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eye doctor Archives - Drs. Gibson, Gibson & Moore | Lubbock, TX Optometrist

Aug 25
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Lubbock Eye Doctors, Your Local Optometrists

What You Should Know About Ocular Migraines

By Eye Doctor

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.

Mar 15
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eyeglass prescription

What You Should Know About Your Eyeglass Prescription

By Eyeglasses

Today, we are delving into the fascinating world of eyeglass prescriptions. If you wear glasses or are considering getting a pair, understanding your eyeglass prescription is essential for optimal vision and eye health. Let’s explore what your prescription means and why it matters.

1. Decoding the Numbers

Your eyeglass prescription may look like a series of cryptic numbers and abbreviations, but fear not – it’s relatively straightforward once you know how to read it. Here’s a breakdown of the common components:

  • OD (oculus dexter) and OS (oculus sinister): These Latin terms refer to the right eye and left eye, respectively.
  • Sphere (SPH): This indicates the main part of your prescription, representing the lens power needed to correct nearsightedness (indicated by a negative sign, like -2.50), farsightedness (positive sign, like +1.75), or astigmatism.
  • Cylinder (CYL): This is the degree of astigmatism present. It can be a positive or negative value or sometimes be marked as “SPH” if no astigmatism correction is needed.
  • Axis: If you have astigmatism, the axis value specifies the angle at which the cylinder power should be oriented.
  • Addition (ADD): This is an additional power for reading glasses. It is used to correct presbyopia, a natural age-related condition that affects near vision.

2. Regular Eye Exams are Crucial

You might be tempted to use old glasses or buy ready-made reading glasses without an eye exam, but this can be risky. Your vision changes over time, and an outdated prescription can cause eye strain, headaches, and even worsen your eyesight. Regular eye exams, at least once every two years or as your eye doctor recommends, are crucial for maintaining healthy vision and updating your prescription as needed.

3. Prescription Accuracy and Lens Quality

Obtaining an accurate prescription is only the first step toward clear vision. The quality of your eyeglass lenses matters just as much. Your eye doctor can help you choose the right lens material, coatings, and design for your lifestyle and visual needs.

  • Lens Materials: There are various lens materials available, such as standard plastic, high-index, polycarbonate, and Trivex. Each has its advantages, like thinner profiles or impact resistance, so discuss your options with your eye doctor.
  • Anti-Reflective Coating: This coating reduces glare and reflections on your lenses, providing clearer vision, especially during night driving or computer use.
  • UV Protection: Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage your eyes. Ensure your eyeglasses offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from UV radiation.

4. Trust the Professionals

Regarding your eye health, don’t take chances with online retailers offering cheap glasses without a valid prescription. Optometrists at Eyes of Lubbock are trained professionals who consider various factors when determining your prescription, such as your eye health, lifestyle, and specific vision needs. They provide personalized care and recommendations tailored to your unique requirements.

5. Adjusting to Your New Prescription

It’s normal to experience an adjustment period when you start wearing new glasses or update your prescription. Give yourself a few days to adapt to the change, and if you’re still experiencing discomfort or vision problems, consult your eye doctor. Small adjustments can be made to optimize your vision and comfort.

Remember, your eyeglass prescription is more than just a set of numbers – it’s the key to clear vision and maintaining the health of your eyes. Schedule regular eye exams, trust your eye care professionals, and invest in quality eyeglasses to enjoy the world through sharper and clearer lenses.

We hope you found this blog informative! If you have any questions or need to schedule an eye exam, please visit us at Eyes of Lubbock. Your vision is our priority!

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