Eye Doctor in Concord

If your child wears glasses, then you may be familiar with the struggle of trying to keep their glasses on. Whether their specs are constantly falling off, or they refuse to wear them in the first place, here are a few tips to help ensure that your child’s glasses remain where they belong: on their face!

1. Highlight Other Family Members Who Wear Glasses

Kids are sometimes apprehensive to try new things, especially things that seem foreign to them. That’s why it may be helpful to show them how common glasses are by pointing out other family members and friends who wear glasses. Once they view glasses as commonplace, they may be more accepting of wearing them.

2. Involve Them In Choosing Their Frames

Inviting your child to pick out their new frames will give them a sense of control and ownership. This will, in turn, lead them to want to wear their glasses. So next time you buy them glasses, select a few options and have them choose the pair they like most.

3. Compliment Their New Look

If your child chooses a frame style that isn’t your first choice, avoid showing any disappointment. A parent’s positive and encouraging attitude is crucial for kids who are resistant to wearing glasses.

Aside from discussing how glasses help people see, play up the style aspect of glasses to help your child love their new look.

4. Fix The Fit

If your child’s glasses are frequently sliding down their face, consider this:

A child’s nose bridge isn’t as developed as an adult’s, which means that glasses have a harder time staying in place on their small faces. Many types of children’s frames take this into account and have adjustable nose pads.

If you find that the fit still isn’t secure and comfortable, bring your child to Lowy & Sewell Eye Care, where we’ll be happy to adjust the glasses to perfectly fit their face.

5. Consider Using a Band or Other Anti-Slip Product

Slipping glasses is all too common with children, which is why companies have created products to secure children’s glasses. Ask your local optician about bands that attach to the temples, or anti-slip nose grips.

Adjusting to new glasses can take time, and that’s okay. With a positive attitude and a healthy dose of patience, parents can use these tips to help ease their child’s transition to wearing glasses.

If your child is having trouble with their glasses or experiencing any other vision-related issue, we can help. To schedule an appointment and learn about what we offer, contact Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord today!

Q: How often do children need to have their eyes examined?

• A: Typically, a child’s first eye exam should be around 6 months of age. The next comprehensive eye exam should be between ages 3-5, and before first grade, and then annually thereafter. A child’s vision can change quickly, so don’t skip your child’s next eye exam!

Q: How can I tell if my child needs new glasses?

• A: Signs that your child needs new specs may include: blurred vision, eye fatigue, headaches or squinting. It’s also advisable to get your child a second pair of glasses as a backup. The best way to know whether your child needs new glasses is through a comprehensive eye exam.

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Optometrists in Concord

Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process. They obstruct vision by clouding the lens of the eye, making it opaque and difficult to see clearly. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss and blindness worldwide. While there is no non-surgical cure for cataracts, research has shown that some foods and dietary supplements appear to delay the progression of this sight-threatening eye condition in certain people.

According to a study published by Nutrients (2019), oxidative stress causes damage to proteins and enzymes in the lens, which leads to cataract formation. An imbalance between free radicals (atoms that destroy cells in your body) and antioxidants (which diminish them) causes oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when you don’t have enough antioxidants to neutralize the free radicals in your body.

Unhealthy foods are one major source of free radicals. According to some optometrists, eating a high-antioxidant diet can help slow the progression of cataracts and even lower your risk of developing cataracts in the first place.

What Foods to Avoid For Good Vision

Leading a healthy lifestyle is one of the surest ways to maintain good vision. This includes exercising, eating enough fruits and vegetables and making informed health decisions. Soft drinks, processed foods, fried foods and sugary snacks should all be avoided, as they’ve been shown to increase the risk of developing cataracts earlier in life.

It’s also a good idea to cut down on your sodium intake, as a study published by the American Journal of Epidemiology (2000) found that a high salt intake makes people more likely to develop cataracts.

Because cataracts are a natural part of aging, most older people will develop them at some point in their lives. To postpone the advent of cataracts, try consuming these foods and supplements.

