • Providing eye exams and glasses through the local Lions Club Program • Providing free exams for infants through InfantSEE Collecting food and volunteering for Second Harvest Food Bank. --- ## Loyalty Program URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/loyalty-program/ ## Thank you for your loyalty. For established patients only. No other discounts or vision benefits apply. Great for people who have out-of-network plans. Limited time only. Excludes clearance and value packages. --- ## Care Credit URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/care-credit/ ## Care Credit ### Get the Care You Want, When You Need It* Help pay for your family's vision care with the CareCredit healthcare card. Use your credit card to pay for: • Glasses and sunglasses • Contact lenses • LASIK • And more CareCredit is the healthcare credit card designed exclusively for healthcare services with special financing options.* Whether it's a routine checkup or a LASIK procedure, you shouldn't have to worry about how to get the best eye care. CareCredit can also be used for dental work, cosmetic treatments, trips to the veterinarian and in other healthcare specialties at enrolled providers. You can even use it for co-payments and deductibles.*With CareCredit you can choose to reserve your cash and free up your general-purpose credit cards for other expenses. Once you have CareCredit, you can use it as often as you want, without reapplying, as long as you have available credit. CareCredit is accepted at more than 200,000 providers nationwide.... --- ## Terms & Conditions URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/terms-and-conditions/ ## Terms & Conditions ##### Terms of Service - Overview This website is operated by Volunteer Eyecare. Throughout the site, the terms “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Volunteer Eyecare. Volunteer Eyecare offers this website, including all information, tools and services available from this site to you, the user, conditioned upon your acceptance of all terms, conditions, policies and notices stated here. By visiting our site and/ or purchasing something from us, you engage in our “Service” and agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions (“Terms of Service”, “Terms”), including those additional terms and conditions and policies referenced herein and/or available by hyperlink. These Terms of Service apply to all users of the site, including without limitation users who are browsers, vendors, customers, merchants, and/ or contributors of content. Please read these Terms of Service carefully before accessing or using our website.... --- ## Free Resources URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/free-resources/ ## Free Resources --- ## Mens Eyeglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/mens-eyeglasses/ ## Mens Eyeglasses ###### All Eyeglasses --- ## Available In-Store URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/available-in-store/ ## Available In-Store ## This frame brand is currently offered in-store only. Please contact a Volunteer Eyecare team member for assistance. --- ## Interactive Banners URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/interactive-banners/ ## Interactive Banners #### Carefully crafted elements come together into one amazing design. A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. --- ## High Risk Medications URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/high-risk-medications/ ## High Risk Medications There are many medications that are necessary for our health and well being which can have side effects related to our eyes. If you are taking one or more of these medicines your family doctor may suggest a periodic eye examination. At Volunteer Eyecare we are prepared to assist you in this part of your medical eye care. ##### AMIODARONE (Cordarone) AMIODARONE (Cordarone) is a medicine used for cardiac arrhythmias. It is highly effective for rapid heartbeats. Amiodarone has been associated with corneal opacities. A characteristic ‘whorl’ is seen on the lower third of the cornea, the window to the eye. These are usually not visually significant, but in unusual circumstances Amiodarone may need to be discontinued if vision declines. ##### FLOMAX (Tamsulosin) FLOMAX (Tamsulosin) is a medicine that is prescribed for the urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy.... --- ## Online Orders URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/online-orders/ ## Online Orders ##### Returns Policy Prescription eyeglasses, Frame only orders, Non-prescription sunglasses and accessories: Our policy lasts 30 days on non-prescription sunglasses and accessories. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. Prescription eyeglasses may be returned within 60 days of order date and may not be exchanged. Warranties on prescription eyeglasses are subject to inspection and warranty does not cover loss, abuse, or other neglect. Note: This policy does not apply to contact lenses that are sold and shipped through a 3rd party on our site. Prescription lenses are covered by a one year scratch warranty. Ship them to us and we’ll ship back at no charge within 14 business days. To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging. Several types of goods are exempt from being returned.... --- ## Pediatric Eyecare URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/pediatric-eyecare/ ## Children (0-18) ##### Infant Vision: Birth to 24 months The AOA recommends your child’s first eye exam should at 6 – 12 months of age.* Parents should look for some common signs of eye and vision problems such as: • Excessive tearing • Red or encrusted eye lids • Constant eye turning • Extreme sensitivity to light • Appearance of a white pupil ##### Preschool Vision: 2 to 5 years The AOA recommends an eye exam at least once between the 3 and 5 years of age.