Eye Health & Care Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about eye health and eye care. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us at any time. For information about corrective eye surgery, please visit our Surgery FAQ.

• How do I know if I have cataracts?

  A cataract is the cloudiness of the crystalline lens inside your eye. As the lens gets cloudier, your vision will gradually become more blurred and you may have more glare and trouble driving at night. When you begin to notice that your typical activities are becoming more difficult, then it is time to work with an ophthalmologist who specializes in cataract surgery.

• Who is at risk for developing glaucoma?

  Anyone is at risk of developing glaucoma. Family history of parents, grandparents, or siblings with glaucoma can put a person at a higher risk, however. Some racial groups like African-Americans are also at higher risk of developing glaucoma. Older people, diabetics, and people on certain medications like steroids for a long time have greater risks as well.

• Why is Glaucoma referred to as the "Silent Thief"?

  Glaucoma is called the “silent thief” because it has few, if any, early signs or symptoms. By the time the symptoms do appear, the patient may have already lost some vision. Once the disease has been diagnosed, it can be controlled with either medication or surgery. At this point, the remaining vision can be preserved. About 3 million Americans have glaucoma, but many of them do not realize they have it. Routine eye examinations which include checking your intra-ocular pressure as well as specialized testing can improve the odds of early detection. Once diagnosed the disease can be controlled and the patient’s remaining vision preserved.

• Can anything be done for drooping eyelids?

  Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) can correct sagging eyelids, remove fatty pouches beneath the eyes, and remove skin from the upper eyelids. An oculoplastic surgeon can provide you with an evaluation of your vision and eyelids.

• What about fireworks and eye injuries?

  Fireworks displays are a part of many Fourth of July celebrations. Fireworks are best enjoyed when watching public displays, but individuals continue to buy them for home use. Every year, individuals, often children, lose an eye or suffer a serious eye injury as a result of handling fireworks or being too close to them. Bottle rockets are particularly dangerous. Their flight path is erratic; they hit the ground or individual forcibly, and they can blow up in your face as you are lighting them. Sometimes the bottles containing them explode also. Adult supervision is essential. Alcohol and fireworks are not a good combination. You should always wear eye glasses or goggles for eye protection when handling fireworks.

• I see a thin string in front of my eye when I look at a white wall. Is this normal?

  Thin black lines or small spots you may occasionally see in your vision are commonly known as floaters. A few floaters in the clear gel-like substance, of the eye, called the vitreous, don’t indicate a serious eye problem. However, if new floaters or a large number of floaters appear, it is wise to get an eye exam. Floaters in combination with flashes of light or a curtain in front of the eye may also be a serious condition needing immediate medical attention.

• Is there a vision correction procedure for someone who only wears reading glasses?

  NearVision CK (Conductive Keratoplasty) is the first non-laser procedure specifically designed for patients who wear reading glasses. CK uses radiofrequency energy to gently reshape the cornea for up-close vision. Other potential procedures may include monovision LASIK or Refractive Lens Exchange.

• Will vitamins and minerals help my vision?

  Before taking vitamins, it is important for you to talk with your eye doctor about your risks of developing eye disease and whether vitamins and minerals will reduce your risk of disease and any potential side-effects. Multi-vitamins contain many important nutrients, but there are also vitamins specifically designed with higher levels of antioxidants and zinc. Never begin taking any supplements without discussing your vision with your eye doctor.

• What causes dry eyes?

  Tears produced by your eyes are necessary for your eye health and clear vision. Computer use, environmental factors, age, and medications can cause dry eye conditions. If left untreated, dry eyes can affect your overall eye health. The specialists at Green Bay Eye Clinic will recommend treatment options to reduce or eliminate dry eye symptoms.

• Are there free consultations for corrective eye surgery?

  Yes. A free consultation is the first step in finding out if you are a candidate for vision correction options like Blade-free Custom LASIK, NearVision CK, Multi-focal lens implants, or other methods of vision correction. A consultation covers basic screening, eye anatomy, procedures, fees, risks, and benefits.

• How do I know if my child needs glasses?

  It is often very difficult to determine if a child needs glasses because most will not complain about vision problems, especially if their vision changes gradually or if they’ve never known anything better. For this reason, it is recommended that a child have his first exam by the age of three to screen for problems, and then again by the time she starts school. A child’s vision continues to develop and change into the late teens/early twenties, so it might also be helpful to watch for possible signs once a child is in school: squinting, poor grades or lack of participation in class, or complaints of not being able to see the board.

• How does a progressive lens compare to a bifocal?

  Getting this answer from optical

• What are the benefits of transition lenses?

  Getting this answer from optical.

For all your eye care needs, from contact lenses and glasses to the latest in LASIK laser eye surgery, contact Green Bay Eye Clinic today to schedule an appointment.