Unveiling the Secret to Color Contact Lens Safety

Are you thinking about changing your appearance with color contact lenses? They can be a fun way to change your eye color or enhance your natural look. But keeping your eyes safe is a top priority.

What Makes Color Contact Lenses So Appealing?

Color contact lenses have gained popularity for various reasons, especially among teens. Here’s why they’re so attractive:

• Aesthetic Variety: Color contacts come in shades and patterns to match your mood or style.

• Cosplay and Fun: They’re popular for dressing up as your favorite characters or having creative fun.

• Functional and Stylish: Color contacts can be a stylish way to see clearly for those needing vision correction.

• Boost in Confidence: Changing your eye color can be a great confidence booster.

But before you dive in, let’s understand the potential dangers:

The Dangers of Color Contact Lenses

• Infections and Irritation: Not practicing good hygiene can introduce harmful bacteria into your eyes, causing infections or severe irritation.
• Allergic Reactions: The materials used in color contacts can trigger allergies, leading to redness, discomfort, and vision problems in some individuals.
• Inaccurate Vision Correction: Non-prescription color contacts may lead to blurred vision and eye strain in those who need vision correction.
• Poor Fit: Ill-fitting lenses can harm the cornea, causing ulcers and abrasions.

Now, let’s explore how you can make safety your top priority when using color contact lenses:

Prioritizing Color Contact Lens Safety

Consult Your Eye Doctor:

Before you even think about purchasing color contacts, make an appointment with your eye doctor. They will assess your eye health, prescribe necessary lenses, and help you choose the right color contacts.

Get a Prescription:

Even if you don’t need vision correction, always get a prescription for color contacts. Prescription lenses are specially fitted for your eyes and made from materials suitable for your unique eye conditions.

Choose Trusted Sources:

Buy your color contacts from authorized and reliable sources like your eye doctor’s office. Avoid unregulated sellers to ensure the safety and quality of your lenses. 

Maintain Good Hygiene:

Follow a strict hygiene routine when handling your colored contacts. Wash your hands with non-oil soap before inserting or removing lenses, and clean and store them as instructed by your eye care professional.

No Sharing Allowed:

Keep your color contacts private from others. Sharing lenses can lead to the spread of eye infections, and it’s best avoided.

Watch Out for Red Flags:

Be on the lookout for any discomfort, redness, or sudden changes in your vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately remove your contact lenses and consult your eye doctor immediately.

Stick to the Wear Schedule:

Adhere to the recommended wear schedule provided by your eye care professional. Avoid sleeping in your colored contacts, as it can restrict oxygen flow to your eyes, leading to eye problems.

Your Eyes Are Priceless

Color contact lenses can be a fantastic way to change your look and boost your confidence, but safety should always come first. By consulting your eye doctor, getting a prescription, and practicing proper hygiene, you can enjoy the beauty of color contacts without risking your vision.

Call or text our office at 219-659-3050 to safely explore color contact lenses. 

What Are Pediatric Eye Exams?

Pediatric eye exams are special check-ups to examine your child’s eyes and vision. The eye experts at Levin Eye Care Center are an award-winning team specializing in pediatric care and are qualified to care for your child’s eyes.

Why Are These Eye Exams So Important For Children?

While you might be on top of your game when it comes to regular check-ups, there’s one crucial aspect of your child’s health that sometimes gets overlooked – their eyes. We will explain why Pediatric Eye Exams are super important for your kiddos. 

Early Detection of Vision Problems

Imagine your child is struggling to see the chalkboard at school, but they never tell you. That could make it challenging for them to learn. Pediatric Eye Exams can spot common vision issues like nearsightedness (can’t see far), farsightedness (can’t see close), or astigmatism (blurry vision). By catching these problems early, you can help your child see clearly and succeed in school.

