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# Total Vision La Quinta

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Blog](https://oldtownoptometry.com/blog/) - Browse our blog to learn more about your eye care & vision. Discover ocular tips with Old Town Optix Optometry so you can stay informed about your eye health.
- [Is Glaucoma Hereditary?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/is-glaucoma-hereditary/) - Does glaucoma run in your family? Explore genetic risks, early signs, and preventative care with an eye doctor in La Quinta at Total Vision La Quinta.
- [Does My Child Need an Eye Exam Before Starting School?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/does-my-child-need-an-eye-exam-before-starting-school/) - An eye exam is essential before your child is in the classroom. Learn about the link between vision & learning from the optometrists at Total Vision La Quinta.
- [Can Glaucoma Cause Vertigo?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-glaucoma-cause-vertigo/) - Wondering if glaucoma is connected to your dizziness? Explore eye pressure, vertigo, and preventive care with your eye doctor in La Quinta, California.
- [How Do You Adjust Eyeglass Frames?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-do-you-adjust-eyeglass-frames/) - Glasses slipping? Discover easy home frame tweaks and proper fit tips. Schedule professional adjustments and preventative care at Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [The Benefits Of Vitamin A And Beta-Carotene](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-benefits-of-vitamin-a-and-beta-carotene/) - Want clear vision for your family? Learn about vitamin A, whole foods, and preventative care with your eye care team at Total Vision La Quinta.
- [How Smoking Affects Our Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-smoking-affects-our-vision/) - Every organ in the body can be harmed by smoking, and that includes the eyes. The disease we usually think of when we hear “health risks of smoking” is lung cancer, but the damage smoking can cause isn’t limited to the lungs. A smoking habit can actually damage eyesight faster than disease, and there are
- [How Exercise Benefits Our Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-exercise-benefits-our-eyes/) - Exercising for good health is a top priority for many people. We exercise to build strength, stay fit, and feel good. Staying active is crucial to overall health, including lowering our risk of chronic health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart conditions, and high blood pressure, but did you know that exercise can specifically benefit
- [How To Care For Your Contacts](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-to-care-for-your-contacts/) - Properly caring for your contact lenses is synonymous with caring for your eyes. Contact lenses are safely used by millions of people everyday. They do, however, carry a risk of eye infection if worn or cleaned improperly. Your eyes allow you to see and experience the world around you, so it’s important to protect them,
- [Our Patients’ Top Five Frequently Asked Questions!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/our-patients-top-five-frequently-asked-questions/) - Want to know what our patients have been asking us? Here are the top five frequently asked questions we get at our practice! FAQ #1: “How often do I need to visit the optometrist?” For those of you who do not need glasses or contacts, we encourage you to get an eye exam every two
- [Rockets’ Red Glare: Fireworks Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/rockets-red-glare-fireworks-eye-safety/) - Is there anything more American than hot dogs on the grill and fireworks in the sky? We all enjoy a patriotic pyrotechnics display, but fireworks are not without their risks. Explosives Are Not Toys To anyone lucky enough to have never been injured by fireworks, they might just seem like exciting lights and sounds, but
- [Healthy Foods For Healthy Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/healthy-foods-for-healthy-eyes/) - We’ve all heard that eating carrots will improve our vision. They may not give us super night vision, but eating them can help keep our eyes healthy. What we choose to eat is one of the most important variables to our health. It affects our weight, our energy levels, our risk of many types of
- [Cosmetics And Our Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/cosmetics-and-our-eye-health/) - Nobody likes accidentally jabbing themselves in the eye with a mascara applicator, but that isn’t the only eye health concern when it comes to cosmetics. Makeup and certain cosmetic products can sometimes trigger allergic reactions, so it’s always a good idea to be careful when trying a new one for the first time. Equally serious
- [Look How Far Corrective Lenses Have Come!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/look-how-far-corrective-lenses-have-come/) - Can you imagine wearing glasses with lenses made of crystal? Your ancestors could. Corrective lenses have come a long way from when they were first invented, and we aren’t just talking about what they can do for different types of vision problems, but what they’re actually made of. Timeline Of Past Lens Materials 60 AD: One
- [Envisioning a greater future: One contact lens at a time.](https://oldtownoptometry.com/envisioning-a-greater-future-one-contact-lens-at-a-time/) - We all try to be good stewards of the earth. We go out of our way to recycle paper, glass, plastic. Many of us even compost. But what about daily disposable contact lenses? We wear them once then toss them. Good for our eyes, not so good for the planet. Here’s some good news that
- [Protecting Your Eyes From Snow Blindness](https://oldtownoptometry.com/protecting-your-eyes-from-snow-blindness/) - Have your eyes ever felt gritty and watery after an outdoor adventure? Maybe you felt a burning sensation and suffered temporary vision loss? If this sounds familiar to you, you may have been exposed to high levels of UV rays from light reflections while boating, hiking at high elevation, or participating in snow sports like
- [Men’s Vision Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/mens-vision-health/) - Although men and women have a lot in common, there are a few differences when it comes to eyesight and vision health. Men have some advantages women lack, such as lower risk for eye diseases in general, but they also some disadvantages women don’t have to worry as much about. Let’s take a look at
- [Where Online Eye Exams Fall Short](https://oldtownoptometry.com/where-online-eye-exams-fall-short/) - Over the last couple of decades, the internet has changed just about every aspect of our lives. From the way we shop to the way we gain information to the way we connect with friends, the Information Age is a very different world. The internet has made so many things easier, but sometimes that convenience
- [Women’s Vision Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/womens-vision-health/) - Men and women have plenty of differences, but did you know that some of them have to do with eyesight and vision health? While men are more prone to eye injuries for various reasons, women are more susceptible to eye diseases. So what problems should women be on the watch for? Common Vision Problems For Women
- [Preventing Fireworks Eye Injuries](https://oldtownoptometry.com/preventing-fireworks-eye-injuries/) - There’s something about a fireworks display that brings out feelings of childlike wonder in all of us. The last thing we want is for that enjoyment to be marred by eye injuries, but unfortunately, this happens far too often. Handle All Explosives With Care Fireworks might just seem like harmless lights and sounds to anyone
- [Cataracts And Our Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/cataracts-and-our-vision/) - Over 20 million adults age 40 and older and half of seniors 80 and older have cataracts, and that’s just in the US. Because cataracts are so common, it’s important to know what they are, their symptoms, and how they can be treated. The Basics Of Cataracts Normally, the proteins inside the lenses of our eyes line
- [When To Schedule An Eye Exam](https://oldtownoptometry.com/when-to-schedule-an-eye-exam/) - How long has it been since your last eye exam? A year? Two? Longer? How often should we be scheduling our eye exams, and what are some good reasons to come in between regular appointments? If you aren’t sure, then you’ve come to the right place, because we’re here to discuss the reasons to schedule
- [Progressive Lenses Versus Bifocals](https://oldtownoptometry.com/progressive-lenses-versus-bifocals/) - Nearly everyone over the age of 65 will experience a reduced elasticity of the lenses of their eyes — a condition called presbyopia. Those of us lucky enough to have perfect vision until that age will only require reading glasses to help with up-close vision. However, for the 42 percent of Americans who are nearsighted to begin
- [What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-is-age-related-macular-degeneration/) - Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss for people over the age of 50. In AMD patients, vision loss occurs as the macula deteriorates over time. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, AMD can make it difficult or impossible to do daily
- [Protecting Your Eye Health While You Work](https://oldtownoptometry.com/protecting-your-eye-health-while-you-work/) - March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, and we want to make sure our patients have all the information they need to protect their eyes at work! The type of job you have will determine what kinds of risks your eyes may be in for injury or health issues, so we’re going to break them up
- [4 Ways the Environment Can Affect Your Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/4-ways-the-environment-can-affect-your-eye-health/) - Dry, irritated eyes? Learn how the sun, wind, and air quality affect your vision. Get tips from your eye doctor in La Quinta at Total Vision La Quinta.
