Macular Degeneration Diagnosis and Treatment

Macular Degeneration Diagnosis and Treatment

Certain eye conditions demand immediate diagnoses and care to ensure the health, safety, and longevity of your vision. Macular degeneration is an excellent example. Macular degeneration is a type of eye disease that damages the retina and can affect the part of your vision that you rely on to see in front of you, which can affect your ability to complete normal tasks like driving, working, or engaging in your hobbies. The first step in treating macular degeneration is getting a diagnosis and then learning about the various treatment options available to you by discussing your condition with an eye doctor. Below is some of what you need to know about diagnosis and treatment options and how Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, can play a role in your eye care journey.

Macular Degeneration: Diagnosis and Treatment

In order to get a diagnosis of macular degeneration, you first have to visit an optometrist near you to undergo an eye exam. During this eye exam, there are numerous tests that your optometrist will use to better determine if you are experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration. These tests may include a dilated eye exam to get a better look at your retinal health, a visual acuity test or Amsler grid, and fluorescein angiography, just to name a few. It’s important to be comprehensive while testing to ensure a correct diagnosis so that you can get the proper treatment.

What does treatment for Macular degeneration look like? In many cases, surgery may be needed to get better results for your eyesight. However, there are other options and vision correction solutions that may be available to you. In some cases, taking an AREDS formula supplement may be able to slow down the progression of the disease. In other cases, you may be able to wear corrective contact lenses or eyeglasses to see better.

Visit an Optometrist Near You to Learn More About Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a serious eye disease, and it’s important to get the care that you need as soon as possible. If you’re looking for support with symptoms you believe to be macular degeneration, schedule an appointment with us at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, to get the diagnosis and treatment you need now.

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD can significantly impair activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of AMD is crucial for early detection and protecting your vision.

Risk Factors for Macular Degeneration

Several factors can increase your risk of developing AMD. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Age: The risk of AMD increases significantly with age. People over 60 are at a higher risk than younger individuals.
  • Family History: Having a close relative with AMD increases your own risk.
  • Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for AMD. Smoking damages blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eye.
  • Diet: A diet high in saturated fat and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to AMD development.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of AMD.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) Light Exposure: Excessive exposure to sunlight, without proper eye protection, can damage the macula.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Early detection of AMD allows for timely intervention and management to potentially slow vision loss. Here are some common warning signs to be aware of:

  • Blurred or distorted central vision: Straight lines may appear wavy, and objects in your central field of vision might seem distorted.
  • Difficulty seeing in low light: Dim lighting conditions can make it harder to perform tasks that require clear vision.
  • Loss of color perception: Colors may appear dull or faded, and it might be difficult to distinguish between different shades.
  • Increased need for bright light: People with AMD often require brighter lighting to perform daily activities.
  • Presence of a central blind spot: Some individuals with AMD experience a dark spot in their central vision.

Contact Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ

At Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, our team of experienced optometrists near you is dedicated to your eye health. We offer comprehensive eye exams, including advanced diagnostic testing to detect AMD and other eye conditions in their early stages. Protect your vision from AMD. Call Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa today at (520) 744-1711 to schedule an appointment and discuss how we can help safeguard your eyesight.

Choosing Between Glasses and Contacts

Choosing Between Glasses and Contacts

Deciding between eyeglasses and contact lenses for vision correction involves considering lifestyle, comfort, and practicality. Each option offers unique benefits that cater to different preferences and needs. Before you visit Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, learn about their advantages and items to keep in mind when making your final decision below:

The Importance of an Eye Exam

Before selecting between glasses and contacts, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive eye exam. This exam not only determines your prescription but also assesses the overall health of your eyes. Our optometrist will evaluate factors such as visual acuity, eye coordination, and any underlying conditions that may affect your choice between glasses or contacts.

Advantages of Glasses

Glasses offer several advantages for those seeking vision correction. They provide straightforward use and maintenance, requiring minimal care beyond regular cleaning. Glasses are also beneficial for individuals who may have dry eyes or allergies that could be aggravated by contact lens wear. Additionally, eyeglasses can be a fashion statement since there are various styles and frames available to suit personal preferences and lifestyle.

Benefits of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are favored by many for their convenience and natural feel. They offer a wider field of vision compared to glasses, as they move with your eyes. Contacts are particularly suitable for active individuals or those involved in sports where glasses may be cumbersome. However, they require more care and hygiene diligence compared to eyeglasses.

Considerations for Your Lifestyle

When deciding between glasses and contacts, your lifestyle plays a significant role. Consider factors such as daily activities, comfort preferences, and your profession. Those who spend significant time outdoors or in environments prone to dust or debris may find contacts more practical. However, individuals who work long hours on computers may prefer the ease of glasses.

