Patient Question & Answer Page

This page will feature answers to some commonly asked questions about the eye and vision.
Please feel free to email the doctors with any questions you may have.

Q: Why does my eyelid "twitch" sometimes?
A: An eyelid twitch is a very common ocular symptom which is typically caused by fatigue, lack of sleep, excess caffeine, dry eye, or irritation to the front of the eye. Other rare causes include serum electrolyte abnormality or anemia.

Q: I have been seeing flashes of light and/or several floaters and/or shadows in my vision since last night. Should I be worried?
A: Please see an eyecare professional right away. These are common symptoms of a retinal break or detachment. It could also (more commonly) be a vitreous detachment, which is not as serious but should be monitored. If you do have a retinal break or detachment, we want to catch it at an early stage to prevent loss of vision.

Q: I think I have "pink eye." What should I do?
A: "Pink eye" could be several things. Traditionally, "pink eye" means viral conjunctivitis which is a viral infection that presents in both eyes (often after or during a spell of the common cold or flu). One can also have a red, inflamed eye due to a bacterial infection, dry eye, allergy, corneal ulcer, foreign body in the eye, or many other things. It is very important to see your eye doctor right away, so that he/she may distinguish which of these conditions you have, and to treat it accordingly.

Q: What if I have eye pain, light sensitivity, discharge from the eye, swollen eyelids (any of these)?
A: Again...could be a number of conditions. With each of these symptoms, it is best to consult with your eye doctor as soon as possible.

Q: What do you think about LASIK surgery?
A: LASIK can be a wonderful option for many people, but it is not for everybody. Our doctors work with several ophthalmologists in the area who perform LASIK. We are happy to evaluate you during your eye exam, make recommendations, and participate in your follow-up care after your surgery.

Q: What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
A: An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor who graduates from medical school (after 3-4 years of college), then partakes in a residency and fellowship in ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists can perform surgeries. They typically specialize in one part of the eye; for example, a corneal specialist will perform corneal transplants, laser procedures, and often cataract extractions, among other types of surgeries. A retinal specialist will focus on the back of the eye (the retina and vitreous), often performing surgeries on patients with diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, or other conditions. Ophthalmologists typically do not deal with contact lenses, vision therapy, or low vision; many do not have an eyewear gallery/dispensary in their office. An optometrist is an eye doctor who graduates from optometry school (after 3-4 years of college), where he/she studies in-depth about optics, anatomy, physiology, refraction techniques, contact lenses, vision therapy, low vision, systemic disease and vision, binocular vision, pediatrics, and treatment of ocular disease, along with externships at area clinics.

Q: At what age should I have my child's eyes examined by an eye doctor?
A: The American Optometric Association recommends an eye examination at age 6 months, and 3 years; exams at this age are focused primarily on amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye turn), difference in refractive error, high amounts of refractive error (hyperopia, myopia, or astigmatism), as well as ocular pathology. Children at this young age will need to have a dilated exam to relax the lens of the eye so that the doctor is able to assess the refractive error in each eye. The next eye examination should be before the child enters school, either kindergarten or first grade, then typically yearly thereafter. Keep in mind that just because a child can see "20/20" does not mean he/she has perfect vision.

Q: How often should I have my eyes examined?
A: It depends on your situation. If you are under the age of 18, over the age of 40, wear contact lenses, have systemic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, or have a moderate amount of refractive error, you should have your eyes examined at least on a yearly basis. If you are between the ages of 18 and 40, have no problems with your eyes, and no systemic diseases, then typically every two years is sufficient. Ultimately, your eye doctor will make the best recommendation for follow-up and preventative care.

Q: Why is it that my parents yell at me when I sleep with my contact lenses in? I've worn contacts overnight for several months now and have not had any problems.
A: Sleeping with (most) contact lenses in your eyes reduces the oxygen to the cornea, which can result in swelling, blurred vision, dry eyes, bacterial infections and/or corneal ulcers. By wearing your contacts 24/7, you will quite possibly at some point have a corneal ulcer. Corneal ulcers can potentially cause irreversible vision impairment, or even blindness. In other words, listen to your parents!

Please do not use this page to diagnose yourself. If you are unsure about symptoms that you have, please see your eyecare professional as soon as possible.


If you have any more questions, email your doctor: Dr. Brian Tracy | Dr. Doug Ryen