- [What Lens Coatings Are Worth It in Bright, Sunny Environments?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-lens-coatings-are-worth-it-in-bright-sunny-environments/) - Tired of sun glare? Discover helpful and protective lens coatings and tints with our eye care team at Total Vision La Quinta. Learn more by reading our blog.
- [Can You Open Your Eyes Underwater with Contacts?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-you-open-your-eyes-underwater-with-contacts/) - Wondering if you can open your eyes underwater with contacts? Learn the risks, how to prevent infection, and safer options from our eye doctor in La Quinta.
- [How Are Prescription Lenses Made?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-are-prescription-lenses-made/) - Wondering how glasses with prescription lenses are made? Discover how lenses are shaped, coated, and fitted with your eye doctor in La Quinta at Total Vision.
- [Can Vaping Cause Optic Nerve Damage?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-vaping-cause-optic-nerve-damage/) - Is vaping damaging your eyesight? Learn how it can lead to optic nerve damage, glaucoma, and cataracts with Total Vision La Quinta. Read our blog to learn more.
- [Why Is My Vision Blurry in the Morning?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/why-is-my-vision-blurry-in-the-morning/) - Waking up with blurry vision? Learn the causes, from dry eyes to underlying conditions, and when it's time to see an eye doctor with Total Vision La Quinta.
- [Can Sinus Pressure Cause Blurry Vision?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-sinus-pressure-cause-blurry-vision/) - Discover how sinus pressure affects vision and effective treatment options for sinus-related blurry vision symptoms with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [What Is Normal Eye Pressure for Seniors?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-is-normal-eye-pressure-for-seniors/) - Discover the normal range for eye pressure in seniors. Learn how it affects conditions like glaucoma with Old Town Optix Optometry in La Quinta, CA.
- [Can You Get Allergies in One Eye?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-you-get-allergies-in-one-eye/) - Old Town Optix Optometry explains why you may have allergies in only one eye, including eye conditions often mistaken for allergies. Read our blog to learn more.
- [Can I Rub My Eyes with Contacts In?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-i-rub-my-eyes-with-contacts-in/) - Old Town Optix Optometry addresses whether it’s safe to rub your eyes while wearing contacts and how to care for your contact lenses to avoid irritation.
- [What Causes Astigmatism to Worsen?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-causes-astigmatism-to-worsen/) - Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can worsen over time. Learn what astigmatism is and how to correct it with Total Vision La Quinta.
- [What Do Cataracts Look Like?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-do-cataracts-look-like/) - Wondering what the signs of cataracts look like? Learn more about cataracts and how they can be treated with Old Town Optix in La Quinta, CA.
- [Can Contact Lenses Cause Headaches?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-contact-lenses-cause-headaches/) - Learn if contact lenses can cause headaches and discover tips to reduce your discomfort with Old Town Optix Optometry in La Quinta. Read our blog.
- [How Do You Know If You Need Glasses?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-do-you-know-if-you-need-glasses/) - Improve your vision and life with Old Town Optix Optometry. Learn to spot signs you need glasses and the importance of regular eye exams.
- [Do Optometrists Always Dilate Your Eyes for an Eye Exam?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/do-optometrists-always-dilate-your-eyes-for-an-eye-exam/) - Dilation is an essential diagnostic tool, but it’s not always necessary. Learn when and why dilation is used with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Caring for Our Eye Health As We Age](https://oldtownoptometry.com/caring-for-our-eye-health-as-we-age/) - Our eyesight, among many other things, tends to change as we get older. For any serious changes, it’s critical to get an early diagnosis. Many sight-threatening conditions that are associated with advancing age are combatted best by being discovered in the early stages. That’s the biggest we encourage more frequent eye exams for older patients,
- [How Often Do We Need Eye Exams?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-often-do-we-need-eye-exams/) - Most dentists will recommend a cleaning and dental exam twice a year, but how often do we need our eyes checked? It’s as important to get preventative care for our eyes as for our teeth, and that means getting eye exams when we don’t need an updated prescription for our glasses or contact lenses. Human
- [How Do Animals See?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-do-animals-see/) - Human eyes are amazing, but there are some eyes in the animal kingdom that are pretty impressive too. Let’s look at a few of the most powerful eyes in nature and find out what makes them work so differently from the way ours do. The Main Similarities and Differences The main thing all eyes have
- [Comprehensive Eye Exams and Education](https://oldtownoptometry.com/comprehensive-eye-exams-and-education/) - Name five things you would expect to find in every school nurse’s office. Was the big E eye chart on your list? That’s the Snellen chart, named after Herman Snellen, a 19th-century Dutch eye doctor who developed it, and it’s a great diagnostic tool for catching nearsightedness. Unfortunately, nearsightedness is far from the only vision
- [The Best Foods for Healthy Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-best-foods-for-healthy-eyes/) - Eating carrots is supposed to improve our eyesight, right? That’s actually a leftover idea from a British propaganda campaign during World War II. The British wanted to keep their newly developed radar technology a secret from the Germans, so they claimed as far and wide as possible that their airmen developed superhuman night vision by
- [New to Glasses? Here’s Why They Rock.](https://oldtownoptometry.com/new-to-glasses-heres-why-they-rock/) - Starting to wear glasses can be a big change for kids. They may often be tempted to leave their glasses at home instead of wearing them to school, even if that comes at the expense of hours of squinting and fuzzy scenery. We’re here to help parents appreciate the advantages that come with wearing their
- [Cataract Treatment Across History](https://oldtownoptometry.com/cataract-treatment-across-history/) - The world’s leading cause of blindness has always been cataracts. Naturally, treatment has come a long way. In the US alone, over 20 million adults over the age of 40 will develop cataracts. By age 80, half of all US adults will have them. In a healthy eye, the lens is filled with transparent proteins.
- [Fireworks and Common Sense Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/fireworks-and-common-sense-eye-safety/) - What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Independence Day celebrations? Most likely, you thought of fireworks. They are certainly a dazzling and exciting part of the festivities, but they can also be a serious hazard if not handled with caution. Fireworks aren’t just pretty to look at, they are explosives.