* Parents should watch for signs that may indicate a vision problem, including: • Sitting close to the TV or holding a book too close • Squinting • Tilting their head • Covering an eye • Frequently rubbing their eyes • Short attention span for the child’s age • Turning of an eye in or out • Sensitivity to light • Difficulty with eye-hand-body coordination when playing ball or bike riding • Avoiding coloring activities, puzzles and other detailed activities ##### School-Age Vision: 6 to 18... --- ## Eyeglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eyeglasses/ ## Eyeglasses ###### All Eyeglasses Choose By Gender Mens Eyeglasses Womens Eyeglasses Boys Eyeglasses Girls Eyeglasses Unisex Eyeglasses Top 5 Staff Picks --- ## Eye Care Products URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-care-products/ ## Eye Care Products ###### All Eye Care Products --- ## Accessories URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/accessories/ ## Accessories ###### All Accessories --- ## Patient Forms URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/patient-forms/ ## Patient Forms ##### At Volunteer Eyecare, we value your time. Please take a moment to fill out the new patient forms in the following link. Don’t forget to bring your driver’s license and insurance card(s) to your first appointment. Our forms are HIPAA compliant; your information is protected.If you are an existing patient and have had any changes to your contact or insurance information, please make sure to let us know at your next appointment so we can get a new copy of your driver’s license and/or insurance card(s). It would also be helpful if you could bring the following physical items with you as well: • Current eyeglasses • Copies of prior spectacle or contact lens prescriptions (even if expired) • Any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) Eye Drops you have used or are currently using • Empty Contact Lens Boxes (we love to know what brand you currently wear and the prescription is on the box) If you prefer not to fill our forms online, please print, fill, and... --- ## Wishlist URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/wishlist/ ## Wishlist Items ##### Try On In-Store We understand that choosing your perfect eyeglass frames is an important decision. If you are not ready to checkout online before trying on the items in your wishlist, please call our office at (877) VOL-EYES or email us at contactus@volunteereyecare.com to reserve these wishlist products and schedule a visit to try before you buy. --- ## STATE Optical URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/state-optical/ ## STATE Optical Eyewear An average of 75 steps goes into handcrafting every STATE Optical Co. frame in Chicago. No short-cuts, no outsourcing, just 65 men and women in Chicago determined to redefine what makes American luxury eyewear. Each frame is meticulously handcrafted from premium, globally sourced materials to be a genuine expression of one’s personal style and distinct personality. ###### STATE Optical Eyewear Frames --- ## iGreen Frames URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/igreen-frames/ ## iGreen Eyewear iGreen Eyewear is the result of years of research and development in order to produce technologically superior frames while being friendly to our environment. Thanks to Thema’s investment in eco-friendly equipment and processes, iGreen frames are not only stylish, incredibly light, flexible and highly customizable but also fabricated using significantly less water and electricity during manufacture, making them a sensible and unrivaled choice in the marketplace. Since Thema’s debut in the North American market a few years ago, the release of iGreen CUSTOM has truly revolutionized the manner in which the selling of eyewear is accomplished. ##### iGreen CUSTOM Imagine being able to wear what represents you best. Endless possibilities to express your creativity without limitations, envision yourself wearing a frame created and designed by you! Our iGreen Custom program brings this vision to life, where you are the designer of your own unique frame.... --- ## Flexure Frames URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/flexure-frames/ ## Flexure Frames by Capri Made from memory metal/titanium alloy, this series is lightweight, durable, and always a stylish favorite for the patient looking for a frame that can handle whatever life adventures come their way. ###### Shop Flexure Frames --- ## Contest Rules URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/contest-rules/ ### National Sunglasses Day Contest Get your cameras ready! We are celebrating #NationalSunglassesDay on June 27, and we want to see you rocking your favorite pair of shades! Post your #SunglassSelfie and be sure to include #VolunteerEyecare for a chance to win a $300 voucher* for a sweet pair of sunglasses from our eyewear gallery. ##### How do I enter the contest? In order to enter the giveaway you must complete the following steps. LIKE our Facebook Page and FOLLOW us on Instagram Click here to like us on Facebook  and  Click here to follow us on Instagram. POST your sunglass selfie on Facebook or Instagram and be sure to include #VolunteerEyecare . SHARE your post with at least one person. ##### Need a new pair of sunglasses? We've got you covered. Whether you are shopping in-store or online, Volunteer Eyecare offers a coupon code to help you save on your purchase.... --- ## Care and Warranty URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/care-and-warranty/ ## Using Your New Eyewear Often a new prescription, or a different design or material, may require an initial learning period. It is best to wear your new prescription as much as possible to learn quickly to use them. With correction for astigmatism, things may appear tilted, slanted or bowed. You may feel as though you are walking uphill, downhill, or in a valley. This sensation normally subsides within 1-2 weeks if the glasses are worn on a regular basis. Your new progressive lenses may require a training period as you learn to use the functions of a multifocal lens. Be careful walking up and down stairs and stepping off of curbs because of the new reading vision in the bottom of the lenses. To help you learn to use your new progressives, sit