Author: Physicians of Colorado Opthalmology Associates

The Link Between Diabetes and Your Eyes

While many people know that diabetes can affect your eyesight, few know that your ophthalmologist can be the first to detect diabetes by giving you a complete dilated eye exam. The eyes are directly linked to glucose levels in the body, and blood sugar that is too high for too long can often cause damage to the retina or cause changes to the lens. At Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, we are experienced in diagnosing and treating a group of vision concerns known as diabetic eye disease.

Symptoms of diabetic eye disease¹

• Floaters – dark spots or strings that float in your vision
• Blurred vision
• Wavy vision
• Vision changes
• Flashes of light
• Loss of color clarity vision

Eye conditions that can be caused by diabetes

The change in pressure to the eye caused by diabetes can cause blood vessels to grow differently, which can cause a type of glaucoma, or it can cause swelling and blurred vision. Here are some of the eye conditions² that can be caused or exacerbated by blood sugar that is out of control.

• Diabetic retinopathy
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic macular edema
• Retinal detachment

Prevention of diabetic eye disease

Your ophthalmologist at Colorado Ophthalmology Associates may be able to catch diabetic eye disease before it becomes serious, but taking steps to control your glucose levels is crucial. Here are some other ideas to help you prevent diabetic eye disease.

• Increase your daily physical activity
• Follow a healthy diet restricting carbs and sweeteners
• Lower your cholesterol levels
• Manage your blood pressure
• Stop smoking
• Carefully manage your diabetes with insulin and glucose testing
• Get annual eye exams
• Monitor any vision changes
• Get annual physical exam including an A1c test

When should I see a doctor?

You should receive a yearly ophthalmology exam with dilation if you have diabetes or are pre-diabetic. Your doctor may recommend even more frequent eye exams. If your ophthalmologist detects an elevation of glucose or a diabetic condition, you should follow up with a visit to your primary care physician.

If you’re pregnant, gestational diabetes can worsen diabetic eye disease, including diabetic retinopathy.³ It is important to have additional eye exams during pregnancy.

If you notice any changes in your vision, see your ophthalmologist right away. If you suddenly lose vision or experience flashes of light or floaters, it could be an urgent condition. Come to Colorado Ophthalmology Associates immediately for fast, quality care.

Treatment for diabetic eye disease

Depending on the kind of disease that has been detected, your ophthalmologist will offer a treatment plan that’s right for you. This plan could include¹:

• Medication
• Surgery
• Laser treatment
• Vitrectomy
• Rehabilitation
• Special equipment

Get an appointment for an eye exam today

Do you suspect your blood sugar levels may be changing your eyesight? Call us today to make an appointment for your exam. Come to one of our two Colorado locations for an exam by one of our board-certified, experienced ophthalmologists. We will go to work to check you for diabetes indicators and to check your eyes for good health and clear vision.

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/diabetic-eye-disease

² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/diabetic-eye-disease

³ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371611

Stop Dry Eyes in Their Tracks

Tired, red, stinging, watery or itchy eyes can be a sign that you have dry eyes. Dry eyes can be an indication that your tears are inadequate or imbalanced. This can cause a condition that can become chronic. Nearly 5 million Americans suffer from dry eyes.¹ If you’re one of them, start the New Year right by finding the solution to your problem with dry eyes. At Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, we treat chronic dry eyes with a balanced approach.

Symptoms of dry eyes

• Easily fatigued or tired eyes
• Red eyes
• Scratchy, gritty, itchy feeling
• Watery eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Difficulty with contact lenses
• Blurred vision
• Unusual, heavy or stringy discharge
• Stinging or burning eyes
• Difficulty with night vision

My dry eyes are irritating but are they really a serious condition?

Chronic dry eyes could be caused by atmosphere issues, such as fans or forced air, by computer eye fatigue, by hormone changes, by decreased tear production, or even by allergies. These causes can often be corrected with lifestyle changes and minor treatments.

