Keep up to date on the latest vision related news and events from Dr. Steve Jacobs, Optometrist, Blacksburg; also serving Christiansburg, Radford and the surrounding areas.
Jun 28, 2020
Countless people around the world wear daily disposable contact lenses or dailies. These popular single-use lenses are removed and discarded at the end of each day, and a new, fresh pair is inserted the next morning. Used properly, dailies promote eye health, and they’re comfortable and convenient. Despite the many...
May 25, 2020
An online eye exam is an automated and interactive vision test that claims to measure mainly visual acuity. It may seem like a convenient way to evaluate your vision or get an eyeglass or contact lens prescription, as these tests can be administered using your computer, tablet, or smartphone from...
May 12, 2020
The Changing Face of Eye Care COVID-19’s rapid sweep across the country has forced optical practices to make rapid clinical management decisions. Some optometrists temporarily shuttered their businesses due to the pandemic, while others began to offer emergency appointment services and telehealth. As mandatory restrictions begin to lift in many...
May 03, 2020
During the COVID-19 outbreak, we have been going above and beyond to ensure that people are receiving emergency eye care. If you're having an eye emergency call your Blacksburg optometrist first.
Apr 16, 2020
Tele-optometry is a branch of telemedicine that can cover a wide range of problems and treatments related to vision and ocular health. Tele-medicine delivers medical care through digital medical equipment and telecommunications technology, such as online videos accessible through smart phones and tablets. This allows patients to easily receive screenings,...
Apr 12, 2020
You and your children are likely spending more time on mobile devices and computer screens than ever before. Too much time spent staring at screens can cause computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, in certain people. While not serious, this condition can be very uncomfortable, potentially causing: Headaches Eyestrain...
Apr 01, 2020
Coronavirus and Your Eyeglasses Did you know that our glasses (this includes the lenses and the frame) can potentially transfer viruses, such as COVID-19, to our eyes, nose, and mouth? This is because viruses — as well as bacteria — are easily transferred from our surroundings to our hands and...
Mar 26, 2020
As coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads around the world, health professionals are demanding that people limit their personal risk of contracting the virus by thoroughly washing their hands, practicing social distancing, and not touching their nose, mouth, or eyes. In fact, it may surprise you to learn that the eyes play an...
Mar 22, 2020
Spring is here (almost!) Happy March from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! Well, it’s allergy season, and there’s some great news for those of you who struggle with constantly itchy eyes every spring! Pataday, one of the best anti-allergy eye drops available has just been approved for over-the-counter sales beginning...
Mar 18, 2020
Is your eye doctor's appointment coming up? Are you worried about going to the eye clinic during the new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic? Rest assured, keeping our patients and staff are safe is our top priority. We anticipate that this outbreak will continue for a while, and do not want our...
Feb 26, 2020
Everyone seems to be staring at a screen these days, whether their computer, their smartphone or another digital device. The stress it puts on your eyes can cause a condition called "digital eye strain" (DES) or "computer vision syndrome" (CVS). Symptoms include eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck...
Feb 21, 2020
Happy February And Happy Valentine’s Day from Dr. J & staff. We hope your heart is feeling especially full of love today! Even though it’s been cold and rainy, we’re happy to be seeing a little bit of light return every day. And on that note, here’s some other good...
Feb 18, 2020
Nation-wide awareness about the vast dangers of obesity is at an all-time high, with TV shows like “The Biggest Loser” and health initiatives such as Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign shining a spotlight on the importance of fitness and good nutrition. However, despite the public’s knowledge of obesity’s effects on...
Jan 27, 2020
Playing outside in a snowy winter wonderland can be magical. Under clear skies in the sunshine, the soft white landscape becomes just about irresistible, whether at home or travelling on a winter-weather get-away. Before you let your children run outside to build the most adorable snowman or fling themselves onto...
Jan 22, 2020
Did you ever wonder what your friendly neighborhood Optometrists did for fun? We call it Frame Fun Time and we all had some fun decorating frames for ourselves with crafty stuff! Perhaps we should have our own designer frame line? ...
Jan 20, 2020
2020 Quiz Whenever most people hear 2020, they think of eye exams and they know 20/20 means good or “perfect” eyesight (but it’s really not that simple). Now, with the year 2020 here, every eye doctor, and anyone whose work involves the eyes, will be playing with those numbers one...
Jan 16, 2020
Did you know that people with diabetes are 20 times more likely to get eye diseases than those without it? There are three major eye conditions that diabetics are at risk for developing: cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. To prevent these sight-threatening diseases, it's important to control your blood sugar...
Jan 08, 2020
It’s 2020!! Happy New Year from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! Trunk Show Thank You We want to thank everyone who came out for our Trunk Show in November. It wasn’t our busiest, but thanks to various donations and our match, NRV Cares and VICCC each received close to $500...
Dec 22, 2019
Your eyes aren't just the windows to your soul — they can also reveal valuable information about your general health beyond whether you need glasses, including: diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. It is not unusual for people to come in for an eye exam just to check their eyesight...
Dec 11, 2019
Smoking harms nearly every system in your body — including your eyes. Though we are all aware of the health effects associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and bad teeth, few know about the negative impact it can have on our vision. Smoking and Eye Disease Smoking,...
Nov 26, 2019
Once you and your doctor have decided on the type of contact lenses you'll need, it's time to choose the most suitable contact lens solution for your eyes and contacts. There exist 2 different types of solution for contact lenses: Multipurpose and Hydrogen Peroxide-based. While both remove debris and build-up,...
Nov 07, 2019
It’s Trunk Show time!! The middle of Fall brings many things: colorful foliage, Hokie football, seasonal Holidays and, of course, the 12th Annual EyeWear Trunk Show and Local Charity Fundraiser at the office of Dr. Steve Jacobs, Optometrist. This year’s event is scheduled for Friday, November 15th from 9-5. Three...
Nov 04, 2019
Swimming in a pool with your contacts on or topping off your solution may seem harmless, but they could compromise your contact lenses and your vision. Below are daily habits to adopt for optimal contact lens care: Wash Your Hands Regularly Whether you use daily or monthly contact lenses, make...
Oct 23, 2019
Whether you live in a cold climate or have visited one in the winter, you have probably seen someone who just walked in from the cold outdoors sporting glasses that are no longer transparent, or perhaps you’ve experienced it yourself. Why Do Glasses Fog Up? There are several factors that...
Oct 13, 2019
Happy October from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! You know we’re fascinated with how the eyes, brain and body interact from a health standpoint. We’re just as fascinated with how they work together from a behavioral perspective, so we love our RightEye – an amazing new technology which measures and...
Oct 03, 2019
Good Eye Care Habits & Hygiene By practicing good eye care habits and hygiene, you can prevent many vision problems from occurring. Eye problems and the risks associated with vision loss only grow as you age. By neglecting eye care, you place yourself at a higher risk of suffering from...
Sep 24, 2019
Countless adults, teens and even children will be wearing colored contact lenses this Halloween, but few are aware of the risks involved. Ever wondered what those cat-eye contacts are doing to your eyes? If you got them without a prescription, beware of health complications. Enjoy a safe and happy Halloween...
Sep 16, 2019
September Is Sports Eye Safety Month! Ocular sports trauma is among the leading causes of permanent vision loss in North America. Tens of thousands of people get treated for sports-related eye injuries a year, with the most common injuries occurring during water sports and basketball. Infections, corneal abrasions, eye socket...
Sep 09, 2019
Happy September from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! It’s hard to miss all the new faces in Blacksburg this month–and we want to introduce you to ours! This is our newest staff member, Terri, whom we mentioned last month. We’re excited to have her on the team! Now, here’s a...
Aug 29, 2019
This summer, heat waves with scorching temperatures have hit communities nationwide, making an already hot summer even hotter. With high temps and heat waves in certain areas, it’s now more important than ever to protect yourself. For best practices and tips for maintaining healthy vision in the summer heat, talk...