at a table or desk with reading material and objects at arms length. Practice pointing your nose and tilting your chin up and down to bring objects and reading materials into focus.... --- ## Top 5 Staff Picks URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/top-5-staff-picks/ ## Top 5 Staff Picks ###### Coach ###### Harley Davidson ###### Michael Kors ###### Oakley ###### Peace ###### Rafaella ###### Swarovski ###### XOXO --- ## Vision Problems URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/vision-problems/ ## Vision Problems Vision is the foundation of all that we do here at Volunteer Eyecare. We will do whatever is it takes to ensure that you leave our office seeing your very best. We are laser focused when it comes to your eyeglass/contact lens prescription. --- ## Reviews URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/reviews/ ## Reviews Let us know how we’re doing! We take pride in offering the best in customer service, and we want to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to let us know about your visit. ###### Google Reviews Write a Google review for: Clinton  |  Halls  |  SoKno  |  Maryville  | Dunlap | Central ## What Our Patients Are Saying --- ## Costa Frames URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/costa-frames/ ## Costa Eyewear ##### Built By Hand Setting themselves apart from the very beginning, nearly all Costa sunglasses are assembled by hand in their Daytona Beach, Florida, workshop. The building process includes no less than eight pairs of hands, all striving to maintain an attention to detail and adhering to the high standards Costa is known for. But at Costa they also know that you didn’t buy their products to stay still – and when something happens that isn’t covered by their Limited Warranties, Costa’s experts can quickly return frames and lenses to "like-new" standards*. *See Costa’s website here for their terms, conditions, and associated fees with their Limited Warranties and their repair program. ##### Beyond Polarized Most traditional Polarized lenses work by only blocking reflective light, but Costa did more.... --- ## Frame Brands URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/brands/ ## Frame Brands --- ## Oakley URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/oakley/ ## Oakley Eyewear ###### Oakley Eyewear Frames --- ## Life Is Good URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/life-is-good/ ## Life Is Good Eyewear As a brand known for promoting a lifestyle of optimism, Life is Good is known for helping people focus on the good . With eyewear, they help people do that through a whole new lens. Life is Good is a widely recognizable brand with something to offer the whole family.The Life is Good eyewear line has premium hand-designed styles for men , women , boys , and girls . Offered at an attainable price point for managed care/insurance coverage and no buy-in requirements, the Life is Good eyewear selection is a must-have in your optical showroom. Your purchase has a purpose - Life is Good donates 10% of its annual net profits to help kids in need. ###### Life Is Good Eyewear Frames --- ## Haggar URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/haggar/ ## Haggar Eyewear For generations, Haggar has been an industry innovator in style and comfort and synonymous for high standards of quality and performance. These elements were the starting point in developing the Haggar Eyewear collections. The 200 and 500 Series are tailored yet casual utilizing pattern and texture as key design elements while the ACTIVE Series was introduced for those who appreciate a sportier, athletic look. Made from quality acetates, stainless steel, or flex-titanium components in a palette of neutral colors. Select Wide-Fit styles are proportioned for those who require larger eye sizes, temples, and bridge. ###### Haggar Eyewear Frames --- ## Scott Harris URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/scott-harris/ ## Scott Harris Eyewear Scott Harris isn’t about prescribing uniform eyewear; it’s about providing you with the options to best suit your unique self. Across men’s, women’s, and unisex options - Scott Harris offers fresh, timely, colorful stylings free of heavy embellishments. “Eyewear should fit both your face and your personality naturally, and it should be unique enough to fit them both perfectly.” - Scott Harris Shapiro ###### Scott Harris Eyewear Frames --- ## BluTech Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/blutech-lenses/ ## BluTech Lenses Artificial blue light from screens and energy-efficient lighting disrupts your biological clock and causes digital eye strain—negatively impacting sleep, health, and productivity. BluTech lenses reduce your exposure to blue light, helping you live healthier and happier. ##### True Color and Protective • Offers the most near-clear protection against blue-light emitted by digital devices and artificial light without distorting color • Filters harmful wavelengths known to be associated with digital eyestrain, headaches and sleeplessness • Proprietary treatment infused into the lens-not a coating that can scratch off or wear off. ##### Which level of protection is right for you? BluTech Lenses are infused with Blue Light Plus, a proprietary combination of pigments and dyes which protects your eyes the way nature does. Depending on your need, choose from these formulations. More color means more protection. ##### 455 nm is Where it Matters Indoors.... --- ## Eye Conditions URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/eye-conditions/ ## Eye Conditions Our doctors have received advanced training and certification in diagnosis and therapeutic management of most medical eye conditions . We have always strived to be at the cutting edge and work hard to incorporate the latest technological innovations and most efficacious treatments to assist us in providing the best care for our patients in need of medical eye care. We make every effort to communicate and work hand in hand with your primary care physician and personal medical