Don't let your FSA dollars go to waste; invest in your eye health with a comprehensive eye exam at Coastal Woods Vision. Our commitment to excellence, advanced technology, and personalized care ensures that you receive the highest level of service possible.

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eye condition that affects the quality and quantity of tears necessary to lubricate the eyes. Approximately 85% of patients with dry eye disease have some degree of MGD. These meibomian glands are located along the edge of the eyelids and are responsible for producing the oily part of tears. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms and potential eye complications due to evaporative dry eye.

Floaters tend to fade or become less noticeable over time. If you have persistent bothersome floaters that affect your vision, there are newer treatment options such as laser therapy to break them apart or surgery to remove them. Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor your eye health and address any concerns promptly.

While common "redness-relieving" eye drops can provide quick relief for redness and irritation, they are not a long-term solution for underlying eye issues. One of the main concerns is that these types of over-the-counter eye drops works by temporarily constricting blood vessels in the eye, which reduces redness but can lead to rebound redness when the drops wear off. This creates a cycle of dependency on the eye drops, causing the eyes to become even redder over time.

Glasses are a valuable tool to correct vision problems and should be worn as prescribed to support eye health and visual acuity. Remember, not only are regular eye exams crucial for monitoring for changes in ocular and even systemic health, but also to ensure that you have the most accurate prescription for your needs.

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye'", is an inflammation of the thin, clear covering of the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This condition can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens, leading to symptoms such as redness, itchiness, excessive tearing, and discharge.

A refraction test helps you to see the world as best as possible. If you have noticed changes in your vision or have not had a recent eye exam, scheduling a comprehensive exam with an eye care professional is recommended to maintain good eye health and optimal visual acuity.

Eye dilation enables eye care professionals to thoroughly examine the internal structures and general health of your eyes. By making the pupils larger, doctors gain a clearer view of the retina, optic nerve, blood vessels, and other vital components.

Prism lenses counteract this misalignment by bending light rays based on the specific prescription. By altering the path of light entering the eye, the prism lenses bring images into alignment, enabling the eyes to work together seamlessly.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can have detrimental effects on the eyes. UV radiation, which is invisible to the human eye, is present in sunlight and artificial light sources, such as tanning beds. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer.

At Coastal Woods Vision, our optometrists prioritize patient satisfaction and take the time to thoroughly explain any diagnoses, treatments, or recommendations. We understand that our patients' eye health is important not only for their vision, but also for their overall health and well-being. We are committed to providing exceptional, personalized care every step of the way.

During your comprehensive eye exam, the goal of eyeglasses or contacts is to correct your vision as best as possible. So what exactly does 20/20 mean?

Have you been diagnosed with myopia, hyperopia, an astigmatism, or presbyopia, but you want to know what that actually means?

Your eyelids are far more than lashes and skin. They can build up an excessive amount of oily residue, bacteria, allergens, biofilm and even demodex mites. This accumulation is typically subtle and hard to see with the naked eye. A thorough eye exam is necessary to detect problems on your eyelids that can make dry eye symptoms worse.

Some of the more common signs associated with an eye emergency include:

Pain

Blurred vision

Seeing flashes of light

A loss of peripheral vision

A sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes

Redness or swelling in the eyes or eyelids

A foreign object in your eye- you might experience pain, pressure or discomfort, a sensation that something is in your eye, extreme watering, or light sensitivity

It is wonderful to be able to see at a distance better than I have in my entire life. I must agree with a patient I had in the office years ago that was quite anxious about having his cataract surgery. When he returned to our office for his post-op care he said “Doc, that was as easy as having a cup of coffee.”

February is age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) month. Currently, over 2 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with some form of ARMD, with over 20% of people over the age of 75 affected. In this post, learn more about ARMD and how Coastal Woods Vision is using the latest technology to provide early detection and treatment.