- [Face Shape and Glasses Frames](https://oldtownoptometry.com/face-shape-and-glasses-frames/) - Do you choose glasses frames based on how well they fit the shape of your face? Whatever glasses you wear, they will be a large portion of anyone’s first impression of you. Aside from helping you see, glasses are a great way to show off your personality, but there are a few things to take
- [What Sunglasses Do for Your Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-sunglasses-do-for-your-eyes/) - Summer is almost here, and that means longer days with more sunlight! We tend to spend more time outdoors in the warm summer months, which exposes our eyes to more sunlight and the harmful UV rays that come with it. Sunglasses that block UV rays are great for protecting our eyes in all seasons, but
- [Battle of the Sexes: Eye Health Edition](https://oldtownoptometry.com/battle-of-the-sexes-eye-health-edition/) - You might be surprised how different vision and eye health can be between men and women. For instance, men are more likely to sustain a sight-threatening eye injury than women, but women are more vulnerable to a variety of eye diseases. What can men and women do to address their unique eye health concerns? Women
- [Germs Can Infiltrate the Body Via the Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/germs-can-infiltrate-the-body-via-the-eyes/) - Do you have a habit of rubbing your eyes? It’s the kind of thing we tend to do without really noticing whenever we’re tired, our eyes are itchy or dry, or we get something stuck in them. It’s an automatic response to try to alleviate the issue. The trouble is that it’s likely to do
- [The Eyes-Headaches Connection](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-eyes-headaches-connection/) - Uncorrected vision problems can lead to symptoms you might not expect, like frequent headaches. If you deal with a lot of headaches, scheduling an eye exam would be well worth your time, even if only to rule a vision problem out as a cause. Headaches aren’t always tied to vision and every vision problem doesn’t
- [Eye Safety in the Workplace](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-safety-in-the-workplace/) - For Workplace Eye Wellness Month, we’re giving you a guide to protecting your eye health at work! Obviously, eye safety will mean something very different depending on the type of work you do. Working on a computer is very different from working at a worksite, so we’re dividing the tips into two categories; one for
- [Glasses Care and Contact Lens Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/glasses-care-and-contact-lens-safety/) - Glasses or contact lenses might be small, but they make a massive difference in our daily lives. Anyone who wears glasses or contacts (unless they’ve had them since they were toddlers) can remember what it was like to suddenly be able to see individual leaves and blades of grass when they started wearing them, and
- [Learning All About Heterochromia](https://oldtownoptometry.com/learning-all-about-heterochromia/) - Statistically, the first thing we notice about a person when we meet them is their eye color. An interesting pair of eyes can make a lasting impression, but the most unforgettable are probably the ones that don’t match. The scientific term for mismatched eye colors is heterochromia. It’s fairly common in cats and dogs, but
- [The Basics of AMD](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-basics-of-amd/) - For people age fifty and older, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of permanent vision loss. AMD is the gradual loss of central vision as the part of the retina with the highest concentration of photoreceptor cells (the macula, which is responsible for our detailed central vision) deteriorates. After it has progressed to
- [Tips for a Lifetime of Healthy Eyesight](https://oldtownoptometry.com/tips-for-a-lifetime-of-healthy-eyesight/) - Healthy eyesight is an important part of having a good quality of life. Up to one in every six adults struggles with a sight-threatening eye condition and many more than that experience a degree of vision loss as they age. Many of the major causes of blindness and low vision are connected to age, including
- [Recognizing Childhood Vision Problems](https://oldtownoptometry.com/recognizing-childhood-vision-problems/) - Healthy, functioning eyesight is incredibly important to a child’s education and development. That’s because as much as 80% of all learning is visual, and experts estimate that more than half of childhood learning difficulties are the result of undiagnosed vision problems. So what can parents do to make sure their child doesn’t experience the setbacks
- [Helping Child Vision Development](https://oldtownoptometry.com/helping-child-vision-development/) - Did you know that babies have to learn how to see? It might seem strange, since using our eyes is something we do automatically all day, but babies need to develop a number of visual skills in order to effectively use their eyes and process what they’re seeing, just like they have to learn how
- [The Impacts of Smoking on Eyesight](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-impacts-of-smoking-on-eyesight/) - A smoking habit damages every organ and system in the body, including the eyes. We typically think of lung cancer as the main health risk associated with smoking, and then maybe oral health problems next, but the parts of the body that have direct contact with the smoke aren’t the only ones hurt by it.
- [How Eye Color Works](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-eye-color-works/) - Human eye color comes from melanin, the same compound that determines skin and hair color. Melanin absorbs light, even some UV light, which is important for the iris — the part of the eye that controls how much light enters the pupil. Melanin and Pigment Types There are two different types of melanin a person
- [Corrective Lenses Through History](https://oldtownoptometry.com/corrective-lenses-through-history/) - Since as early as 60 A.D., people have been using vision-correcting tools to help them see. Around that time, the Roman philosopher Seneca used a glass globe of water to magnify text, while Emperor Nero needed a magnifying emerald to see gladiator fights. Thanks to millennia of innovations since then, we don’t need to rely
- [The Relationship Between Eyes and Sleep](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-relationship-between-eyes-and-sleep/) - Studies have shown that sleep deprivation hits the body and mind a lot like alcohol. That isn’t great, but where do our eyes fit into the equation? When we get enough sleep, it’s great for both our overall health and our eye health, and we can also improve our quality of sleep by changing what
- [Makeup Eye Safety Tips](https://oldtownoptometry.com/makeup-eye-safety-tips/) - Back in the old days, makeup was full of ingredients like lead, arsenic, and mercury. Thankfully we don’t have to worry whether or not we’re putting actual poison on our faces when we apply modern makeup, but we should still take a few precautions to protect our eyes from unnecessary injury and infection. There’s no
- [Keeping Our Eyes Healthy as We Age](https://oldtownoptometry.com/keeping-our-eyes-healthy-as-we-age/) - Among the many changes our bodies undergo as we get older are the changes to our eyesight. Early diagnosis is critical for stopping many sight-threatening conditions in their tracks, which is why we should be on the watch for signs of age-related vision loss. There are also more benign ways our eyesight can change over
- [How Does Animal Eyesight Work?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-does-animal-eyesight-work/) - We wouldn’t have gone into the optometry field if we weren’t fascinated by eyes, and there are some incredible ones in nature. There is such incredible variation in how eyes work across the animal kingdom that we could spend years studying and barely scratch the surface, so to start out, we just want to take
- [Eye Exams: Vital to Your Child’s Education](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-exams-vital-to-your-childs-education/) - A staple of every school nurse’s office is the big E eye chart. That chart, the formal name of which is the Snellen chart (after the 19th-century Dutch eye doctor Herman Snellen who developed it), is certainly a good diagnostic tool for catching nearsightedness, but there are many other things that could be wrong with
- [Eyesight Is More Than 20/20 Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eyesight-is-more-than-20-20-vision/) - We tend to think of 20/20 vision being a synonym for perfect eyesight, but that isn’t quite true. All it means when someone has 20/20 vision is that they have normal visual acuity without refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. There is a wide range of vision problems that have nothing to do with
- [Welcome to the Glasses Club!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/welcome-to-the-glasses-club/) - Wearing glasses can be a big adjustment for kids when they’re just starting out. The temptation can sometimes be to leave the glasses at home instead of wearing them, even though that means going through a day of fuzzy vistas and squinting. That’s why today’s post is all about helping parents help their kids see
- [The History of Cataract Treatment](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-history-of-cataract-treatment/) - Cataracts are the world’s leading cause of blindness, and the history of treating them is long and fascinating. Over 20 million adults 40 and up in the US will develop cataracts, and by the time they reach 80, half of them will. Normally, the lenses in our eyes are filled with transparent protein, but the
- [Important Eye Safety Rules for Fireworks](https://oldtownoptometry.com/important-eye-safety-rules-for-fireworks/) - Fireworks are probably the most iconic part of every year’s Independence Day festivities. The danger with fireworks is that a lot of people forget that they are explosives, and that’s how they caused 12 deaths and ten thousand injuries in 2019 alone (mostly between mid-June and mid-July), according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s report.