Which Foods to Include in Your Diet to Prevent Cataracts

Ideally, you should eat 2 servings of fish each week, 3 servings of whole grains daily, and 5 to 9 servings of vegetables and fruits per day to reduce your risk of cataracts. The following are some of the most beneficial food sources for lowering your risk of this common eye disease.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

When it comes to keeping your eyes healthy, omega-3 fatty acids are nothing short of a superfood. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce your risk of developing cataracts and keep your eyes hydrated by supplying essential oils for your tear layer.

Flax seeds are regarded as one of the greatest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Other sources include grass-fed beef, tofu, and fatty fish such as cod, salmon, sardines and halibut.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has long been known to help prevent colds, but it can also help lower your risk of cataracts. Guava and oranges are a good source of this vitamin. Vitamin C is also abundant in red and green chili peppers, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, kiwi, papaya and broccoli.

Nuts and Seeds

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to protect the membranes of your eyes. Walnuts, for instance, are high in vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.

Almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts and peanuts are among the nuts and seeds that are excellent for your eyes.

Whole Grains

Not only do whole grains boost your eye health but they can reduce your risk of developing cataracts early on. Try adding quinoa, oatmeal, rye, wheat, brown rice, wheat and sorghum to your diet.

Fruits and Vegetables

Carotenoids are the pigments that give yellow, red, and orange fruits and vegetables their color. These items can be eaten raw, but for the best results, you should boil them first. Cantaloupes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkins contain carotenoids such as beta carotene and vitamin A, which help to prevent cataracts.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2019), adding 10 mg of carotenoids to your diet lowers your risk of developing cataracts by roughly 26%. The maximum antioxidant content is found in vegetables and fruits. When shopping, look for fruits and vegetables with a variety of hues. Eat the skins whenever possible because they’re high in lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins A, C and E.

No one antioxidant can stop free radicals from causing oxidative stress, so it’s crucial to consume a wide range of antioxidant-rich foods.

Although this list isn’t complete, consuming these foods can help strengthen your eyes and may stave off cataracts for a time.

Routine Eye Exams

Even if you have perfect vision right now, seeing your eye doctor on a regular basis is one of the best ways to preserve it. Your eye care provider can check for signs of cataracts and other eye conditions during annual visits.

Early detection can help save your sight. Contact Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord, to schedule an eye exam to ensure you have healthy vision for years to come.

Q: What else can I do to prevent cataracts?

• A: Besides ensuring you lead a healthy diet, make sure to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays emitted by the sun are known to increase a person’s risk of cataracts. You can easily do this by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses along with a wide-brimmed hat.In addition, if you smoke, quit smoking, as it releases free radicals in the body, increasing your risk of cataracts.

Q: Can cataracts cause blindness?

• A: Left untreated, cataracts cause gradual vision loss, eventually leading to legal blindness or even total blindness. Fortunately, there are various measures you can take to prevent this from occurring, such as undergoing cataract surgery.

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Eye Doctors in Concord

“Eat your carrots—they’re healthy for your eyes”, or at least that’s what you’ve been told. While carrots contain important nutrients that are beneficial for vision and eye health, dark leafy green veggies contain higher levels of nutrients that may help delay the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

These are not the only foods that may help protect your vision. If you want to keep your eyes healthy, there are others we recommend you consume (or avoid!)

What Diet is Good for Macular Degeneration?

To prevent or delay AMD, you should consume a diet containing adequate levels of certain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. A Mediterranean-style diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, seafood, and nuts and seeds, is a good place to start.

The National Eye Institute advises a nutrient formula to help lower the chance of AMD progression, regardless of how healthy your diet is. That formula is known as the AREDS2 formula eye vitamins. Nonetheless, getting key nutrients from foods and supplements is always a good idea.

Best Foods for Macular Degeneration

Your diet should include the following nutrients:

Antioxidants

Vitamins A, C, and E are all antioxidants that help prevent cellular damage. For Vitamin A, make sure you eat a lot of carotenoids, such as kale, spinach and yams, all of which include the ‘eye vitamins’ lutein and zeaxanthin. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits or broccoli, and Vitamin E is abundant in nuts, seeds, and oils.