Beating Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) with Pediatric Eye Exams

Ever heard of a “lazy eye“? It’s a condition known as Amblyopia, when one eye doesn’t develop correctly because it’s not being used enough. However, Pediatric Eye Exams can spot this too! And when it’s caught early, treatments like our Vision Therapy Program can help the weak eye get stronger. Without treatment, it could cause permanent vision problems. 

Detecting Sneaky Eye Diseases

Eye diseases aren’t just for grown-ups. They can affect kids, too! Conditions like glaucoma or cataracts can be found during these eye exams. If they’re detected early, doctors can treat them better and reduce the risk of vision loss. That’s a big win!

Keeping Eyes Healthy

Pediatric Eye Exams don’t just check vision. They look at the eyes’ overall health, and eye infections or allergies can be found and treated. That means less discomfort and fewer eye-related problems for your child.

A Brighter Learning Experience

Good vision is super important for learning! Imagine your child can’t see the words in their books or the teacher’s writing on the board. That can be frustrating and hold them back in school. With regular eye exams, you can make sure your child has the best shot at doing well in school.

No More Headaches and Fatigue

Kids with hidden vision problems might get headaches, feel tired, or have trouble focusing. These can make it harder for them to enjoy school and activities. Pediatric Eye Exams can identify these issues early and offer solutions like glasses or eye exercises to make those problems disappear.

Learning Good Eye Habits

Another cool thing about these exams is that they teach kids about taking care of their eyes. They can learn to manage screen time, use proper lighting, and practice good eye hygiene. It’s all about helping them develop healthy eye habits for life.

Pediatric Eye Exams are vital for your child’s health and well-being. By catching vision problems early, you’re setting your child up for success in school and beyond. Plus, you’re ensuring they have a lifetime of healthy eyes.

Remember, your child’s vision matters, so schedule that eye exam today! Call or Text 219-659-3050 to schedule your appointment.

Protect Your Vision in the Changing Seasons

As autumn paints the world with its vibrant hues, it’s time to think about fall eye care. Fall brings its own set of eye health challenges, from UV rays to allergies. In this post, we’ll share practical and easy-to-follow fall eye care tips to help you protect your vision during this beautiful season.

Shield Your Eyes from Autumn Sunlight 

Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection –The sun might seem gentler in the fall, but it can still harm your eyes. Leaves and surfaces reflect UV rays, so wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection is crucial. These stylish accessories keep your eyes safe and add a fashionable touch to your fall outfit.

Combat Dry Eyes in Cooler Weather 

Stay Hydrated and Use Lubricating Eye Drops – Cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels can lead to itchy and dry eyes. Combat this by drinking enough water to stay well-hydrated. Consider using lubricating eye drops if your eyes still feel dry and irritated. They provide instant relief and help maintain proper eye moisture.

Allergy-Proof Your Space 

Prevent Allergens from Invading – Fall is notorious for allergens like ragweed pollen. Allergic reactions can cause itchy, red, and watery eyes. Consider using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. Over-the-counter antihistamines can also help manage symptoms.

Adjust Your Screen Settings  

Reduce Digital Eye Strain With more time spent indoors during the fall, digital eye strain becomes a concern. To reduce eye strain, adjust your device’s brightness and contrast settings to match the lighting in your room. Remember the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This quick practice can refresh your eyes during screen time.

Nourish Your Eyes with Fall Foods 

Eat Eye-Healthy Foods Your fall diet can significantly affect your eye health. Incorporate eye-friendly foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, and salmon are excellent choices. These nutrients support eye health and may reduce the risk of eye-related problems.

Keep Indoor Air Moist

Use a Humidifier The air becomes drier in the fall; consider using a humidifier in your home or office. Adding moisture to the air can help reduce and even prevent dry eyes and discomfort. This small change can make a big difference, especially if you wake up with irritated eyes.

Schedule a Fall Eye Exam

Regular Check-Ups are Key – Schedule your routine eye exam this fall. Regular check-ups with Levin Eye Care Center can detect and address any eye issues early, ensuring optimal eye health. It’s the best way to make sure your eyes are ready to face the changing seasons.