care team to keep them updated on your ocular health status. Here is a list of some of the most common eye diseases and treatments that our doctors manage. #### Amblyopia #### Cataracts #### Conjunctivitis (Red Eyes) #### Diabetic Retinopathy #### Dry Eyes #### Flashes & Floaters #### Glaucoma #### Keratoconus #### LASIK #### Macular Degeneration #### High Risk Medications #### Strabismus --- ## Shop URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/shop/ ### $25 OFF #### In-Store Sunglasses Mention code "SUNGLASSES25" to save $25 off your in-store sunglasses purchase. Offer expires July 1, 2020. ### 50% OFF #### Online Sunglasses Use code "SUNGLASSES50" to save 50% off your online sunglasses purchase. Offer expires July 1, 2020. #### Whats Trending Now #### Shop By Category ###### Mens Mens Eyeglasses Mens Sunglasses ###### Womens Womens Eyeglasses Womens Sunglasses ###### Kids Boys Eyeglasses Girls Eyeglasses ###### Unisex Unisex Eyeglasses Unisex Sunglasses ###### Accessories Eyeglass Cases Eye Drops & Vitamins #### Most Recent Frames --- ## Content Bottom URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/content-bottom/ ###### Shop Online ###### Order Contacts ###### Schedule an Eye Exam ###### Eye Diseases ###### 24/7 Urgent Care ###### Our Locations --- ## FAQ URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/faq/ ## Frequently Asked Questions Please click here to view our latest response to COVID-19. » Learn More Please click here to schedule a telemedicine visit. » Learn MoreThe cost of your eye exam and other visits will depend on your insurance coverage and whether you wear contacts or glasses. Please contact your insurance plan to find out what they cover. As a courtesy to our patients, we do our best to obtain an authorization before your visit to determine your plan benefits. This authorization is not a guarantee of payment or coverage so until both parties receive an EOB (explanation of benefits), exact costs and coverage is subject to change. If you do not have vision insurance, please check out our wellness eye exam offer. » Learn More 4. How much are glasses? The total cost of your glasses will depend on your prescription, upgrades you choose, insurance coverage and whether you wear contacts or glasses. Please contact your insurance plan to find out what your specific plan covers.... --- ## Contact Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/contact-lenses/ ## Contact Lenses As part of our goal to provide our patients with clear, comfortable, and healthy vision, we provide comprehensive contact lens services. For all contact lens wearers, it is important that you have your eyes evaluated at least every year or more frequently, if needed. Whether you are a current contact lens wearer, or simply interested in finding out if you are a candidate for contact lenses, our doctors will be able to evaluate your eyes and make appropriate recommendations about the healthiest contact lens options available to you. The ultimate goal for all contact lens wearers is to see well, be comfortable, and not harm his or her eyes by wearing the lenses. Our doctors are committed to helping you achieve this goal! #### Here is a list of the contact lens services we provide: ##### Contact Lens Evaluation This is for current contact lens patients at the time of the comprehensive eye exam.... --- ## COVID-19 URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/covid-19/ ## Our Latest Response To COVID-19 ##### FACE MASK REQUIRED (March 21, 2022) As of Monday, March 21, 2022, we will be updating our mask policy for patients. Masks are now encouraged, but not required for patients that come to our offices. All staff will still wear masks until further notice. (July 15, 2020) In addition to our other COVID-19 policies, customers are required to wear masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our business and community.   If you are unable to wear a mask, please ask for other accommodations.   Thank you for your cooperation.   ##### Volunteer Eyecare COVID-19 Response (April 27, 2020) Volunteer Eyecare considers the health, safety, and well-being of our patients, team members, and communities to be our top priority.... --- ## Madison Montgomery URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/madison-montgomery/ ## Madison Montgomery Madison Montgomery’s approach to eyewear is that of a true Fashion Designer. Each collection is based on a unique design inspiration, using the finest materials. The Moroccan Collection, draws its’ inspiration from the mystique of an exotic land. The colors are representative of the inspired bysea coast of Morocco, the intensity of the spices at local bazaars, and the colors of the villages. Each piece is embellished with genuine Cubic Zirconia for that diamond look. Madison designs eyewear to be an accessory for the sophisticated American Woman. Each Madison Montgomery frame, comes with a limited production, seasonally appropriate handbag. ###### Limited Edition Handbag ###### Madison Montgomery Frames --- ## Adult Eyecare URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/adult-eyecare/ ## Adults (18+) ##### Young Adults: 19 to 40 Years of Age The AOA recommends that adults aged 19 to 40 receive an eye exam at least every two years. Most adults between the ages of 19 and 40 enjoy healthy eyes and good vision. The most common eye and vision problems for people in this age group are due to visual stress and eye injuries. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting your eyes from stress and injury, you can avoid many eye and vision problems.Good vision is important as you pursue a college degree, begin your career, or perhaps start and raise a family. Here are some things you can do to maintain healthy eyes and good vision: • Protect your eyes from short-wavelength visible light. Most digital devices and newer LED and fluorescent lights emit more wavelengths near the shorter, or bluer, part of the spectrum.... --- ## Clinton URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/clinton/ ## Clinton Location 2681 Andersonville Hwy, Suite 101, Clinton, TN 37716 Phone: (865) 457-2020 Fax: (865) 494-3930 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Steven Elliott, O.D. Savannah Hammer, O.D. Jackson Hawkins, O.D.... --- ## Savings URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/savings/ ## Savings ## $125* #### Wellness Eye Exams For New and Established Patients. Includes vision exam with dilation. *This exam will provide a spectacle prescription that is valid for 24 months from the date of the exam. Wellness eye exams do not include contact lens fits, contact lens evaluations, or contacts lenses. May not be combined with insurance. ## $119* #### Big Orange Value Package Includes any Casino or Flexure frame with Single Vision, Polycarbonate Lenses. *Rx limited to +/-4.00D and/or +/- 2.00 CYL. Upgrades are not included and are at full retail price. Available in-store only. Other frames are not available for Big Orange Value Package. Valid prescription required. Valid on multiple pairs. Cannot be combined with other offers, insurance, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses. Casino and Flexure frames are available at all locations to try on in-store. See team member for additional details.... --- ## Sunglasses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/sunglasses/ ## Sunglasses ###### All Sunglasses Choose By Gender Mens Sunglasses Womens Sunglasses Unisex Sunglasses --- ## Contact Us URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/contact-us/ ## Contact Us --- ## Order Contact Lenses URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/order-contact-lenses/ ## Order Contact Lenses ## Order Now Please select your preferred office location before placing your order. BEARDEN 404 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919 Phone: (865) 601-2020 CENTRAL 1053 N. Central Street, Knoxville, TN 37917 Phone: (865) 524-8521 CLINTON 2681 Andersonville Hwy, Suite 101, Clinton, TN 37716 Phone: (865) 457-2020 DUNLAP 15449 Rankin Avenue, Dunlap, TN 37327 Phone: (423) 949-2020 HALLS 6719 Maynardville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918 Phone: (865) 922-3937 MARYVILLE 730 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN 37801 Phone: (865) 982-2020 SOUTH KNOX 4300 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920 Phone: (865) 577-2020 #### Free Shipping Ground shipping is FREE on any order of two (2) boxes or more. #### Renew Your Prescription Click here to schedule your contact lens exam with an eye doctor today. » Learn More #### Rebates Click here for current manufacturer’s rebates .... --- ## Rebates URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/rebates/ ## Rebates on your Contact Lenses Discover all of our brands and products eligible for rebates on annual supply purchases. --- ## Home With New Menu URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/home-with-new-menu/ Latest on our response to COVID-19 ## Welcome to Volunteer Eyecare. Knoxville eye doctors providing comprehensive eye care: eye exams , eyeglasses , sunglasses , contact lenses , and much more! Visit one of our seven Knoxville eye clinic locations and see why we are the preferred optometrists in our region. ###### Shop Online ###### Order Contacts ###### Schedule an Eye Exam ###### Eye Conditions ###### 24/7 Urgent Care ###### Our Locations #### Stay Connected --- ## Dry Eye Center URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dry-eye-center/ ## Dry Eye Center Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most common eye conditions, reportedly affecting about 49 million Americans of which only half are diagnosed.1 Other reports suggest that the actual number of people suffering from DED symptoms is much higher, up to 130 million American adults.2 Therefore, it is not surprising that 45% of existing ophthalmology and optometry patients suffer from DED. Yet treatments have remained widely unsatisfactory, until now. #### Schedule A Dry Eye Evaluation Discuss your dry eye condition and explore treatment options at our Bearden office location today. Click below to schedule a dry eye evaluation with our eye care professionals today.Lumenis presents the first and only IPL FDA-approved for the management of dry eye disease. OptiLight uses Lumenis’ patented Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT™) for a safe, precise, and effective treatment, clinically supported by over 40 clinical studies.... --- ## After Hours Urgent Care URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/after-hours-urgent-care/ ## After-Hours Urgent Care For Established Patients ##### After-Hours Emergency (Knoxville area) ##### After-Hours Emergency (in Dunlap) ##### Life-Threatening Emergency (United States) ### What Symptoms Indicate That You Have An Eye Emergency? An eye emergency is when symptoms happen suddenly and are the result of eye trauma or they affect your vision noticeably. Symptoms range from eye pain to vision loss. This can be the result of many different factors such as a blow to the eye, objects in the eye, chemicals in the eye, or an eye infection. These include, but are not limited to: • Eye infection • Painful eyes • Loss of Vision • Sudden Double Vision • Eye Trauma • Scratch or cut in the eye • Chemicals, objects in the eye • Flashes of light • Extensive, new floating spots / floaters • Severe Light Sensitivity • Eye Discharge If you experience any of these symptoms, please call: ##### After-Hours Emergency (Knoxville area) #####... --- ## Maryville URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/maryville-eye-doctors/ ## Maryville Eye Doctors 730 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN 37801 Phone: (865) 982-2020 Fax: (865) 970-2020 Email: contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Victoria Long, O.D. Jared Dix, O.D. --- ## Halls URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/halls/ ## Halls Location 6719 Maynardville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918 Phone: (865) 922-3937 Fax: (865) 922-8412 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Steven