Omega-3 fatty acids

There are three significant Omega-3s: EPA, DHA (both of which are found in fatty fish), and ALA, found in nuts and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids help the body fight inflammation, which researchers believe plays a role in AMD. These fatty acids may also help reduce bad cholesterol, which has been associated with AMD.

Zinc and copper

These trace minerals both directly and indirectly contribute to eye health. Zinc, for example, aids in the absorption of the antioxidant vitamin A and regulates cellular function. Zinc is abundant in meats, shellfish, and legumes (i.e. chickpeas). For copper, eat a lot of dark leafy greens as well as seeds, nuts, and eggs.

What Foods Should I Avoid to Prevent Macular Degeneration

It should come as no surprise that the same things that clog your heart’s blood vessels also clog the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Avoid fast foods and limit your intake of the following, especially if you have high cholesterol:

• Tropical oils, like palm oil
• Fatty pork, beef and lamb
• Processed foods that contain trans fats
• Vegetable shortening, lard and margarine
• High-fat dairy foods

Sweets and sugary drinks should also be avoided since they induce inflammation, which leads to the production of eye-damaging free radicals. Moreover, sugary and fatty foods are abundant in calories and are a leading cause of obesity, which has been associated with AMD.

At Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord we care about you and your vision. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lowy to find out what else you can do to protect your vision.

Q: What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

• A: Age-Related Macular Degeneration refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina, the inside back layer of the eye that records the images we see and sends them back to the brain. When the macula is functioning properly, it collects highly detailed images at the center of our vision and sends neural signals through the optic nerve to the brain, which interprets them as sight. When the macula deteriorates, the brain does not receive these clear, bright images, and instead receives blurry or distorted images. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. This number is expected to double to nearly 22 million by 2050.

Q: What are the symptoms of AMD?

• A: The first symptoms that you may experience of macular degeneration can include:The first symptoms that you may experience of macular degeneration can include:
  • Lines appearing wavy
  • Decreased or blurry vision
  • Blind or dark spots in the center of your vision
  • In rare cases, different color perceptio

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Computer Glasses & Designer Frames in Concord

Every day, people around the world are exposed to blue light from the sun, indoor lighting and digital screens.

Blue light causes eye strain and interrupts the circadian rhythm, influencing our sleep patterns. Researchers are now looking into whether excessive exposure to blue light poses any other risks to eye health.

What Exactly Is Blue Light?

Blue light are light rays of a specific wavelength that, although they enter the eye, are not perceived as the color blue.

Blue light has a short wavelength and produces a high amount of energy (from 400 to 500 nanometers). Thus, it’s also known as high-energy visible light (HEV). In fact, blue light is emitted by any source of visible light, whether it’s an artificial source like a light bulb or digital screen, or a natural one like the sun.

How Does Blue Light Affect The Eye?

Each color of visible light has its own energy level and wavelength. Blue light can reach the retina at the back of the eye because of its short wavelength and strong intensity.

A study published by the International Journal of Ophthalmology (2018) found that the retina’s light-sensitive nerve cells can be damaged when exposed to excessively high levels of blue light.

In addition, researchers are concerned about whether the blue light emitted by digital devices like cell phones, tablets and computers is enough to qualify as excessive exposure that could result in eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration.

Since blue light has more energy, it contributes to digital eye strain. When compared to other light rays, this exacerbates light scattering when it enters the eye. As the scattered blue light rays enter the eye, they cause ‘visual noise,’ making it difficult for the eye to focus the light accurately.

Symptoms of digital eye strain include:

• Dry eyes
• Blurred vision
• Eyestrain and headaches
• Neck, back and shoulder pain
• Frequent rubbing or blinking of the eyes
• Difficulty with accommodation (focusing between far and near)

What Are Blue Light Glasses and Do They Make a Difference?

Blue light glasses, also known as computer glasses, have lenses with a yellow tint, which have been shown to improve comfort levels when viewing digital devices for prolonged periods of time. With blue light blocking glasses, you can enjoy your screen time and reduce or prevent digital eye strain.

Getting Blue Light Glasses

If you decide to purchase blue light glasses, they’re available with or without a prescription. You can also buy single-lens computer glasses to match your prescription if you’re farsighted and wear progressive lenses or bifocals.