Making the Right Choice

To make an informed decision, consider consulting with our optometrists at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa. We can provide personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle, vision correction needs, and eye health. Whether you opt for the clarity of eyeglasses or the freedom of contacts, professional guidance ensures you achieve clear vision and comfort.

Contact Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa for an Appointment Today

Whether you are considering contact lenses or glasses, let our team at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, help. Contact us at (520) 744-1711 today to schedule your appointment and discover which option is best suited for you. When you need an optometrist near me, we are happy to assist you!

How to Clean and Care for Your Contacts

How to Clean and Care for Your Contacts

Proper cleaning and care for your contact lenses are essential for eye health and ensuring clear vision. Whether you are new to wearing contacts or have been using them for years, understanding the correct practices is crucial. Before visiting Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, learn about some items to keep in mind when cleaning and caring for your contacts below:

The Importance of an Eye Exam

Before using contact lenses, it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye exam. An eye exam ensures that your contacts are correctly prescribed for your vision needs and fit your eyes properly. Not only that, but these exams also help monitor your eye health and detect any issues early.

Cleaning Your Contacts

Cleaning your contacts daily is vital to prevent infections. Use a recommended contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses. Avoid using water or saliva to clean your contacts, as they can introduce harmful bacteria. Some steps our optometrists recommend when cleaning your lenses include:

  • Wash and dry your hands thoroughly with soap and water
  • Place the lens in your palm and apply a few drops of contact lens solution
  • Gently rub the lens with your fingertip to remove any deposits
  • Rinse the lens with more solution to eliminate any debris
  • Store the lens in a clean case filled with fresh solution

Proper Storage

Storing your lenses properly is as important as cleaning them. Always use a clean lens case and replace it every three months. Fill the case with fresh solution every time you store your lenses. Never reuse or top off the old solution, as it loses its disinfecting properties over time.

Replacing the Contacts

Adhere to the recommended replacement schedule for your contacts. Using contacts longer than advised can increase the risk of eye infections and cause more discomfort. Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after a single use, while bi-weekly or monthly lenses should be replaced accordingly.

Handling the Contacts

Proper handling of contacts reduces the risk of contamination. Always wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses. Avoid using oily or scented soaps that can leave residues on your hands and transfer to the lenses. Be gentle when inserting and removing your contacts to prevent them from tearing.

Signs of Eye Problems

It’s important to be aware of any signs of eye problems while wearing contacts. Symptoms such as redness, irritation, blurry vision, or excessive tearing could indicate an infection or other problems. If you experience any of these signs, remove your contacts immediately and consult our eye doctors.

Contact Us for an Appointment Today!

For additional advice on cleaning and caring for your contacts, contact Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, at (520) 744-1711 today. We are happy to provide you with more information and set you up with an appointment. When you need an optometrist near me, we look forward to assisting you!

How to Clean and Care for Your Glasses

How to Clean and Care for Your Glasses

Caring for your eyeglasses is crucial not only for maintaining clear vision but also for extending the lifespan of your frames and lenses. Proper cleaning and maintenance can prevent scratches, smudges, and other forms of damage that can compromise the effectiveness of your eyewear. Before visiting Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, take a look at some simple steps you can follow to keep your glasses in great condition for years to come below:

Cleaning Your Glasses

When it comes to cleaning your glasses, the first step is to rinse them under lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage lens coatings. After rinsing, apply a small drop of mild dish soap to each lens. Gently lather the soap with your fingertips, making sure to cover the entire surface of the lenses, including the edges and nose pads. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of soap and then carefully shake off excess water.

Drying Your Glasses

To dry your eyeglasses, use a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth. Avoid using tissues, paper towels, or clothing, as these materials can leave scratches on the lenses. Gently blot the lenses and frames until they are completely dry. Pay special attention to the areas around the nose pads and hinges, as water tends to collect in these areas.

Avoiding Damage

It’s important to always use both hands when putting your eyeglasses on or taking them off to prevent damage. Avoid placing your glasses face down on hard surfaces, as this can scratch the lenses. When they are not being used, store your glasses in a protective case to protect them from dust, debris, and breakage.

Handling Smudges

Despite your best efforts, smudges and fingerprints are bound to accumulate on your glasses over time. To remove smudges, use a lens cleaning solution specifically designed for eyeglasses. Apply a small amount to your lenses and wipe gently with a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid using household cleaners or abrasive materials since they can damage lens coatings.

Regular Maintenance

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to schedule regular eye exams to ensure that your prescription is up to date. Changes in your vision can occur gradually, so it’s essential to have your eyes checked at least once a year. During the exam, our optometrists can also inspect your glasses for any signs of wear or damage and make any necessary adjustments to make sure they fit comfortably.

