Eyecare Articles

“I kind of thought everybody thought the board was blurry.” 

When children experience vision issues, they may not always know that they are seeing the world differently than their peers. This becomes problematic when, according to a recent survey, 84% of parents in the U.S. agree that regular eye exams help kids do their best in school but nearly half of parents wait until their child complains of vision issues before scheduling an eye exam. 

Lucky for Ally, an attentive teacher noticed her behavior in class might correlate to not being able to see well. This prompted her parents to take her to visit the eye doctor for the first time. Similarly, her older sister was also showing signs of vision issues in the classroom. 

One in four children has an undiagnosed vision problem that can interfere with learning. The good news is that many common vision problems can be corrected, especially when caught in early childhood through regular eye exams. 

And, just like Ally and Maddy, when children can see well, the sky really is the limit.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

While it might seem obvious that being cross eyed means your eyes don’t line up normally, there is a lot more to crossed eyes than their appearance. 

Strabismus is the official term for crossed eyes, but other names for it include tropia, eye turns, wall eyed, and wandering eye. Contrary to common opinion, being cross eyed is not the same as having a lazy eye, although strabismus can lead to a lazy eye. 

Amblyopia, the medical term for lazy eye syndrome, is not always detectable by the naked eye. The brain partially or totally blocks off visual input from the lazy eye in a process called suppression which can lead to permanent functional damage to the eye if it goes untreated. 

Unlike amblyopia, strabismus is essentially a result of a miscommunication between the brain and the muscles around the eye, leading to a misalignment of the eyes. Strabismus has many varieties and causes (including heredity), and it appears most often in young children. 

It is normal for children under 6 months of age to experience occasional crossed eyes (intermittent strabismus) because their brains are still developing the ability to see normally; they will likely grow out of it. If crossed eyes (constant strabismus), become a recurring problem in children over 6 months the child should receive treatment immediately to prevent the condition from getting worse. 

If left untreated, strabismus can cause children to have trouble in school, among other things. It often causes double vision which can lead to eye strain, headaches, and attention problems, and frustration. Children with strabismus also have a higher risk of nearsightedness. 

Some of the most common types of strabismus include: 

• Small-angle – slight misalignment of the eyes 
• Large-angle – significant misalignment of the eyes 
• Esotropia – inward turning of the eye(s). Types include congenital, infantile, accommodative, and amblyopic 
• Exotropia – outward deviation of the eye(s). Types include constant, intermittent, and alternating 
• Hypertropia – upward deviation of the eye(s) 
• Duane’s Syndrome – difficulty moving eyes laterally and retraction of the eye 

Common treatments for these and other kinds of strabismus include special eye drops, eye patches, appropriate eyewear, vision therapy, and—in extreme cases—surgery. Most of the time, strabismus can be fixed if caught early enough and treated appropriately. 

To help prevent your child from experiencing problems in the classroom and permanent vision problems, you should schedule regular children’s eye exams with your VSP network eye doctor. 

Source: Optomstrists Network: What is Strabismus?  

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Most people agree that a child’s success in school is heavily dependent on good vision. For those who need them, wearing glasses is crucial to ensuring they can learn to the best of their ability. But, as many parents experience, getting your child to actually wear their glasses can seem like a tall order. Know you’re not alone—it’s a common struggle. So common, in fact, that we’ve collected these tried and true tips that should make things a bit easier (for the both of you!). 

1. Give them ownership - Let kids be a part of picking out their glasses. Doing so gives them an opportunity to express themselves and makes them more likely to wear their glasses. There are tons of great options for kids’ glasses, with plenty of stylish and colorful choices as well as durable and lightweight options for the more active kiddos. 

2. Take baby steps - Transitioning to something new is hard for anyone. Kids are no different. Some will get in the swing of things quicker than others. The best thing you can do is start small and ask your child to wear their glasses for 15 minutes a day. Then move up to 30 minutes a day. Keep going for up to a few weeks, and eventually wearing glasses will become the norm and not the exception. 

3. Harry Potter. Taylor Swift. Justin Bieber - What do these cultural icons all have in common? They all wear glasses. Find someone your child can relate to who wears glasses. Together, make a collage of photos of them wearing glasses and put it up in your child’s room. 

4. Your eye doctor is your partner -  Don’t be afraid to go back to your eye doctor if your child’s glasses aren’t fitting right. They will want to know what is and isn’t working and will be happy to make adjustments to the fit as needed. 

5. Talk to a teacher - School can be tricky because many kids will tell their parents they’re wearing their glasses when they really aren’t. Always let the teacher know what’s expected of the child with his or her glasses. Also consider having two pairs of glasses, one for school and one for home. This will ensure that your child has their glasses when and where they need them. 

Today, eye doctors are prescribing contact lenses for kids who are still in elementary school. These youngsters commonly experience fewer complications with contacts than young college students because it’s easier to train the younger children on how to use and care for their lenses. Still, a lot depends on factors other than age when determining which kids make the best candidates. If you’re starting to consider contact lenses for your child or teen, but not sure if they are responsible or old enough for contacts yet, we can offer you some suggestions to consider.  

Most importantly, make an eye doctor appointment for your child’s annual eye exam where you can mention his or her interest in contact lenses. Your eye doctor will assess your child’s eye health and will determine what type of vision correction is best for your child.  

If your eye doctor agrees that contacts would be a good correction option, here are four signs you should think about when considering contact lenses for your child or teen: 

1. Drive - The first question a parent needs to ask is, ‘Does my child want to wear contacts?’ The drive to wear contacts lenses should come from your child, not from you. Contact lenses can greatly affect a young person’s self-esteem, so it is common for kids and teens to have an interest in contact lenses. Some kids feel self-conscious in glasses. For these kids, contacts lenses may help them feel better about their appearance. And those who are active in sports can benefit from the advantage's contacts have over eyeglasses (more on that below). If your child’s interest in contact lenses is motivated by improved athletic performance or enhanced self-confidence, these drivers can help make your child a good candidate for contacts.   

2. Responsibility - Look at how your child behaves in other parts of their life when considering contact lenses. Does your child take responsibility for their personal belongings, homework, glasses, and other items? Let’s be honest, maturity can’t always be measured by age. Some kids demonstrate signs of responsibility and maturity at the young age of eight, others may not match that level until age 12 or 13.  If your child needs to be constantly reminded of good grooming habits and organizational skills, they may need some more time before they become good candidates.  