But at other times, dry eyes can be the symptom of another underlying medical condition. If you have been suffering from dry eyes, get a complete eye exam to ensure your eyes are healthy. Some conditions that cause dry eyes include thyroid conditions, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, Bell’s palsy, and diabetes.

What options are available to treat my dry eyes?

At Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, we treat dry eyes starting with the most minimally-invasive options. Most conditions can be managed or reversed with these treatments and with lifestyle and environmental changes².

• Over-the-counter products: artificial tears, gels and moisturizers
• Prescription eye drops
• Punctal plugs to block drainage duct
• Surgery to fix eyelids to prevent evaporation
• Vitamin A supplements
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
• Flaxseed oil supplements
• Prescription steroids
• Prescriptions slow-release eye lubricants
• Meibomian gland expression to open oil glands in eyelids
• Warm compresses
• Eye makeup removal and eye scrubs to make sure eyelids are clean
• Avoid contact lens use
• Antibiotic treatment for any eyelid inflammation or cornea inflammation

Is there any way to prevent dry eyes?

Yes, some kinds of dry eyes are preventable³. Environmental and lifestyle adjustments may be needed such as:

• Redirecting fans or staying out of the wind.
• Wearing wrap-around sunglasses to deflect wind.
• Don’t use hairdryers.
• Increase moisture with air humidifiers.
• Avoid smoke and stop smoking.
• Take frequent breaks when staring at computer or video screens. Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Lower your computer to below eye level so your eyes aren’t open as wide for as long.
• Increase blinking, especially when using a computer. Post reminders or use alarms to help you make more effort blinking.
• Use artificial tears as needed.
• Drink enough water each day.
• Get 8 to 10 hours of sleep in a darkened room each night.
• Medication management – some prescriptions can cause dry eyes. There are also prescriptions that can help manage conditions that cause dry eyes.

Get an appointment for an eye exam today

Dry eyes can reduce your quality of life and interfere with your activities. Let us give you a thorough examination to try to pinpoint the cause of your dry eyes. Come to one of our two Colorado locations for an exam by one of our board-certified, experienced ophthalmologists and let us help you start feeling better again. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye

² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-dry-eye

³ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863

Everything You Need to Know About Cataract Surgery

If your eye’s lens has become cloudy, causing your vision to become blurry, hazy and dulled, your ophthalmologist from Colorado Ophthalmology Associates has likely recommended cataract surgery. One of the most common procedures worldwide, cataract surgeries can help people who have been noticing increasing difficulty seeing when driving, watching TV, climbing stairs, or even focusing in bright lights.

In cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will use delicate instruments to make a small incision in the eye to remove part of the lens and then to remove the cataract. An artificial lens, folded up, will then be inserted into position¹. It will unfold and become the new permanent lens implant, allowing light to refract onto the retina for a clearer visual image.

What will happen during my pre-surgery appointment?

Before your cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will want to measure your eye for the right fit and for the correct power of your intraocular lens (IOL). The details of the surgery will be discussed and you will be given instructions for the day of surgery, such as not wearing any makeup, creams or facial lotions that day. You will also be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours prior to your surgery.

Your doctor will want to know what medications you are taking, so bring a list with you. You may receive instructions to stop taking some of the meds prior to your surgery. Additionally, you may receive an antibiotic eye drop prescription along with instructions to use the drops before your surgery. These drops may help prevent infections and lessen swelling.¹

What will cataract surgery be like?

On the day of your surgery, you will need to have someone drive you home, so be sure to make arrangements. Surgery will last only 10 to 15 minutes, but with prep and recovery, plan on an hour in the office. Here are the steps to the surgery:

• Eye dilated with drops
• Eye numbed with drops or injection
• You may be given a light sedative to make you groggy and relaxed
• You will be awake and see light and movement, but not exactly what the doctor is doing
• Your surgeon will use a special microscope to view the eye and the procedure
• The old cataract will be removed and the new, artificial lens will be implanted
• Stitches are not usually needed since the lens will attach and heal by itself
• A shield will be placed over your eye to protect it while it heals
• You will rest in recovery for 15-30 minutes before being discharged

What will recovery be like?