Aug 08, 2019
Happy August from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & Staff! This is looking to be quite an event filled month!!! Steppin’ Out is opening up as I type. Public school begins in less than 2 weeks, tons of Hokies will be pouring in soon (including the Surprise 1000), and…. August 1st was...
Jul 22, 2019
July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and no wonder! With the summer sun out in full force, it’s now more important than ever to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. During this month, people who have suffered from UV ray damage and their loved ones are encouraged to share...
Jul 14, 2019
Happy July from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! We hope you had a fabulous holiday last weekend and that the summer is treating you well so far! Here at the office we've been settling into all the changes we mentioned last month. Dr. S is quickly becoming a part of...
Jun 27, 2019
This summer, whether you’re headed across state lines on a family road trip, flying off to Europe, grabbing a quick weekend getaway, or taking a vacation in your own backyard, don’t forget to protect your eyes! Check out our top 4 tips for ensuring healthy eyes this summer, and remember,...
Jun 12, 2019
Happy June from Drs. Jacobs, Steckenrider & staff! Happy Father's Day! Congrats to all the grads! Summer is almost here... and we are SO excited to welcome the newest member of our team, Dr. Jennifer Steckenrider! Dr. S will begin seeing patients here on June 17th. Hailing from Peru, Indiana, she...
Jun 11, 2019
June is Cataract Awareness Month. During this important time, people living with cataracts (and their loved ones) are encouraged to talk about their personal experiences by giving each other helpful information and sharing their knowledge and advice. Use the hashtag #CataractAwarenessMonth on your social media channels to encourage and support...
Jun 02, 2019
We asked Dr. Steve Jacobs, OD a few questions about Eye Emergencies- and here is what he had to say: Q: What is an eye infection? A: Any infection is the result of “germs” kind of taking over the normal functioning of part of the body. “Germs” can be bacteria...
May 22, 2019
Do your kids need glasses in order to see clearly? Maybe they have a strong case of nearsightedness, perhaps they have astigmatism, or another type of refractive error. Whatever the cause, getting your kids to wear eyeglasses can be a parenting challenge. Dr. Steve Jacobs treats patients from all over Blacksburg, Virginia...
May 19, 2019
Happy Spring from all of us, plus a newcomer to our family... But before we introduce her, the really important news: FRAN'S COOKIES ARE BACK! Also, with spring here and warm weather (hopefully) on the way, it’s time to get outside for the good of your brain, body, spirit, and...
May 08, 2019
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the USA; in Canada, Mental Health week is May 6th to 12th. Since 1949, it has been observed throughout the United States as a way of drawing attention to the importance of proper mental health. This year’s theme is #4Mind4Body. The idea is...
Apr 16, 2019
April is Parkinson's Awareness Month in the USA and Canada, a time when those living with the disorder, their family members, friends, and community come together to raise awareness and share helpful information. People with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and their loved ones are encouraged to share their stories, struggles, and...
Mar 20, 2019
This is the 2nd part of our Q&A on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and the role your local eye doctor can play in helping you assess and treat a TBI. Q. - If I think I (my child) have had a concussion, is a brain scan necessary? A. – If...
Mar 19, 2019
Spring is a season of new beginnings, when the cold harsh winter months are behind us, flowers bloom, and people begin spending more time outdoors. For people with allergies, spring means one more thing: suffering. Spring may be in the air, but for allergy sufferers, so is pollen, pet dander,...
Mar 07, 2019
Happy March from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz & staff! March is Brain Injury Awareness Month--so in this month's newsletter, you'll find a lot of useful information about these challenging injuries. They're intricately related to vision and the eyes, and over the past few years, Dr. J has been working with local...
Mar 07, 2019
March 8th is International Women's Day, a day when women are honored and their accomplishments celebrated worldwide. From medicine to law, entrepreneurship to corporate leadership, education to the military, women are achieving great strides in areas of business like never before. In addition to professional achievements, International Women's Day is...
Feb 28, 2019
We had the opportunity to ask Dr. Steve Jacobs about one of his specialties- Traumatic Brain Injury (also know as TBI) and Concussions. Not many people know how important a role you local eye doctor can have in helping you recover from a head injury. This is the first of...
Feb 24, 2019
Most of us have the basics: bleach, oven cleaner, air freshener, furniture polish, and window spray. Did you know that chemicals found in these kinds of cleaning products can be toxic and harmful to your health? In small amounts, they generally don’t cause much damage. But when used on a...
Feb 14, 2019
Happy February from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz and staff! We've got some treats for you this month--don't miss the hilarious videos at the bottom of the email! But first, important business... February is Macular Degeneration Awareness month. Macular Degeneration affects our ability to see fine details. It's the leading cause of...
Feb 07, 2019
It’s February and that means we’re smack in the middle of winter, which is also the middle of the school year. It’s the season when kids fervently hope for snow days and parents hope they don’t happen. As we head towards the second half of the school year, you’ve probably...
Jan 28, 2019
January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma, a silent eye disease, is the most common form of irreversible blindness in the world. It is actually a group of diseases that causes progressive damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can lead to...
Jan 19, 2019
Happy New Year from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, & staff! Let’s welcome 2019 with a little fun. From the marvelous world of Marvel comics, you may be familiar w “spidey” sense. But, did you know some spiders have super-duper eyes as well? And, how do we know? Hasn’t everyone seen a...
Jan 17, 2019
Each year during the month of January we recognize World Braille Day which gives us the opportunity to take a moment and appreciate the incredible gift that Braille has given to those who are blind or suffer from vision loss. What is Braille? Braille is a tactile representation of letters...
Dec 19, 2018
Nerf Guns: Popular, Projectile... Safe? With the newest Nerf guns and blasters reigning at the top of lists for the most popular toys this holiday season, many parents are excited to surprise their kids (or their spouses) with these coveted toy weapons. There is, in fact a whole culture behind these...
Dec 16, 2018
Happy December from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz & staff! It's that time of year again! We hope you're staying warm and have both festivities and relaxation in your plans for the month. HEADS UP: Many workers have flex spending accounts which permit tax-free dollars to be put aside for a variety...
Nov 29, 2018
Whether you live in a climate with cold winter weather or you are planning a ski trip up north, winter can be a challenge if you suffer from dry eyes. Dry, cool air, cold winds and even drier indoor heating can cause eye irritation, burning, itchiness and redness, and sometimes...
Nov 12, 2018
In case you forgot... ...our 11th annual Trunk Show and Local Charity Fundraiser is coming up very soon! It's a great way to celebrate the season, have a little fun (and plenty of food) and support the community and some of our most vulnerable citizens. Please join us on Friday,...
Nov 12, 2018
Diabetes is becoming much more prevalent around the globe. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 425 million adults were living with diabetes in the year 2017 and 352 million more people were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By 2045 the number of people diagnosed is expected to...
Oct 24, 2018
Brush Up Before You Dress Up Halloween is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults alike. When else do you get to dress up as anyone (or anything) you want, socialize with friends and eat lots of treats? Nevertheless, lurking behind those costumes and...
Sep 28, 2018
Happy September from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz and staff! And, welcome back to all the Hokies! VT football is off to a roaring start! Go Hokies! But like it or not, it's an opportune time to talk about concussions and TBIs. On the good news front, a blood test has recently...
Sep 17, 2018
Screen Time Pros and Cons Whether it is homework, email, gaming, chatting with friends, searching the web or watching Youtube, kids these days seem to have an endless number of reasons to be glued to a screen. Many parents out there are wondering how bad this can be for their...
Sep 13, 2018
Getting old doesn’t have to be synonymous with vision loss. There is a lot you can do to keep your eyes and vision healthy and prevent age related eye disease and vision loss, especially if you start early. Keeping your eyes healthy and strong may require some lifestyle changes, but...
Aug 30, 2018
What Is Progressive Myopia? Nearsightedness or myopia is one of the most prevalent eye disorders worldwide and its incidence is increasing. In fact by 2050, myopia is projected to affect half of the world’s population! Many children diagnosed with nearsightedness (myopia) experience a consistent worsening of their vision as they...