This fall, take steps to protect your eyes and enjoy the season’s beauty with clarity and comfort. By following these fall eye care tips, you’ll be better prepared to face the unique challenges that autumn presents to your eye health. Call or Text us at 219-659-3050 to schedule today!

Did you know that the eyes are among the most vital and sensitive organs in the human body? As Healthy Aging Awareness month unfolds, it’s time we shine a spotlight on the significance of maintaining optimal eye health.

Ensuring that your eyes remain in top condition isn’t just about seeing clearly – it’s about experiencing life in its full vibrancy and safeguarding a crucial aspect of your overall well-being.

1. Check-ups are Key! 🧐

When was the last time you visited the eye doctor? Just like we go for regular health check-ups, our eyes need attention too. These visits can spot little problems before they become big ones!

2. Eat the Good Stuff 🥕🐟

Did you know that foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C and E can help ward off age-related vision issues? Incorporate green leafy vegetables, oily fish, eggs, nuts, and citrus fruits into your diet.

3. Shades are Cool (and Important!) 😎

Sunlight has UV rays, which can be tough on our eyes. So, grab those sunglasses! They’re not just to look cool; they protect our eyes, too. Consistent exposure to UV rays can harm your eyesight. Wearing sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays will shield your eyes, regardless of the seaso

4. Digital Break Time! 💻🚫

Many of us spend a lot of time looking at screens. But our eyes need breaks! With the increasing screen time in our digital age, it’s essential to practice Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and focus on something 20 feet away. Your eyes will love you!

5. Move and Groove 🏃‍♂️

Believe it or not, exercising helps our eyes! When we stay active, it helps our overall health, and that includes our eyesight. Exercise improves blood circulation, which improves oxygen levels to the eyes and aids in the removal of toxins.

6. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, and manage conditions like diabetes. Such choices significantly impact your eye health.

Watch the video below to see if you have signs of aging vision and need a check up!
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Remember, our eyes are a window to the world. Keeping them healthy means we get to enjoy all the beautiful things around us. Stay bright, and keep seeing clearly! 👀✨

This Healthy Aging Awareness month, let’s promise to take better care of our eyes. And hey, if you want an eye check-up, pop into Levin Eye Care Center in Northwest Indiana. We’re here to help you see the best of the world!

Contact us today!

Keeping Our Kids’ Eyes Healthy and Bright: Here’s What You Need to Know

Our world is becoming more digital every day, so we must protect our kids’ eyesight. So, whether you’re a parent or grandparent, here are some child’s eye health tips that can help to keep their future bright. 

Eye Checkups: We take our kids to the doctor to check their growth and health; their eyes also need regular checkups. The award winning Dr. Steven A Levin can spot problems early on, such as ‘lazy eye’ or ‘crossed eyes,’ which are easier to fix when caught early.

Good Food: What we eat impacts our eyes. Vitamins A, C, E, and minerals like zinc are great for eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, usually found in fish, are super important too. Encourage a balanced diet full of fruits, veggies, and nutrient-rich foods.

Screen Breaks: In today’s world, it’s hard to escape screens. But did you know that too much screen time can strain our eyes? Follow the 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Get Outside: Playing outside is fun and good for the eyes. Being in sunlight and looking at distant objects can help prevent nearsightedness.

Wear the Right Gear: Safety first, right? Wear the proper protective glasses whether your child plays a sport or works on a school project. Look for ones with polycarbonate lenses because they are tough and can withstand high impacts.

Protect from Sun: Kids’ eyes are sensitive to UV radiation. So, remember to make your child wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection when they’re out in the sun. Yes, even when it’s cloudy.

Wash Hands Often: We all know kids love to explore. But touching their eyes with dirty hands can lead to eye infections. So, let’s make sure they know the importance of washing their hands and not sharing towels or handkerchiefs.