You might want to consider buying photochromic lenses, which provide both UV and blue light protection whether you’re indoors or out in the sun. When exposed to UV rays, the lenses automatically darken, and become clear again once indoors.

At Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord we offer a variety of blue light glasses and lenses. Contact us today to discuss your ideal pair of lenses with features to match your look and lifestyle.

Q: Where can blue light be found?

• A: The largest source of blue light is sunlight. LED and fluorescent lights, smartphones, computer screens and tablets also emit blue light, but at levels much lower than the sun.

Q: Besides blue light glasses, how can I protect my eyes against blue light?

• A: Try to reduce the amount of time you spend in front of a digital screen and take frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.

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Best Blue Light Glasses in Concord

In today’s digital world, optometrists everywhere are hearing this question more and more: ‘Are blue light glasses worth it?’

Although some controversy surrounds blue light’s impact on eye health, there’s enough scientific evidence to offer a reliable answer.

What is Blue Light?

Blue light is a high-energy, short-wavelength light on the visible spectrum. Blue light is mostly emitted from the sun (hence, the reason our skies appear blue) but is also released by indoor light sources and digital screens.

Our eyes and brain interpret blue light rays as a wake-up signal because they stimulate alertness.

It’s worrying, as more and more people stare at digital screens throughout the day and often into the night.

Is Blue Light Harmful To Our Eyes?

Because blue light has a higher frequency and energy than other colors of light, it can easily penetrate the structures of our eyes and reach the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye.

Studies, such as the one published in Integrative Biology (2017), found that blue light does have negative effects on human retinal cells and increases oxidative damage—even at frequencies similar to ones emitted by digital screens.

Other research has linked blue light exposure to reduced sleep quality, especially when using a digital device at night.

Prolonged blue light exposure can also lead to digital eye strain, eye fatigue and dry eye syndrome.

For this reason, blue light lens filters and glasses were created to offset the negative effects of blue light overexposure.

How Blue Light Glasses Can Help

Better circadian rhythm

A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health (2015) found that teenagers who wore blue-blocking glasses in the evening hours had better circadian rhythms than peers who didn’t use blue light glasses. Circadian rhythms regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

Reduces eye fatigue

Another study published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology (2015) suggested that blue-blocking glasses or lenses may be effective in reducing eye fatigue.

Reduced symptoms of computer vision syndrome

A survey published in the Journal of Medical Imaging (2019) found that radiology residents who wore blue light filtering glasses experienced significantly reduced symptoms of computer vision syndrome (or digital eye strain).

What’s The Bottom Line?

Blue light-blocking glasses can be effective in improving sleep quality and lessening symptoms of computer vision syndrome and eye fatigue when staring at a screen.

If you spend a lot of time in front of a digital screen, speak with your eye doctor to determine if you could benefit from blue-blocking glasses or lenses.

To schedule an eye exam or learn more about what we offer, call Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord today!

Q: In addition to wearing blue-blocking glasses, what are some other tips for relieving digital eye strain?

• A: Take frequent breaks from screen use and try to stick to the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, shift your gaze to something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Consider putting a blue light filter on your computer or phone screens. Also, try to avoid screen time at least 2 hours before bed in order to feel less awake. Lastly, speak with your optometrist. If you or a family member has any symptoms of digital eye strain, we can help.

Q: Can children and teens benefit from wearing blue light glasses?

• A: Yes! Children and teens who use digital screens for schoolwork and recreational activities on a daily basis may experience symptoms of eye fatigue or eye strain without even knowing it. Blue-blocking glasses may be the key to relieving their headaches, blurred vision or improving their circadian rhythms. Speak with us about blue-blocking glasses or lens filters for your child today.

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Designer Sunglasses for Kids in Concord

Sun damage is cumulative. So it’s absolutely critical that children wear sunglasses as soon as they begin to spend time playing outdoors.

How Are Children’s Eyes Different From Adults’ Eyes

Children’s eyes allow more UV rays to penetrate, which is why they should wear sunglasses from an early age. Because UV light causes cell damage in the eye, children are at a higher risk for a variety of sight-threatening eye diseases later in life.