3. Cleanliness - Hygiene tends to be a bigger priority when a child or teen is determined to wear contact lenses. Some kids who are unhappy with glasses are going to be a lot more motivated to take care of contact lenses. But if you’re not confident that your child will clean and store contact lenses safely, talk to the doctor about CooperVision® daily disposables, such as MyDay® or clariti® 1 day. These lenses get thrown out every night and kids put on a fresh, clean pair in the morning. 

4. Activities and Lifestyle - If your child or teen plays sports, spends a lot of time outdoors, or often loses their glasses, contact lenses are great option. When playing sports, contact lenses work because you don’t have to worry about glasses slipping, and they facilitate protective eyewear and sunglasses.  

Once you feel your child is ready for contact lenses, make that important appointment with a VSP network eye doctor, so that you can make an informed decision. 

Nothing in this article is to be construed as medical advice, nor is it intended to replace the recommendations of a medical professional. For specific questions, please see your eye care practitioner. 

Source: CooperVision®  

Summer is here, and the next school year is on the horizon. As you rush around getting new school clothes and supplies, don’t forget to schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam. This is an essential step for school readiness because poor vision can be a barrier to learning. 

If you’re thinking about contacts for your child or if they’re starting to ask about wearing them, it’s important to talk with your child’s VSP network doctor. The following information might help you learn more about contact lenses. 

How do I know when my child is ready for contact lenses? 

There is no “right age” to begin wearing contact lenses — almost anyone of any age can wear them. But it involves a level of responsibility and the ability to follow a wear-and-care routine. If you feel your child can responsibly care for lenses, consider talking to your VSP network eye doctor about contact lens options. 

What’s a good lens for a first-time wearer? 

It depends on what’s best for your child’s eye care needs. One option is daily disposable lenses, a lens that’s worn for one day then thrown away. The convenience of daily disposable lenses makes them great for children, teens and other first-time wearers. Other contact lens options include those that are designed to be worn for a week, two weeks or a month. 

What is a proper wear-and-care routine? 

A proper wear-and-care routine is essential for contact lens success. How you care for your contacts is based on the lens and wearing schedule your VSP network eye doctor recommends. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for proper lens disinfection, and how often to replace them. Always remember to wash your hands before touching your contacts or your eyes. 

Think your child might be ready for contacts? Visit a VSP network eye doctor. 

Does this situation sound familiar? You spend the last few weeks of summer getting the kids ready for the new school year. You purchased clothes, school supplies, and new glasses for your kids that need them. The first day of school is here and you check your child for all the essentials. Backpack, check…lunch, check… glasses…”Where are your glasses?” you ask. “I don’t know,” your child replies. You know instantly that the glasses are either lost or broken. 

If you’ve already used your vision benefits for the year, then you know how frustrating it can be to feel like you have to wait to replace the lost glasses or pay for them out of pocket. 

For those of us who have children who are forgetful or just simply prone to accidents, you don’t have to wait for your benefits to renew to save on new eyewear. Having a plan that supplements your current vision benefits and allows you to get an additional pair of glasses at any time, can bring you peace of mind. Learn more about the EyewearOnly Plan. 

Losing vision coverage? 

Whether you’re between jobs, retiring, or are self-employed, VSP has a plan for you. It is simple to enroll, affordable, and you get the same access to the personalized services that you have come to expect from VSP. Visit StayWithVSP.com to enroll. 

You know what the sun can do to skin, right? Many a parent has learned the hard way. A few carefree hours in the sun – without sunscreen – can wreak havoc on the tender skin of children. 

Well, their eyes are just as delicate. But while many parents religiously slather on the sunscreen, very few are just as careful with their kids’ eyes. 

It’s true: we recently surveyed about 2,000 U.S. adults. And we learned that a healthy 82% of parents make their children wear sunscreen while outdoors in the sun. But a not-so-healthy 32% outfit their kids with sunglasses. 

Plano, Texas-based Anthony Borgognoni, O.D., isn’t surprised. Most people know the damaging effects of UV light on the skin, he says. But, “Far fewer people understand that extended exposure to sunlight in childhood can lead to cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Both of those disorders can cause impaired vision or even blindness. Making sure your kids wear sunglasses isn’t a frill, it’s a necessity.” 

Dr. Borgognoni has a special interest in evangelizing sunglasses for kids. He developed premature cataracts in both eyes at the tender age of 46. And he points to a ton of childhood sun exposure as a likely cause. 

“I grew up playing Little League baseball and football all day long in small-town Arkansas,” he says. “In those days, nobody thought much about putting sunglasses on kids to protect their vision.” 

So, if you’re ready to go out and buy your kids sunglasses, read on to find out what to look for, and what to avoid. 

Sunglasses Buying Tips: 

• Spot the sticker. Most sunglasses have a UV-protection sticker. But also look for the American Optometric Association’s Seal of Acceptance. These glasses block 99 to 100% of damaging UV radiation. 

• Avoid toys. Toy sunglasses aren’t good enough. Buy real ones with UV-protection. Choose shatterproof impact -resistant lenses that won’t pop out of their frames. 

• Go dark. Lenses should block about 75-90% of light. So, before you buy, look at your child with the sunglasses on. You shouldn’t be able see his or her eyes. 

• Gray’s the way. Gray lenses are best. They absorb all colors equally, so kids see the world in natural colors. 

• Block sideways rays. Make sure the sunglasses are big enough for your child’s head or have some kind of “wrap around” feature to help block rays coming in the sides of the frames. 

Visit a VSP network eye care professional near you to find sunglasses for kids. 

Already have an RX and prefer to shop online? Use your benefits at Eyeconic®, VSP’s in-network online retailer. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

By the time the average American child reaches age 17, their eyes will have spent the equivalent of nearly six years looking at digital devices according to findings from a new survey by VSP. With so much screen time in today’s world, our eyes are being exposed to an unprecedented amount of high-energy blue light which is emitted from devices like smartphones, tablets, TVs, and even CFL and LED lights. Blue light has caused a huge increase in digital eye strain not only in adults, but also children. The blue light coming off our favorite screens is extremely difficult for the human eye to focus, which causes our eyes to work overtime to try and process it which can lead to headaches, tired eyes, and blurry vision.

From the classroom, to the office, and nearly everywhere in between, digital devices are becoming more and more prevalent in our lives. Yet, survey results show that parents are largely unaware of blue light and its impact on vision. So what can you do to reduce exposure to blue light? Explore the infographic below to learn more.

