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Aug 25
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Lubbock Eye Doctors, Your Local Optometrists

What You Should Know About Ocular Migraines

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Navigating the world of ocular health can be complex, especially regarding less-understood conditions like ocular migraines. Here at Eyes of Lubbock, your trusted local optometrist in Lubbock, TX, we believe that understanding your eyes is the first step to protecting them. Today, let’s take a closer look at ocular migraines and what you should know about them.

What is an Ocular Migraine?

An ocular migraine, also known as retinal migraine, is a condition that causes temporary vision loss or blindness in one eye. It’s a rare condition, affecting about one in every 200 people who have migraines. Some confusion often exists between ocular and visual migraines, which are different. Visual migraines are a common phenomenon that can cause temporary visual disturbances but not complete vision loss associated with ocular migraines.

Symptoms of Ocular Migraines

Ocular migraines often start with a small blind spot that affects your central vision in one eye. Sometimes these blind spots get larger, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces. After a while, the vision in that eye may go entirely, becoming dark or completely blurred, which can typically last less than an hour, and your sight should return to normal once the migraine ends.It’s worth noting that some people may have a headache during or after an ocular migraine, while others experience visual disruptions without any head pain.

Causes of Ocular Migraines

The exact cause of ocular migraines has yet to be entirely understood. It is believed to be related to changes in the blood flow to the eye, similar to what happens in a classic migraine. Certain factors may increase the risk of ocular migraines, including smoking, high blood pressure, oral contraceptive use, and a family history of migraines.

When to Seek Help

If you experience complete vision loss in one eye, even if it’s temporary, seeking medical attention immediately to rule out more serious conditions, such as a stroke, is essential. If you’re diagnosed with ocular migraines, regular appointments with an optometrist like the professionals at Eyes of Lubbock can help monitor the condition.

Treatment of Ocular Migraines

While there’s no specific cure for ocular migraines, certain medications can help manage symptoms or reduce the frequency of episodes. Identifying and avoiding potential triggers, such as certain foods, lack of sleep, and high-stress situations, can also be beneficial.At Eyes of Lubbock, we’re here to help Lubbock residents understand and take care of their eyes. If you’re experiencing symptoms that might suggest ocular migraines, we’re here to help. Our team of experienced optometrists can provide comprehensive eye exams, diagnose various eye conditions, and guide you in managing your eye health.Your vision is vital, and any changes in it can be concerning. We’re committed to providing the care and information you need to navigate these issues. So, if you’re concerned about ocular migraines or any other aspect of your vision, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Eyes of Lubbock, we help you see the world more clearly.

Jun 16
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Right Lens for Your Sport

What’s the Right Lens for Your Sport?

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At Eyes of Lubbock, we’re passionate about maintaining your eyes’ health and supporting our community’s active lifestyles. Whether you’re an athlete or a sports enthusiast, keeping your eyes protected and your vision sharp is vital. Choosing the right lenses for your sport can make all the difference to your performance and safety. So let’s explore the perfect eyewear solutions for different sports.

Running

If you’re hitting the trail or pounding the pavement, look for lenses with a balance of protection and clarity. Polycarbonate lenses are top choices because they are impact-resistant, lightweight, and offer 100% UV protection. Consider photochromic lenses that adjust the level of tint according to light conditions.

Cycling

For cyclists, wraparound glasses with polycarbonate lenses provide excellent protection from wind, dust, insects, and UV rays without compromising peripheral vision. Some cyclists prefer polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially from wet surfaces. Yellow or orange-tinted lenses can enhance contrast and depth perception for low light conditions.

Swimming and Water Sports

Swimming goggles with anti-fog and UV-protective polycarbonate lenses are ideal for swimming, diving, and other water sports. They should also have a watertight seal to prevent water leakage. Polarized lenses will reduce glare from the water for water sports on the surface, like surfing or jet-skiing.

Basketball, Soccer, and Other Team Sports

High-impact sports such as basketball and soccer require maximum eye protection. Polycarbonate lenses, which are impact-resistant and shatterproof, are again the way to go. A pair of sports goggles can stay securely on your face even during intense play.

Golf

Golfers have unique needs when it comes to eyewear. Sunglasses with lenses that enhance contrast help spot the ball against the sky or grass. Brown or amber-colored lenses, or even rose-colored options, can improve depth perception and contrast on the green.

Skiing and Snowboarding

On the snowy slopes, UV protection and glare reduction are crucial. Look for goggles with mirrored or polarized lenses to reflect sunlight and reduce glare while improving visual comfort in bright conditions. Double-layer lenses and anti-fog coating can prevent fogging.

Hunting and Shooting

For shooting and hunting, lenses that enhance contrast, increase depth perception and reduce glare are essential. Copper, orange, and yellow lenses are popular choices. It’s also crucial to prioritize safety and opt for high-impact resistance lenses.