Aug 09, 2018
Happy August from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz & staff! Summer’s the best time to put in place healthy habits – the weather’s warm, there’s plenty of daylight, fresh fruits, veggies and proteins are easy to find, and most people have a little more time away from work – all great ingredients...
Aug 09, 2018
An online eye test may seem like a convenient way to check your vision or get an eyeglass prescription but beware, these tests aren’t all they are chocked up to be. In fact, they may even be dangerous. What is an online eye test really testing? An online eye test...
Jul 29, 2018
Our colleague, Dr. Nicholas Despotidis was recently invited to give a talk at TEDx and we were thrilled to see him discuss the Myopia Epidemic in such a clear and insightful way- it's well worth the watch!...
Jul 26, 2018
Healthy eyes and good vision are essential for your child’s growth and development. In fact, learning is 80% visual, which means a child’s success in school, athletics and many other aspects of life can be impacted by poor vision. Good vision goes beyond how far you can see, and also...
Jul 20, 2018
Happy July Everybody! SO much to report on here... A Fond Farewell... So long to a long-time part-timer, Daniel Clarke. Daniel’s been with us since early 2014. He’s loved VT and Blacksburg (and us) so much he stretched out his time here, but finally had to graduate. Best of luck...
Jul 16, 2018
It’s almost back to school time for college students and whether this is your first time away from home or you are already a pro, you want to be prepared with as much knowledge as possible to live safely on your own. This knowledge includes eye and vision safety, as...
Jun 25, 2018
While it may seem like a harmless action, rubbing your eyes can actually cause a lot of damage. There are a number of different reasons that people rub their eyes and for the most part, it does more harm than good. While rubbing your eyes might feel really good in...
Jun 20, 2018
Happy June, from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! Summertime is in effect so get out there and play! Stock up on sunshine, fresh air, and Vitamin D; Just take care to limit the UV! Besides aging the skin, ultra-violet light can irritate the eyes, and over time too much exposure can...
Jun 18, 2018
Migraine Awareness Month: An ocular migraine is any migraine headache that involves a visual disturbance such as flashes of light, seeing stars or zigzags or the appearance of blind spots in the visual field. Ocular migraines can interfere with your ability to go about your daily tasks such as driving,...
May 30, 2018
Sure, sunglasses might add the final touches to your chic ensemble, but the real reason to purchase your shades is to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only does glare from the sun make it difficult to see, but the UV rays it reflects can cause permanent damage to...
May 14, 2018
With the weather (finally!) getting nice and farmers' market stalls filling up, it's also a great time of year to start creating healthier habits for ourselves and our loved ones. Warm weather means it’s easier to get kids outside to play. And the more time kids spend outside before they’re...
May 10, 2018
Vision is a critical component to succeed as an athlete and this doesn’t just mean having 20/20 vision. There are a number of visual processes that are involved in optimal sports performance, whether you are playing a weekly little league game or competing in professional sports. The eyes and the...
Apr 25, 2018
While we all know that regular eye exams can help detect warning signs of disease and prevent vision loss, many people fail to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem with the eye. In fact, only about half of Americans that are at risk for serious vision loss...
Apr 16, 2018
April is Women’s Eye Health Month in the USA and May is Healthy Vision month in Canada too, so let’s take the opportunity to look at some tips for maintaining eye and vision health, with a special focus on women. Statistically, women are more at risk than men for eye...
Apr 11, 2018
Happy April from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! You can’t talk lifestyle issues and ocular wellness in April without talking allergies. Come another week or two, the NRV will be blooming… and many eyes will be itching, red and watering. Minimizing exposure can help but isn’t always practical- especially if...
Mar 30, 2018
Happy March from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, & staff! March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. The most common brain injuries are concussions, also called mild traumatic brain injuries, or mTBIs. They affect up to 4 million Americans a year. For most, recovery occurs over a few weeks with little lasting issue....
Mar 27, 2018
If you want strong, healthy eyes and clear vision for life, a major step you can take is to protect your eyes from UV radiation. Wearing proper eye protection from the sun reduces the risk of a number of eye diseases and other conditions that are caused or worsened by...
Mar 12, 2018
We all experience the occasional eyelid twitch, which is when the muscle of the eyelid spasms involuntarily. Usually, it comes and goes without intervention and while sure, it can be irritating, is a twitching eyelid ever something to be concerned about? An eyelid twitch, also known as a myokymia, can...
Feb 27, 2018
Infant Eyesight Despite nine months of growth in utero, babies are not born with fully developed eyes and vision - just like they can't walk or talk yet. Over the first few months of life, their visual systems continue to progress, stimulated by their surroundings. Babies will develop the ability...
Feb 22, 2018
On Thursday February the 22nd, we were at the Christiansburg Recreation Center for the 6th Annual New River Valley Senior Health Fair- hosted by Radford University's School of Nursing. Our goal was to educate seniors about various health services and promotions that are available to them in the New River...
Feb 18, 2018
It’s that time of the year again. Each February, the optometric community bands together to create awareness about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people 50 years and older; early detection plays a key role in the outcome of the disease. That’s why...
Feb 08, 2018
Happy February from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! Wishing everyone a happy Valentine's Day, Presidents' Day, Ground Hog Day, and every other day. Did you know that February is Macular Degeneration Awareness Month? Well, you do now. This ties in well and helps us shed light on Age-related macular degeneration...
Jan 29, 2018
At this time of year when the sun sets early, many people are affected by night blindness. Night blindness or nyctalopia refers to difficulty seeing at night or in poor or dim lighting situations. It can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, sometimes completely benign and sometimes as a...
Jan 21, 2018
Happy New Year from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! The New Year is a great time to look back, and to look ahead. Here at the practice we’ve decided to focus on ocular health for our friends and patients. We’ll be highlighting simple lifestyle changes you can make to improve...
Jan 14, 2018
Happy Holidays from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and all the staff! Spreading Joy Looking for ways to spread the joy and love? Here's a great resource we discovered: the Action for Happiness Kindness Calendar. It's got a "suggested good deed" for every day of December 2017 and it's something you can do...
Jan 10, 2018
It’s that time of year again. January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time set aside each year to create awareness about this potentially devastating disease. The reason awareness about glaucoma is so important is because as its nickname, The Sneak Thief of Sight, describes, the disease often causes permanent...
Dec 31, 2017
While most people have sunglasses high on their packing list for a tropical vacation, many people don’t consider it as much of a priority for colder climate getaways. But they should, and here’s why: Wintertime vacations often include activities that involve snow and ice and in general, conditions that can...
Dec 24, 2017
As the season to deck the halls arrives, make sure that you aren’t one of the many people who find themselves celebrating in the urgent care clinic due to an eye injury. The holidays present many opportunities for potential eye injury so it’s important to be aware and proceed with...
Nov 27, 2017
The New Year is coming and many people include healthier eating and exercise in their resolutions for the year ahead. Well other than weight loss and overall health and disease-prevention, a healthy diet and regular exercise can protect your eyes and your vision. In particular, there are certain vitamins and...
Nov 13, 2017
November 14th is World Diabetes Day. This year, the theme of World Diabetes Day is women and diabetes - our right to a healthy future. The goal of this campaign is to promote awareness of the importance of equal and affordable access for all women, whether they are at risk...
Nov 05, 2017
Happy November from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and all the staff! The Annual Trunk Show is coming! Mark it in your calendars: Friday November 17th we'll be offering up to 50% discounts on eye wear from Dolbany, Clear Vision and Europa- some of the best designers in the industry today. We'll...
Oct 29, 2017
October is World Blindness Awareness Month, an initiative started to help the public to understand the realities of visual impairment and how it affects the world population. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of millions of individuals around the world who are unnecessarily blind or visually impaired due to causes that are...
Oct 19, 2017
Happy October from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! With Halloween approaching the whole team has been busy as heck! Our 10th Annual Trunk show is coming up on Friday, November the 17th. We'll have amazing offerings for you so come on out and pay us a visit. It will be...