TechShield™ Blue is a next-generation anti-reflective coating that absorbs and reflects the specific blue light wavelengths associated with digital eye strain. This near-clear coating is a great choice if you spend two or more hours a day in front of a screen or under an LED. Talk to your VSP eye doctor today about reducing your blue light exposure.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

There is no escaping the fact that most of us are surrounded by digital devices. Whether in the office, at home, or in the palm of your hand, these devices are ubiquitous. They also emit blue light and there has been a lot of media interest about the impact it is having on our health. As part of that conversation, an unsettling term has surfaced: good blue light.  How did this term come about? First, we need to take a step back and discuss blue light in terms of wavelength. Our visual system detects wavelengths of light between approximately 400-750 nanometers (nm). The shorter wavelengths have higher energy and a cooler color (blue light is defined as 400-500nm). We can also further divide these wavelengths of light by their effects on our vision and health.

What is “bad” blue light?

Blue light below 430nm is most responsible for the tired feeling our eyes may get after viewing digital screens; we call this digital eyestrain or visual strain.  Blue light below 460 nm is what has been linked to oxidative retinal damage. The cumulative effect of this light has been linked to the potential development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness for people over 55.  So, light below 460nm has been labeled ‘bad blue light’.

What is “good” blue light?

Blue light above 460nm controls the secretion of our sleep hormone, melatonin.  In what used to be considered a normal day, we would wake up in the morning, receive exposure to sunlight, and our body’s internal clock would tell our pineal gland to stop secreting melatonin.  This would make us feel awake, alert, energetic, and some would say happy.  This is how we want to feel during the day, thus the term ‘good blue light’ has been used to describe these longer blue wavelengths.  In fact, in some climates where sunlight is scarce during winter, people have less blue light exposure and may develop seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in which they feel tired and depressed.  Therapy lights that emit long blue light wavelengths are a common treatment for SAD.

When does “good” blue light go bad?

Digital devices emit the full spectrum of blue light. Exposure to longer wavelength blue light at night affects melatonin secretion and disrupts our sleep.  Should we really classify 460-500nm light as good when it interferes with our ability to fall asleep? Is it a good thing that our children are not getting enough sleep, which for some may lead to ADHD-like symptoms? How happy are we to be awake at 2:00 a.m. because we worked on our computer or tablet until 11:00 p.m., delaying the onset of melatonin secretion?

None of these implications that are currently being extensively researched sound very good. While we need exposure to 460-490nm light during the day, we don’t need it after sunset.  So, when you hear the term ‘good blue light’, take care to keep it in the proper context.  Your health could depend on it.

This is a guest blog post by Gary Morgan, O.D.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

How many hours a day do you spend staring at a screen? An hour? Three to four hours? More? According to recent findings from The Vision Council, 60% of Americans spend five or more hours a day with their eyes fixed on a smartphone, tablet, or computer screen*.

And why wouldn’t they? Today’s world runs on digital. Mobile devices and computers deliver countless benefits to help us stay informed and connected. However, they can also serve up a less beneficial side effect.

Many digital devices and computer monitors emit blue light, and blue light exposure can contribute to digital eye strain. Here’s why: After blue light enters your eyes it scatters. Your eyes then have to work extra hard to focus that scattered light. In other words, your peepers are putting in overtime on a daily basis, which can contribute to repetitive eye strain and associated headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. Consider the following five ways to reduce your blue light exposure and decrease the potential onset of digital eye strain.

1. Ask the expert (your eye doctor!)

An annual trip to the eye doctor is critical for the entire family (especially children). Ask your VSP network eye doctor about the best options to help you or your children reduce eye strain, whether that’s in the form of computer vision or blue light lenses. Even if you don’t wear corrective lenses, some blue light coatings can be applied to non-prescription eyewear.

2. Observe the 20-20-20 rule

Give your eyes a break every 20 minutes and spend 20 seconds looking at something at least 20 feet away. Also, blinking more often helps to moisten your eyes, which may help reduce visual discomfort.

3. Maintain your digital distance

Find a comfortable working distance from your screen. This is especially important for children since the intensity of light increases exponentially the closer our eyes are to the source. Children should hold devices as far away from their eyes as is comfortable. Adults are encouraged to hold devices at arm’s length

4. Dim the lights

Turn down the brightness level of device screens to reduce the amount of blue light exposure, especially during the evening hours. Additionally, as LED and CFL lighting also emit blue light, it would be a good idea to dim those at home or work if possible.

5. There’s an app for that

A number of apps are also available to help reduce blue light emission from devices.

* The Vision Council, EYES OVEREXPOSED: The Digital Dilemma, 2016, PDF

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Many people choose to make the switch from glasses to contacts. While there can be benefits to this alternative, it is important that you take necessary safety precautions, especially in a time when serious viruses can be transmitted through the eyes.

Throughout his many years in practice, VSP network eye doctor, Wallace Stuart, O.D. has helped ensure patients are properly prepped to apply contacts sanitarily using these important steps. He shared with us the marching orders he gives new contact lens wearers:

• Wash away. The cardinal rule for staying healthy is to wash your hands often. The eyes are an entry point for germs, including viruses like Coronavirus, which makes washing your hands immediately before handling contacts especially important. This will also help keep the silicone hydrogel clean and free of unwelcome particles, like skin oils, dust, and harmful bacteria. The American Optometric Association recommends that you scrub your hands carefully and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, followed by hand drying with unused paper towels. This should occur before every contact lens insertion and removal. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Ditch the dirt. Dirt for contact lenses comes in the form of protein build-up and other eye and environmental “muck.” Routine cleaning only lasts so long. So, at the designated times, toss your contacts and use a fresh pair. They’re classified as “disposable” for a reason.
   
• Not at night. If your contacts aren’t the overnight-approved, extended wear variety, don’t treat them that way. Daily contacts need nightly soaks to be properly cleansed and disinfected. A morning routine for contact lens wearers should include a simple rinse with fresh solution before putting them in your eyes.
   
• No to nails. Only your fingertips should touch your contacts. Fingernails can easily rip the delicate contact lens material. If you wear your nails long, find another technique to retrieve the contacts from the container before transferring them to your finger. The soft disinfected tip of a medicine dropper can do the trick.
   
• Refuse to reuse. This is one instance where recycling is a hard no. Never reuse contact lens solution. Ever. Use fresh stuff every night. Contact lens wearers should throw out their daily disposable lenses each evening, or regularly disinfect their monthly and two-week lenses according to instructions from the manufacturer and their Doctor of Optometry.
   
