Yearly Archives: 2022

Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction. It’s important to know the truth, especially when it comes to your eye care. So sit back, and take a moment to learn a little bit about what’s true and what’s not so true about proper eye care.

Myth or Fact? If I don’t wear my glasses, it will harm my eyes.

The truth is: this depends on the type of glasses you’re wearing. There are some glasses used in the eye care industry that are meant to fix certain vision problems. However, corrective glasses and/or contacts are used to compensate and provide you with better eyesight while you’re wearing them. Since they don’t actually fix your vision, not wearing them won’t cause damage.

Myth or Fact? My eyes could be damaged from reading in dim lighting.

The truth is: reading in dim light can cause your eyes to feel fatigued. However, this will not cause long-term damage. To keep eyes from getting tired, you can opt for a book light that shines directly onto the page.

Myth or Fact? Staring at my computer too much could hurt my eyes.

The truth is: there’s no hard proof that says too much screen time will damage your eyes. What may result is eye fatigue. Your eyes could feel tired, dry, itchy, or even achy from too much screen time. However, no long-term issues have been evidenced thus far. Still, it’s best to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, shift your eyes away from the screen to look at an object at least 20 feet away from you, for at least 20 seconds. This will help your eyes from experiencing fatigue.

Myth or Fact? I should get a good night’s sleep for proper eye care.

The truth is: not getting enough sleep could be harmful, especially over time. Your body and mind need proper rest in order to function properly. Denying adequate sleep can have some detrimental effects. Short term, you may experience tired eyes, and your focusing ability may be hindered. Too many nights without sleep can lead to dry eye, and when you don’t get enough rest it can make you prone to accidents, including eye injuries. Sleep is essential for proper eye care.

Myth or Fact? I only have to wear my sunglasses during the warmer months.

The truth is: you should be wearing sunglasses all year long. In the winter, the snow reflects the light, plus the sun sits at a different angle. To protect your eyes from UV damage, make sure you’re wearing glasses even in the wintertime. You can buy sunglasses online; just visit a helpful site such as https://lowcostglasses.co.uk/ Read our previous blog post on this topic about prescription sunglasses to learn more.

Myth or Fact? I should eat carrots as part of my eye care regime.

The truth is: carrots can provide your body with vitamin A, which can be helpful for your eyes. However, you can also eat leafy greens and fruits, which are also packed with healthy antioxidants and vitamins C and E. In addition, foods like cheese, egg yolk, and liver also contain vitamin A.

Myth or Fact? Sitting too close to the TV can damage my eyes.

The truth is: often times young kids may sit in front of the TV at a close range because they can focus on objects that are closer better than adults can. Don’t fear, this has not been evidenced to cause any damage.

Myth or Fact? There’s no need for an eye exam unless I notice changes in my vision.

The truth is: you may not notice changes immediately. Many changes in your vision can be gradual. Everyone should get regular eye exams, no matter your age or current vision. Keeping up with your eye care can help catch problems early on.

Myth or Fact? Vision loss just happens. There’s nothing I can do to prevent it using an eye care regime.

The truth is: while you can’t prevent all vision loss, there are things you can do to help promote healthy eyes. Make sure you’re taking any safety precautions necessary to prevent your eyes from becoming injured. If your work atmosphere requires safety glasses, invest in a good pair and wear them all of the time. Also, be sure to wear safety glasses anytime a project calls for it at home.

Keeping up with regular eye exams can also help you prevent vision loss. An eye doctor can catch issues early on, which can give you better treatment options.

Myth or Fact? If I wear glasses or contacts it could make my eyesight worse and more dependent on them.

The truth is: your eyes won’t get weaker from wearing glasses. Your vision will only change due to aging or an eye disease, completely unrelated to your contact or glasses prescription.

Now that you know the facts, you can take any steps necessary to keep your eyes healthy. Commit to better vision by taking advantage of excellent eye care. Contact us today: (801) 476-0494

One can argue that of all the senses, sight is the most important. The entire universe is dark without those delicate eyes. Therefore, proper eye care throughout your life truly allows you to see the world in a way that otherwise wouldn’t be possible. You can’t take your eyes for granted. That’s why proper eye care is so important.

There are several aspects of proper eye care. Keeping your eyes healthy is paramount, especially as you age. Your diet, habits and time spent around computer screens can all affect eye health. There are a number of steps you can take to ensure your eyes stay healthy over the long term.

Nutrition for Proper Eye Care

Proper eye health starts with what you put on your plate. Make sure you are focusing on specific nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamins C and E. By ensuring these nutrients are part of your diet, you can more easily ward off age-related vision problems, whether macular degeneration or glaucoma.