Another reason children require additional eye protection is because they tend to spend more time outdoors than adults. Increased exposure, combined with their sensitivity to UV light, warrants the use of eye protection.

Common Eye Problems Caused by Sunlight

UV exposure has been shown to increase the risk of the following eye conditions:

Cataracts

Cataracts refers to the clouding of the eye’s lens, typically described as seeing through a frosty window. However, to prevent or delay the onset of this disease, it’s important to limit UV exposure.

Pterygium

Pterygium, often called “surfer’s eye”, is a wedge-like growth of the conjunctiva, the outer protective layer of the eye. It develops when UV radiation causes cells in the conjunctiva to divide abnormally, resulting in a whitish growth near the cornea. Pterygium is a condition that affects both eyes and can expand to the pupil. When this happens, your cornea becomes misshapen and vision distorted.

Photokeratitis & Photoconjunctivitis

In both cases, UV radiation from the sun causes inflammation of the tissues within the eye. Photokeratitis is the inflammation of the cornea, while photoconjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the eye’s outer protective membrane that lines the eye, eye socket and eyelids.

These conditions are common in children and may be accompanied with various unpleasant symptoms, like pain and blurred vision.

Skin Cancer Near the Eyes

Although sunscreen is necessary for skin protection when outdoors, most people forget to apply it near their eyes. Unfortunately, this may raise the risk of developing skin cancer around the eyes. It’s important to note that skin cancer tends to develop as a result of years of UV exposure, so the sooner you protect the skin around your child’s eyes, the better.

Regular Eye Exams

Not all sunglasses are the same, and not all kids have the same requirements. Schedule an eye exam with Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord to find sunglasses that meet your child’s needs and preferences. We can assess whether your child requires prescription lenses and guide them in finding a suitable fit.

Q: How can I convince my child to wear sunglasses?

• A: If you allow your child to choose a pair of sunglasses that they like and that fully protect their eyes, they will most likely be happy to wear them.

Q: How do I know what kind of sunglasses to buy for my child?

• A: When purchasing sunglasses for your child, make sure that they block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. They should be large enough to cover as much area around the eyes as possible.

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Optometrist in Concord, Ontario

What Is An Eye Twitch?

Myokymia, more commonly known as an eye twitch, occurs when the eyelid muscles spasm uncontrollably. Eye twitches can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the underlying cause.

Although eye twitches are generally nothing to worry about, persistent eyelid spasms can be a symptom of an underlying illness.

Common Causes of Eye Twitching

Any of the following reasons could be causing your eye to twitch:

Stress. This is the most common cause. Any type of mental or physical stress leads to the release of cortisol, a hormone in the body that acts as a stimulant.

Fatigue. If you aren’t getting the recommended amount of sleep every night, your eye twitch may be a sign that your body is craving a few more hours of shut eye.

Allergies. Itchy, watery, sore eyes caused by allergies can make your eye twitch.

Dry eyes. Dry, irritated, sore eyes are sometimes prone to eye twitches.

Eye strain. Eye muscle fatigue from prolonged reading, driving or use of a digital device can lead to dry eyes, blurry or double vision, headaches and, oftentimes, an eye twitch.

Caffeine. While many of us rely on caffeine to help us get through the day, too much caffeine can over-stimulate your eye muscles and cause an eye twitch.

Alcohol. Similar to caffeine, consuming too much alcohol can have stimulating effects on your eye muscles and cause an eye twitch.

Nutrient deficiencies. According to research, a deficiency in electrolytes, magnesium, vitamin B12, or vitamin D can cause an eye twitch.

Blepharospasm. This rare condition is caused by a neurological problem that results in uncontrollable facial and eyelid spasms or twitches.These spasms generally worsen over time, and may also result in increased blink rate and intensity.

Neurological disease. In rare instances, an eye twitch can be a symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease or Bell’s Palsy.

What Can You Do To Relieve Your Eye Twitch?