The “right lens” depends on the sport you’re participating in, specific conditions, and preferences. Here at Eyes of Lubbock, we’re ready to help you find the perfect eyewear solution for your sporting needs. Remember to include a comprehensive eye exam as part of your sports routine! If you have any questions or are ready to find your perfect sports lens match, feel free to drop by our office or call us. 

May 16
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Lubbock Eye Doctors, Your Local Optometrists

What You Should Know About Eye Allergies in Every Season

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Eyes of Lubbock is committed to providing top-notch eye care services to our clients. We understand that eye allergies can be a source of discomfort and irritation for many people, especially during seasonal changes. Today we’ll break down the irritants that come with each season and how you can limit your reaction to each. 

Spring: Pollen Overload

Spring is a beautiful time of year, with blooming flowers and trees bringing life back to the landscape. However, it can also be challenging for those suffering from seasonal allergies, especially eye ones. Pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers is the main culprit behind springtime eye allergies, leading to red, itchy, watery eyes and light sensitivity.

It’s a good idea to stay informed about your area’s pollen count to combat springtime eye allergies. You can find this information on local news stations or online. On high pollen count days, try to limit your time outdoors and keep your windows closed. Additionally, consider investing in a pair of wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen when you are outside.

Summer: Smoke and Smog

Summer is a time for outdoor activities, barbecues, and fun in the sun. Unfortunately, it is also a time when air pollution levels can rise, leading to increased eye allergies. Smoke from wildfires, smog, and other pollutants can cause eye irritation, itching, and redness.

During the summer months, do your best to pay attention to air quality reports and limit your outdoor activities on days with poor air quality. Air conditioning and air purifiers can help remove pollutants from the air indoors. You might also consider using over-the-counter or prescription allergy eye drops to help alleviate symptoms.

Fall: Ragweed and Mold

In the fall, the primary cause of eye allergies shifts to ragweed and mold. Ragweed pollen and mold spores can be found in the air, especially during damp and rainy days. These allergens can cause itchy, watery, red eyes and other allergy symptoms.

To protect your eyes from fall allergies, keep your windows closed and use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity levels. Regularly clean your home to minimize mold growth, and frequently vacuum to remove allergens from carpets and upholstery.

Winter: Indoor Allergens

During winter, indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold can trigger eye allergies. As people spend more time indoors, these allergens can accumulate and lead to symptoms like red, itchy, and watery eyes.

To reduce winter eye allergy symptoms, maintain a clean home environment by dusting and vacuuming regularly. Wash your bedding in hot water to kill dust mites, and consider using allergen-proof covers for your pillows and mattress.

At Eyes of Lubbock, we’re to help!

Eye allergies can be a year-round concern, but by understanding the specific triggers for each season, you can take steps to minimize your exposure and alleviate symptoms. If you are struggling with eye allergies or have concerns about your eye health, schedule an appointment with Eyes of Lubbock today. Our dedicated optometrists are here to help you see clearly and comfortably, no matter the season.

Mar 01
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Lubbock Eye Doctors, Your Local Optometrists

Why is Nutrition Important for Your Eyes?

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Many people don’t make a connection between what you eat and eye health, but the two things are not independent of each other. Healthy nutritional choices can prevent or lessen many eye issues. 

Wholesome eating habits are a common factor for many of our patients with healthy eyesight, proving that a diet with good nutritional value does promote better vision. 

What Should I Eat for Healthy Eyes? 

When you start thinking about healthy eating options, your mind might lean toward dieting, but that’s not what we are talking about here. You can find many nutrients we need to have adequate eyesight in the foods we already eat. Zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and the essential fatty acids that help with healthy eyes exist in everyday eats. 

So what’s the problem? Why are we not getting the nutrients we need? Because we aren’t eating these common foods in their unprocessed form. Box dinners, take-out, and fast food may contain some of the ingredients that have the nutritional elements our eyes crave, but they’ve been over-processed, deep-fried, or saturated in grease and oil, leaving our bodies with nothing to absorb. And while this isn’t an article to dissect your eating habits, we think it’s important to note before going forward that eating these foods as close to fresh as possible will give you the best chance at increasing the overall health of your eyes. 

Zinc

Zinc has many beneficial effects on your body, but the most important for your eyes is its ability to help bring Vitamin A from your liver to your retina. Vitamin A produces melanin, which helps prevent cataracts from forming, and cloudiness from occurring. It also improves your ability to see at night. Without Zinc, your eyes won’t receive this necessary vitamin, and your eyes can become susceptible to severe problems. 

