Vision Archives

What Are Polarized Sunglasses? A Quick Guide

Written By Michael Healy

If you spend time outdoors, you probably understand just how beneficial a high-quality pair of polarized sunglasses is. But you may have some questions about them. You may wonder what are polarized sunglasses, how do they actually work, and do they actually protect your eyes?

Let’s take a look at polarized lenses to better understand how they work, their benefits and drawbacks, and whether or not they really provide an increased level of protection for your eyes.

Are Eyes Organs? A Comprehensive Guide to Eye Anatomy

Written By Courtney Dryer

Are eyes organs? It’s a question many people ask. Composed of many intricate parts, the eye bends light rays to stimulate nerve cells in the retina and, by way of the optic nerve, sends messages for interpretation by the brain. The brain uses the information from both optic nerves and combines it to create one clear image.

The connection between the eyes and brain is the reason for headaches when your vision changes and a loss of your peripheral vision due to stroke or tumor. If you’re interested in learning more about eye anatomy, this guide is for you. From are eyes organs to what are choroid and vitreous, we’re answering all your burning eye questions!

Is Your Vision Road-Ready to Drive Safely?

Written By Michael Healy

Healthy eyes and safe driving go hand in hand. In fact, it’s estimated that over 90% of information taken in while driving is visual. Considering this, and considering that over 20% of current drivers have some form of vision issue significant enough to affect driving ability, ensuring your eyes are ready for the road has never been more important!

Red Eyes: The Top 10 Most Common Causes

Written By Courtney Dryer

The question, “Doc, why are my eyes always red?” is commonly asked of me by patients. Red eyes are screaming for attention and rarely improve on their own without proper treatment.

There are several reasons your eyes can be red, many of which can be serious and should be assessed and treated by an eye doctor. Though over-the-counter eye drops exist to “get the red out,” they are only a quick fix and only mask the true eye problem.

Your doctor may ask you questions about your red eyes at your visit.

How long have you had red eyes?
Which symptoms are you experiencing? Severity? Pain?
How many hours do you spend on the computer?
Do you take any medications?
Do your eyes appear red all day or do they seem worse in the morning/evening?
What type of contacts do you wear and how long do you wear them?
Have you tried any medications or drops for treatment?

What Is Thyroid Eye Disease? What You Should Know

Written By Michael Healy

An estimated one out of every 100 Americans is affected by a condition known as Graves’ disease. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that leads to an overactive thyroid, a condition more commonly known as hyperthyroidism. Those diagnosed with Graves’ disease are also at an increased risk of developing Graves’ ophthalmopathy, also known as thyroid eye disease (TED).

In fact, it’s estimated that one out of every four people with Graves’ disease will experience some form of TED. In addition, and according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), TED is five times more common in women but more likely to be more severe in men.

For most, symptoms of TED usually appear within six months of the appearance of symptoms associated with Graves’ disease.