• Forget the fumes. Whenever you can, avoid wearing contacts when you’re surrounded by irritating or toxic fumes. For example, wear your glasses for hair-dying occurrences or oven cleaning.
   
• Cease if sick. Consistent with recommendations for other types of illness, those who feel sick with cold or flu-like symptoms should stop wearing their contacts until fully recovered.
   
• Banish beauty-aids. Well, around your contacts anyway. Keep soaps, lotions, cosmetics, perfumes and other self-care products away from your contacts.

If you feel any discomfort, blurry vision or have concerns after contact lens application, remove your lenses and consult your eye care professional. As always, if you have additional questions about best practices for wearing contacts, contact your eye doctor.

Schedule your eye exam with an eye doctor and order contacts directly from their office. If you have your RX and prefer to shop online, use your VSP insurance to order your contacts on Eyeconic.com. 

For more information about wearing contacts safely, look to the American Optometric Association. You can find general information about COVID-19 safety at the Centers for Disease and Control and updates and resources for VSP Members here.

22 million Americans suffer seasonal allergies. If you’re one of them and a contact lens wearer, you may as well refer to it as misery season. That’s because allergens have a special attraction to contacts – especially the soft variety, which most contact lens wearers use. 

The American Optometric Association says that more than 75% of contact lens wearers complain of allergen-caused eye pain and irritation. 

We talked with David Jones, OD, a veteran optometrist located in allergen-rich Santa Rosa, Calif. about the attraction allergens have toward soft contacts. Dr. Jones explains that the lenses, “function like large sponges. They keep allergens in the eye, but they also prevent using medications you might want to apply.” 

Allergy season calls for special tactics to keep you and your eyes happy. Here are some suggestions from Dr. Jones: 

Switch to Specs:

You may not want to wear your glasses, but you’ll probably be more comfortable if you do. The allergens in the air, such as pollen and dust, love contact lenses, and the particles will stick on them. That means irritation. 

Keep ‘Em Wet:

Keep a container of artificial tears handy and use them often. This will help your eyes feel better and also wash the allergens out. Say no to any brand of over-the-counter redness relievers and buy the artificial tears instead. Redness reducing solutions are only cosmetic and won’t do anything to make your eyes feel better. 

Keep ‘Em Clean:

In allergy season, get even more rigorous with your cleaning routine. Clean more often and use a preservative-free solution (it’ll say so on the bottle). For disposable lenses, consider spending a little more and replacing them more often than usual. 

That’s the Rub:

When you have an itch, you want to scratch it. But when it comes to your eyes, don’t. Excessive rubbing is just going make it worse. Instead, get a nice cool washcloth or other compress and gently treat your eyes to a little TLC. It can keep swelling and itching in check. 

Get Help:

If you’re really suffering, by all means see your eye doctor. He or she can prescribe medications that could help. Also, an eye exam can rule out other more serious problems. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

A routine eye exam is not the same as a contact lens exam. For contact lens wearers, a contact lens exam is necessary to ensure the lenses are fitting both eyes properly and that the health of the eyes is not harmed by the contact lenses. 

Before we take a closer look at what happens during a contact lens exam, let's talk about normal eye exams. 

What is a Comprehensive Eye Exam? 

A comprehensive eye exam is an important part of caring for your overall health whether you need vision correction or not. By looking into your eyes, your doctor can check for signs of serious health conditions like hypertension and diabetes. 

During a comprehensive eye exam, your VSP network doctor will look for signs of glaucoma, perform tests to check your vision sharpness, determine your prescription strength, examine how your eyes work together, and check the fluid pressure in your eyes. She may also dilate your eyes to see if you have any eye conditions or signs of other serious health conditions. 

What is a Contact Lens Exam? 

If you wear or want contacts, you need a contact lens exam in addition to a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor will perform special tests during a contact lens exam to evaluate your vision with contacts. The first test will measure your eye surface to determine what size and type of contacts are best for you. Your doctor may also do a tear film evaluation to make sure you have enough tears to comfortably wear contacts. 

With the results of those tests, your eye doctor can provide a contact lens prescription that is the right fit for your eyes. An eyeglass prescription is no substitute for a contact lens exam because the two are very different. An eyeglass prescription measures for lenses that are positioned approximately 12 millimeters from your eyes; whereas a contact lens prescription measures for lenses that sit directly on the surface the eye. An improper fitting or prescription of contacts can damage the health of the eyes. 

Once you have the correct fit and prescription for contacts, you'll need to decide whether you want disposable contacts or extended wear, and if you want your contacts to be colored. 

Your doctor will fit you with a trial pair of contacts and have you wear them for a few days. In about a week, you'll need a follow-up exam to make sure you have adjusted to your new lenses. 

Whether you wear glasses or contacts, it's a good idea to get a yearly eye exam to see if you have new or existing vision problems, and if you need vision correction. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

As we age, there are various eye conditions that we might develop, such as astigmatism or presbyopia. In fact, more than 32 million people in the U.S. have both of these conditions. If you’re among this population, then one common misconception you may be familiar with is that you can’t wear contacts. We’ll discuss why this isn’t true and a potential solution, but first let’s dive into what astigmatism and presbyopia are.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common eye-focusing condition that happens when your cornea is shaped more like a football than equally curved in all directions.

If you have astigmatism, you might:

• Have trouble seeing both near and far
• Squint often or experience eyestrain
• See images that are blurry or distorted

What is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is a common age-related change to near vision. As your eyes age, it gets harder for them to focus to help you see clearly. Most people start to notice the effects of presbyopia around or after the age of 40. 

If you have presbyopia, you might:

• Have trouble seeing small or fine print (books, text messages, computer, small print on a menu or in a dark restaurant)
• Hold items farther away to read them
• Have blurry vision when you read or use a smartphone
• Keep readers in every room
• Experience headaches or a tired feeling in your eyes during up-close tasks.

What Are My Contact Lens Options?

For those with astigmatism and presbyopia, there’s a new product available that combines presbyopia and astigmatism lens designs, called Bausch + Lomb ULTRA Multifocal for Astigmatism. Ask your VSP network doctor if this contact lens might be right for you.

Want to make inserting and removing your contact lenses second nature? Wash your hands and follow these helpful step-by-step instructions. 