- [What to Look for in Your New Frames](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-to-look-for-in-your-new-frames/) - Do you know how to find glasses frames that suit your features? The glasses you choose will be a huge part of the first impression you make on people. They’re a great way to show off your personal sense of style, but fashion isn’t the only factor to take into consideration. What Shape Is Your
- [What’s Inside the Human Eye?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/whats-inside-the-human-eye/) - The human eye is amazingly complex. All inside something the size of a large marble, light waves are converted into continuous streams of detailed, accurate, moving images that we can understand and respond to. Our vision connects us to our surroundings more than any of our other senses and makes so many of our daily
- [Sports and Visual Skills](https://oldtownoptometry.com/sports-and-visual-skills/) - When we think of athletes, we probably think of speed and strength first, but what about vision? Strong visual skills are just as important to an athlete’s success as strong muscles. Athletes have to be able to process visual information very quickly so that they can respond to it. The cool thing is that, like
- [Eyes Can Be an Access Point for Germs](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eyes-can-be-an-access-point-for-germs/) - When was the last time you rubbed your eyes? Most of us do it often enough that we might not even notice it every time it happens. Whether we’re tired, our eyes are dry or itchy, or we get something stuck in one of them, rubbing them is a quick and easy way to make
- [What Do Eyes Have to Do With Headaches?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-do-eyes-have-to-do-with-headaches/) - Frequent headaches could be a symptom of an uncorrected vision problem. That’s right, if you experience a lot of headaches, it would be worth your time to schedule an eye exam. Not every headache is tied to a vision problem, and not all untreated vision problems result in headaches, but the connection between the two
- [Workplace Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/workplace-eye-safety/) - March is Workplace Eye Wellness month, so let’s celebrate by taking stock of a few ways to protect our eyes at work! This is going to mean very different things depending on what kind of job you have, whether you work from home or in an office, or you work at a worksite. That’s why
- [How to Care for Your Lenses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-to-care-for-your-lenses/) - Corrective lenses are such small things that make such enormous differences in our lives. Most people who wear glasses or contacts can remember what it was like the first time they were able to see individual blades of grass and leaves on trees after putting them on. It’s important to take good care of our
- [Heterochromia: When Eyes Don’t Match](https://oldtownoptometry.com/heterochromia-when-eyes-dont-match/) - What’s the first thing you notice about a person when you meet them? Statistically, there’s a good chance it’s their eye color! A striking pair of eyes can really make an impression — and that goes double when they’re two different colors. The scientific term for having different colored eyes is heterochromia, and it affects
- [Is Blue Light Bad for Our Eyes?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/is-blue-light-bad-for-our-eyes/) - How big of a role does a bright screen play in your nightly routine? Since the advent of handheld devices that could access the internet, a lot of us have been browsing websites late into the night, our eyes glued to a bright little screen, making sure we haven’t missed any updates before we go
- [A Few Tips for Protecting Your Eyesight](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-few-tips-for-protecting-your-eyesight/) - Having healthy eyesight is a critical component of maintaining a good quality of life. As many as one sixth of adults struggle with an eye condition that threatens their sight, and far more will experience a certain amount of vision loss as they get older. Some of the leading causes of low vision and blindness
- [Know the Signs of Child Eye Problems](https://oldtownoptometry.com/know-the-signs-of-child-eye-problems/) - Healthy eyesight is hugely important to a child’s development and education. As much as 80% of all learning is visual, and it’s estimated that more than half of childhood learning difficulties come from undiagnosed vision problems. What can parents do to ensure their kids don’t have to struggle with the social and educational disadvantages of
- [Winter Eye Protection](https://oldtownoptometry.com/winter-eye-protection/) - It may seem strange, but sunglasses are just as important in winter as they are in summer. The same UV rays that give us sunburns on the beach are just as dangerous on a snowy mountain. Even if most of our skin is covered by thick layers of snow gear, our eyes can still be
- [How Smoking Harms Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-smoking-harms-eye-health/) - Smoking is harmful to every system in the body, including eyesight. Lung cancer is the risk we most commonly associate with a smoking habit, followed by oral health problems, but it doesn’t stop with the parts of the body the smoke comes in contact with. As eye doctors, we want to focus on how smoking
- [Diabetes and Eyesight](https://oldtownoptometry.com/diabetes-and-eyesight/) - Healthy vision is one of the many things diabetes can harm if it isn’t carefully controlled. This is true for both type 1, type 2, and even gestational diabetes (which works like type 2 while it lasts). With diabetes, the risk of developing a number of eye diseases goes up, including cataracts, diabetic macular edema
- [A Brief History of Glasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-brief-history-of-glasses/) - People have been using vision-correcting tools of some kind since as early as 60 A.D. Roman philosopher Seneca from that time used a glass globe of water to magnify the text he was reading, and Emperor Nero couldn’t see gladiator fights very well without his magnifying emerald. We’re glad we don’t have to rely on
- [Sleep and Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/sleep-and-vision/) - When we don’t manage to get a full night’s sleep, we feel it long into the next day. Studies show that sleep deprivation has similar effects on the body and mind as alcohol. But what does sleep have to do with eyesight? You might be surprised. Getting enough sleep does wonders for our overall health,
- [Be Careful When Buying Costume Contacts](https://oldtownoptometry.com/be-careful-when-buying-costume-contacts/) - Colored contact lenses are sometimes the perfect final touch to take a Halloween costume to the next level. Unfortunately, not all costume lenses are created equal — or with equal concern for wearer safety. With Halloween coming up, we want to give all of our costume-loving patients some guidance on how to find great costume
- [Maintaining Healthy Vision as We Age](https://oldtownoptometry.com/maintaining-healthy-vision-as-we-age/) - A lot changes as we get older, including our eyesight. As we age, we should be vigilant in watching for signs of age-related vision loss, because early diagnosis is critical in preventing many sight-threatening conditions from progressing. We want our patients to be as informed as possible so that they can minimize their risks. We
- [Strange and Fascinating Animal Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/strange-and-fascinating-animal-eyes/) - Just because we work with human eyesight, it doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate some of the unique eyes in nature. Depending on how they hunt (or avoid being hunted), where they live, and even how big they are, animals have a wide array of vision adaptations that human eyes don’t have. Let’s take a look
- [Why Kids Need Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/why-kids-need-eye-exams/) - What comes to mind when you think of a school nurse’s office? We’re guessing your list probably includes vinyl recovery beds, jars full of wooden tongue depressors, and the big E eye chart. For over a century and a half, that big E chart (officially called the Snellen chart) has been an excellent diagnostic tool