Your vision will usually start to improve within a day or so, though it may start out blurry. Since the cataract was likely a brown or yellow color, you will probably notice a remarkable difference in colors. You may experience some mild discomfort for a few days while the eye heals. If it feels itchy, avoid rubbing or touching it. Your doctor may have you wear an eye patch during the day and a shield during the night.

Eye drops may be prescribed. It is important to follow these instructions to prevent infection and to protect your eye during healing.

Your ophthalmologist will want to see you a day or two after surgery. You will have a follow-up appointment or two within the first month so the eye can be monitored closely. If both eyes are receiving surgery, your second cataract surgery will be scheduled to take place after the first eye heals. By two months, your eye should be completely healed.

You may still need to wear glasses after cataract surgery. After the eye has healed, you will need to have a new prescription for your glasses. If you chose an intraocular lens (IOL) implant, you may not need glasses or you may only need them part of the time.

At Colorado Ophthalmology, we specialize in fitting the right IOL to the right patient to improve vision and to reduce dependency on eyeglasses. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the different kinds of IOLs with you prior to your surgery.

• A monofocal IOL gives you one clear focal point. You can choose whether that point is near, middle or far. Many patients prefer to see clearly farther away so they don’t have to wear glasses for driving but only for reading and doing things close-up.
• A trifocal IOL will help you see clearly in all three positions: near, middle and far. Unlike trifocal glasses, you will be able to see in all directions.
• A toric IOL is designed for patients with astigmatism where the cornea is flatter on one side than the other. This kind of IOL can either give you monofocal or trifocal vision.

Other than these IOL choices, your ophthalmologist may recommend phakic lenses. A phakic lens helps patients with severe nearsightedness. In this case, the eye’s lens is not removed, but this lens is added to it to correct the vision.

You will be on restriction for a few days following surgery with instructions on how much you can lift and bend and how much you are safely allowed to do. It is important to rest and to allow the eye to heal without straining it during this time.

What are the risks of cataract surgery?

As with any surgery or procedure, there are certain risks that come with cataract surgery². These risks, though rare, include:

• Inflammation or swelling
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Eyelid problems
• Detachment of artificial lens
• Glaucoma
• Detachment of retina
• Secondary cataract
• Pain
• Halos or glare from light
• Vision loss

What urgent conditions should I watch out for?

Complications from cataract surgery are very rare. However, if you experience any of the following, call your surgeon right away:

• Eyelid swelling
• Pain that doesn’t lessen with over-the-counter medications
• Increase or change in redness of the eye
• Flashes of light, halos, light spots in the eye
• Vision loss

Get an appointment for a cataract consultation today

If you suffer from blurred vision due to cataracts, we can help. Come to one of our two Colorado locations for a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for surgery so you can start to enjoy a more active lifestyle again. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cataract-surgery/about/pac-20384765

Everything You Need to Know About LASIK Surgery

Wondering about laser eye surgery in Denver? Tired of your contacts, glasses and not being able to see clearly? The answer to your vision challenges might be a refractive surgery, such as LASIK. LASIK surgery is a corrective surgery that allows people with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism to see better.

By reshaping the cornea with laser technology, your ophthalmologist from Colorado Ophthalmology Associates can manipulate how the light strikes the retina and then travels to the brain as an image. In effect, this surgery could reduce or eliminate the need for glasses altogether.

Am I a good candidate for LASIK?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology¹, candidates for LASIK surgery must meet several requirements such as:

• Must be 18 years or older, but ideally over 21 when your vision is more likely to have stopped changing.
• Your eyes should not have changed much in the past year.
• The refraction needed to correct your vision must be viable for LASIK treatment.
• Eye health is key. Your corneas need to be thick enough and healthy enough and your eyes must be healthy.

What kinds of things would eliminate me from consideration for LASIK?