Support your eye care by eating:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Salmon, tuna and other oily fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids
• Citrus fruits
• Nuts
• Beans
• Eggs
• Oysters
• Non-meat proteins

Having a well-balanced diet not only works wonders for your eye sight but also can help you maintain a steady weight. In turn, this can reduce your chances of getting type 2 diabetes, which is the leading cause of blindness in adults.

Kicking the Habit

Next, you should avoid smoking. This activity not only ravages parts of your body but also wreaks havoc on your eyesight. Smoking can cause cataracts, and it can damage your optic nerve. It also causes macular degeneration.

If you smoke, you should consider quitting immediately. You can do it. Taking this proactive step will do your body a favor and save on eye-care expenses.

Screen Time

Do you stare at a computer screen all day at work? If so, it’s important to take regular breaks. Staring at a computer screen all day can cause eyestrain, headaches or blurry vision.

To protect your eyes:

• Use new contacts that are appropriate for the screen.
• Ensure your eyes are level with your computer.
• Make sure your chair is comfortable and in a supportive position.
• Always give your eyes a good rest every 20 minutes.
• Get up at least every two hours to give yourself a 15-minute break.

Own a Good Pair of Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes by deflecting the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can increase your chances of eye degradation. A decent pair of glasses should be polarized and offer UVA and UVB protection.

Regularly Visit Your Eye Doctor

It’s very important for adults and children alike to get a regular eye exam. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in caring for your precious eyes. They can provide a range of services from general eye care to more complex activities such as treating disease or performing surgery.

You should also visit an eye doctor routinely to ensure you have good vision. Have a regular vision test, and treat any vision problems that your doctor uncovers. This can lead to a higher quality of life, and it can prevent other medical problems down the road.

Come see us! We have your eyes in mind all the time.

When it’s cold out, we know to layer up. There are plenty of winter accessories including gloves, scarves, and coats designed to keep you protected from the elements. But one very important accessory you may have forgotten —sunglasses. Sunglasses are extremely important all year long, especially in the winter.

Here’s what you need to know:

The sun’s angle may put you at a higher risk. Although the winter season may be cooler, that doesn’t mean it’s time to put away the shades. The cooler weather doesn’t mean the sun has vanished. In fact, the sun is still out, shining its UV rays. And, while they may not seem as intense, they actually could be a larger cause for concern. During this time of year, the sun actually sits at a lower point in the sky and not at the same angle as in summer. This particular angle can put you at a higher risk, which is just one of the reasons eye doctors recommend you put on sunglasses in the cooler months as well.

The snow can be dangerous to your eyes. Did you know snow isn’t white? It’s actually translucent but it appears white because it reflects light. The reflective nature of snow can create a mirror effect. This means light can reflect off of the snow into your eyes. In fact, people who are out for longer periods, snowboarders and skiers, for example, may actually develop snow blindness if they don’t wear sunglasses (or polarized goggles). Snow blindness is when the cornea basically gets a sunburn, and it can last up to a week. Symptoms may include hazy vision, bloodshot eyes, pain, excessive tearing, and a feeling like something is in your eye.

Lack of protection can cause eye diseases. UV rays from the sun can contribute to age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Wearing eyeglasses that protect against 100% of the sun’s rays can help protect your eyes. Sunglasses also help to protect your eyes from other annoying problems as well. When it’s too bright out, you may find yourself squinting which can cause eye strain, headache, and fatigue.

Sunglasses can protect you from dry eye and debris. While it’s well known that the winter weather can cause dry skin and cracked lips, eye doctors want you to know that it can also cause dry eyes. Plus, not wearing sunglasses can put you at a higher risk of getting debris in your eyes. Winds can blow debris into unprotected eyes, and the windy, cold conditions can make the liquid in your eyes evaporate at a faster rate. Your eyes can be left feeling dry and irritated.

Not all sunglasses are the same. There are several reasons you should be donning the shades all year along, including the wintertime. But, that doesn’t mean you should just pick up any cheap pair of sunglasses. Eye doctors can recommend particular shades that are better at protecting your eyes. If shopping on your own, choose glasses that have 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays. Also, if you want to cut down on glare, choose polarized glasses. You may also want to consider glasses that have hydrophobic coatings. These help to keep away water, oils, dust, and fingerprints, which can keep the lenses clear and your vision unobstructed.