How to insert contact lens 

1. Wash your hands with an oil-free soap. You may be thinking washing your hands is a no-brainer but taking a second look at what soap you’re using can ensure you’re keeping your contacts lens germ-free and smudge free.  

2. Start inserting your lenses with the same eye every time. If your prescription is different between your left and right eyes, your contact lenses will be designed to correct the needs of each eye. Accidentally switching your lenses, you risk blurry vision and discomfort. To avoid any mix-ups, always start inserting the same lens every time. A good method is to go by your dominant hand: right-handed contact lens wearers, start with the right lens; left-handed contact lens wearers, start with the left lens. 

3. Inspect and clean your lens. Gently place the lens on the end of your index finger, then hold it up at eye level so you can examine it closely. If the lens is curved upward like a bowl, then you’ve got the right side! Check lens for any scratches, tears, or dust. Then use your lens solution to clean and disinfect it. 

4. Insert the contact lens. Using your opposite hand, carefully pull your eyelid upward with your index finger, and with the middle finger of your dominant hand (i.e. the one holding the contact lens), gently pull the lower eyelid downward. Trying not to blink or move your head, move the lens toward you eye, gently placing it on your eye.  Once the lens is comfortably seated, let go of the lids around your eye. Just blink and you’re done. 

5. Blink naturally and take a look in the mirror. If everything looks good and feels comfortable, you are good to go! 

1. Looking into a well-lit mirror, pull your lower eyelid down with the index finger of your dominant hand. 

2. Look up as you gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye. 

3. Using the pads of your index finger and thumb, gently squeeze the lens and pull it away from your eye. Avoid using your finger nails or pinching the lens while removing your lens. 

4. Place the lens in your contact lens solution or discard the lens if it is past its use date.  

5. Repeat the steps above to remove the lens in your opposite eye.  

You’re done! Removing your contact lenses is really is easy to do. 

Today’s contact lens wearers have several options, which is fantastic but also confusing. Knowing which contact lenses are right for you means understanding the different contact lens options available. Think about your lifestyle and your vision needs as you read about the variety of contact lenses available. Then,  schedule a contact lens exam with your eye doctor to ensure you get the best contact lenses for you. 

Hard Contact Lenses 

Many advances have been made to hard contact lenses since the 1970s to create a healthier lens for eyes. The improvements resulted in "rigid gas permeable" lenses which are slightly more flexible and allow oxygen to pass through the lenses to the cornea. They are still regarded as hard contact lenses because they maintain their shape on the eye. Rigid gas permeable contacts, also called GP or RGP lenses, have many advantages beyond healthy oxygen flow. RGPs lenses have helped slow down the development of nearsightedness in young and adult lens wearers. Generally, the advantages of GP hard contact lenses outnumber the disadvantages. 

Advantages of GP “Hard” Contact Lens: 

• Extremely durable 
• Easy to care for 
• Easy to handle and wear 
• Do not dehydrate 
• Retain their shape 
• Offer clear, crisp vision 
• Correct most astigmatism 
• Available as bifocal and multifocal 
• Available in various colors and costume designs 

Disadvantages of GP “Hard” Contact Lens: 

• Easily dislodged from center of eye 
• Can get scratched 
• Debris can accumulate get under the lenses 
• Requires consistent wear to feel comfortable 

RGP lenses are preferred by people who want to reduce their risk of eye infections and for those who are dissatisfied with the alternative type of contact lens – soft contact lenses. 

Soft Contact Lenses 

First approved for U.S. supply in 1971, soft contact lenses sales reached $1 million in the first six months. What made them so popular among contact lens wearers? Soft contact lenses are generally more comfortable to wear. They are able to stay in place better and are easier to adjust to than hard contact lenses. The flexible plastic is combined with water to allow oxygen to pass through the contact lens to the cornea. This increases comfort and maintains eye health. Soft contact lenses can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), blurred vision (astigmatism), and age-related loss of close-up vision (presbyopia). 

Soft contact lenses have their disadvantages too, including a higher rate of infection and less durability than gas permeable contacts. They can also be more expensive than hard contact lenses since they may require more frequent replacements. 

Disposable Soft Lenses 

By 1987 contact lens wearers were given a healthier and more convenient contact lens option - disposable soft contact lenses. Designed to be worn for a short time, disposable contact lenses are great for people with allergies and those who are concerned about getting eye infections from the build-up of bacteria and dirt under the lens. Disposable contact lenses require minimal cleaning and disinfection before being discarded. Today’s soft contact lenses are available as non-disposables, monthly or weekly disposables, and daily disposables. 

Daily Wear & Extended Wear 

Soft contact lenses are also available for extended and daily wear. Daily wear contacts are intended to be worn during the day and removed for nightly cleaning and disinfecting. Daily wear lenses can be reused until their intended discard date. 

Extended wear soft contact lenses can be worn while sleeping but must be removed for cleaning and disinfecting once a week. Overnight use may pose a risk of eye infections so caution should be used even with lenses that are designed for extended wear. 

So, which contact lens option will you choose? Perhaps it will be a unique approach – like having throwaway lenses for travel and extended wear lenses the rest of the time. Armed with more knowledge, you can now schedule that important contact lens exam with your eye doctor and order contacts directly from their office. If you prefer to shop online, use your VSP benefits to order your contacts on Eyeconic.com.

Perhaps you don’t wear glasses or contacts and haven’t had any issues with your eyes. So, you think, “Why would I need to go to the eye doctor every year?” You might be surprised to know that there is more to an eye exam than just checking your visual clarity. Here are three reasons why you should visit your eye doctor every year.

1. Detecting Early Signs of Chronic Diseases like Diabetes

Your eyes reveal a lot about your overall wellness. An eye exam can detect early signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Regular eye exams are critical because what may seem like a vision-related problem might be an indication of a broader health issue.

2. Some Eye Diseases Are Symptom-Free

What do glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration all have in common? All these conditions share a common characteristic—no early warning signs. Getting an annual eye exam can help detect health conditions before they progress and may help preserve your vision. 

3. Your Vision Might Not Be as Clear as You Think

You may think your vision is clear, but many people are often surprised to discover they aren’t seeing as well as they thought they were. You may not notice that your vision changed, but an eye exam can reveal if you need glasses or contacts – or an update to your current prescription to ensure you’re seeing as clearly as possible.