Foods with zinc include: 

  • Shellfish
  • Seeds 
  • Nuts
  • Lamb 
  • Beef

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is prescribed for many things, including building your immunity. It becomes trendy during cold and flu season, but you shouldn’t wait until then to start incorporating foods with it into your diet. Vitamin C is a crucial component of collagen production. Recent eye studies suggest that collagen production in the eyes can reduce the chances of developing glaucoma. It helps to keep cataracts from developing in the eye. 

Foods with vitamin C include:

  • Citric Fruits
  • tomatoes
  • Bell Peppers
  • Broccoli
  • Kale

Vitamin E

Vitamin E plays an essential role in your body’s fight against disease. It eliminates harmful molecules in your body called free radicals. Although these molecules are generally created within the body, they must be disposed of before they can build up inside living tissue. Vitamin E does this and does it well. As free radicals build up, they infect living tissue and can create severe problems, including problems within your eye. Ensure you include foods high in Vitamin E to prevent free radicals from spreading. 

Foods with vitamin E include: 

  • Sunflower Seeds
  • Avocados
  • Almonds
  • Fish
  • Oils
  • Peanuts

Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are not only good for you, but they are also the easiest to eat because they taste good. Omega-3s and Omega-6s support many body parts, including your heart and brain, but they also help with vision development and retina health. Eating fatty acids is essential to the overall vision and eye care. 

Foods with fatty acids include: 

  • Fish
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Oils 
  • Eggs
  • Milk

A well-balanced diet can ensure that many of these vitamins are easily accessible to your eyes. It’s easy to craft meals around many of these foods, and doing so will ensure that your eyes stay healthy for years to come. 

Schedule an Eye Exam

Eating a healthy diet can help alleviate and reduce the risk of some eye issues; however, some eye problems are unavoidable. Whether these issues are caused by genetics or other health factors, they require more than a balanced diet to address. In these cases, checking in with your eye physician for an annual screening is always a good idea. Consistent check-ups can ensure that potentially severe eye problems are caught before they get a chance to become a significant issue. Call Eyes of Lubbock today, to schedule an eye exam and keep your eyes healthy and strong.

Oct 06
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laser eye surgery lubbock

Protecting Your Eyes This Allergy Season

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Fall is upon us, which mean leaves will be falling and our environment will be transforming. Allergies will be blooming and the temperatures will be dropping. It is important to follow these next four steps to prevent eye irritation in the near future.

Step 1: Maintain a Consistent Healthy Diet

If you begin to include nutrients in your daily diet such as omega-3, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E, this can slow down developing aging vision issues. If you avoid these nutrients, you could slowly develop long-term vision problems, like macular degeneration. By applying a healthier lifestyle to your eating habits, you are also less likely to develop diabetes. Diabetes is a leading cause of later blindness in adults. Smoking can also make you susceptible to getting the previous diseases and you are more likely to develop nerve damage as well.

Step 2: Have Great Hygiene

We all know that as the seasons progress and our allergies flare-up it can have major effects on our eyes. For this reason, it is important to wash your hands throughout the day. Our eyes not only get irritated from airborne irritants like pollen, mold, dust, and pet dander, but our hands and clothing come in contact with even more dangers. If you rub your hands on your clothes, sneeze, and then rub your eyes, that allows more bacteria and germs to enter your body at a faster rate. Make sure you are keeping your environment as clean as you can and washing your hands thoroughly throughout the day.

Step 3: Protect Your Eyes

Wearing sunglasses, even when it is cloudy, will be a primary eye saver. UV Rays can penetrate through cloudy skies and can be as much exposure as on a bright day. Wearing your sunglasses will also prevent you from coming in contact with any unwanted airborne particles that are all around our environment. You can look stylish and feel good, too! Another way to keep your eyes hydrated during the fall and winter months is to use eye drops frequently. They will help keep your eyes feeling clean and lubricated. However, not all eye drops are created equal. If you wear contacts, it’s important to know which ones are safe for your lenses. Most over-the-counter eye drops are divided into three categories: drops for dry eyes, drops for eye redness, and drops for contact lens re-wetting. Doctors recommend Blink Tears lubricating eye drops if you don’t wear contacts and Blink Contacts for our contact lens patients.

Step 4: Don’t Look at a Screen for too Long

If you tend to work long hours or binge watch Netflix, make sure you are not staring directly at the screen for too long. You are more susceptible to strain your eyes, develop blurry vision, and it is a leading cause of headaches. If you position your computer so that your eyes are level with the top of the monitor, you can then look down to avoid most of the glare for too long. Make sure to give your eyes rest and look away from the screen for 30 seconds every 20 minutes.

Our Therapeutic Optometrists will provide you with the best eye care services in West Texas. Drs. Gibson, Gibson, and Moore will perform a series of vision tests and evaluate your eye health for any circumstances that come up during the unpredictable seasons of West Texas. You deserve to feel comfortable in your eyes and should consider all of these steps to protect them!

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