Elliott, O.D. Wayne Connell, O.D. Caroline Poveromo, O.D. Jackson Hawkins, O.D. --- ## Careers URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/careers/ ## Why Work with Volunteer Eyecare? ## Engage We know how vital each of our employees is to our business. Although we’re constantly growing, we still take efforts to make sure that everyone feels valued in their role. Through social events, charity drives, competitions, and more, you can be sure to feel connected with your co-workers here. Oh, and if that’s not enough, we have a cake for every birthday.Volunteer Eyecare hires people with all levels of education and work experience. We value the unique abilities of all of our employees and allow them to use their skills as they learn more about our ever-growing field. ## Training ## Connect Dr. Elliott opened Volunteer Eyecare in Clinton, TN nearly 18 years ago. Now, with six offices throughout East Tennessee, we keep our local connection by supporting area charities and working with our long-term patients.... --- ## Bearden URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/bearden/ ## Bearden Location 404 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919 Phone: (865) 601-2020 Fax: (865) 601-2020 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Jackson Hawkins, O.D. Derek Anderson, O.D.... --- ## Dunlap URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/dunlap/ ## Dunlap Location 15449 Rankin Avenue, Dunlap, TN 37327 Phone: (423) 949-2020 Fax: (423) 949-7435 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Rochelle Parks, O.D. Derek Anderson, O.D. --- ## Our Doctors URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/our-doctors/ ### Eye Doctors ##### Select By Office Location ### Retired Doctors ### Eye Doctors ##### Select By Office Location ### Retired Doctors ### Team Members ##### Select By Office Location ### Administrative Office --- ## South Knox URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/south-knox/ ## South Knox Location 4300 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920 Phone: (865) 577-2020 Fax: (865) 579-3688 Email: contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Jackson Hawkins, O.D. --- ## Locations URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/locations/ ## Seven Convenient Locations Volunteer Eyecare offers comprehensive eye exams at each one of our seven office locations in the Knoxville area including  Bearden , Central ,  Clinton , Dunlap , Halls,   Maryville  and South Knoxville . ##### Bearden 404 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919 Phone: (865) 601-2020 Fax: (865) 601-2020 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Bearden Eye Doctors: Caroline Poveromo, O.D. Jared Dix, O.D. Derek Anderson, O.D. ##### Central 1053 N. Central Street, Knoxville, TN 37917 Phone: (865) 524-8521 Fax: (865) 521-9033 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Central Eye Doctors: Savannah Hammer, O.D. ##### Clinton 2681 Andersonville Hwy, Suite 101, Clinton, TN 37716 Phone: (865) 457-2020 Fax: (865) 494-3930 Email:  contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Clinton Eye Doctors: Steven Elliott, O.D. Savannah Hammer, O.D. Jackson Hawkins, O.D.... --- ## All Pages URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/all-pages/ ### All Pages --- ## Volunteer Cares URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/volunteer-cares/ ## Volunteer Cares Our team at Volunteer Eyecare has a commitment to our community in which we work and live.  We are passionate about improving vision one patient at a time but we are equally excited about volunteering our time and services, such as: ### Inner City Mobile Food Bank Our team members and doctors are invested in our community and enjoy giving back through acts of service. ### Norris Lions Club Dr. Elliott has been a member of the Norris Lions Club since April 2003. ### Remote Area Medical Our doctors have volunteered for multiple RAM events throughout the years. ### Mission of Hope We love participating in the Mission of Hope campaign. Their outreach serves the people of rural Appalachia so please help us fill our barrels this coming holiday season. ### Health Fairs We participate in health fairs, vision screenings and other outreach opportunities. We would appreciate the opportunity to be a part of your next event.... --- ## Our Story URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/our-story/ ## Our Story ### Our Beginning The Volunteer Eyecare story began in 2002 in a small farm house turned office in Anderson County, Tennessee. Our founder, Dr. Steven Elliott , knew then that he wanted a hometown eye care practice where folks would feel welcome and important at each and every visit. As a student doctor, Dr. Elliott onced asked a private practice optometrist, “What does it take to have a successful optometry practice?” and the answer was simple. “Treat people the way you want to be treated and strive to do your best each and every day.” The rest is history. Dr. Elliott opened Elliott Eyecare after graduation in May of 2002 and saw his first patient in this little farm house. (from left to right) Pam Tolson, L.D.O.; Alison Elliott; Steven Elliott, O.D.; Sharon Smith. Volunteer Eyecare started with two full-time employees in 2002. Sharon Smith was the first full-time employee. She has done almost every job there is in the practice.... --- ## Central URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/central-knoxville-tn/ ## Central Knoxville Location 1053 N. Central Street, Knoxville, TN 37917 Phone: (865) 524-8521 Fax: (865) 521-9033 Email: contactus@volunteereyecare.com Hours:  Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Doctors at this location: Jackson Hawkins, O.D. --- ## Pay Bill Online URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/pay-bill-online/ ## Online Bill Pay This page is currently under construction. Please check back soon. (June 18, 2025) --- ## Insurance Information URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/insurance-information/ ## Insurance Information We