Need an eye exam but not sure where to go? Use our Find a Doctor tool to locate a VSP network eye doctor near you. If you need to make an appointment to see an eye doctor, but don’t have vision benefits, visit VSPDirect.com to learn how VSP Individual Vision Plans can help you save money on your next eye exam and glasses.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Don't let the word 'exam' in "eye exam" put the fear of failing a test into your mind. Take it from us – eye exams aren't about making patients feel like failures. The different tests your eyes will go through during an eye exam are all there to make sure your vision and overall health are the best they can be – and your only failure would be in avoiding the exam to begin with. 

Here's a rundown of what to expect. 

• Nice to meet you. If you’re a new patient, you’ll probably fill out an eye and medical history form, including any symptoms you’re having. The doctor will review it and talk with you more about any risks for vision problems, eye disease or concerns with other medical conditions.

• An oldie but a goodie – the Snellen Chart. Named for the eye doctor who invented it, the Snellen Chart is the classic icon of eye care. With its letter-filled rows ranging in size from chunky to seemingly microscopic, this chart has graced many a medical office’s hallway. It’s a simple test to assess your visual sharpness. The doctor will watch to see the smallest row you can make out. 

• One or two? This is the test known as refraction. Your doctor uses a tool called a retinoscope or a computerized vision-testing instrument. He or she will shine light into your eyes and get a read on your vision and estimate your prescription strength. After that comes the classic fine-tuning process, where your doctor uses a series of slightly different lenses in front of your eyes to check which subtle differences make you see better. 

• First the left, then the right. Your eyes are a team. To see how well they work together, the doctor needs to see how each one performs on its own. You’ll most likely use a little paddle known as an occluder (it’s like the eye doctor’s stethoscope) to block vision in one eye first, and then the other. 

• Color time. Color vision is a basic building block of seeing well. But, millions of Americans – mostly men – have a color vision deficiency. It’s mostly around not being able to see green or red. In this test, you’ll look at special cards with colored dots that make up numbers. If you see the numbers, your color vision is fine. If there’s a problem, you may have a hard time seeing the number, or it might be completely invisible. 

• The puff test. This is the most common test for glaucoma and measures the fluid pressure inside your eyes. It just takes a split-second puff of air in each eye. 

• A closer look. Your doctor may dilate your eyes with drops that make your pupils bigger. This allows your doctor to take a closer look in your eyes and look for eye and health conditions. 

• Zoom in. A slit lamp, or biomicroscope, lets the doctor get a magnified view of the front and inside of your eyes. It helps your doctor check off a number of conditions, like cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. 

Now that you know what to expect from an eye exam, make an appointment with your eye doctor to get your eyes tested. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

An annual eye exam is a great step in taking care of not only your eyes but your overall health. Eye exams can detect signs of serious conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Visiting the eye doctor doesn’t have to feel intimidating, even if you haven’t been there in a while. Knowing how to prepare for the visit and thinking ahead is an important part of the eye exam process. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your next visit. 

What to Know About Your Vision Benefits:

• For personalized information about your benefits, create an account or log in to your vsp.com account. You’ll see your vision plan and coverage and easily view benefits for all your covered dependents from your desktop, mobile or tablet. Click here to learn how to create an account.
• Once you’re logged in, you’ll also be able to find a VSP network doctor that accepts your vision plan and view how you can save with Exclusive Member Extras.

What to Think About Before Your Eye Exam: 

• Have I noticed any eye problems such as blurry vision, flashes of light, poor night vision, or double vision? 
• Do I have trouble judging distances or distinguishing between reds and greens? 
• Is my vision impacting me from doing certain activities? 
• How well am I taking care of my glasses or contacts? Do I take my contacts out each night and rinse them thoroughly? 
• Have I had any health issues, injuries, operations, or sicknesses lately that my eye doctor should know about? 
• Does my family have a history of eye problems such as glaucoma or cataracts? 

What to Bring to Your Eye Exam: 

• Your current glasses, sunglasses, and contacts. 
• A list of current medications—and not just prescription medications. Your eye doctor can look at the list and determine if your medications could be affecting your vision. 
• The name and address of your primary care doctor. 
• If your appointment includes having your pupils dilated—and most yearly eye exams do—bring a friend or family member to drive you home. Many people can’t see well enough to drive safely after having their eyes dilated. 
• Your vision insurance information.  
• A list of the questions you want to ask your doctor, so you don’t forget them. 

What to Ask Your Eye Doctor: 

• Has anything about my eyes changed since my last visit that I should know about? 
• What are my options for improving my vision? 
• Am I a candidate for laser vision correction? 
• What are the advantages of wearing both contact lenses and glasses? 
• How many hours per day can I wear contacts? 
• Should I look out for anything in particular when it comes to my eyes and overall health? 
• How can I protect my vision while staying active? 
• Should I be doing anything differently to care better for my eyes? 
• Can I schedule my next eye exam? 

When to Follow Up with Your Eye Doctor: 

• If you receive contacts or glasses for the first time, plan to follow up with your eye doctor after about two weeks so you can report back on how well they are working. 
• If your eye doctor adjusts your prescription and your new glasses or contacts aren’t working out, let your eye doctor know immediately. 

With a little bit of preparation, your eye exam should be a simple and straightforward process. Take a few moments beforehand to get ready, and your eyes will thank you. 

If you haven't already scheduled your next eye exam, you can do it now. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

You may know what to expect from an eye exam, but taking a moment to prepare your thoughts beforehand can go a long way. Doing so will help you get the most out of your time with both your eye doctor and optician as well as ensure you get the best solutions for your visual and lifestyle needs. 

Describe Your Health 

Your overall health shouldn’t be discounted as many health conditions can affect your vision. Are you experiencing headaches, dry or watery eyes, light sensitivity, blurred vision or trouble seeing clearly? Have these happened suddenly, or have you had these symptoms for a long time? What about your spouse or children? Have you noticed your child’s performance at school dip suddenly? This could be related to an undetected vision problem. 

Share Your Hobbies 

Sharing your hobbies and activities with your eye doctor and optician helps to tailor a lens and frame combination that specifically suits your lifestyle. Whether you spend your days outside in the garden, or inside on the computer, discussing your daily routine helps your eye doctor provide the best solution for your visual needs. 

Ask Your Eye Doctor 

The following questions can help you engage with your eye doctor, and receive some valuable input during your appointment: 

• How often should my family get an eye exam? 
• What lens enhancements do you recommend for me and my prescription? 
• I’ve never worn glasses/contact lenses before – what can I expect? 
• I’ve been hearing a lot about the effects of blue light. How can I reduce my and my family’s exposure? 
• What type of glasses would you recommend for my lifestyle? (computer vision glasses, prescription sunglasses, light-reactive lenses, etc.) 
• How do my current health conditions affect my eye health? 