• Speak with your eye doctor about stress-relieving eyeglasses or dry eye treatments. Botox injections,or oral medication may be needed to treat blepharospasms.
• Practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga and deep breathing exercises, or simply spend more time relaxing with friends.
• Use eye drops to help relieve dry eyes and allergies.
• Limit screen time, take frequent breaks from the screen and consider wearing computer glasses to reduce eye strain.
• Reduce your caffeine and alcohol consumption for a few weeks to determine if these stimulants are causing your eye to twitch.
• Speak with your physician about taking nutritional supplements and ruling out a neurological disorder, if other symptoms are present.

An eye twitch is generally not a cause for concern, but if it persists for longer than a few days or you notice any changes to your vision, contact Dr. Lowy at Lowy & Sewell Eye Care today to schedule an eye exam.

Q: My vision seems fine. That means that my eyes are healthy, right?

• A: Unfortunately, no. Most eye diseases will not affect your vision until they are quite advanced. The only way to determine if your eyes are really healthy is to have them examined.

Q: I regularly use over the counter eye drops when my eyes feel irritated. Is this good for my eyes?

• A: No, it’s not helping your eyes or vision. If you feel that you need eye drops, there must be something medically wrong with your eyes. You should schedule a consultation so we can have your eyes checked to understand the cause of the discomfort in your eyes and recommend a suitable course of treatment for your condition which may or may not include eye drops.

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Eye Doctor in Concord

It’s that time of year again, when parents are compiling back-to-school checklists of school supplies, books, and uniforms.

But here’s one more important item to add to your list: back-to-school eye exams!

Why Are Eye Exams Crucial Before the New School Year?

Academic success goes hand in hand with great vision. After all, about 80% of classroom learning is visual. Whether your child is doing homework, reading from the whiteboard, or playing sports — clear vision is essential.

Some parents rely on school vision screenings to detect their child’s vision problems, but these are merely screenings and are generally insufficient to adequately assess a child’s visual capabilities. Only a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist can evaluate various visual skills like eye tracking, teaming, eye focusing and other crucial visual skills.

It’s also important to note that many children aren’t capable of verbally communicating the visual difficulties they may be experiencing. They may not even realize there is a problem.

Especially during the school years, children’s eyes grow and develop rapidly, and changes in vision can occur suddenly.

An eye exam before school starts will help ensure that your child is ready to succeed in the classroom.

Frames To Suit Each Child

The new school year is also a great time for children to get a confidence boost with a new pair of stylish glasses.

If a refractive error (nearsightedness or farsightedness) is detected, your child can choose a pair of glasses from the wide range of frames we offer. Beautiful frames will show off their style and make them feel good about themselves.

At Lowy & Sewell Eye Care, we carry the latest in children’s eyewear, some inspired by adult trends, and some with fun, imaginative bold colors and shapes. All of our children’s frames are durable, comfortable, and made with kid-friendly materials.

Our optometric team will ensure that your child’s glasses fit securely and comfortably, reducing the risk of dropping or breaking their new eyewear.

Our Optometrist Can Help

We know that some kids can be a little apprehensive about going to the eye doctor, which is why we use the most gentle approach during eye exams. Our goal is for each child to feel comfortable from the moment they walk in until the moment they leave.

Our friendly and warm staff has experience with children of different ages and visual needs, so you know your child is in good hands.

Get your child off to a smart start this year by calling Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord to schedule their eye exam today!

Q: Can my child choose contact lenses if they don’t want glasses?

• A: Usually! Children as young as 8 can start wearing contact lenses, depending on several factors. If the parent and child both agree that the child is mature enough to wear and care for contact lenses, contacts can be a great option for vision correction. Speak with us to determine if contact lenses are right for your child.

Q: What happens during a pediatric eye exam?

• A: During your child’s eye exam, the optometrist will run a range of tests to assess basic visual acuity like near vision, far vision and astigmatism. Tests of visual skills may also be performed, which assess focusing, convergence, lazy eye and visual processing. The optometrist will also examine the physical health of the eye and ask about any relevant medical history or issues that could affect your child’s vision.

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Optical Store & Eye Care Center in Concord

There is some controversy around the topic of blue light, especially when it comes to children’s eye health and screen time.

Some claim that it’s harmful to a child’s growing eyes and may contribute to retinal damage and other eye conditions. Others believe that blue light isn’t anything to worry about.