Oct 15, 2017
October has arrived and that means many people are already starting to plan for upcoming costume parties and trick-or-treating for the Halloween season. This is why now is the time to remind the public about some very important precautions about eye safety since there are some common costume props and...
Sep 27, 2017
Every good pair of eyes eventually gets old and with age comes a condition called presbyopia. Presbyopia, which usually begins to set in some time around 40, occurs when the lens of the eye begins to stiffen, making near vision (such as reading books, menus, and computer screens) blurry. You...
Sep 19, 2017
Happy September from Drs. Jacobs, Diaz, and staff! We’ve been busy as usual with everything that has been going on in our community this summer! With hurricanes and an eclipse in the background we had our “Screenagers” movie night in August and we wrapped up summer with our second annual...
Sep 19, 2017
Even if you don’t have any eye or vision problems, the natural process of aging affects your ability to see and react to visual stimuli. It’s important to know the impact the aging can have on your eyes and vision so you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe...
Aug 27, 2017
Many teens who wear glasses are eager to try out contact lenses for convenience, fashion or to just provide another option for vision correction.
Aug 13, 2017
What’s it like to be color blind? Contrary to what the name implies, color blindness usually does not actually mean that you don’t see any color, but rather that you have difficulty perceiving or distinguishing between certain colors. This is why many prefer the term color vision deficiency or CVD...
Jul 26, 2017
On August 21st, for the first time since 1979, a solar eclipse will be visible across North America. What's even more historic is that it will also be the first time an eclipse will be visible across the continent, from coast to coast, since 1918. If you want to bear...
Jul 19, 2017
Original article appeared in Optometry Today. A “blueish mass” of 17 contact lenses has been discovered in the eye of a patient who was scheduled for cataract surgery. The 67-year-old patient was unaware that the contact lenses were missing, and later told surgeons that she thought her discomfort was due...
Jul 12, 2017
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which bright light - either natural sunlight or artificial light - can cause significant discomfort, pain and intolerance. People that experience light sensitivity will find themselves needing to close their eyes or squint when exposed to light and often experience...
Jun 26, 2017
What Exactly Is a Black Eye? A black eye, also known as a periorbital hematoma, is usually not an injury of the actual eye (which is why it is called “periorbital”- around the eye). It typically occurs when there is an injury to the face or the eye socket which...
Jun 19, 2017
It's National Cataract Awareness Month According to the World Health Organization, cataracts are responsible for 51% of cases of blindness worldwide - although this blindness is preventable with treatment. In fact, research shows that in industrialized countries about 50% of individuals over the age of 70 have had a cataract...
Jun 13, 2017
It's been a while! We've been busy with lots of exciting events both in and out of the office, and we've got some good stuff coming up, too. Check it out! First... congratulations Dr. Diaz! We're also excited to introduce our newest staff member – Kelly Roberts! Our Myopia Open House...
May 28, 2017
You Don’t Have to Live With Dry Eyes Have you noticed that your eyes feel chronically dry, itchy, scratchy or even sometimes watery? Many people that have these symptoms just go on with their lives until the symptoms become unbearable. What they don’t realize is that these are signs that...
May 10, 2017
Eye Doctors Weigh In: How Smoking Can Harm Your Vision & Eye Health We all know that smoking is bad for you, especially the risks that it poses to your heart and lungs. What many people do not know is that cigarette smoke negatively affects your eyes and vision too. Smoking...
Apr 30, 2017
In honor of Sjogren’s Awareness month, eye care providers are helping to spread the word to increase awareness about this hard-to-diagnose disease. Sjogren’s is a systemic autoimmune disorder that can affect the whole body. One of the primary symptoms is excessive dryness particularly in the eyes and mouth. Other serious...
Apr 25, 2017
Is there anything more convenient than the internet? If you're the average human-being with internet access, you know the answer to that. Because of this, I'm going to talk a little about the rising popularity of a few things related to our field: Ordering glasses online, and...*gasp!* eye exams performed online!...
Apr 06, 2017
Hey women! Did you know that women are more likely to suffer from vision problems and are at higher risk of permanent vision loss than men? Well 91% of the women surveyed recently didn’t know that, which means that many of them aren’t taking the necessary precautions to prevent eye...
Mar 30, 2017
There is nothing worse than a dirty spot on your glasses - well except perhaps many dirty spots or smudges. When that happens, most of us are tempted to grab the corner of our shirt and wipe it off, but resist the temptation - this is actually not a good...
Mar 26, 2017
I often wonder why Dr. Jacobs hired me. I had no optical experience, and thought a PD was short for physical deficiency. (I have since learned that it means pupillary distance Na Na Na Na J) I noticed that this doctor’s office was different, when I came for the interview. ...
Mar 15, 2017
Workplace Eye Safety Month Blue light. Do you know what it is? Do you know where it comes from, or how it can be harmful to your eyes? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you are not alone, yet it is important that you become aware to...
Mar 01, 2017
Most of the time, when patients (or even not yet-patients) come in to the office with a missing screw (in their glasses J) or bent frames, we fix them up for free or a minimal fee. I usually just ask for a smile when asked what the charge is. I...
Feb 27, 2017
Eye color is a hereditary trait that depends on the genes of both parents, as well as a little bit of mystery. The color of the eye is based on the pigments in the iris, which is a colored ring of muscle located at the center of the eye (around...
Feb 14, 2017
Age-related macular degeneration is a serious condition that can threaten your vision and general well-being. Characterized by the deterioration of the central area of the retina called the macula which is responsible for focused vision, the disease gradually reduces your central vision. This affects the ability to see fine details,...
Feb 01, 2017
Recently a neighbor asked me, "What are some signs that a toddler needs glasses?" In conjunction with this is the equally common inquiry, "When do children need their first eye exam?" I thought this would be a great topic to discuss, because these are questions we hear all the time at the...
Jan 31, 2017
Your toddler may show every sign of good eyesight including the ability to see objects in the distance, however that doesn't necessarily mean that he or she doesn't have a vision problem. Amblyopia is one common eye condition that is often hidden behind the appearance of good eyesight. Also...
Jan 16, 2017
One of the favorite parts of my job is when I get to tell our patients to touch their own eyes. Ok, I should probably reiterate that one: Training patients on contact lens insertion and removal. It's a great time! No, really, when you think about it in the long-run,...
Jan 16, 2017
Make your resolution for healthy vision this year with increased awareness of the leading cause of blindness worldwide.
Dec 12, 2016
This is the one way you can be sure that you or your child’s eyes are truly safe during Nerf shooting:
Dec 06, 2016
Despite the fact that it is one of the most common eye problems, a surprisingly large percentage of patients are not aware of it.
Nov 21, 2016
Chances are it affects you or someone you know. November has been dedicated as a time to spread awareness about the disease, its risk factors and the effects it has on your body, your daily life and the lives of your loved ones.
Nov 14, 2016
Red, itchy, watery eyes and swollen eyelids (along with sneezing, congestion or a runny nose)...
Oct 21, 2016
Most people wouldn’t consider contact lenses dangerous. In fact, they are a great alternative to glasses, offering convenience and great vision for those who wear them. However, when not obtained and used according to an eye doctor’s instructions, the consequences can be devastating. Contact Lenses Need to Fit Like...
Sep 27, 2016
90%! That’s the number of sports eye injuries that studies show can be prevented using proper eye protection. Yet most sports leagues don’t require protective eyewear as part of their uniform or safety requirements. This leaves it up to athletes, parents and coaches to ensure that proper measures are taken...
Aug 30, 2016
It is important to teach your children about eye health and safety from a young age. This includes awareness about how your overall health habits affect your eyes and vision as well as how to keep your eyes safe from injury and infection. Starting off with good eye habits at...
Aug 19, 2016
Since studies show that learning is 80% visual, children with untreated vision problems can really suffer when it comes to school. Most people think that good “vision” means 20/20 acuity but in reality, vision is much more complex. Your brain is actually what completes the processing of the visual world...