Conversely, several conditions would make you not a good candidate for LASIK surgery. Some of these conditions include:

• Cone-shaped corneas
• Dry eyes
• Eyes that are changing or unstable
• Extreme levels of nearsightedness, astigmatism or farsightedness
• Cornea disease or damage
• Corneas that are too thin
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Pregnancy or nursing
• Diabetes

What are the risks of LASIK surgery?

There are certain risks that come with LASIK surgery². These risks include:

• Dry eyes
• Light sensitivity – may be temporary
• Glare
• Halos
• Double vision
• Reduced vision in dim light or fog
• Undercorrections
• Overcorrections
• Astigmatism
• Corneal flap problems
• Regression
• Vision loss or changes

What can I expect from my LASIK surgery?

Your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye exam, including measurements, to ensure you are a good candidate for the surgery and have healthy eyes. Before the surgery, you will be asked to not use eye makeup, lotions or perfumes the day before or the day of surgery to minimize the risks of infection². Cleansing the eyelashes prior to surgery will also help minimize the risk of infection.

The day of surgery, you will need someone to drive you to the clinic and home again. The procedure is short, so plan on over an hour. You will lie back in a comfortable reclining chair and numbing drops will be placed in your eye. With your eye numb, an instrument will hold your eyelid open. Your surgeon will place a suction ring on the cornea and you will notice a change in your vision. A careful incision will be made on the cornea flap to expose the cornea. A pre-programmed laser will then reshape the cornea. The flap will be placed back in place and will reattach in minutes. It will heal on its own with no stitches. The procedure will then be repeated on the other eye, if needed.

After surgery, you will experience burning, itching, gritty feeling, watering eyes, dry eyes, and/or some pain. Prescription drops and pain relievers may help alleviate some of these symptoms. You will likely feel like sleeping once you get home. You will need to wear eye shields when you sleep. We will schedule several visits to examine you after surgery.

Your eyes need several weeks to heal and your vision to stabilize. You will need to refrain from eye makeup for a few weeks and avoid hot tubs, swimming or contact sports as your eyes heal.

Get an appointment for an eye exam today!

Intrigued by the possibility of LASIK surgery to help you see better? Come to one of our two Colorado locations for a comprehensive exam to determine if the procedure would correct your vision concerns. Since it is considered an elective surgery, your insurance provider may not cover it. We can discuss payment options during your exam. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774

Autumn’s Allergies and Your Eyes

Are you suffering from watery, red, swollen eyes? As the leaves fall, allergies flare up, causing eye irritation and discomfort for many people in the Denver and Lakewood, CO, region. At Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, we see our share of patients struggling with seasonal allergies during this time when all the vegetation is becoming dry, dusty and airborne. Here is some information to help you during this uncomfortable time.

What are the symptoms of seasonal eye allergies?

Not sure if you have allergies, a cold, or even COVID-19? Here are some common allergy symptoms to help you distinguish:

• Red eyes
• Burning eyes
• Swollen eyes
• Bags under the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose, roof of mouth

To further distinguish between allergies and COVID-19, consider these two key points. First, coronavirus usually does not produce red, watery, itchy eyes like allergies do. Second, coronavirus usually comes with a fever and allergies don’t¹.

What are the causes of seasonal eye allergies?

When an irritant comes in contact with your eyes, the body’s mast cells respond by releasing a substance called histamines. Histamines attack the invader in an attempt to fight it off. This can cause the red, watery and itchy eyes.

Some people are more susceptible to allergens than others. If both of your parents have allergies, you are much more likely to suffer from them as well².

The eyes can react to a wide variety of irritants and allergens such as:

• Pollen
• Dried leaves
• Dried weeds
• Ragweed
• Mold
• Smoke
• Dust
• Pet dander
• Perfume
• Cosmetics
• Drugs
• Preservatives in eye drops
• Food

When should I see my ophthalmologist?