By following these tips, we can help our kids keep their eyes healthy and vision clear. So, let’s help them see the world in all its brilliance. Watch the video below to learn the importance of children’s eye exams.

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Has your child or loved one had an eye exam this year? If not, give us a call or text 219-659-3050 to schedule your appointment to experience award winning eye care today!

Let us know if you found these Child’s Eye Health Tips beneficial and would like to see more blog posts like this!

Seven Interesting Eye Facts You Should Know

The human eye is a marvel of biology and technology, a complex organ that allows us to see and experience the world around us. From its intricate structure to its incredible abilities, the human eye is a fascinating subject that has captivated scientists, doctors, and enthusiasts for centuries. Every health enthusiast should know some interesting eye facts about the human body.

1. The human eye can distinguish between over a million different colors.

The human eye can detect a vast array of colors, ranging from deep red to bright violet. This ability is due to specialized cells in the retina called cones, which are sensitive to different wavelengths of light. People with normal color vision can distinguish between over a million colors, making the world around us dazzling and varied.

2. The human eye can detect light as dim as a single photon.

Photons are the smallest light units, and the human eye can detect them. Under the right conditions, such as when the eye is completely dark-adapted, the rods in the retina can detect a single photon of light. This remarkable sensitivity is due to the ability of the rods to amplify the signals they receive from light, making them able to detect even the faintest glimmer.

3. The human eye can change its focus up to 50 times per second.

The human eye is a remarkable piece of machinery that adapts to changing conditions in real-time. One of its most impressive abilities is quickly and accurately changing its focus, allowing us to easily see objects at different distances. This ability is controlled by the ciliary muscles, which alter the lens’s shape to adjust the eye’s focus.

4. The human eye has a blind spot.

Despite its many remarkable features, the human eye has a blind spot where the optic nerve enters the eye. This spot is where the nerves and blood vessels that supply the eye enter and exit, not covered by light-sensitive cells. However, the brain can fill in the missing information so that we are unaware of the blind spot.

5. The human eye can regenerate itself.

Unlike many other organs in the body, the human eye can regenerate itself to a certain extent. The outer layer of the eye, the cornea, can repair itself after an injury or scratch. The eye also contains stem cells that can differentiate into different types of cells, allowing for the potential regeneration of damaged tissue.

6. The human eye is an important indicator of overall health.

The eyes are often called the windows to the soul but are also an important indicator of overall health. Eye doctors can detect various conditions by examining the eyes, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A routine eye exam can help to catch these conditions early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

7. The human eye is one of the most complex organs in the body.

The human eye is an incredibly complex organ comprising numerous interconnected structures and cells. Every part of the eye is finely tuned to perform a specific function, from the cornea and iris to the retina and optic nerve. It is estimated that over half of the brain’s resources are dedicated to processing visual information from the eyes, underscoring the importance of this remarkable organ.

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In conclusion, the human eye is a fascinating and intricate organ that plays a vital role in our daily lives. From its remarkable sensitivity to light and color to its ability to regenerate and indicate overall health, the human eye is truly a marvel of biology and technology. Health enthusiasts can better appreciate this incredible organ and its role in our visual experience by understanding these interesting facts about the human eye.

Trust your eyes with award winning eye care at Levin Eye Care Center. Schedule your appointment today via text or a phone call to 219-659-3050.

Your eyelids do more than blink!

They also protect your eyes from dirt, dust, and other irritants affecting your eyelids and vision. We can help you manage and prevent these common eyelid disorders from keeping your eyes healthy and looking their best.

Don’t let eyelid issues keep you from seeing clearly. 

The eyes are the window to the soul, but the eyelids are the guardians that protect them. Eyelids are the first line of defense against harmful particles, dust, and other irritants that can damage the eyes. They also play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and vision. However, like any other body part, eyelids are prone to various disorders affecting their functions. We’ll look closer at eyelids’ functions, some of the most common ailments, and how to keep eyelids clean.