- [Hey Kids, Your Glasses Are Awesome!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/hey-kids-your-glasses-are-awesome/) - Kids often struggle to adjust to having to wear glasses. They’re already used to not being able to see clearly; the strange feeling of the glasses on their nose and ears and possibly teasing from their peers might not seem like a great trade for clear vision. What is a parent to do? Good eyesight
- [Glasses, Contacts, and Makeup](https://oldtownoptometry.com/glasses-contacts-and-makeup/) - Using makeup to enhance your style or look your best can get a little trickier when glasses or contacts are in the equation. For glasses wearers, your makeup approach might have to adjust depending on what kind of frames you have and whether your prescription makes your eyes look bigger or smaller than normal. Contacts
- [Cataract Treatment Then and Now](https://oldtownoptometry.com/cataract-treatment-then-and-now/) - In the US alone, cataracts affect over 20 million adults 40 and older and half of all seniors age 80 and up. Over time, the lenses in our eyes can become clouded by clumps of protein, resulting in worsening symptoms like reduced night vision, light sensitivity, glare, halo effects around lights, dim or cloudy vision,
- [The Importance of Fireworks Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-importance-of-fireworks-eye-safety/) - We all love celebrating Independence Day with some good food, friends and family, and a dazzling display of fireworks. However, it’s easy to forget that fireworks are explosives. Injuries from fireworks are so common that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) publishes yearly reports on the matter. According to the 2018 report, 9,100 fireworks-related injuries were
- [Eyebrows and Eyelashes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eyebrows-and-eyelashes/) - Our eyebrows and eyelashes aren’t just there for decoration. They’re not even just there for helping us make different facial expressions or to make our eyes stand out. They’re actually the first line of defense our eyes have against airborne contaminants and other hazards. How Eyelashes Protect Our Eyes It might seem weird to think
- [Tips for Choosing New Frames](https://oldtownoptometry.com/tips-for-choosing-new-frames/) - When we pick out new glasses, we want frames that will help us look our best. Glasses are a huge part of a person’s look — why do you think nobody recognizes Superman behind the Clark Kent glasses? Because of the difference glasses make to our appearance, there’s a lot to consider when choosing the
- [Women’s Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/womens-eye-health/) - Men and women might not come from different planets, but there are certainly a lot of differences between the two — even with eye health. Women, unfortunately, tend to be more vulnerable to a number of eye diseases, even if they are less likely than men to sustain a sight-threatening eye injury over the course
- [How Germs Can Travel to Our Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-germs-can-travel-to-our-eyes/) - Most of us rub our eyes many times in the course of the day without really thinking about it. Whether we’re tired, our eyes feel dry or itchy, or there’s something stuck in one of them, it seems like the easiest way to make it feel better is to rub them a little. Unfortunately, doing
- [How Headaches and Vision Are Connected](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-headaches-and-vision-are-connected/) - If you suffer from frequent headaches, it might be time to schedule an eye exam. For many people, headaches can be a symptom of uncorrected vision problems. This doesn’t happen in all cases of uncorrected or undiagnosed vision problems, and of course not all headaches are caused by vision problems, but the connection is a
- [Are You Protecting Your Eyes at Work?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/are-you-protecting-your-eyes-at-work/) - In honor of Workplace Eye Wellness Month, it’s time for a look at the steps we can all take to protect our eyes while we work. Depending on what type of job you have, your eyes will face different risks of health issues or injury, so we want to approach this in two broad categories:
- [A Crash Course on AMD](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-crash-course-on-amd/) - For people age 50 and older, age-related macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes the gradual loss of central vision through the deterioration of the macula, or the part of the retina that gives us our sharp, detailed central vision. AMD can make it very
- [What Does Being Colorblind Mean?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-does-being-colorblind-mean/) - Just because someone is colorblind, it doesn’t mean they see the world like a black-and-white movie. That type of color blindness does exist and is called monochromacy, but it is by far the rarest form of color blindness. There are different ways it can happen, just like there are different ways the more common types
- [Presbyopia, Bifocals, and Progressives](https://oldtownoptometry.com/presbyopia-bifocals-and-progressives/) - Presbyopia is farsightedness caused by the increasing rigidity of the lens in the eye as we age. It affects nearly everyone older than 65, and for the 42 percent of Americans who are already nearsighted, this creates a complication. People who previously had 20/20 vision can just grab a pair of reading glasses to combat
- [All About Glaucoma](https://oldtownoptometry.com/all-about-glaucoma/) - Our eyes are incredible, complicated organs. Many different components need to work together for us to be able to see. This means that when one of those components breaks down, it can cause big problems for eyesight. A component you might not think of is the pressure of the fluid inside the eye. Glaucoma is
- [Vision and the Challenges of Night Driving](https://oldtownoptometry.com/vision-and-the-challenges-of-night-driving/) - In winter, when the days are shorter, we tend to end up driving more at night. For those of us without perfect eyesight, this can be an increasingly stressful adjustment to make every year, and we should all take the dangers of night driving into careful consideration. It won’t just make a difference to our
- [Winter Is Here! Are Your Eyes Protected?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/winter-is-here-are-your-eyes-protected/) - When we think of sunburns, most of us probably imagine sandy beaches and summer heat, but we can get sunburned in any season, including winter. In fact, winter can be even more dangerous in some ways. Just because most of our skin is bundled up from the cold, that doesn’t mean our eyes are safe,
- [Smoking Versus Healthy Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/smoking-versus-healthy-vision/) - The most common health effects that come to mind when we think of smoking are lung cancer and bad teeth, but it doesn’t stop there. Smoking is harmful to every system in the body, and it’s also harmful to our vision. A smoking habit can do more damage to our eyesight than disease can, in
- [Diabetes and Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/diabetes-and-vision/) - Diabetes is a disease that can negatively affect health in many ways, including healthy eyesight. Diabetes brings with it an increased risk of developing several different eye diseases. These are grouped under the umbrella term “diabetic eye disease,” and they include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic macular edema (DME), and diabetic retinopathy. With all of these combined,
- [The Connection Between Vision and Sleep](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-connection-between-vision-and-sleep/) - Sometimes it’s hard to get a full night’s sleep, but when we don’t, we definitely feel it. In fact, studies even show that not getting enough sleep has many of the same effects on the mind and body as alcohol. There’s an interesting relationship between our quality and quantity of sleep and our eyes. We can
- [A Word of Caution on Costume Contacts](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-word-of-caution-on-costume-contacts/) - Halloween is our favorite spooky time of year, but we need to talk about the potential dangers of costume contact lenses. The right pair of colored lenses will make a great final touch to an amazing Halloween costume, but not all contact lenses are created equal, and we want to make sure our patients know