Your eyes can be safe this winter (and all year long) when you choose and wear a quality pair of sunglasses. Keep your eyes protected from the elements and keep your eye doctor happy. If you’d like to learn more about how to keep your eyes healthy or would like to schedule an appointment with us here: http://www.utaheyecenters.com/

Even if you’re committed to making healthy food choices, it’s easy to overindulge in the last three months of the year. Friends and family gather. Inclement weather can keep you indoors. Holiday traditions are defined by and infused with food, often sweets. People give you gifts of food. How can you combat all of the twinkling temptations that tempt us to overindulge? Here are some simple ways to stay on a healthy eating plan in the last quarter of the year:

Have healthy foods ready. Fill your refrigerator with healthy foods. Make it easy to eat healthy meals and snacks. Consider purchasing pre-cut and pre-washed fruit and vegetables so that you can quickly and easily grab a healthy snack when you’re pressed for time. Don’t go to a party or get-together hungry; try to eat a healthy snack or meal before you go. Drink enough water throughout the day; most of us don’t. Bake healthier treats at home that you can enjoy throughout the season — and share. Try to find substitutes or alternatives for high-calorie fall and winter treats. For example, could you swap out a couple of pumpkin spice lattes with pumpkin spice-flavored herbal tea?

Count calories. This isn’t true only during the holidays. If you take the time to inspect the number of calories and levels of sugar in your favorite meals and desserts, you may be surprised. Try keeping a food diary for a couple of weeks. If you are armed with that knowledge, you may be less likely to overindulge. Apps that help you track your food and calorie intake can be useful. Try one out!

Moderation, not deprivation. You may be secure in your self-discipline and confident you can simply walk away from the holiday cookie tray or that second piece of pie. But it doesn’t always work out that way. We’re all human. Instead of adopting a strict “no sweets” approach, try eating in moderation this season. It may save you from a costly over-eating session by keeping the stress levels in check. Is everyone having dessert? Enjoy a small portion, too, if it’s something that you enjoy and eat slowly and savor each bite.

Find more enjoyable activities that don’t involve food. A key step in weight loss and/or maintaining a healthy weight is finding things you enjoy that don’t involve eating. What do you enjoy that doesn’t involve food? A corn maze in October, a nice walk in the brisk morning air in November and drive-through holiday light displays in December — they can all be fun activities that don’t center around eating.

Take time for yourself. Despite all the trappings and marketing pressures, the holidays are fundamentally a time to be thankful while spending time with family and friends. Some of the overeating this time of year can be avoided by not overloading your schedule with unrealistic goals. You can’t get everyone the perfect gift and you may not be able to go to every holiday event, and that’s okay. Instead, celebrate the season the right way. Your body will thank you come January.

You spend a lot of time and money on your eyeglasses, so why shouldn’t you take the best care of them possible? If you know how to properly clean, handle and store your eyeglasses, they will definitely stand the test of time.

Here are some tips to ensure your glasses will last as long as possible:

Wash often
Wash your glasses at least once a day. Use a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a lens cleaner that is designed specifically for glasses. This will remove any dirt or debris that could potentially damage your glasses. Avoid using harsh cleaning solutions on your glasses. These can strip the coating off of the lenses and cause other damage.

Rinse
Make sure you always rinse your glasses off with water before you wipe or clean them. Rinsing will help clean off any dust or dirt particles that settle on your lens.

Air dry and use the right cloth
If you can wait for a bit after rinsing your glasses, let them air dry. This is the best way to ensure no materials will get on your lens. If you can’t wait, use a soft, clean, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth. A lint-free cloth is the best way to clean your glasses, as it won’t leave any streaks or residue behind.

Grip firmly
When you clean your glasses make sure you grip firmly the piece that crosses the bridge of the nose. This will prevent you from bending the frame while you clean your glasses.

Store properly
When you are not wearing your glasses, store them in a case. A hard case will protect them from being scratched or damaged. Most glasses come with a case to put them in. Keeping them in the case will prevent your specs from getting scratched, bent or broken. Make sure your case is also in a safe place away from children.

Place carefully
If you ever need to put your glasses down for a minute, make sure you never put them with the glasses’ lens down. This will ultimately lead to scratched lenses. You should also avoid leaving your glasses in direct sunlight, as this can cause the lenses to warp over time. And don’t place them where they are likely to be knocked off (such as a kitchen counter or the end table where you keep your remote and coffee cup).

Scratched or broken lenses will need to be replaced even before it’s time for your annual eye exam. If you love your frames, you can continue to use them even if your prescription changes. But you’ll want to make sure your frames are not broken. Follow these steps, and your glasses will stay in great shape until your next visit. Questions about your eyes or your glasses? Visit Utah Eye Centers or call today: (801) 476-0494

Is eye gunk normal or should it be a cause for concern?