accept most vision and medical plans. If you find that we are out-of-network for your plan ask us about reimbursement forms that may be available for you to submit following your visit. Please refer to your provider manual or call your insurance representative to verify your benefits and our participation. ##### In-Network Vision ##### Out-of-Network Vision Davis Vision ( reimbursement form ) Superior ( reimbursement form ) Americhoice Cigna HealthSpring ##### Medical Insurance --- ## Schedule Eye Exam URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/schedule-eye-exam/ ## Schedule An Eye Exam Please click on the location button below to schedule a real-time appointment. --- ## William Pedersen, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/william-pedersen/ ## William Pedersen, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree East Tennessee State University ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry Memphis ###### Externship Rotations Commonwealth Eye Surgery Lexington, Kentucky ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Retired ###### Biography Optometric Physician William Pedersen was born and raised in Knoxville. He graduated from East Tennessee State University and received his doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in 1974. After graduation, he immediately began his successful optometry practice in Maryville. He fell in love with Maryville and has practiced there for over forty years. Dr.... --- ## Michael Kolarik, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/michael-kolarik/ ## Michael Kolarik, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree Birmingham Southern College ###### Doctorate Degree University of Alabama in Birmingham ###### Externship Rotations Commonwealth Eye Surgery Lexington, Kentucky ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Maryville ###### Biography Optometrist Michael Kolarik earned his undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College in 1975, and his doctorate from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1979. Although born in Maryville, Dr. Kolarik grew up in North Canton, Ohio, with stops in Scottsboro and Birmingham, Alabama before returning to Maryville after Optometry School graduation. Dr. Kolarik has practiced optometry in Maryville for 36 years.... --- ## Janet Parker, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/janet-parker/ ## Janet Parker, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree University of South Florida ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations SouthEast Eye Specialists Knoxville ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Retired ###### Biography Optometric Physician Janet Parker was born and raised in Sanford, Florida. She graduated from the University of South Florida in 1980 and received her Doctorate from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis in 1985. Dr. Parker and her husband, Optician John Parker, established Parker Vision in Maryville where they were in private practice for twenty-nine years. They both joined Volunteer Eyecare in January 2018 and continue to practice part-time. Dr.... --- ## John Condry, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/john-condry/ ## John Condry, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Retired ###### Biography Optometric Physician Mike Condry attended Cumberland College and earned his undergradate and doctorate degrees from Southern College of Optometry in 1967. Dr. Condry is a former Captain in the United State Army where he served two years as a military optometrist.   He owned and operated a six location optometric practice, Condry Eye Centers, for over forty years. Dr.... --- ## Derek Anderson, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/derek-anderson-o-d/ ## Derek Anderson, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree The University of Tennessee ###### Doctorate Degree The Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations Karns Vision Center James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center The Eye Center of Memphis ###### My Office Locations Bearden Dunlap ###### Biography Optometrist Derek Anderson graduated from The University of Tennessee in 2020 and received his doctorate from Southern College of Optometry in 2024. Dr. Anderson completed external rotations at Karns Vision Center in Knoxville, The James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Johnson City, and The Eye Center in Memphis. Dr. Anderson grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, and quickly became a Vol For Life. He continued to cheer on the Volunteers by playing saxophone for the Pride of the Southland Marching Band. Dr.... --- ## Jackson Hawkins, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/jackson-hawkins/ ## Jackson Hawkins, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree Frostburg State University ###### Doctorate Degree The Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Volunteer Eyecare ###### Associations Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society Student Society of the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians (ssTAOP) ###### My Office Locations Central Clinton Halls South Knox ###### Biography Optometrist Jackson Hawkins graduated from Frostburg State University in 2018 and received his doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in 2022. Dr. Hawkins completed external rotations at The Eye Center in Memphis, Tennessee, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD, and Volunteer Eyecare in Knoxville, TN. Dr. Hawkins was raised and attended college in the mountains of Western Maryland.... --- ## Jared Dix, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/jared-dix/ ## Jared Dix, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree University of Tennessee Chattanooga ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry Memphis ###### Externship Rotations The Eye Center in Memphis, Tennessee, The Memphis Veterans Affairs Medical Center Collierville Eye Associates ###### Associations