Below, we’ll explore what science has to say about blue light, and whether you should invest in a pair of blue light glasses for your child or teen.

What is Blue Light?

Blue light is a high-energy light on the spectrum of visible electromagnetic energy. Some intense forms of blue light have a similar frequency to ultraviolet light, which can penetrate through the eye and reach the retina.

The main source of blue light is the sun, but it’s also emitted by artificial indoor lighting, smartphones, and other digital devices.

Is Blue Light Harmful?

Studies are mixed regarding the safety of blue light on retinal health. The main studies that prove blue light’s harmful effects have been conducted on rats, not humans, and involved very high amounts of blue light. Scientists are trying to determine whether digital screens and indoor lighting, which emit far less blue light, can cause eye damage, especially in the long term.

A study published in Integrative Biology used petri dishes to host retinal cells that were exposed to high-intensity blue light. In this experiment, the retinal cells underwent drastic changes and even cellular death upon intense exposure. However, this may not accurately represent how blue light interacts with retinal cells within the eye.

One thing is certain about blue light: it affects the quality of our sleep and causes eye strain.

Blue light triggers certain cells in the retina that communicate with the pineal gland in the brain. The pineal gland produces a sleep hormone called melatonin — a vital component of the circadian rhythm. When blue light inhibits melatonin production, it may lead to poor sleep quality or insomnia.

Since blue light makes the body more alert, the recommendation is to stop using digital devices at least 2 hours before bedtime.

Can Kids and Teens Benefit From Blue Light Glasses?

Blue light glasses are a good idea for kids and teens who spend a lot of time in front of screens, especially in the evenings.

A study by the University of Houston found that participants (ages 17-42) who wore blue light glasses experienced a 58% increase in their nighttime melatonin levels. This finding is relevant to kids and teens who spend night hours being productive in front of a screen.

A small-scale study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health showed that blue light glasses were effective in minimizing alertness and inducing melatonin production in healthy teenage boys, improving their circadian rhythm.

Some studies have found a link between a child’s disrupted biological clock and an increased risk of several health problems, including metabolic syndrome, depression, and cancer.

Blue light glasses don’t claim to minimize these risks, but simply increase a child’s ability to produce more melatonin and potentially have better quality sleep.

Blue light glasses also reduce eye fatigue and digital eye strain by reducing glare. Blue light can decrease contrast, causing the eyes to work harder and strain for a clearer image.

Symptoms of digital eye strain in children and adolescents include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Poor posture
• Changes in vision
• Dry eyes

We Provide Blue Light Glasses and Other Services

Here’s the bottom line:

If your child spends much of their time studying or completing homework on a computer, or playing games on a phone or tablet, you may want to consider getting them blue light glasses to improve the quality of their sleep and reduce digital eye strain.

At Lowy & Sewell Eye Care, we take the time to sit with each patient and ask the necessary questions to get a full picture of your lifestyle and visual needs. Our optometric team will guide you and your child through all of their options, whether it’s blue light glasses, regular glasses, or contact lenses.

To schedule your child’s eye exam or to learn more about what we offer, contact Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord today!

Q: Do blue light glasses filter out all of the blue light?

• A: No. Blue light glasses usually filter out around 80% of incoming blue light. Because there isn’t a way to filter out 100% of blue light, we recommend limiting screen time whenever possible and wearing 100% UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors during the day.

Q: Are blue light glasses the same as computer glasses?

• A: The lenses of computer glasses have a slight magnification to relieve the eye muscles from constantly focusing on the near screen. Blue light glasses usually have a yellowish tint to filter out blue light.

Quality Frames For Prescription Eyeglasses & Computer Glasses. Visit Lowy & Sewell Eye Care for an eye exam and eyeglasses that match your style.

Contact Lens Eye Exams in Concord

Have astigmatism and want to wear contact lenses? No problem!

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an abnormal or uneven curvature of the cornea that impedes your eye’s ability to focus light properly on the retina. This results in blurry or distorted vision that makes it difficult to distinguish forms and details at any distance. It can also cause headaches, fatigue and eye strain.

Fortunately, there are several types of contact lenses that correct astigmatism, as well as nearsightedness and farsightedness.