Jul 30, 2016
We have all seen the futuristic thrillers that use high-tech eye scanning identification systems but nowadays the technology does exist to use them in real life. A greater number of high security establishments have begun to use iris recognition for identification and security systems. How does it work? The...
Jul 22, 2016
There have been a lot of videos going viral lately of color blind people “seeing color” for the first time using specialized glasses. The emotional reactions of amazement, shock and joy even lead some to break down into tears. The glasses provide these individuals a way to view the world...
Jun 26, 2016
Whether it is the sea, the sand, the sun or the softball field, summer brings people outside and this creates exposure to a multitude of potential dangers to the eyes. One risk that is possibly the least obvious is the swimming pool. Swimming pools are the culprit for multitudes of...
Jun 19, 2016
After the age of 50 most people will eventually be diagnosed with cataracts. Cataracts are when the natural crystalline lens of the eyes become clouded, causing vision impairment that can not be corrected by glasses or contact lenses. While commonly an age-related condition, occasionally there are infants born with a...
May 26, 2016
According to the Vision Council’s 2016 UV (Ultraviolet Radiation) Protection report, parents are more likely to wear sunglasses (56%) than their children (only 29%!). Yet children, who spend much more time outside, are typically exposed to three times the amount of sunlight and UV radiation that adults get. This early...
May 18, 2016
UV Awareness Month: This article might scare you, and we hope it does - just enough to motivate you to wear proper eye protection against the sun. Most people are aware of the dangers ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun pose to your skin, while the long-term effects of sun...
Apr 26, 2016
A stye (known by eye doctors as a hordeolum) is an infection of an oil gland which forms a pimple-like bump on the base of the eyelid or within the eyelid itself. Styes can be uncomfortable, causing swelling, pain, redness, discomfort and sometimes excessive tearing or blurred vision if it...
Apr 17, 2016
Along with congestion, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, headaches and difficulty breathing, individuals with allergies often suffer from eye allergies or allergic conjunctivitis resulting in red, watery, itchy and sometimes swollen eyes. Just as irritants cause an allergic response in your nasal and respiratory system, your eyes also react with an...
Mar 30, 2016
If you are over 40 and have difficulty seeing close up, you probably have a common age-related condition called presbyopia which is when the eye’s natural lens loses the ability to focus on close objects. Presbyopia is a natural process that occurs as the eye ages and affects the majority of...
Mar 09, 2016
When people think of workplace dangers to the eyes, it is usually machinery, chemicals or construction materials that come to mind. However, a growing danger to the eyes is one that may be less obvious - exposure to blue light from digital devices, television and computer screens and artificial lighting....
Feb 28, 2016
Whether you are looking for regular prescription glasses, sunwear or protective sports eyewear, it can be tough choosing the best eyewear for children and teens. On the one hand, they need to be comfortable and provide the optimal fit for improved vision and protection. At the same time, they also...
Feb 10, 2016
February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month in the United States, and it’s White Cane Week in Canada. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults aged 50 and older. Awareness about the disease, the risk factors and prevention are critical, even for younger...
Jan 27, 2016
This year, make healthy eyes and vision your resolution. Find out if you or a loved one is at risk for glaucoma, and take steps for prevention. Glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable vision loss and blindness in adults in the United States and Canada and the second leading...
Dec 31, 2015
Refractive errors including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.
Dec 09, 2015
‘Tis the season for giving, and parents, grandparents, family and friends need to know how to choose toys and games that protect children’s health and eyesight.
Nov 23, 2015
Have you ever thought about how vision works? It's an incredible system and process!
Nov 02, 2015
Prevention and treatment for eye complications associated with Diabetes
Oct 25, 2015
Beware this Halloween and think before you blink (in decorative contact lenses that is)! Sure, decorative contact lenses can enhance any Halloween costume, but if not taken seriously, they can also cost you your vision. Whether they are sold as cosmetic lenses, colored lenses or fashion lenses, they are anything...
Sep 24, 2015
Over the centuries there have been a lot of old-wives tales circulating about eyes and vision. You know, like the one that if someone hits you on the back while your eyes are crossed they will stay that way. Unlike this example, some of these myths do have roots in...
Sep 03, 2015
There are thousands of eye injuries a year related to sports. According to the National Eye Institute eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in children in North America and most injuries occurring in school-aged children are sports-related. Further 99% of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented simply by...
Aug 30, 2015
The hormonal fluctuations experienced during pregnancy can cause many unexpected changes in your body, including your eyes and vision. Most of these changes are temporary and will return to normal once you give birth. It’s important to know which vision changes are normal for an expecting mother and which could...
Aug 16, 2015
A baby’s visual system develops gradually over the first few months of life. They have to learn to focus and move their eyes, and use them together as a team. The brain also needs to learn how to process the visual information from the eyes to understand and interact with...
Aug 02, 2015
Summertime, and the Seeing is Easy By Dr. Steve Jacobs Summer is the time for contact lenses for sports, beach time, gardening… you name it. Many activities are enhanced by the freedom of not wearing framed glasses. From the first hand-blown glass contact lenses of the 1880s to today’s space...
Jul 30, 2015
There is a lot more that goes into finding the right pair of sunglasses than just fit and fashion. While it’s important to look and feel great in your shades, sunglasses also have the very important job of properly protecting your eyes from the sun. Here are a few facts...
Jul 26, 2015
Dr. Jacobs talks about his specialty in fitting Scleral contact lenses. Conditions such as keratoconus (very irregular shape to the front of the eye), eye trauma or corneal surgery, may lead to distortion and significant visual impairment even with glasses. Even though it can be challenging, and I guess because...
Jul 24, 2015
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in the United States and Canada. Here are 6 things you need to know. 1. Chances are you will develop a cataract! Cataracts are considered part of the natural aging process so if you live long enough, you will likely eventually develop...
Jul 21, 2015
Independence Day may have passed but fireworks season is still in full swing and fireworks-related injury and death is a real and serious danger. According to the 2014 Annual Fireworks Report, compiled by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission there were at least 11 deaths and 10,500 injuries due to...
May 29, 2015
Your eyes are constantly at work for you, playing a vital role as you navigate through each day. As May is healthy vision month, here are some things to keep in mind: Know your genes While your eyes may be the same color as your father’s eyes, you may have...
May 17, 2015
According to Women’sEyeHealth.org, ⅔ of blindness and visual impairment occurs in women. Additionally, an estimated 75% of visual impairment is preventable or correctable with proper education and care. With the increased risks for women it’s critical for women to know about the risks and prevention to effectively protect their eyes...
Apr 30, 2015
Spring is in the air. But along with the beauty of the blooming flowers and budding trees, comes allergy season. The high pollen count and allergens floating in the fresh spring air can certainly wreak havoc on the comfort level of those suffering from allergies, causing an otherwise nature-loving individual...
Mar 31, 2015
Last week, people in South America, Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia and the Middle East saw a solar eclipse. As you may have heard, looking directly at a solar eclipse is very dangerous for your eyes and vision. Nevertheless, this rare event is something that many people want...
Mar 19, 2015
March is Save Your Vision Month, a time to raise public awareness about how to protect your eyes and your vision. Most people aren’t aware that 75% of potential vision loss can be prevented or treated. This largely depends on patients being proactive and educated about their eye health. Here...
Mar 11, 2015
Digital devices have impacted our world in so many positive ways, allowing us to connect, work, play and get information at the speed of light. But all of this good brings with it a measure of concern: Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome. Focusing on your vision on digital...
Feb 12, 2015
February is Low Vision and Age-Related Macular Degeneration awareness month. Low vision describes a set of conditions in which there is significant visual impairment which can not be corrected with traditional means such as glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery. Low vision includes a loss of visual acuity...
Jan 27, 2015
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a serious, vision threatening disease. You can save your eyesight, by knowing the facts. Are you at risk of developing glaucoma? The short answer is yes. Anyone can get glaucoma and because of this it is important for every person, young and old...
Dec 31, 2014
It’s that time of year again…coughs, sneezing, running noses and itchy, red eyes. How do you know when an eye irritation is something that needs medical attention? First of all, any time an eye infection is accompanied by fever, excessive discharge or pain, you should see your eye doctor immediately....