- [Makeup and Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/makeup-and-eye-safety/) - Cosmetics have come a long way from the toxic powders used in the Renaissance and Victorian eras. We’re very happy that modern makeup is free of ingredients like lead, arsenic, and mercury. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s all perfectly safe to have around the eyes. The old saying might be “beauty is pain,” but as eye
- [Protecting Your Eyesight Over The Years](https://oldtownoptometry.com/protecting-your-eyesight-over-the-years/) - As we get older, our bodies don’t function as well as they used to, and that includes our eyes. However, there’s a lot we can do to keep our eyes healthy, which is why we’d like to take a look at a few of the most common age-related vision and eye problems and what can
- [Animal Kingdom Eyesight Olympics](https://oldtownoptometry.com/animal-kingdom-eyesight-olympics/) - Our world is filled with a staggering array of animal life, and today we’d like to take a closer look at some of the best eyes nature has to offer. Instead of trying to identify one animal that has the best eyes overall, we’re breaking it up into categories: underwater vision, night vision, color vision,
- [Kids And Comprehensive Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/kids-and-comprehensive-eye-exams/) - Most of us remember going to the school nurse as a child, covering one eye at a time, and reading off lines from the big E chart to find out if we needed glasses. Unfortunately, as efficient as they may seem, these simple vision screenings don’t catch everything that could be wrong with a child’s
- [Convincing Your Child That Glasses Rule](https://oldtownoptometry.com/convincing-your-child-that-glasses-rule/) - Wearing glasses for the first time can be a difficult adjustment for any child. Being able to see clearly might not always seem worth it to them compared to how strange the glasses feel on their nose and ears or what their peers think, so what can you do as a parent to help them
- [Swimming Pool Eye Safety Tips](https://oldtownoptometry.com/swimming-pool-eye-safety-tips/) - School’s out and it’s time for summer! For many of us, summer time means a lot of trips to the pool, but before we dive in, we should take a look at what we should be doing to protect our eyes while we’re cooling off underwater. Invest In A Good Pair Of Goggles Have you
- [Enjoy The Fireworks (But Protect Your Eyes)](https://oldtownoptometry.com/enjoy-the-fireworks-but-protect-your-eyes/) - The Fourth of July is a wonderful day to enjoy good food, good company, and, of course, an awe-inspiring fireworks display. If we want to be able to keep enjoying the sight of the rockets’ red glare in future years, however, we need to make sure we’re not putting our eyes at unnecessary risk of
- [Finding Your Perfect Summer Shades](https://oldtownoptometry.com/finding-your-perfect-summer-shades/) - Summer is a great time to get some cool sunglasses and relax on the beach, but we should really be wearing our sunglasses all year. Choosing the right pair of sunglasses is a little more complicated than finding the ones that best suit your style. Our first priority should always be finding the pair that
- [UV Rays And Our Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/uv-rays-and-our-vision/) - With summer just around the corner, a lot of us are probably looking forward to getting a lot of sun. However, it’s important to be careful not to expose our eyes (or our skin) to too much ultraviolet radiation, as it can cause a number of problems both in the short-term and the long-term. What
- [Why We Need Tears](https://oldtownoptometry.com/why-we-need-tears/) - We tend to only think of tears when something makes us cry, whether we’re watching a touching or tragic movie or we’re laughing so hard that our eyes water. However, tears are really the unsung heroes of eye health. They come in different types and there’s more to them than just water, so let’s take
- [Let’s Look At Women’s Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/lets-look-at-womens-eye-health/) - We all know there are differences between men and women, but it might surprise you that some of those differences have to do with our eyes! In general, women are less likely than men to sustain an eye injury during their lifetime, but the unfortunate tradeoff is being more susceptible to various eye diseases. Women
- [Flaxseed Oil Or Fish Oil For Dry Eye?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/flaxseed-oil-or-fish-oil-for-dry-eye/) - If you’ve ever been near the pharmacy in a grocery store, you’ve probably seen the aisles of nutrition supplements for sale. These products claim to have a variety of benefits, but today we just want to focus on two: flaxseed oil and fish oil, and what they can do to combat dry eye. The Dangers
- [Smart Contact Lenses?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/smart-contact-lenses/) - It wasn’t so long ago that the idea of a smart contact lens seemed like the stuff of science fiction, but it’s pretty close to becoming science fact. What exactly are smart contact lenses, and what would they be for? Let’s take a look at a few of the different possibilities we could be seeing
- [Glaucoma 101: Eyes Under Pressure](https://oldtownoptometry.com/glaucoma-101-eyes-under-pressure/) - Human eyesight is an incredibly complex system, and a problem anywhere along the way can lead to seriously compromised vision. One such problem is glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that affect millions of people in the US, making it the second most common cause of vision loss and blindness in the country. In most
- [Warning Signs Of Child Vision Problems](https://oldtownoptometry.com/warning-signs-of-child-vision-problems/) - An estimated 60 percent of children with learning difficulties have undiagnosed vision problems, and 80 percent of learning is visual. This puts these children at a serious disadvantage in their education and their social development. So what can we do as parents to make sure this doesn’t happen to our children? Fortunately, there’s plenty! Why Are So
- [Our Top Tips For Winter Eye Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/our-top-tips-for-winter-eye-safety/) - Because it’s so much colder outside in winter, our instinct might be to assume that we’re safe from damage from the sun. Unfortunately, this is not the case. We are just as vulnerable to harmful UV rays in winter as we are in summer. Our skin might be mostly bundled up from the cold, keeping
- [Staying Ahead Of Age-Related Vision Loss](https://oldtownoptometry.com/staying-ahead-of-age-related-vision-loss/) - Have you noticed any changes in your eyesight in the last few years? The older we get, the more important it is for us to be on the watch for symptoms of age-related vision loss. As your partners in life-long healthy vision, we want to make sure you’re prepared. Common Types Of Age-Related Vision Loss
- [Vision And Night Driving](https://oldtownoptometry.com/vision-and-night-driving/) - Nights are long in the winter, and that means fewer hours of daylight for our morning and evening commutes. Many of us feel safer driving during the day, particularly if our eyesight isn’t perfect. The dangers of night driving are very real, and we should all be taking them seriously, because our lives and the
- [Sleep And Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/sleep-and-eye-health/) - When we don’t get a good night’s sleep, we can really feel it in the morning. That grogginess, difficulty concentrating, and slowed reaction time — we all know the feeling. Lack of sleep, especially when it happens on a regular basis, can have many negative effects on our health, both short-term and long-term, including a
- [The Wide Spectrum Of Visual Impairment](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-wide-spectrum-of-visual-impairment/) - Most of the time, when we hear the word “blind,” we think that means total blindness, but it’s not always that simple. There is a wide range of visual impairment beyond what glasses can correct, and it’s important for sighted people to understand what that range is so that we will be better equipped to