Can I Wear Contacts with Astigmatism?

If you have mild to moderate astigmatism, contacts are an affordable and convenient way to correct your vision. In fact, contacts can reduce distortion, offer a wide visual field, and improve visual clarity.

Toric contact lenses are one type of contact lens— in fact, they’re specifically designed to correct astigmatism. They’re slightly thicker and larger, and more stable on the eye than non-toric contacts.

Toric lenses have various design features to ensure they sit correctly on your eye. One of them is the weight at the bottom made to keep them in place and prevent rotation. These lenses are also designed to move with your eye, allowing tears to flow under the lens so you can maintain comfortable and clear vision.

There are two types of astigmatism:

• Regular or corneal astigmatism. This is the most common form of astigmatism. It occurs when the cornea curves in more than one direction, and instead of a sphere, it’s oval-shaped. This type of astigmatism can be corrected by wearing contact lenses, glasses, or through surgery.
• Irregular astigmatism. This occurs when the cornea unevenly curves in several directions and in varying degrees. In such cases, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contacts are the best option.

Types of Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

There are four types of toric contact lenses, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Soft contact lenses

Soft contact lenses are a popular choice for those with mild to moderate astigmatism. Their softness and flexibility provide comfort, they’re simple to insert and remove, and stay put on the moving eye. However, achieving the best final prescription can be challenging, especially for moderate to high levels of astigmatism, as the visual clarity might not be as stable as an RGP lens. Your optometrist might need to make several adjustments to achieve desired results.

RGP contact lenses

While RGP lenses are smaller and harder than soft lenses, they are more oxygen-permeable and allow more tears to surround the lens. At first, these lenses may feel less comfortable than soft contacts since they are less flexible. Overtime, as you get used to wearing them, these lenses will become more comfortable.

Because they maintain their shape, RGP lenses are more effective than soft lenses at correcting astigmatism and improving visual clarity. They also keep their shape when you blink, allowing for a more stable and clearer vision. That said, they can dislodge during strenuous physical activities. Another disadvantage of RGP lenses is that debris, such as dirt and dust, may get trapped under the lens and cause irritation.

Hybrid contact lenses

Hybrid contacts combine a rigid gas-permeable center with softer edges composed of soft hydrogel or silicone hydrogel. These lenses provide comfort while maintaining the clarity that RGP lenses provide. Because of their large size and thin edges, they’re less likely to fall out during physical activities.

Scleral contact lenses

Scleral lenses are rigid and maintain their shape regardless of the corneal shape. In addition, they sit on the sclera rather than the cornea, allowing the eye to properly focus light and therefore ensuring sharp vision and comfort. The liquid reservoir trapped behind the scleral lens compensates for corneal astigmatism and ensures a secure fit.

How We Can Help

During your comprehensive eye exam, we’ll determine the severity of your astigmatism, as well as your degree of farsightedness or nearsightedness. We will also recommend which contact lenses are best for you, based on your needs. In some cases, your astigmatism will require custom-made toric contact lenses.

Schedule an appointment with Lowy & Sewell Eye Care in Concord to receive your contact lens eye exam and initial lens fitting, the first step toward sharper, more comfortable vision.

Q: Is a contact lens exam the same as a regular eye exam?

• A: If you wear or want to wear contacts, you need a contact lens exam in addition to a regular eye exam. Your eye doctor will perform special tests during a contact lens exam to evaluate your vision with contacts.An eyeglass prescription is not the same as a contact lens prescription. A contact lens prescription measures lenses that sit directly on the surface of the eye, whereas an eyeglass prescription measures lenses that are positioned around 12 millimeters from your eyes. After your eye doctor has determined your prescription they will conduct a contact lens fitting.

Q: What is a contact lens fitting?

• A: Since contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all, your eye doctor will need to take measurements of your corneal curvature, pupil or iris size and will evaluate your tear film, to properly fit your contact lenses. Contact lenses that do not fit properly can cause blurry vision, discomfort and even damage your eyes.

Quality Frames For Prescription Eyeglasses & Computer Glasses. Visit Lowy & Sewell Eye Care for an eye exam and eyeglasses that match your style.