T.B.A. ###### My Office Locations Bearden Maryville ###### Biography Optometrist Jared Dix graduated from The University of Tennessee Chattanooga in 2017 and received his doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in 2022. Dr. Dix completed external rotations at The Eye Center in Memphis, Tennessee, The Memphis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Collierville Eye Associates. Dr. Dix grew up in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and met his wife Rebecca during their time in Chattanooga. Rebecca is originally from Sevierville, and it did not take very long for Dr. Dix to fall in love with East Tennessee. Dr.... --- ## Victoria Long, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/victoria-long/ ## Victoria Long, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree West Virginia University ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations The Eye Center, Memphis, Tennessee O’Brien Vision Center, Southaven, Mississippi ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Maryville ###### Biography Optometrist Victoria Long graduated from West Virginia University in 2015 and received her doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in 2020. Dr. Long completed external rotations at The Eye Center in Memphis, Tennessee and O’Brien Vision Center (a private practice) in Southaven, Mississippi. Dr. Long is a West Virginia native, but is excited to make East Tennessee home. Dr.... --- ## Rochelle Parks, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/rochelle-parks/ ## Rochelle Parks, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree Tennessee Technological University ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations SouthEast Eye Specialists Knoxville ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Dunlap ###### Biography Optometrist Rochelle Parks earned her undergraduate degree from Tennessee Technological University in 2003, and her doctorate from Southern College of Optometry in 2007. She has been in practice in her hometown of Dunlap since graduation. Dr. Parks practices adult and pediatric primary eye care, comprehensive eye exams for glasses and contact lenses; surgical pre- and post-operative care for cataract and refractive surgery; and ocular disease management including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, injuries and infections. Dr.... --- ## Caroline Poveromo, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/caroline-poveromo/ ## Caroline Poveromo, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree The University of Tennessee Knoxville ###### Doctorate Degree The Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations SouthEast Eye Specialists Knoxville ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Bearden ###### Biography Optometrist Caroline Poveromo graduated from The University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2012 and received her Doctorate from The Southern College of Optometry in 2016. Dr. Poveromo completed external rotations at SouthEast Eye Specialists in Knoxville, as well as a private practice externship in Newport, TN. An East Tennessee native, Dr. Poveromo returned to the area she calls home to practice optometry. Dr.... --- ## Wayne Connell, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/wayne-connell/ ## Wayne Connell, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree University of Memphis ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry Memphis ###### Externship Rotations Commonwealth Eye Surgery Lexington, Kentucky ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Halls ###### Biography Optometrist Wayne Connell graduated from the University of Memphis in 2004 and received his doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in 2008. Dr. Connell completed external rotations at Commonwealth Eye Surgery in Lexington, Kentucky as well as at a private practice in Miami, Florida with Dr. Stephen Morris. A native Tennessean, Dr. Connell relocated to East Tennessee, where he has been in practice since 2008. Prior to joining Volunteer Eyecare he practiced in Morristown and Knoxville. Dr.... --- ## Steven Elliott, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/steven-elliott-knoxville-eye-doctor/ ## Steven Elliott, O.D. ###### Biography Knoxville Optometrist Steven Elliott earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 1996, and his doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis in 2002. Dr. Elliott completed externship rotations at the James H. Quillen Veterans Administration Hospital in Johnson City, as well as with a private practice in Athens, Tennessee. A native of Anderson County, Dr. Steven Elliott has been in private practice in Anderson County since 2002 and Knox County since 2004. Dr. Steven Elliott is the founder and president of Volunteer Eyecare. Dr. Steven Elliott practices adult and pediatric primary eye care, comprehensive eye exams for glasses and contact lenses; surgical pre- and post-operative care for cataract and refractive surgery; and ocular disease management including glaucoma , macular degeneration , diabetic retinopathy , injuries and infections.... --- ## Savannah Hammer, O.D. URL: https://www.volunteereyecare.com/staff/savannah-hammer/ ## Savannah Hammer, O.D. ###### Undergraduate Degree Carson Newman University ###### Doctorate Degree Southern College of Optometry ###### Externship Rotations Toyos Clinic Germantown, Tennessee ###### Associations • American Optometric Association • Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians • East Tennessee Society of Optometric Physicians ###### My Office Locations Central Clinton ###### Biography Dr. Hammer is passionate about providing personalized and comprehensive eye care to the community. With a focus on ocular disease and primary care, she excels at identifying underlying health issues through eye examinations, clear communication with patients, and extensive expertise in eye health management. Dr. Hammer’s services include comprehensive ocular exams that analyze eye health and visual function.... ---