- [Is Makeup Bad For Our Eyes?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/is-makeup-bad-for-our-eyes/) - People have been using makeup to enhance their unique, natural features for thousands of years. Over the millennia, the priority with these beauty products hasn’t always been health, which might have something to do with the disturbing amount of lead-based powders in the history of makeup. You don’t have to worry about lead in your eyeshadow these
- [The Best Foods For Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-best-foods-for-eye-health/) - Have you heard that eating carrots will give you great night vision? That’s actually a leftover idea from World War II propaganda. The British didn’t want enemy soldiers to learn about their new radar technology, so they claimed their airmen got their night vision by eating carrots! Whether or not the Germans fell for it, the
- [The Best Eyesight In The Animal Kingdom](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-best-eyesight-in-the-animal-kingdom/) - Human eyes are complex and powerful organs, but there are a few animals who have us beat when it comes to eyesight. Let’s take a look at some of the best peepers in the animal kingdom and find out what makes them so different from ours! Difference Between Human And Animal Vision All eyes work
- [Different Types Of Sunglasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/different-types-of-sunglasses/) - A good pair of sunglasses is a wonderful thing to have on a bright summer day, but why is that? How do our sunglasses work? It’s not just about the dark tint. Different lenses have different effects, and knowing what those are enables you to choose the sunglasses that are best for you! The Color
- [5 Tips For Making Glasses Cool For Your Kids](https://oldtownoptometry.com/5-tips-for-making-glasses-cool-for-your-kids/) - Have you been struggling to convince your child to wear their glasses? Many children struggle with getting used to glasses, whether it’s because they fear being teased or because the glasses feel strange on their faces, so how can we as parents make our children more excited to wear their glasses? Here are a few
- [Eye Color Trivia](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-color-trivia/) - One of the first things we notice about someone when we meet them is their eyes. The color, the shape, the expression, the eyelashes and eyebrows. In this post, we’re just going to focus on the color, because it’s a lot more complicated than you might expect! How Common Is Your Eye Color? The exact
- [Don’t Forget Your Sunglasses!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/dont-forget-your-sunglasses/) - With summer almost here, many of us are looking forward to spending a lot of time outdoors. Before we head out, though, we need to make sure we’re protecting ourselves from the sun’s UV rays, both with sunscreen for our skin and with sunglasses for our eyes. Why We Need UV Protection We all know
- [The Role Of Tears](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-role-of-tears/) - We cry for all kinds of reasons: a stubbed toe, a particularly poignant scene in a movie, freshly cut onions — the list goes on. Would it surprise you to learn that, chemically, not all tears are the same? Or how about that even though we usually do it when we’re upset, crying is actually
- [Contact Lens Care And Safety](https://oldtownoptometry.com/contact-lens-care-and-safety/) - Whether you prefer glasses or contacts, there are specific things you need to do to take care of them. This is one area where glasses-wearers have it easier — no matter how well or poorly they maintain their glasses, it won’t impact the health of their eyes, which is not at all the case with
- [Contact Lenses: More Than Meets The Eye](https://oldtownoptometry.com/contact-lenses-more-than-meets-the-eye/) - Contact lenses probably seem like a pretty recent invention, right? It’s true that they’ve only become popular in recent decades, but you might be surprised to learn that Leonardo da Vinci first sketched the concept of contact lenses way back in 1508! His version involved submerging one’s head in a glass bowl of water, so it definitely
- [A Quick Guide To Glasses Care](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-quick-guide-to-glasses-care/) - If you wear glasses, you know the never-ending struggle to keep them clean of streaks, spots, smudges, and scratches. There are times when it’s tempting to just reach for the hem of your shirt, but if you want those lenses to last as long as they should, it’s important to clean them the right way.
- [Toys And Activities For Vision Development](https://oldtownoptometry.com/toys-and-activities-for-vision-development/) - Just like learning how to walk and talk, your baby also has to learn how to see! There are many ways you can help them develop their visual skills, from the right types of toys to buy to the right types of games to play with them at certain ages. The First Six Months A
- [Finding The Right Frames For Your Face](https://oldtownoptometry.com/finding-the-right-frames-for-your-face/) - It’s easy to make fun of the idea that Superman can hide his identity behind a pair of glasses. However, anyone who wears glasses knows that they can make a major difference to the way someone’s face looks. They’re almost like a customizable facial feature! This is why it’s so important to choose the right
- [You have presbyopia. Now what?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/you-have-presbyopia-now-what/) - Do you find yourself squinting to read your computer screen, or struggling to read your smartphone, menus, magazines or labels? If you do, and you’re over 40, chances are you have presbyopia. Presbyopia Signs And Symptoms Presbyopia is the normal change that occurs as your eye ages because the lens stiffens and loses flexibility, making
- [How Do Our Eyes Compare With Cameras?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-do-our-eyes-compare-with-cameras/) - If you’ve taken a lot of pictures, you might have noticed that the photos don’t always turn out the same as what we see. Why does that happen? Eyes and cameras both see images and they have a lot of mechanical similarities, but there are still many differences between them. Organic Aperture: The Iris Both
- [Protect Your Sight As You Age](https://oldtownoptometry.com/protect-your-sight-as-you-age/) - We all get older and so do our eyes, but there’s still a lot we can do to keep our eyes healthy as we age. Today, we’d like to go over a few of the most common age-related eye problems and offer tips on keeping your eyes healthy and strong. Be Aware Of Common Eye
- [A Back-to-School Contact Lens Guide For Teens](https://oldtownoptometry.com/a-back-to-school-contact-lens-guide-for-teens/) - Another summer behind us, another school year just ahead. So much to do to get ready. As you rush around getting new school clothes and school supplies, don’t forget to schedule your student’s back-to-school eye exam. This is an essential step for school readiness because poor vision can be a barrier to learning. Which might
- [Solar Eclipse Eye Safety: Be Prepared!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/solar-eclipse-eye-safety-be-prepared/) - Are you ready for the total solar eclipse on August 21? If you live in the continental US, this could be your best opportunity to see such a rare phenomenon! What Is A Solar Eclipse? The sun is about 400 times larger than the moon, but it’s also 400 times farther away from the earth,
- [How Does Our Night Vision Compare?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-does-our-night-vision-compare/) - Our eyes are easily the most complex sensory organs we have. Our ability to see the world around us in clear, precise images is frankly incredible. But since we are a diurnal (awake during the daytime) species, our night vision is nowhere near as powerful as that of many animals. Human Vision Tag-Team: Rods and
- [20/20 In Hindsight: The Snellen Eye Chart](https://oldtownoptometry.com/20-20-in-hindsight-the-snellen-eye-chart/) - Have you ever wondered where that chart with the big E in every eye doctor’s office came from? The famous eye chart is actually called the Snellen Chart. It was named for the 19th-century Dutch ophthalmologist who first developed it. Glasses Before Eye Charts Glasses were invented in Italy around 1286, though they were fairly crude.