Do you experience crusty eye or eye gunk in the corner of your eyes when you wake up in the morning? If so, you may have asked yourself: What exactly is this stuff and where does it come from?

What exactly is eye gunk?

The medical term for this condition is called “rheum.” The Merriam-Webster definition of it is “a watery discharge from the mucous membranes especially of the eyes or nose.” While that may be the technical term, it is hardly used. It is actually a reaction to a good night’s sleep. That’s because this discharge is a normal part of the eye’s self-cleaning process.

Eye gunk consists of several different things, including exfoliated skin cells, mucus, oils and tears that are produced or shed by the eye during sleep. This condition does not happen during the day because eye gunk is typically washed away by blinking natural tears. When you are asleep, however, you aren’t blinking and that makes it collect in the corners of the eyes, where it dries up.

How common is it?

Just about everyone wakes up with eye gunk. The amount of it, however, can vary depending on the person. In fact, you may not even know it is there because there is often a very small amount of the stuff. It is common, however, during allergy season to get more eye crust.

When do you need to be concerned?

Eye gunk is something to be concerned about if it changes color. If it is yellow or green, it is typically a sign of bacterial conjunctivitis, which is a common form of pink eye. If your discharge is yellow or green, you need to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. If there are any other serious symptoms with your eye discharge, you will also need to see an ophthalmologist as soon as you can.

Keep your eyes clean to prevent issues with eye gunk

One of the best things you can do to prevent any of these conditions and issues with eye crust is to keep them clean.

• Wash your face every day, especially before bed. Use a mild soap and warm water.
• Avoid touching your eyes. If you must touch them, wash your hands first.
• Don’t share makeup or eye makeup brushes.
• Throw away old makeup.
• Clean your eyeglasses or sunglasses regularly.

>Typically, eye gunk is nothing to be concerned about. It is a normal part of the human body’s natural cleansing process. However, if you notice an increase in the amount of eye gunk you produce, or if it becomes excessively thick or oily, it may be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should consult a healthcare professional.

The human eye is one of the most complicated pieces of equipment in our body. In order to maintain good eyesight and prevent any potential conditions, it is important that you make sure to eat the right foods. Did you know that certain foods you eat can have a positive effect on your eye health?

You may have heard that carrots are beneficial due to beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A that helps the retina as well as other parts of the eye to function properly. But there are other foods besides just carrots that can keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp. You’ll want to add these five menu items to your diet to keep your eyes in the best shape possible.

Eggs
Despite what many health experts say, the yolk of an egg is actually good for you. The yolk contains the antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc, all of which help to reduce macular degeneration and cataracts.

Almonds
The next time you reach for a snack, grab some almonds. They contain vitamin E, and studies show this can lower your risk of macular degeneration. You also only need to eat a handful of these nuts to fulfill your daily dose of vitamin E.

Fatty Fish
Fish is popular among many health enthusiasts and for good reason. Salmon, mackerel, tuna, anchovies and trout are all packed full of DHA, a fatty acid that is found in your retina. Several studies have found that low levels of DHA are linked to dry eye syndrome. Eating plenty of fatty fish or even taking a fish oil supplement can help bring those levels up.

Leafy greens
Like eggs, leafy greens contain lutein and zeaxanthin, that can lower the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. These foods also contain antioxidants that can help fight against age-related damage to the retina, as well as vitamins A, C and K which are essential for eye health. You can pack in plenty of leafy greens with a salad for one of your meals each day.

Citrus and Berries
Boosting your vitamin C can also reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. Citrus and berry fruits are packed full of vitamin C, giving your eyes a good amount of much-needed nutrients.

Including each of these foods in your nutrition plan can dramatically improve your eye health over time. Which foods do you like to eat for better eye health?

If you have any questions about your eye health, we are here to help. Visit our website or call today for more information about how Utah Eye Centers can help you protect your vision.

Have you ever had a moment where your eye kept twitching and you didn’t know what was going on? Perhaps, during this time you had several thoughts going through your mind. Thoughts like “What’s wrong with my eye?” or “Did something get stuck in my eye?” and “Do I have an eye disease?”

It is definitely normal to have a reaction to this, especially if it is your first eye twitching experience. Before you start panicking and thinking you have a serious health problem, relax, because it likely is nothing to worry about. Eye twitching can happen for several minutes, a few hours or even an entire day or more. While it is annoying, medical experts say there is usually no need to worry about your vision while your eye is twitching. Most often this muscle spasm is a medical phenomenon called benign essential blepharospasm, which sounds much worse than it is. This condition is where the eyelid muscles on a side of the face twitch involuntary. The term can also be used to refer to other eyelid movements that you can’t control, like blinking.