Dec 22, 2014
One of the most common patient complaints during the winter months is dry eyes. In the cooler climates, cold winds and dry air, coupled with dry indoor heating can be a recipe for eye discomfort. Dryness and irritation can be particularly debilitating for those who wear contact lenses or suffer...
Dec 04, 2014
Winter break is in a few weeks and, with college students finding their way home for the holidays, it is a good time for parents to check in and make sure their independent kids are taking care of themselves properly.Vision plays a key role in learning as well as extra-curricular activities...
Nov 25, 2014
November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. Do you know the facts?
Oct 31, 2014
You may have experienced this before. Out of nowhere, your eyelid starts twitching uncontrollably. While this can be a cause of aggravation, eyelid twitches, spasms or tics are actually quite common. Here are 7 things you should know about this eye condition: Eye twitches are generally caused by a repetitive,...
Sep 28, 2014
The World Sight Day Challenge, slated to take place on October 9, 2014 is an annual awareness day that aims to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment worldwide. The day aims to create awareness that blindness can be avoided if there is universal access to quality vision and...
Sep 18, 2014
The new school year has kicked off and you can tick off purchasing all that back to school equipment. Now, it's time to think about what your child will need for after school sports and hobby activities. Making sure they have the right protective eyewear for their sporting or athletic...
Jul 24, 2014
Summer vacation is well under way, but did you know that even when your child is out of the classroom, vision problems can have an impact on his/her daily activities? Look out for these 4 warning signs during the summer months – they could be a sign of vision difficulties...
Jul 17, 2014
Eye floaters are actually more common that you may think. Many people notice specks or cobweb-like images moving around in their line of vision, at some point. Some even report experiencing a "snow globe effect" as if they are swatting at many imaginary bugs. Floaters may be an annoyance, but...
Jun 30, 2014
At a gala event, Dr. Jacobs was awarded for his years of service to the NRV community. Read more Here...
Jun 29, 2014
Cataracts affect millions of people nationwide and as the population continues to age, the numbers keep increasing. The good news is, cataracts are often manageable and treatable. As June is Cataract Awareness Month, here are some facts you should know to help you recognize cataracts and prevent permanent vision loss. ...
Jun 24, 2014
Air Optix Colors are available in 9 stunning colors : Pure Hazel, Green, Blue, Gray, Brown, Honey, Gemstone Green, Brillant Blue, and Sterling Gray! These lenses are made with a unique material that provides lasting all-day comfort. Air optix Colors have a 3-in-1 color technology that blends the primary color...
Jun 19, 2014
Have you ever wondered what your eyes do when you finally close them after a long day of visual processing and stimulation? Let's take a closer look at what happens behind your closed lids when your head hits the pillow. Firstly, once your eyes are closed, they do continue to...
May 22, 2014
The heat of long summer days is nearly upon us. As the sun's rays intensify and people spend more time outdoors in the sunshine it is very important to be aware of the potential damage exposure to the sun can have on your eyes. May is UV Awareness month. Here...
Apr 29, 2014
It can be devastating for a tween or teen to be told he or she needs to wear glasses, especially if it is sudden. Many tweens and teenagers are concerned about how glasses will affect their appearance, whether they will be made fun of (which unfortunately is a legitimate concern...
Apr 17, 2014
Spring is on the way. Soon the sun will be shining, the flowers blooming and allergy season will be upon us. If you have allergies, your eyes are often affected by the high pollen count along with other allergens floating in the fresh spring air. Tree pollens in April and...
Mar 31, 2014
Your eyes communicate much more than you may realize, in fact they play a huge role in your non-verbal communication. Consciously or not, the way you move your eyes, look at someone, blink or make eye contact can say a lot about what you are thinking and feeling. Here's a...
Mar 16, 2014
There are so many people who spend hours a day, if not most of the day working on a computer or mobile device. They usually do so without taking notice of the effect this has on their bodies. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can...
Feb 27, 2014
It's been said that your eyes are the window to your soul. Well, research is showing that your eyes are a window to a lot more than your thoughts and emotions; it can be an indicator of your overall health. A study by UnitedHealthcare entitled, “Impact of Eye Exams in...
Feb 20, 2014
February is low vision awareness month. Low vision is a condition in which an individual suffers significant vision loss that can't be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. Low vision can affect both children and adults, but is more common in the elderly, and requires significant adjustments...
Feb 12, 2014
Eye infections don't care if you're a pre-schooler, a college student, a Mom,....... or even Bob Costas covering the Olympics for millions of viewers!
Jan 31, 2014
Your child's first pair of glasses will make an important difference in his or her ability to see and interact with the surrounding world. However, a new pair of glasses can also present a big adjustment for both parents and kids as you get used to a new look and...
Jan 29, 2014
7 Facts You Should Know About Glaucoma Glaucoma, which refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, is often called 'the silent thief of sight'. This nickname evolved because the disease creeps up unnoticed in its early stages, causing no pain and few, if any symptoms....
Dec 31, 2013
The New Year is a time to start fresh and renew our commitment to health, happiness and success. It’s important to include eye and vision health and safety in these resolutions. Here are the top six ways you can make your eyes and vision a priority this year. Schedule a...
Dec 11, 2013
The holiday season is on our doorstep. With technology so much a part of our lives, the easy go-to gifts for kids often include an enormous array of hand-held video devices and home gaming systems. Did you know that after extensive use these games can be harmful to children’s eyes...
Nov 25, 2013
Diabetes affects people of all ages, races and genders. An estimated 25.8 million Americans or 8.3 percent of the population suffer from the disease, according to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2011. In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases...
Nov 18, 2013
If you wear contact lenses, you probably know the hygiene routine you should follow when removing your lenses: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them on a clean, lint free cloth. Remove the lens from your eye and clean the lens immediately (if you wear multi-use...
Oct 30, 2013
Did you forget to put on your sunglasses today? Are you constantly sitting in front of a computer screen without taking breaks to look away? Maybe you also skipped your yearly eye exam, again. These are just some of the things we tend to overlook when it comes to our...
Oct 14, 2013
As Halloween approaches and costume planning gets more serious, many consider the use of novelty or costume contact lenses as a way to add that extra flair. Whether you are dressing up as a cat, a vampire, or looking for something fun that glows in the dark, dressing up your...
Oct 04, 2013
Dr. Steve Jacobs' most recent article in series on children's vision, in NRV Macaroni Kid newsletter.
Sep 29, 2013
Many travelers experience dry eyes after extended travel by air. The dry environment of a temperature- and pressure-controlled air plane cabin can take its toll on your eyes. The good news is there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associated with travelers’ dry...
Sep 24, 2013
Just because the summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean that we have to say goodbye to the swimming pool. Whether it means a nice refreshing dip on a warm fall afternoon or a winter swim in an indoor pool, swimming is a great activity for both fun and...
Sep 12, 2013
The use of technology has become commonplace in the classroom. So much so that today’s generation of students, from kindergarten to university, navigates computers, smartphones and tablets all the time. Many schools have even implemented the use of smart boards and bring your own device (BOYD) programs. However, as amazing...
Aug 26, 2013
For adults over the age of 65, the right pair of vision correcting glasses can literally be a life saver. Seniors aged 65 and up are at increased risk of falling, which is the leading cause of injury, injury-related death, and hospitalization for this age group. According to the Centers...
Jul 19, 2013
To ensure that your eyes remain healthy, it is essential to protect them from injury and to take proper care measures if an injury has occurred. As July is Eye Injury Prevention Month, here are a number of practical first aid tips to remember if you or anyone you know...
Jun 30, 2013
Eye charts of different variations have become a standard in vision screenings and eye exams. One of the most familiar charts associated with vision is the Snellen eye chart, designed by Dutch ophthalmologist Hermann Snellen in 1862 to measure visual acuity- how well you can see at various distances. Although...