Functions of Eyelids:

Eyelids are an essential part of the eye, performing several functions to maintain eye health and vision. One of their primary functions is to protect the eyes from dirt, dust, and other irritants that can cause damage or infection. They also help keep the eyes moist and lubricated by producing tears, which are essential for preventing dryness and discomfort. Additionally, eyelids regulate the amount of light that enters the eyes, ensuring that the eyes are not overloaded with too much light, which can cause damage.

Common Disorders of Eyelids:

1. Blepharitis: This is a common condition where the eyelids become inflamed and swollen. A bacterial infection typically causes it and can cause redness, itching, and irritation.
2. Ptosis: This is a condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye, partially or entirely blocking the vision. It is caused by weakness in the muscles that control the eyelid.
3. Entropion: This is a condition where the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye’s surface. This can cause irritation, redness, and even damage to the cornea.
4. Ectropion: This is a condition where the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner surface of the eyelid. This can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation.
5. Style: A stye is a small, painful lump that forms on the eyelid. A bacterial infection usually causes it and can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness.

Managing and Preventing Eyelid Disorders:

Good eyelid hygiene is essential for preventing infections and other eyelid disorders. Fortunately, many eyelid disorders are preventable and treatable. Wash your face and eyelids regularly with a gentle cleanser, avoiding rubbing or scratching your eyes and keeping your hands clean. If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene practices, such as disinfecting them regularly. Our office recommends using Occusoft eyelid scrub and cleansers for an easy solution to good eyelid hygiene and assist in keeping eyelids clean. 

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If you experience any eyelid disorder symptoms, such as redness, swelling, or pain, seeking immediate medical attention is essential. We can diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide the necessary treatment.

Call or text us at 219-659-3050 to schedule an appointment, and let us help you see clearly for years to come.

Don’t wait until it’s too late; take action now to protect your eyesight.

Before vision therapy

Gretchen’s family had multiple discussions with the school regarding special education and being held back. They placed Gretchen in the school RTI (response to intervention) program regarding reading struggles. Gretchen was experiencing struggles in kindergarten with handwriting and had a hard time with reading sight words. Also, she lacked confidence and was down on herself for not doing as well as her twin sister.

Her family spent many hours helping Gretchen after school, and she continued to have challenges. Before starting kindergarten, Gretchen was evaluated by another pediatric eye specialist in Northwest Indiana. Still, surprisingly they did not diagnose Gretchen with any problems because there is a family history of visually learning-related challenges.

Gretchen’s grandmother is a retired teacher who previously had a student who was having struggles in kindergarten with the same issues but had success with the Levin Eye Care Center vision therapy program. She took an interest in her student’s eye care issues because the family has a history of double vision. She was glad she kept the Levin Eye Care Center paperwork and suggested we have Gretchen evaluated there.

This year (second grade), the school has asked if they could test Gretchen for reading impairment and other health impairment-vision due to falling behind her classmates. Gretchen did the first round of Vision Therapy and saw much improvement in her reading, sight words, spelling, and writing skills, but she needed additional vision therapy to catch up to her classmates.

After Vision Therapy

Gretchen now exhibits the following:

• Excels academically and is excited about school
• Mastering her sight words
• Receives A’s and B’s on the report card 
• Reading more fluently, mastering spelling tests, and writing better
• Boost in confidence, wants to go to school and enjoys doing her homework

Since completing the Levin Eye Care Center vision therapy program, Gretchen has had a fantastic work ethic and strong reading and listening comprehension. She enjoys working on her reading fluency and written expression. Gretchen appears to be happier overall with being successful in school and feels proud of herself for learning to read, doing well in math, mastering spelling tests, and reading books herself.

If your child or grandchild is having trouble in school and their future is a priority, make a positive change before it’s too late.

Protect your child’s future and schedule an appointment with our award-winning team at Levin Eye Care Center!