Contact Us for an Appointment Today!

If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your glasses, contact Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, at (520) 744-1711. We are happy to provide you with additional recommendations and set you up with an eye exam. When you need an optometrist near me, our team looks forward to assisting you!

How to Choose an Eye Doctor

How to Choose an Eye Doctor

Having an eye doctor near you that you trust is as important as having a primary care doctor. Both can help diagnose and treat any conditions or illnesses and improve your well-being. At Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, we provide eye comprehensive eye exams to learn more about your eye health and treatment to help you see clearly. Before scheduling your appointment, learn about some ways to choose an eye doctor below:

Get Recommendations From Your Physician, Friends, and Family

If you trust your primary care physician, you can ask them for recommendations for an optometrist. Ask them why they think the doctor is a good choice. Along with that, talk to your friends or family and ask them for suggestions. They can tell you about the provider’s experience and the staff at the office.

Check the American Optometric Association Website

The American Optometric Association, also known as the AOA, allows you to search for optometrists and learn about their credentials. You can find out how long they have been practicing, what organizations they belong to, and how much-continuing education they have. All of these are important when choosing your eye doctor.

Give the Office a Call

Once you have decided on a doctor, give their office a call. This will help you learn if the staff is friendly and how responsive they are to your questions. Along with that, you’ll find out about how soon you can get an appointment and even verify if they accept your insurance.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your first visit can be a little challenging or overwhelming. You’ll fill out any necessary paperwork and meet your new eye doctor. You may also have a comprehensive eye exam, which allows us to learn more about your ocular health, check for any conditions or diseases, and provide treatment.

Choosing the Right Eyeglasses

If you wear glasses and need to get new ones, you want an office that offers a wide selection and can help you find the right pair for your needs. It’s also important to consider your face shape and the features you want to accentuate when deciding on your frames.

Contact Us for an Appointment Today!

Whether you need an eye exam or treatment for myopia, let our team at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, help. To schedule your appointment, call us at (520) 744-1711 today. When you need an optometrist near me, we are happy to assist you!

What Does 20/20 Vision Actually Mean?

What Does 20/20 Vision Actually Mean?

What Does 20/20 Vision Actually Mean?

While you may have heard the term “20/20 vision” before, do you know what 20/20 vision means for your overall eye health? Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, is here to tell you what 20/20 vision means and what conditions can impact your vision score.

What Is 20/20 Vision?

The clearness or sharpness of your vision is referred to as visual acuity. The ideal visual acuity is 20/20, meaning you can see objects 20 feet away that the average person should be able to see at 20 feet. While 20/20 is the standard, you can have even better vision. Some people have 20/15 vision, meaning they see at 20 feet what an average person sees at 15. That said, 20/20 vision does not tell the whole story of your eye and vision health. This score does not consider peripheral vision, depth perception, focusing ability, or eye coordination.

Conditions That Affect Vision

Several eye conditions can impact your visual acuity and lower your vision score, the most common of which are refractive vision errors. These refractive errors include:

  • Farsightedness: Objects closer to you look blurry, while objects further away look clear.
  • Nearsightedness: Objects further away look blurry, while objects up close look clear.
  • Astigmatism: Irregular cornea or lens shape causes focusing problems at various distances.
  • Presbyopia: Age-related refractive error that makes text and objects up close harder to see.

Fortunately, all these conditions are easily treatable with corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses. Our optometrists can detect these vision errors during an eye exam and prescribe lenses to help you achieve visual clarity. We can also refer you to an eye surgeon for LASIK surgery if you prefer a more permanent solution to your refractive vision error.

Visit Your Optometrist Near You in Tucson, AZ, for an Eye Exam Today

If you are experiencing blurry vision and want to schedule an eye exam with an “eye doctor near you,” consider contacting Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ. Our optometrists can determine the cause of your vision changes and prescribe corrective lenses to help you see clearly and comfortably again. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (520) 744-1711 to achieve 20/20 vision.

Tips To Protect Your Vision

Tips To Protect Your Vision

Keeping your eyes and vision healthy as you age is crucial for preserving your eyesight well into your senior years. While an eye exam from your optometrist near you is vital for protecting your vision, you can take several steps at home to keep your eyes healthy and vision strong. Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, is here to offer tips on protecting your vision.

Don’t Skip Eye Exams

As mentioned above, eye exams are integral for maintaining good eye and vision health. Our optometrists use these exams to monitor your eye health and detect changes in your vision that require immediate attention. You can expect the following during an eye exam:

  • Examination of the physical structures of your eyes
  • Testing of your visual acuity
  • Checking for damage from eye diseases or medical conditions

We recommend annual eye exams, but you may require more frequent visits based on your eye health and underlying conditions. Older patients should schedule biannual eye exams to check for age-related eye diseases.