Jun 24, 2013
Cataracts, one of the most common causes of blindness, develop when the lens of the eye, located behind the iris and pupil, becomes opaque or cloudy. A cataract can result in loss of vision as it prevents light from passing into your eye and focusing on the retina. While cataracts...
Jun 17, 2013
Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness among adults aged 50 and above? AMD occurs when the part of the retina responsible for your sharp central vision, the macula, begins to deteriorate. Central vision is the visual field...
May 26, 2013
Do your sunglasses have what it takes to protect your eyes? As the summer heats up and people spend more time outdoors, it is very important to wear UV blocking eyewear to protect against exposure to ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to your eyes. Damage caused by UV from...
Apr 24, 2013
Women's eyes are regularly exposed to potential irritants through the use of cosmetics. As eye shadow, mascara and eye liner can breed unseen dirt and bacteria, it is vital to ensure that the products you use to apply and remove your makeup are hygienic to prevent irritation that can cause...
Mar 27, 2013
Did you know that your dietary choices have an impact on your eye health and vision? Opting for appetizing food that at the same time provides you with all the nutrients that are essential for preserving your vision, is taking a major step towards minimizing the risk of eye disease...
Mar 06, 2013
Spring is right around the corner, as the winter begins to wind down and the fresh, warmer air begins to rear its head. Unfortunately for many, it's often hard to enjoy nature's blooming beauty as the warmer weather also brings about the onset of itchy, watery eyes that come with...
Feb 21, 2013
We all know how frustrating it can be trying to see clearly through a smudged pair of glasses; clean lenses can really make a world of difference. While it may not be something that you pay much attention to, the way you clean your lenses can also make a difference,...
Jan 18, 2013
Dry eyes are a common problem for many individuals particularly during the winter months when exposure to dry air and whipping wind is increased. However, if you are suffering from dry eyes that just won't go away, you may have what is known as Dry Eye Syndrome - a condition...
Dec 24, 2012
Ski Goggles are an essential part of proper eye protection when participating in winter sports. In order to choose the best winter sports eyewear for your needs it is first important to know what risks are in the first place. UV protection UV danger is just as much a problem...
Nov 20, 2012
Even many individuals with the disease are unaware of the fact that diabetes can lead to blindness. The NIH reports that in individuals between 20 and 74, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness. One of the risks of diabetes is when the retina is damaged by an increase in...
Nov 08, 2012
Lots of people with astigmatism are under the impression that they can't wear contact lenses. It may come as a surprise to know that there's actually a unique sort of contact lens that corrects astigmatism. A regular cornea is round, but when you have astigmatism, it's more oval-shaped, sort of...
Oct 31, 2012
There may be some assessments that you may have noticed at an eye exam and questioned what they measure. Having beams of light shined into your eyes may be an example. This is one way eye doctors determine the refractive error of your eye, and it's known as a retinoscopy...
Oct 24, 2012
Lately, it seems that we're addicted to our mobile devices. In truth, these devices are wonderful, because they allow us to stay connected whenever we need to be. Nevertheless as handheld devices sport little screens, most users usually hold their smartphones a lot closer to their eyes than they would...
Oct 16, 2012
Presbyopia, or far-sightedness, is a common condition that usually starts to develop in people who are 40 or older. It's comforting to know that developing presbyopia when you already need glasses for near sightedness doesn't mean you need to start switching between two pairs of glasses. Multifocal lenses, which correct...
Sep 30, 2012
Lazy eyes are pretty common, and are also quite easy to treat. It forms when the brain shuts off or suppresses vision in one eye. Vision might be suppressed if someone isn't able to see as well with one eye because of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Along with eye glasses,...
Sep 13, 2012
Imagine your house loses power and you need to find a flashlight or the fuse box. It takes a couple of minutes for your eyes to adjust to the dark. This process, called ''dark adaptation,'' allows people to adjust to the dark. In order for night vision and dark adaptation...
Aug 27, 2012
Experiencing some trouble when reading is a commonly occurring problem if you're hitting middle age. This is why: Because as you age, your eye's lens is likely to become more and more inflexible, making it less able to focus on handheld objects. This is known as presbyopia. And it's universal....
Aug 20, 2012
It's important to know how to select toys that are the safest and the most beneficial for kids. Children are born with an only partially developed visual system. Nothing stimulates a child's visual development more efficiently than play, which involves hand-eye coordination and a more concrete understanding of spaces and...
Aug 13, 2012
Well, the summer's end is near. Children everywhere are preparing for the rapidly approaching academic year, with school bags, new books and a whole lot of anticipation. And if you haven't already taken care of it, it's also an optimal opportunity to take your child in for an eye exam....
Jul 26, 2012
Is your son or daughter smart when it comes to lots of things, but cannot cope well with school? It's important to be aware that the child could be suffering from a hidden but very real condition, which effects learning. It's called Convergence Insufficiency (CI). In short, CI is a...
Jul 20, 2012
We've all heard the expressions twenty-twenty vision and visual acuity. As common as these terms may be, do people actually grasp what they mean? The term 20/20 refers to the clarity and sharpness of sight from 20 feet away. If you've been told you have 20/20 vision, that basically means...
Jul 16, 2012
This summer, how about trying a new look for your eyes? Introducing FreshLook®. They offer a vast assortment of colored contact lenses, which allow you to slightly enhance or radically alter your natural eye color. This great collection of contact lenses boasts such an extensive amount of options, that you'll...
Jun 30, 2012
Inflamed eyelids, also known as blepharitis, is something that many people experience at some point during their lives. It's a commonly occurring eyelid inflammation, often associated with a bacterial eye infection, certain kinds of skin conditions, or dry eye symptoms. Usually, symptoms include redness, itching, burning, the sensation of a...
Jun 26, 2012
Have there been times when you've left your soft contact lenses in for a little too long? It's common knowledge that most things are in in top form when they're new. Guess what? The same idea is also applicable to your contacts. You should never keep your contacts in your...
Jun 19, 2012
It's June, which means it's Cataract Awareness Month. Did you know that cataracts are the most common culprit of deteriorating vision among those 55 and older? Actually, more than fifty percent of all people aged 65 or older have at least some cataract development. As reported by the National Eye...
May 31, 2012
It's a fact: almost everybody is regularly exposed to UV rays. Even though this is the case, the potential dangers related to years of exposure to these unsafe rays are not often considered, to a point where many barely take enough action to guard their eyes, even if they're expecting...
May 24, 2012
Each May, eye care professionals throughout country participate in Healthy Vision Month. When was your last comprehensive eye exam? Checking your eyes periodically is one of the best things you can do to make sure your eyes remain strong and healthy. During this procedure, your optometrist thoroughly examines your eyes,...
Apr 30, 2012
Poor vision in adults or children can be the result of several possible factors including anatomical changes or irregularities in the eye or visual system, eye diseases, side effects due to medication or eye injuries. Lots of people also suffer from visual abnormalities due to aging or eye strain. This...
Apr 17, 2012
It's April, which is Women's Eye Health and Safety Month. Women go through many changes during their lifetime. Each change could affect her vision differently. Eye disease among women is becoming more common, particularly in middle-aged women. In fact, studies indicate that the majority of women going through middle age...
Apr 09, 2012
As the springtime arrives, as well as a greater chance to participate in a new set of sports, comes an increase in the number of eye injuries related to sports. Each season, far too many people, both young and old sustain sports related eye injuries that could be averted with...
Mar 27, 2012
When on the road, the value of good vision can not be underestimated. In fact, safety on the road requires several different visual abilities - for example, distance and near vision, side or peripheral vision, night vision and color vision, to name some examples. Distance vision is crucial because of...
Mar 20, 2012
In order to teach corporations and their workers about the relevance of eye health, and to provide advice on how to prevent vision-impairing eye mishaps, Prevent Blindness America (PBA) has designated the month of March as Workplace Vision Wellness Month. Every day, workers suffer from workplace related eye injuries that...
Mar 13, 2012
The part of the eye that surrounds your pupil and iris is your cornea, which is, under normal conditions, round. When light hits your eye, the cornea's job is to focus that light, aiming it toward your retina, right in the rear part of your eye. But what happens if...