Meet the Optician 

If you need corrective eyewear, you‘ll have the opportunity to try on frames and order your new glasses or contact lenses. Opticians can help you find a frame that looks great and fits comfortably. They can also provide expert insight about different lens material and coatings to further customize your glasses. 

If you already wear glasses or contact lenses, share your current experience. What do you like? What needs improving? Discussing this with the optician will help you get the most of your eyewear. 

Pro Tip: Bring in your current eyewear or contact lenses so they can better understand what’s working well for you and what changes are needed. 

Ask Your Optician 

• What shape frames do you recommend for me? 
• What lens material is best for my prescription? 
• What are my options for lightweight lenses? 
• Are there glasses that are more helpful for my particular hobbies? 
• Can you tell me about lenses that darken when I go outside? 
• Can you tell me about lenses that reduce blue light exposure? 
• How might I benefit from a second pair of glasses? 
• Can you share any recommendations for taking care or my glasses or contact lenses? 

Ready to schedule your next eye exam? Find a VSP® network doctor near you.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Digital retinal imaging uses high-resolution imaging systems to take pictures of the inside of your eye. This helps VSP network doctors assess the health of your retina and helps them to detect and manage such eye and health conditions as diabetes, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Finding retinal disorders as early as possible is critical to potentially preventing serious disease progression and even vision loss. 

A Piece of History 

In addition to helping detect diseases early, retinal images provide a permanent and historical record of changes in your eye. Images can be compared side-by-side, year after year, to discover even subtle changes and help monitor your health. 

Retinal images also make it easier for your doctor to educate you about your health and wellness. The two of you can review your images together, and your doctor can point out the various structures of the retina and explain treatment options for any conditions revealed by the pictures. The more you know about eye diseases, the more likely you will understand and follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and prevention. 

Here are just some of the diseases retinal imaging can help a VSP network doctor notice or see more closely: 

• Age-related Macular Degeneration - Macular degeneration is usually signified by leaking of fluid or bleeding in the back of the eye. This causes central vision loss. 

• Cancer - A dark spot at the back of the eye may signal a melanoma, which can grow unnoticed within the retina. If caught early, melanomas can be treated before they cause serious damage and travel to other areas of the body through the bloodstream. 

• Diabetic Retinopathy - Diabetes can cause changes in the blood vessels of the retina, like swelling and leakage or the creation of new blood vessels. Blindness can result without early detection. 

• Glaucoma - Pressure against the optic nerve and compression of the eye’s blood vessels may indicate glaucoma. This disease causes permanent and irreversible vision loss. 

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) - Signs of high blood pressure often appear first in the eye. Indicators can include narrowing of the blood vessels, spots on the retina, or bleeding in the back of the eye. 

• Retinal Detachment - Retinas can lift or pull away from the wall of the eye. If not properly treated, this can cause permanent vision loss. 

There are many retinal imaging options available to you. Talk to your VSP network doctor about which one is right for you. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

You’re at the pharmacy searching for something to relieve your eye irritation with some eye drops. When you get there and you find yourself faced with a wide selection of eye drops, many claiming to do the same thing, but not all eye drops are created equal. 

Unfortunately, there is no universal eye drop to cure all symptoms. Before reaching for a bottle of eye drops, it is best to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms. You should always consult your eye doctor first as some symptoms may be signs of more serious health conditions or may require prescription medicine. 

Over The Counter Eye Drops: 

Artificial Tears - Artificial tears, commonly referred to as lubricating drops, are used to relieve dry eye and act as a protective, moisturizing barrier for your eyes. They are sometimes recommended for allergies because they help rinse the allergens out of the eye. Most artificial tear products can be bought over the counter. 

Patients with allergies should consider a preservative free eye drop solution, as they are used more frequently. Other options include thicker formulas like an eye gel. Talk with your doctor to determine what solution will work best for you. 

Decongestants - Decongestants can be purchased over the counter and provide temporary relief from red eyes. While this is a tempting quick fix, they should not be used regularly. 

Decongestants are also known as vasoconstrictors because they narrow the blood vessels. This is what temporarily brightens the white part of the eyes, reducing appearance of redness. 

They are not recommended for long-term use as eyes may become dependent on them and can cause damage to the blood vessels with overuse. This can lead to other potentially harmful eye conditions. 

Prescription Eye Drops: 

Antihistamines - For itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies check with your doctor about antihistamine eye drops. Histamine is a chemical defense triggered by the body when it comes into contact with something that irritates it such as pet dander. 

Anti-inflamatory eye drops - For more serious allergic reactions like hay fever, allergic conjunctivitis, and corneal inflammation you may be prescribed Corticosteroid (steroid hormones) or NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) eye drops. Use only as directed by your doctor. 

Long term use of these drops can put you at risk for infections and more serious eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. 

Moral of the Story

Be cautious when dealing with your eye health, even OTC eye drops should be treated with the same caution you would any other medication. Find an eye doctor near you to help you make informed decisions to keep your eyes healthy and happy. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

You’ve had your peepers since you were born, so you may think you know them pretty well, but here are some fun facts you may not know about eyes: 

• The average blink lasts for about 1/10th of a second. 

• While it takes some time for most parts of your body to warm up to their full potential, your eyes are on their “A game” 24/7. 

• Eyes heal quickly. With proper care, it only takes about 48 hours for the eye to repair a corneal scratch. 

• Seeing is such a big part of everyday life that it requires about half of the brain to get involved. 

• Newborns don’t produce tears. They make crying sounds, but the tears don’t start flowing until they are about 4-13 weeks old. 

• Around the world, about 39 million people are blind and roughly 6 times that many have some kind of vision impairment. 

• Doctors have yet to find a way to transplant an eyeball. The optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain is too sensitive to reconstruct successfully. 

• The cells in your eye come in different shapes. Rod-shaped cells allow you to see shapes, and cone-shaped cells allow you to see color. 

• You blink about 12 times every minute. 

• Your eyes are about 1 inch across and weigh about 0.25 ounce. 

• Some people are born with two differently colored eyes. This condition is heterochromia. 

• Even if no one in the past few generations of your family had blue or green eyes, these recessive traits can still appear in later generations. 

• Each of your eyes has a small blind spot in the back of the retina where the optic nerve attaches. You don’t notice the hole in your vision because your eyes work together to fill in each other’s blind spot. 