If you have red, watery, irritated eyes, you can get an appointment at Colorado Ophthalmology & Associates any time for an evaluation. We can easily diagnose eye allergies through a microscopic examination of your eyes as well as a compilation of family history of allergies³. Your eyes will be examined for infection to ensure they are healthy during this season of heightened allergens.

What is the treatment for eye allergies?

The first and easiest step to treat eye allergies is to reduce your exposure to irritants. This would include staying indoors with doors and windows closed, using air conditioning, wiping or brushing pets when they come indoors, and changing clothes when you come inside. Keep inside air clean with wet mopping and HEPA air filters, and use a dehumidifier to keep mold away. Avoid lawn work that would increase your exposure as well as hanging laundry to dry outside. Try to go outdoors after a rain has settled the pollen and wear a pollen mask when you do go outside⁴.

Over-the-counter antihistamines may provide some relief from your eye allergies. Your ophthalmologist will be able to recommend a good brand of antihistamine, decongestant or combination medication that can help. Artificial tears and saline nasal washes can cleanse irritants from the eyes and sinuses. Your doctor may also prescribe corticosteroids or antihistamines with mast cell stabilizers. Immunotherapy shots may also be a treatment option.

Get an appointment for an eye exam today!

If you are suffering from seasonal eye allergies, come to one of our two Colorado locations for an initial exam so we can evaluate your eye health. We’re here to help when your eyes are irritated and reacting to the environment. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/coronavirus-versus-allergies-pink-eye

² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies

³ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies-diagnosis

⁴ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343

Ocular Migraines & Retinal Migraines

Sometimes headaches or migraines are accompanied by vision issues which can be very disruptive to a person’s day. These ocular migraines usually fade rapidly and are often not a cause for alarm, but there are some cases when a migraine accompanied by visual disruptions—known as a retinal migraine—signals a much more serious underlying condition.

So how do you know if your ocular migraines are harmless or serious? The board-certified ophthalmologists at Colorado Ophthalmology Associates have answered some FAQs to help you know the difference.

What are the symptoms of ocular migraines?

Ocular migraines that involve your vision can contain auras that are present in both eyes. Auras are disruptions in the vision that usually don’t last long and may or may not be accompanied by a headache. According to Mayo Clinic¹, these symptoms can include:

• Flashes of light
• Zigzagging patterns
• Blind spots
• Shimmering spots
• Stars
• Sparkling lights
• Blurred vision
• Fuzzy areas or swirled colors
• Sensation of looking through broken glass, water, heat waves, etc.
• Loss of color vision
• Depth perception issues

What are the symptoms of retinal migraines?

Retinal migraines are rarer than ocular migraines. They can affect one eye, rather than both, and are much more serious than ocular migraines. Retinal migraines can come before or accompany a headache and the symptoms can be recurring. The symptoms include²:

• Diminished vision
• Areas with decreased vision
• Temporary blindness
• Twinkling lights
• Tunnel vision
• New dark spots or floaters in one eye only
• New flashes of light in one eye only that persist over an hour

When should I see my ophthalmologist?

If you are experiencing any vision changes, such as ocular migraines or retinal migraines, you should see your ophthalmologist at Colorado Ophthalmology & Associates right away. We can track the changes you’re experiencing and help determine a course of action to try to head off future migraines.

If you have suddenly lost vision in one eye or have experienced decreased vision or changes in one eye, go to the nearest emergency room (ER) immediately. This could be a symptom of a much more serious condition, such as a stroke, diabetes or concussion.

What is the treatment for ocular migraines?

Patients suffering from recurring migraines are encouraged to keep a headache diary and try to pinpoint the triggers and then avoid them. Common triggers could be anything like disrupted sleep patterns, alcohol, caffeine, food additives, perfumes, dehydration, hormones or stress³.

Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms until they subside. Prescription medications are also available and some things like beta-blockers might be prescribed to be taken daily as a preventative measure.

Get help with your ocular migraines today!

