Denver ophthalmologist Tag

Eye Injury Prevention Month

While most people think about eye injuries at the workplace, in reality, nearly half of eye injuries occur at home.¹ The good news is 90% of these eye injuries can be prevented simply by using protective eyewear.² To raise awareness, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has designated October as Eye Injury Prevention Month. At Colorado Ophthalmology Associates of Denver, CO, we are working to help our patients understand the hazards that could result in serious or blinding eye injuries.

For a safe and fun Halloween, for example, we recommend opting for face paint or hat-style costumes rather than masks that can obstruct vision or interfere with glasses or contacts.

Identify Hazards

Thinking through hazards at work, at home, at school and where your children play is a key step in preventing eye injuries. Ask yourself these questions:

            At work:

• Do you come into contact with chemicals or chemical vapors?
• Is there dust, chalk or irritants that could impact the eyes?
• Are there airborne hazards such as sawdust, chips, fragments or sand?
• Are there burn hazards from hot particles, chemicals or splashes?
• Is there a possibility of radiation or light damage from something like welding?
• What kind of eye protection is available? Do you know and follow the right procedures for eye safety?

                At home:

• Where are the chemicals or chemical vapor hazards?
• What kind of eye protection do you have available at home? Is there child size available?
• What kind of eye and body protection do you wear to mow the lawn?
• What kind of eye protection do you use with power tools?
• Are there any tripping hazards like dark stairways, exposed cords or slippery throw rugs that are hard to see?
• Are there child safety locks on the chemicals and hazards such as guns?

            At school:

• When was the last time your child had an eye exam?
• Have you taught your child not to rub his/her eyes?
• Does your child understand the safe use of scissors, rubber bands, paperclips and other things that could become an eye hazard?
• Have you discussed any eye safety issues with your children with things like sports, clubs, chemicals, etc.?

            At play:

• Do your kids play with projectile-based toys such as toy guns, airsoft rifles, bow and arrow, slingshot, darts or other missile throwing toy?
• Have you discussed safe play practices with your child?
• Do you look for toys marked with ASTM to certify standards by American Society for Testing and Materials?
• Have you removed any tripping hazards in the home and yard?
• Does your child have protective eyewear for sports?
• Do you use safe practices with fireworks? Bottle rockets are especially a major eye injury hazard.³

Preventive Care

Make sure your family has the proper eyewear and safety goggles for safe practices at home, school, play and work. Call us today for a family appointment at one of our two Colorado locations. We can order the right protective eyewear for sports and work and can give you advice for safe practices to make sure you and your family have taken steps to guard against eye injuries. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are here to help safeguard your eyes from potential injuries.

            Denver: 303-320-1777

¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/preventing-injuries

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

³ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries-children

Get the Facts About Macular Degeneration

Blurry spots in your vision that occur as you grow older may be attributed to a condition called age-related macular degeneration. Since this condition can grow slowly or quickly, at Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, we check your eyes for macular degeneration at every eye exam. While it usually doesn’t cause total blindness, the blurry spots can cause significant interference with vision and impede your lifestyle. That’s why early detection is crucial.

What is Macular Degeneration?

More than 10 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with macular degeneration. It is the leading cause of vision loss.¹

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the deterioration of the macula layer of the retina. There are two kinds: dry and wet. All AMD begins as dry and some deteriorate into wet, which is the more serious kind. Most people with AMD have the dry kind.

Dry macular degeneration is the thinning of the macula and may affect only one eye. A buildup of tiny yellow protein under the macula causes it to dry out and thin.

Wet macular degeneration occurs in late stage dry AMD. Fewer people suffer from wet AMD, but it is a more serious condition. Blood vessels develop under the macula and can cause pressure with fluid buildup. Much of the central vision can be lost.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Several of the risk factors for macular degeneration are inherited. However, some of the causes are preventable.

Your risk for AMD may increase from²:

• Aging
• Smoking
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Family history of AMD
• Gender – women may be at higher risk
• Race – whites are at higher risk
• Sunlight exposure
• Late stage AMD in one eye increases risk for the other eye

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Early detection is key in slowing cases of AMD. However, early stage dry macular degeneration is not noticeable by the patient. Your ophthalmologist can check for it during dilated eye exams. Symptoms include³:

• Blurriness in central vision
• Trouble seeing in dim light
• Blank spots in vision
• Wavy lines that should be straight

Treatment for Macular Degeneration

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist will keep close watch over early stage dry AMD. Meanwhile, it is important to take steps to improve your health and to slow your AMD condition.

Begin by eating a healthy diet complete with plenty of dark, leafy greens and fatty fish². Regular exercise and weight loss will also help slow AMD. Your ophthalmologist may recommend supplements of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, wear UV-rated sunglasses outdoors to lessen exposure to harmful rays.

See your primary care physician regularly. Smoking cessation is very important and your doctor will be able to assist you with that. Keeping your hypertension under control is also important.

In late stage wet AMD, your ophthalmologist may utilize options like eye injections called anti-VEGF drugs, photodynamic therapy (PDT) injections, or laser treatments². Research continues into developing treatments for macular degeneration.

Make an appointment today

If it has been over three years since you’ve had your eyes checked for macular degeneration (a dilated eye exam), call us today for an appointment and come to one of our two Colorado locations for a complete exam. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are here to help you protect your vision as your body ages.

            Denver: 303-320-1777

¹ https://www.macular.org/what-macular-degeneration

² https://www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/eye-conditions/macular-degeneration-guide

³ https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/age-related-macular-degeneration

UV Damage and You

As the sun ramps up for the summer, it’s time to take a closer look at how you’re protecting your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) damage. Since May is UV Awareness Month, Colorado Ophthalmology Associates offers these tips on avoiding UV eye damage and how to choose the best sunglasses to help protect your eyes.