So what causes the eye to twitch anyway?
This is the next logical question you will ask. The quick answer to this question is it is often a symptom of stress and fatigue. If you are experiencing stress, discover ways to eliminate it from your life because it can cause far more health problems than just eye twitching, including high blood pressure, skin rashes and even bodily pain. If you are experiencing fatigue, make sure you get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night. You might also want to cut down on your caffeine intake so you don’t experience crashes.

This concern about stress and its impact on eye twitching ties into the broader narrative of holistic well-being. Understanding the interconnectedness of our physical and mental health underscores the importance of addressing stress as a pivotal element of self-care. Exploring diverse avenues for stress management is a fundamental step in nurturing a balanced lifestyle. Alongside established practices, natural remedies like Kratom In Vancouver and Toronto have garnered attention for their potential to foster relaxation and alleviate stress. These botanical solutions, when integrated thoughtfully into your wellness routine, can play a role in fortifying your resilience against stressors.

It’s worth recognizing that reducing stress isn’t solely about addressing its immediate effects. Instead, it serves as a proactive measure to safeguard against potential long-term health repercussions. Incorporating strategies that prioritize relaxation and mental well-being not only enhances your present state but also contributes to a foundation of enduring vitality. Remember, embarking on a journey to reduce stress is an investment in your overall health that pays dividends in terms of improved quality of life and lasting well-being.

In addition to making lifestyle changes to manage stress and fatigue, some individuals may consider natural remedies offered at Orange County CBD to help alleviate these symptoms. CBD has been shown to have potential benefits for anxiety, stress, and sleep, making it a promising option for those looking for a natural way to manage these concerns. However, it is important to note that the use of CBD or any other natural remedy should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider before starting treatment, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. By taking a holistic approach to managing stress and fatigue, including exploring natural remedies, individuals can work towards a healthier, more balanced life.

How to possibly stop eye twitching
If you’re having eye twitching issues often, take that as an important reminder to take better care of your health. Don’t overdose on caffeine or alcohol and get enough sleep every night. You may also want to focus on improving your overall mind and body wellness. Try incorporating things like alternative therapies, yoga, massage and meditation into your daily routine.

If you reduce your stress and get plenty of sleep every night but your eye is still twitching, you might want to contact Utah Eye Centers . According to the National Eye Institute, some people’s blepharospasm can become more severe or chronic. We’ll be happy to make sure there is not a serious problem. You can rest assured, though, that most of the time, your strange eye twitch is not really a cause for concern at all.

Another new school year is just around the corner, making it a great time to schedule an eye exam for your child. Childhood eye diseases are one of the most common causes of vision loss in America. These diseases often go undetected and untreated, but they can be prevented. The earlier a child is diagnosed with a childhood eye disease, the more likely it is that treatment will restore vision. These problems can include:

1. Amblyopia. This condition occurs in early childhood and is commonly known as a lazy eye. Symptoms can include a wandering eye, eyes that may not appear to work together, or poor depth perception.
2. Strabismus. This eye problem is caused by a nerve injury or dysfunction of the muscles controlling the eye. This will cause a misalignment of the eyes which will make one of the eyes turn inward, outward, downward, or upward.
3. Nasolacrimalduct Obstruction. This is the obstruction of tear ducts, which leads to an excess of tears. Its most common cause is the failure of the membrane at the end of the tear duct.

Beyond these vision problems, poor vision can directly impact a child’s ability to learn. One of the most common ways a child’s learning can be impaired is with difficulty reading. This can be due to a number of different factors, such as not being able to see the words on the page clearly or not being able to track words correctly. They might also have trouble seeing the board or screen in the classroom. Other effects of substandard vision on learning abilities can include problems with depth perception and spatial awareness, as well as difficulties with hand-eye coordination. All of these problems can make it extremely difficult for a child to succeed in school. If you suspect that your child may be suffering from any of these problems, it is important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

At Utah Eye Centers, our mission is to provide each patient — child, teen, adult or senior — with personalized patient care and extraordinary service. We are a full ophthalmic practice, offering general, retina, pediatrics, cosmetic and refractive care. Our doctors are dedicated to reducing the visual impairments patients experience through prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Our convenient locations each boast a full-service, state-of-the-art ophthalmic practice, providing a broad range of procedures and using advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products to properly treat and enhance your vision quality. Want to learn more or schedule an appointment? Call us at (801) 476-0494