Wear Sunglasses

The sun’s UV rays can slowly cause damage to your eyes and lead to vision loss. People who spend plenty of time outdoors should always wear sunglasses that block 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Doing this can drastically reduce your risk of developing eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Use Protective Eyewear

People who work in environments with tons of debris or play sports should wear protective eyewear and safety goggles. Scratches or injuries to your eye can lead to significant complications and even vision loss. Our eye doctors can recommend protective eyewear for your specific sport or occupation.

Take a Break From Screens

An increasingly prevalent issue in today’s world is computer vision syndrome. Staring at screens for extended periods can cause eye strain, blurry vision, and dry eyes. Taking frequent breaks and making a habit of refocusing your eyes helps combat these symptoms. Our optometrists can also recommend prescription lenses for computer use to protect your vision.

Schedule an Eye Exam Today at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa

If you experience vision changes that impact your daily life and want to schedule an eye exam from an “eye doctor near you,” consider contacting Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ. Our team can evaluate your eyes and recommend ways to preserve your eyesight, so call us and schedule an eye exam today at (520) 744-1711.

Why Is It Important To Get Regular Eye Exams?

Why Is It Important To Get Regular Eye Exams?

To maintain your eye health, it may be vital that you get regular eye examinations. Your eyes are more than just a window to your soul, they are a window to your vision and your health. When you are looking for an eye doctor near you in Tucson, AZ, you can count on the team at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa to provide the vision services that you require.

Pediatric Eye Exams

Many members of the family can benefit from an eye exam, including children. Children can benefit from having their eyes examined before they start school to make sure their vision doesn’t need to be corrected. If it does need correction, get your child glasses or contacts before school starts so that the refractive error doesn’t affect his grades.

Early Detection

One of the important reasons for getting regular eye exams is for early detection of any eye conditions that could lead to blindness. We will do a eye exam to check for diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Your eye doctor may also see things in your eyes that are indicative of illnesses that you may not even be aware that you have, such as diabetes.

Correcting Your Vision

For most people, your regular eye exam will be to make sure that your prescription is still up-to-date or because you suspect you have a refractive error. Whether it is your first pair of glasses or contacts or not, we have a staff that is more than ready to help you get the support you need.

During a regular eye exam, you may also want to discuss any issues you are having with your eyes such as dryness, tiredness, or trouble with night vision. An optometrist on our team will be able to give you advice and, if necessary, treatment to help with the symptoms. 

Get an Eye Exam from an Optometrist Near You

When you require an eye doctor near you for a scheduled eye exam, our friendly staff at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa in Tucson, AZ, are here to help with all your eye care needs. Give our office a call for an appointment at (520) 744-1711. Contact us for an eye exam from an optometrist near you.

Say goodbye to fish burps

Say goodbye to fish burps

You know that fishy burp flavor you get after taking fish oil (omega 3) supplements? Here’s why it happens: When fish oil pills are broken down and digested quickly while still in the stomach, you have a higher chance they will give you the fish burps. Things that delay their breakdown until it is past the stomach can help.

Here are some things that can help:

  • Quality is important. The way a nutritional supplement is formulated is as important as the ingredients. According to nutritionist Jonny Bowden, PhD., “Cheap fish oil is just as likely to be rancid as cheap fish.” He advises to break open a capsule, and “if it smells like rotting fish, it’s rancid.” This is why Dr. B prescribes Eye Promise EZ tears here. The brand is trusted by doctors (including Dr. B) and is effective.
  • Don’t keep your supplements at room temperature with your other vitamins. Instead, keep them in the freezer. Cold fish oil breaks down in the stomach more slowly, allowing it to pass into the intestine before getting absorbed. This reduces the fishy aftertaste.
  • Enteric Coating: fish oil made with this coating can prevent them from being digested until they reach the small intestine.
  • Take with meals, and split up the dose. The presence of food helps delay the breakdown of the pill and help slow the digestion. Splitting your daily dose in two also reduces the amount the stomach has to digest at one time.
  • Take them with foods containing digestive enzymes such as lipase, which is an enzyme that breaks down the fat that causes the fishy reflux. These foods contain digestive enzymes: Avocados, pineapple, papaya, rice bran, kefir, and honey are just a few. Or you can take a lecithin capsule with the fish oil. Lecithin is a soy-based product that emulsifies (dissolves) fat. It is inexpensive and will minimize the fishy aftertaste.

Want to know more about how fish oil helps dry eyes? Check out Dr. B’s article: Fish Oil For Dry Eyes.