If you’ve been suffering from migraines that affect your vision, come to one of our two Colorado locations for an initial exam so we can track your vision changes and evaluate your eye health. Our ophthalmologists are experienced in evaluating and treating ocular migraines and are ready to bring our expertise to help you start to feel better. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/expert-answers/ocular-migraine/faq-20058113

² https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/retinal-migraine/

³ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/migraine-cause

Does My Child Need a Back-to-School Eye Exam?

What does your child’s school year look like? In-person, online at home, graduated returning, hybrid learning? No matter how your child is going to receive his or her education this year, clear vision is crucial to school success. Since being able to see properly can directly impact a student’s academic achievement, Colorado Ophthalmology Associates recommends each child receives an annual eye exam in preparation for a great school year.

To get your student started on the right track, schedule a comprehensive eye exam today. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are able to make sure your child is ready for success in a predominantly visual-based learning environment.

What does a back-to-school vision test include?

Your board-certified ophthalmologist will use a few different tests to determine your child’s visual acuity and eye health.

This eye exam may include:

• Pupil dilation to examine optic nerve and retina
• Examination for conditions such as lazy eye, drooping eyelid, color blindness or crossed eyes
• Testing depth perception
• Testing eye-hand coordination
• Examination for near-sightedness or far-sightedness
• Recommendation for eye protection for specific sports

Warning Signs in Children

Many parents feel a false sense of security because they know their child receives a vision screening in school each year. In fact, these screenings only catch a small percentage of the vision problems with which students may be silently struggling.

As a parent, you have to stay vigilant about your child’s vision health. To help, here are some warning signs you can watch out for that can tip you off to your child’s vision problems:

• Squinting to see signs in the car or unable to read signs
• Sitting too close to the TV
• Holding book or electronic device close to the face
• Squinting to look at you
• Unusual amount of tripping or clumsiness
• Eye-hand coordination problems that show up in sports
• Doing poorly in school subjects
• Sensitivity to light
• Frequently rubbing eyes
• Stopping normal activities such as doing puzzles or reading
• Asking friends to read what’s on the board
• Shortened attention span
• Inability to look right at the camera for pictures

What about screen time and eye health?

With the sharp increase in online learning, ophthalmologists are seeing more and more cases of nearsightedness and computer fatigue symptoms¹. If your child is suffering from dry eyes, headaches or tired eyes, try these tips to help offset the effects of screen time.

• Take a 20 second eye break every 20 minutes. Look out a window or focus on something far away. Set a timer for this action.
• Get plenty of time out in the sun away from devices.
• Keep computer screens away from window glare.
• Keep screen at least 18 to 24 inches from the face.
• Remind child to blink more often.

At what age should I begin my child’s eye exams?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends eye screening beginning at birth² and continuing to the start of school, then annually after that. If you’ve never had your child’s eyes examined, now is the time to start. Your doctor will do a comprehensive eye exam to ensure healthy vision.

Even if your child is no longer a child but is going off to college this year, there are some important eye health tips for college students. Make sure he or she has an eye exam as well before leaving.

Schedule your child’s back-to-school vision exam today!

Set your student up for success with a comprehensive vision exam at one of our two Colorado locations. Choose the location that is convenient for you and let our board-certified ophthalmologists do the rest. Call us today to make an appointment @

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/is-too-much-screen-time-harming-childrens-vision ² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/children-eye-screening

How We’re Protecting Our Patients During COVID-19

During this time of uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be wondering if it is safe to come to Colorado Ophthalmology Associates for routine care and emergent eye conditions. Rest assured, your good health is our top priority. We are actively working within some of the strictest guidelines to maintain a safe and sanitary facility for our patients and staff.

What the CDC Recommends

We adhere to the CDC recommended coronavirus safety guidelines for medical providers including measures such as: spacing out appointments and maintaining 6’ social distancing within the building and waiting room. We continue some of the highest standards of facility sanitation and make sure our equipment, rooms and furniture are thoroughly disinfected between patients.