• Out of all the muscles in your body, the muscles that control your eyes are the most active. 

• 80% of vision problems worldwide are avoidable or even curable. 

Who knew your eyes could be so amazing and complex? See your VSP network eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam every year to give your eyes the attention they deserve. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

You check your calendar and realize it’s time to see an eye doctor. Setting up the eye appointment is the easy part but knowing what type of eye care professional you may need can be confusing. To help clear the confusion, we’re breaking down the difference between an optometrist, ophthalmologist, and optician.

What is an optometrist?

An optometrist is typically the most common point for comprehensive vision and eye care. That includes the refraction and dispensing aspect of your care, which many think of as “getting glasses.”

Optometrists can also play a key role in the detection and management of certain diseases in the eye, such as diabetes and macular degeneration. Finally, these eye doctors also rehabilitate certain conditions, like lazy eye.

Optometrists make up a majority of the VSP network and can be identified by the letters “OD” behind their name, which stand for Doctor of Optometry.

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in all aspects of eye care including the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of eye diseases and disorders.

Typically, someone will have their primary eye care with an optometrist and then be referred to an ophthalmologist for specific diagnoses or emergent care, if needed.

If you’re trying to find an ophthalmologist, look for the letters “MD” or “DO” behind their name to signify they are a Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathy.

What is an optician?

An optician is a specialist in fitting eyeglasses and making lenses to help correct your vision problems. They do not perform any visual acuity or medical exams. You’ll likely visit an optician after seeing an optometrist who performs your eye exam.

Each of these professionals brings a different aspect of care to your overall health based on your specific needs. If you have more questions about who you need to see, you can always call your VSP network eye doctor’s office and they can help you set up an appointment. The most important thing to remember is to have your eyes checked annually by an eye care professional.

Do you need an eye exam, but don’t have vision insurance? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a vision plan you can buy on your own. A VSP Individual Vision Plan includes an eye exam, an allowance for glasses or contacts, and more.

This is a guest article by VSP employee Jessica Caswell. 

Comprehensive eye exams are important for many reasons. Along with eye-related concerns, eye doctors may be able to detect other health issues during a comprehensive eye exam. 

Can you detect diabetes through an eye exam? 

“The answer is yes, yes you can,” said VSP network eye doctor Meghan Riegel, OD. 

According to Dr. Riegel, diabetes affects the blood vessels, and the back of the eye is the only place in the body where an eye doctor can directly view the blood vessels. 

“If there’s a problem happening, your eye doctor is sometimes the first to detect that change,” Dr. Riegel explained. “This is why it’s so important you make sure to get your annual eye exam.” 

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows 30.3 million people have diabetes in the U.S., however, 7.2 million people go on undiagnosed. 

It’s especially crucial for people with diabetes to get their eyes examined regularly, as they can develop diabetic retinopathy, a condition where the blood vessels in your retina become damaged. 

Often the early stages of diabetic retinopathy have no noticeable symptoms, so Dr. Riegel recommends that everyone with diabetes have a comprehensive eye exam once a year. According to the CDC, about 90 percent of diabetes-related vision loss can be prevented, but early detection is key.’

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

“An eye exam literally saved my life” were words Sharon, a 54-year-old New Orleans resident, never thought she would hear herself say.

Sharon was working around the clock as an administrative assistant and taking care of her daughter and grandchildren who live with her. She’s always put her family’s needs before her own, which coupled with her busy lifestyle, didn’t give her much time to take care of her own health or make healthy eating a priority.

When she started noticing her vision getting blurry, she thought it must be time for an updated glasses prescription. Sharon scheduled an eye exam with her local eye doctor thinking it would be like any other routine exam.

VSP network doctor and board member, Jarrett Johnson, OD, MPH performed a comprehensive eye exam on Sharon and noticed that the blood vessels in the back of her eye were swollen.

“The thing that stood out to me most when I was performing Sharon’s exam was the fact that the blurriness in her vision had altered her prescription,” said Dr. Johnson. “When we see that, we know pretty much that that’s indicative of diabetes.”

Dr. Johnson urged Sharon to see her primary care physician and get blood work done to confirm the diagnosis and sure enough, she had full blown diabetes. The disease had progressed so much so that Sharon’s kidneys were failing, and she was also diagnosed with stage three kidney disease.

With the diagnosis, Sharon’s world flipped upside down. She knew she had to make a change both for her health and for her family, so she could be around for her children and grandchildren.

“Had I not gone to Dr. Johnson for that eye exam, then I probably still would be making poor choices and my health condition would be far worse than what it is,” said Sharon.

Watch more of Sharon’s story below to find out how she is managing her diabetes and what lifestyle changes she is making to take control of her health.

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

We can all agree that having healthy eyes is important, but did you know just over 50% of people get annual eye exams? Why you might ask? According to a recent VSP survey in partnership with YouGov, a majority of people skip eye exams because they don’t think they need vision correction, think eye exams are expensive, or don’t have vision insurance. Although common, these reasons are often related to misconceptions about eye exams. Let’s clear the air and bust these myths. 

Myth: Eye Exams are Unnecessary 

Those who don’t wear glasses or contacts might think, why would I need an eye exam? It’s a fair question. What most people don’t know is that an eye doctor can help detect early signs of more serious diseases and conditions through a comprehensive eye exam, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. 

Although you might not have needed vision correction in the past, your eyes can change as you age. Perhaps when you were younger you could see objects up close, but as you get older those objects start to become blurry. Changes in your vision can be caught early by your eye doctor at an annual eye exam. 

Myth: Children Don’t Need an Eye Exam Until They Start School 

Children should have their first eye exam when they are six-months old. Most parents are unaware that eye exams should begin so young. Following a child’s first appointment at six-months old, eye exams should also take place at three years old, before starting elementary school, and then yearly thereafter. 

Annual eye exams for kids are important because many children may not be able to articulate that they can’t see well. This becomes problematic because although, eight in ten parents agree that regular eye exams help kids do their best in school, almost half wait until their child complains about their vision to schedule an eye exam. 

Myth: Vision Insurance is Expensive 

It’s important to find a vision insurance plan that fits you and your family’s eye care needs but also your budget. By electing to have VSP vision insurance, you can take advantage of savings on eye exams, eyewear allowances and lens enhancements, and ensure you get the quality eye care you deserve. Find a plan that can help you save money on your next eye exam. 

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.