What is UV Light?

Ultraviolet light rays are emitted from the sun and many of them are blocked by the earth’s atmosphere. Still, many come through. These rays are important since they help the skin in the creation of Vitamin D. However, there can be too much of a good thing. UV rays can damage the skin and the eyes over time. The short rays enter the eye and damage the macula of the retina, which is responsible for the center field of vision. Additionally, the cornea and lens can be damaged by UV rays.¹

Eye Conditions Caused by UV Damage

Apart from skin cancer, which can even be located on eyelids and around the eyes, UV damage can cause a number of conditions.² These conditions include:

• Corneal sunburn – overexposure to the sun hurts the eyes like a sunburn.
• Photokeratitis – temporary loss of vision due to corneal sunburn or from sun glancing off of water, snow or highly reflective surfaces.
• Pinguecula – irritating growth on the white of the eye that requires surgery to remove.
• Eye cancer – takes longer to develop but can culminate from years of UV ray abuse.
• Macular degeneration – develops from overexposure of UV light over time. Vision loss cannot be regained.
• Cataracts – UV rays contribute to the development of cataracts later in life. Surgery will likely be needed.
• Pterygium – growth on the eye, also called surfer’s eye. Requires surgery to remove.

Prevention of UV Damage to the Eyes

There are some simple steps to help protect your eyes against UV damage. Be especially vigilant at higher elevations and locations closer to the equator where UV rays are more intense.

Choose a wide-brimmed hat that will shadow your face from UV rays. Some rays are blocked by glass but others will go through glass, so don’t expect to be fully protected indoors.

Wear sunglasses every day, even on cloudy days. UV light will be present all the time. Make sure your children also wear UV-rated sunglasses.

Choose sunglasses that are rated at 99% and greater UVA and UVB protection.³ Look for sunglasses that cover a wide surface and even wrap around. Grey lenses offer the closest thing to true color perception.

Stop smoking or don’t start smoking. Smoking can speed up UV light damage to the eyes. Talk to your medical provider about getting help to stop smoking.

See your ophthalmologist regularly. To make sure your eyes are not being damaged by overexposure to UV rays, make sure you get regular check-ups.

Discuss with your ophthalmologist

To kick of the sunny season, call us today for an appointment and come to one of our two Colorado locations for a consultation. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are ready to evaluate your eyes for UV damage and to recommend the best eye protection to help prevent damage as you enjoy the benefits of being in the sun this season.

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://preventblindness.org/how-uv-rays-damage-the-eyes/

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

³ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/uv-protection/faq-20058021

How to Nip Spring Allergies in the Bud

With the fresh waves of spring’s new growth comes the dreaded eye allergy season. The misery that comes from red, itchy, watery eyes may have you rethinking your love of the great outdoors. How can you get ahead of spring allergies that can cause so much eye discomfort? Colorado Ophthalmology Associates offers tips for understanding spring eye allergies—known as allergic conjunctivitis—and preventing eye problems caused by allergies.

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

• Watery eyes
• Red eyes
• Swollen eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Often accompanied by nasal allergies – itchy, stuffy, runny nose and sneezing

Causes of Eye Allergies

Substances in the air, such as pollen, grass pollen, ragweed pollen, pet dander, dust, smoke, perfumes, mold, and even cooking odors, irritate the eye and trigger the release of histamines to combat them. The histamines cause the eye to become red and watery and can increase the itchy feeling and the swelling.¹

Eye allergies can be inherited. If both of your parents suffer from allergic conjunctivitis, your risk for inheriting the condition is greatly increased.¹

Prevention of Seasonal Eye Allergies

If you suspect you will suffer from seasonal eye allergies this spring, you can begin protecting your eyes by eliminating exposure to the sources of irritation. If the fresh flowers and pollen affect you, avoid these triggers by staying indoors as much as possible. Use air conditioning and keep windows closed. Consider using special air filter units or add HEPA filters to your air conditioner and HEPA bags in your vacuum cleaner.

When you do go outside, try wearing sunglasses, goggles or eye shield to protect your eyes from the pollen. The best time to go outdoors is after a rain has settled the pollen. Avoid windy, dry days and early mornings when pollen count is at its highest. Listen to the weather reports that give pollen counts for the day. Wear a pollen mask outdoors.²

Frequently wash your hands and face to remove irritants before they are inadvertently passed onto your eyes. If you’ve been working outdoors, remove clothes and shower to remove allergens.²

Treatment for Seasonal Eye Allergies

While there are over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, that can be taken, some of them can dry out the eye and not readily improve the eye discomfort you may be experiencing. Antihistamines with diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl^™ or ChlorTrimeton^™ can dry out the mouth and eyes. Try medications with cetirizine or levocetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine or desloratadine that won’t cause drowsiness or dry eyes.³

Artificial tears can quickly wash irritants from the eyes before histamines are triggered. They can also keep the eyes moist. Use according to directions on the label and no more than six times a day.⁴

Other eye drop options include: corticosteroid eye drops, antihistamine eye drops, or decongestant eye drops. These should be used as directed and under the supervision of your ophthalmologist.⁴

Finally, there are immunotherapy shots that may be prescribed to help with severe seasonal allergies. Ask your ophthalmologist if you are a good candidate for this treatment option.⁴

Discuss your seasonal eye allergies with your ophthalmologist

Ready to nip your allergies in the bud? Call us today for an appointment and come to one of our two Colorado locations for a consultation. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are experienced in helping everything from mild to severe cases of spring allergies so you can enjoy the season free from eye discomfort.

            Denver: 303-320-1777

Sources:

¹ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies

² https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343

³ https://acaai.org/news/update-what-you-need-know-about-2021-spring-allergies

⁴ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/allergies-diagnosis

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

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

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

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