Our staff all wear masks and we require our patients to wear masks as well. Before coming to work, each staff member is required to take his or her temperature to ensure good health. Patients are instructed to do the same before coming to the facility. Additional screening measures are in place to be on the alert for any symptoms of illness.

Going Above & Beyond

In addition to the CDC guidelines, we have implemented additional measures of our own design to be extremely cautious during this time. We have removed any unnecessary items from the waiting room and exam rooms, such as magazines and extra chairs, to facilitate ease in cleaning efforts and to eliminate germ transmission. Non-essential personnel have been allowed to work from home or to schedule work after clinical hours. Non-essential visitors have been restricted from the facility.

All surfaces are disinfected between patients including chairs, light switches, counters, sign-in pads, computers and more. Hand sanitizer is readily available and encouraged for patient use. Our physicians and staff maintain strict hygiene protocol including frequent and careful hand washing as well as protective face coverings.

Prior to your appointment, you will receive a phone call informing you of the proper procedures to prepare for your visit. We are working to maintain clear communication with our patients to alleviate any confusion or unease during this time.

Talk with us any time

If you have any other questions or concerns about our response to COVID-19, please call us today at (303) 320-1777. Our two Colorado locations are working hard to provide some of the best ophthalmological care during this difficult time while making sure your health and safety is our top priority.

Making the Connection Between Sports and Vision

Playing a variety of fast-paced sports is one of the joys in life, but not every participant takes time to think about the connection between visual acuity and physical ability. If there is a slight variance to the eye, the result could be vision changes that reduce your performance. In addition to visual acuity, players need to be concerned about eye protection. Whether you enjoy basketball, softball, martial arts, tennis or even badminton, there can be a high risk of eye injury in any activity or sport.

Important vision skills required to excel in sports include things like depth perception, eye tracking, eye-hand-body coordination, peripheral vision, visual memory, visualization, visual reaction time and visual concentration.¹ Not only can your performance be adversely affected by having a vision issue, but your physical safety could also be compromised.

If you are involved in playing a sport or activity, Colorado Ophthalmology Associates provides sports vision testing to determine if any vision correction is needed to enhance performance. Additionally, we can recommend the best protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries during play. These two considerations—visual acuity and eye protection—are important to discuss with your eye doctor before playing any kind of sport.

What does a sports vision test include?

There are several techniques and technologies used in testing for sports vision. Your board-certified ophthalmologist will use a few different tests to determine your visual acuity and eye health.

These tests may include a focus on:

• Overall visual proficiency
• Refractive errors
• Eye tracking
• Ocular alignment
• Contrast sensitivity
• Eye dominance
• Depth perception
• Reaction time
• Eye-hand coordination

What are the most common sports eye injuries?

An elbow to the eye, a finger poke, a hit with a ball, a collision or an impact can all cause mild to severe eye damage. The most common injuries we see are:

• Retinal detachment
• Scratched cornea
• Inflammation
• Blood between cornea and iris
• Fractured eye socket
• Traumatic cataract

How can I protect my eyes while enjoying my favorite sport?

Prevention is the #1 focus when playing any sport. Having the right protective eyewear is crucial as your frontline defense against a blow, hit or a collision. Your doctor can recommend one or more of the following for your favorite sport:

• Shatterproof goggles
• Shatterproof lenses
• UV protection
• Sports glasses
• Face shield
• Eye shield
• Masks

What sports are the most dangerous for eyes?

Basketball is the most hazardous sports for eye health. Baseball, softball, airsoft, pellet guns, paintball, racquetball, hockey, boxing and martial arts all pose high risks for eye injury and blindness.²

Get your sports vision exam done today!

If you love to play, consider getting a sports vision screening today to make sure you’re seeing everything you need to see to bring home the win. Our two Colorado locations provide convenient access to quality vision exams. Our board-certified ophthalmologists can also make recommendations to make sure you have the right protective eyewear or prescription googles to keep you covered for your favorite activities. Call us today to make an appointment:

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/sports-and-vision/important-vision-skills-for-sports

² https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries-sports