Feb 28, 2012
Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is a frequently encountered eye infection, particularly with kids. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria or even allergies to ingredients in cosmetics, chlorine in pools, and pollen, or other substances, which touch the eyes. Certain kinds of pink eye are highly transmittable and...
Feb 27, 2012
We are currently in the midst of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision awareness month. How many individuals are aware that age related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the foremost causes of loss of vision in adults aged 65 and above? AMD is a condition that causes...
Feb 13, 2012
Research performed by Bausch & Lomb this past summer revealed that many people were using strange chemicals instead of contact lens solution to keep their lenses moist. Products including baby oil, beer, coke, Vaseline, lemonade, fruit juice, butter as well as others were all mentioned as alternatives used, by twenty...
Jan 31, 2012
Winter time often leads to an increase in cases of dry eye syndrome because of cold and dry air conditions.
Jan 23, 2012
It's official! Winter is here, which means in some parts of the country biting winds and freezing rain, snow and sleet aren't far behind. The majority of us wouldn't ever think of leaving the house without a coat in icy conditions, but surprisingly, many people don't think to put on...
Jan 18, 2012
As this month is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, in this article we are here to emphasize the importance of recognizing the threat of this vision threatening disease. Glaucoma is a class of eye diseases that damage the eye's optic nerve, which can lead to a permanent loss of vision. When...
Jan 05, 2012
Visit your Blacksburg, VA Optometrist to Find Out About Treatment Options Many adults at some point begin to experience presbyopia or a reduced ability to focus on objects at a close range, as they age. As people worldwide are living longer, more and more individuals are developing the condition, which...
Dec 14, 2011
The holidays are right around the corner which means dolls, radio controlled airplanes, and Leapster Explorers. Well intentioned mothers and fathers love surprising the young ones with the newest toys to start off the New Year. It is important that family members instruct others about some guidelines about toys and...
Dec 11, 2011
Need a new pair of specs? Thinking your prescription has changed? Contemplating Lasik? The time has arrived to save big on your eye care needs. As the year's end advances, so does the end of your flex spending credits. If flex spending doesn't strike a familiar chord you may not...
Nov 29, 2011
Did you know that diabetes is the primary causal factor of impaired sight for men and women of all ages? Since 2008, over 4 million adults in North America suffering from diabetes were subsequently diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy. Out of those tested, seventy thousand were afflicted with advanced diabetic retinopathy,...
Nov 21, 2011
Amblyopia or lazy eye is the failure for central vision to develop properly due to the inability of the eyes to function in unison. In the majority of occurrences of ambylopia the actual eyes are usually healthy but good vision cannot be achieved by just lenses. Left untreated lazy eye...
Nov 18, 2011
It makes sense, but now for the first time, exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of glaucoma.
Oct 22, 2011
With the fall comes Halloween and with that, costumes. It's important to be aware of certain threats to your eyes that sometimes put a damper on the fun and games. A popular costume accessory in recent years has been decorative contact lenses and this is causing serious concern amongst...
Sep 26, 2011
According to the American Optometric Association above 70 percent of employed persons that work every day at a computer screen (which is over 140 million individuals) suffer the affects of computer vision syndrome (CVS) or eye fatigue. Excessive computer use can cause eye fatigue and impact typical vision processes...
Sep 22, 2011
In recognition of Home & Sports Eye Safety Month, we've chosen to highlight ways to keep your home safe for your eyes specifically for kids. It's important to take the earliest chance to guarantee your home environment is an eye-safe zone. Generally, babies enter the world with an partially...
Sep 01, 2011
Individuals who have unfortunately gotten sunblock in their eyes know firsthand just how painful it can be. In fact, someone who has experienced a severe case may say that it is a good alternative to carrying around mace or pepper spray. It can take a long time before the victim...
Jul 31, 2011
Requiring glasses is often difficult for a teenager. Just the thought of ''four eyes'' can send a teenager panicking. Compared to glasses, children and teenagers that use contact lenses report a significant enhancement in their appearance, a newly published report demonstrates. The study report indicates that starting at the age...
Jul 25, 2011
There are a number of kinds of eye injuries that can take place, with varying degrees of severity. Some might necessitate emergency treatment and immediate care by an optician, while others can be dealt with at home. Follow this guide to routine eye injuries, to figure out the next move...
Jul 15, 2011
When we have eyes that are in good condition, we might forget about the importance of a routine eye test. However, timely detection of eye disease is necessary to keeping your eyes healthy. And all it requires is an annual eye test. A significant number of optical diseases are a-symptomatic....
Jun 30, 2011
Now that the summertime is officially here it’s time to make sure you keep your eyes protected from the sun and other warm weather dangers. Here are some pointers on remaining safe in the sun: Buy sunglasses that block 100% of UV – and try to wear them every time...
Jun 15, 2011
Did you know that annual statistics show that sports-related eye injuries account for 40,000 visits to the hospital? This is one accident every 780 seconds! Eye Care professionals report that 90% of those damage could be easily avoided by wearing protective eyewear. The majority of injuries take place when people...
May 31, 2011
You may have heard that carrots help you see better, but is this really true? Optometrists say that carrots can't actually improve your eyesight. However, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a vitamin that is very good for your eye health and therefore eating carrots and other beta-carotene rich foods is...
May 10, 2011
Thanks to education to create awareness of the hazards of Ultraviolet (UV) rays to your skin, (which include sunburn and skin cancer), most are aware of the importance of using sunblock and using other protective measures during outdoor activities. But how many of us know that UV and other...
Apr 30, 2011
Contact lenses necessitate proper handling to be considered a safe and sensible choice for those requiring corrective eye wear. Improper care can lead to ripped or torn contacts, or even worse, eye infections or abrasions, which rarely but sometimes results in vision loss. Any individuals that are not responsible...
Apr 10, 2011
Although you may be most accustomed to soft contact lenses, a second, lesser-known kind of contact lens materials exists: gas permeable (GP) lenses, sometimes referred to oxygen permeable lenses. Actually, hard lenses are a newer technology than soft lenses, and they are longer-lasting, allow greater vision quality, and provide...
Mar 24, 2011
Are you experiencing red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes? If yes, you may be suffering from spring eye allergies. For some, spring time is pollen season, which means uncomfortable symptoms such as red eyes, itchy eyes, stinging, burning and watery eyes. Springtime eye allergies are often a result of...
Mar 13, 2011
While most people have become used to buying anything and everything through the Internet, glasses are one item that should be carefully considered before you click that purchase button. Here's why. Even though you may encounter cheaper prices online, the advantages of choosing an optical store far outweigh the ''deals''...
Feb 22, 2011
Although you may refer to winter as the rainy time of year due to the precipitation, the air is really more dry in the winter, causing your eyes to be irritated easily. Our eye care staff is here to assist you in selecting the most effective ways to keep your...
Feb 11, 2011
We're featuring Silhouette Eyewear as our Product of the Quarter - Great sales and special Trunk Show
Be a Fan on FB www.facebook.com/stevejacobsod for the latest info and special Flash Sales
Feb 10, 2011
This month is dedicated to spreading awareness of macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision. AMD is the foremost cause of blindness for seniors. AMD can result in low vision, a phrase eye care professionals use to categorize major vision loss that is also known as “legal blindness” or almost total...
Jan 26, 2011
In order to create awareness about the ''sneak thief of sight,'' this month has been declared National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the leading source of preventable permanent vision loss, responsible for 9%-12% of all cases of blindness in the United States and effecting nearly 70 million people around the...
Jan 06, 2011
You read it correctly. Sunglasses aren't just an essential accessory in the summer. Although many of us are informed of the damage the sun presents to our eyes during the summertime, we don't all realize that we need to take precautions in the winter as well. Actually, the UV rays...
Dec 20, 2009
Visit our new optometry website for information about our Practice.
Dec 01, 2009
Fill in your patient history online, before your next appointment. Find out how...