- [The Science Of Sunglasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/the-science-of-sunglasses/) - Have you ever wondered just what sunglasses do for your eyes, and how? It’s a little more complex than just dropping a dark filter over your vision. Different Tints Do Different Things Did you know that the color of your sunglasses’ lenses affects what they do for your eyes? This goes beyond just putting a
- [Why We Get Dark Circles Under Our Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/why-we-get-dark-circles-under-our-eyes/) - Getting a poor night’s rest isn’t the only reason you get dark circles under your eyes! Many of us have seen those pesky dark circles or bags under our eyes and blame it on a lack of sleep. But there’s actually more to it than that! The Skin Under Your Eyes Is Very Thin The
- [Toys And Eye Safety: Not All Fun And Games](https://oldtownoptometry.com/toys-and-eye-safety-not-all-fun-and-games/) - The last thing any parent wants is for their child to get an eye injury, and it’s even worse when the injury comes from a beloved toy. Kids see all the epic action-adventure films coming out these days and want to be larger-than-life characters like Harry Potter, Iron Man, Luke Skywalker, and Katniss Everdeen, and that
- [Can Sunglasses Expire?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/can-sunglasses-expire/) - Lucky for you, it may be high time for a new pair of shades! We’re surrounded by things with expiration dates, from the food in our fridge to the moisturizer we put on our face at night. Over time, the lightbulbs in our lamps go out and the paint on our houses fade. But what
- [Want To Extend The Life Of Your Glasses?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/want-to-extend-the-life-of-your-glasses/) - Choosing a pair of glasses is an important decision! We want to help you make sure those carefully chosen frames of yours are just as carefully taken care of. Everyday wear and tear of the things we use is unavoidable, even with our eyeglasses. But by following the tips in this blog post, you can
- [Have You Ever Wondered What A Phoropter Does?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/have-you-ever-wondered-what-a-phoropter-does/) - This is a question we love getting: “What does that big, space helmet-looking thing actually do anyway?” Most patients have wondered what that large, imposing piece of equipment is that they always see at the optometrist’s office. Well, it’s called a phoropter, or a refractor, and it’s an awesome tool we eye docs love to
- [How Vitamin A And Beta-carotene Benefit Our Vision](https://oldtownoptometry.com/how-vitamin-a-and-beta-carotene-benefit-our-vision/) - With so many vitamins available to us, it’s hard to know which ones you really need to keep an eye out for! Today we want to share with you two vitamins in particular that both benefit eye health and prevent vision loss—vitamin A and beta-carotene. What Are Vitamin A And Beta-Carotene? Put simply, vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin
- [Prepare Your Eyes For Allergy Season](https://oldtownoptometry.com/prepare-your-eyes-for-allergy-season/) - Spring is on the horizon and we couldn’t be more excited! Chirping birds, blooming flowers, and warmer weather are just a few of the things we look forward to when spring comes around. We have to admit though, there is one thing about the season that’s not particularly appealing, and that’s allergies. What Your Eyes
- [Preparing For Your Child’s First Eye Exam](https://oldtownoptometry.com/preparing-for-your-childs-first-eye-exam/) - From the moment your baby is born, they are constantly growing and developing—and so is their vision! Schedule Your Child’s First Visit Early! The American Academy of Optometry recommends babies receive their first comprehensive visual assessment at six months of age. Having your child’s eyes examined so early will ensure their visual development is on track
- [Online Vision Tests Can’t Match Your Eye Doctor](https://oldtownoptometry.com/online-vision-tests-cant-match-your-eye-doctor/) - You can do just about anything online nowadays. Whether you’re buying new clothes or earning a degree, if you have an internet connection, you can accomplish it online! But what about your regular eye exams? Is an online test sufficient enough for that? Put simply, the answer is no! Online Eye Exams Aren’t All What
- [What Does It Mean To Be Nearsighted Or Farsighted?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-nearsighted-or-farsighted/) - Time to explore two of the most common refractive errors: myopia and hyperopia! Normally, Light Is Focused Directly Onto The Retina Before we delve into what it means to be nearsighted or farsighted, let’s first talk about how a normal eye functions. Vision occurs when light enters the eye and, working together, the cornea and the
- [Simple Steps To Relieve Computer Eye Strain](https://oldtownoptometry.com/simple-steps-to-relieve-computer-eye-strain/) - Many of us have jobs that require up to eight hours a day in front of a screen—and we usually accrue more screen time when we get home! Such a significant portion of our day spent hunched over a keyboard can take a toll on our body and our vision. In fact, Computer Vision Syndrome can cause
- [Eyewear Tips For The Outdoor Enthusiast](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eyewear-tips-for-the-outdoor-enthusiast/) - Don’t let vision correction stand in the way of the activities you love! We Provide Eyewear For Your Lifestyle We know that the eyewear you choose for everyday life may not exactly line up with your favorite after-work activities. If you’re an outdoor or sports enthusiast, managing your eyewear can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you
- [Optical Illusions: More Than Meets The Eye](https://oldtownoptometry.com/optical-illusions-more-than-meets-the-eye/) - As you stare at an optical illusion you may wonder… are your eyes playing tricks on you? To fully understand how optical illusions work, it’s important to grasp that the visual system is made up of more than just our eyes. In fact, optical illusions don’t necessarily trick our eyes—they trick our brains. The Visual System Is
- [Keep An Eye On Your Sight When Driving At Night](https://oldtownoptometry.com/keep-an-eye-on-your-sight-when-driving-at-night/) - When nights grow longer, and our morning and evening commute is spent driving in the dark, seeing the road clearly is a much more difficult task. Driving With Visual Distraction Is Dangerous! Unfortunately, many people don’t take this fact as seriously as they should. Perhaps they’ve become so accustomed to this type of blurred, haloed
- [Time Is Running Out To Use Your Insurance Benefits!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/time-is-running-out-to-use-your-insurance-benefits/) - It’s that time of year again! Have you used all of your remaining vision insurance benefits? What Is Vision Insurance? Whether you received your vision insurance through an employer or you enrolled in a plan on your own, you may be curious how it works. Each plan differs based on your insurance provider and your
- [Make Sure To Maintain Your Glasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/make-sure-to-maintain-your-glasses/) - While wearing glasses instead of contacts may shave a few minutes off your morning routine, it’s important to remember they’re not completely maintenance-free. If you’re hoping to prolong the life of your favorite eyewear, there are a couple of simple steps you can take to make sure they look and feel their best. Keep Your Glasses
- [Reading Glasses: What You Need To Know As You Age](https://oldtownoptometry.com/reading-glasses-what-you-need-to-know-as-you-age/) - The great Dr. Seuss once said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Reading a good book is a wonderful way to feed our curiosity and fuel our intellect. But as we age, it may become more difficult to make out
- [What if we had a choice?](https://oldtownoptometry.com/what-if-we-had-a-choice/) - If an eye disease was an inevitable part of your life, wouldn’t it be nice if you could pick which disease you had? If you could, you would want to pick cataracts. Today, cataract surgery can not only remedy the disease but it can make your eye sight better than it ever was before. Thanks
- [Welcome to the New Old Town Optometry Website!](https://oldtownoptometry.com/welcome-to-the-new-old-town-optometry-website/) - We’re proud to announce the launch of our brand new website. The site was designed with you in mind and is chock-full of several useful features. It’s now easier than ever to make an appointment, download patient forms, view current specials and promotions, and learn about the many products and services we offer at our
- [3D Entertainment And Our Eyes](https://oldtownoptometry.com/3d-entertainment-and-our-eyes/) - While some people are die-hard 3D moviegoers, others struggle to see the characters come to life and leap off the screen. Why is this? And what does it have to do with our eyes? 3D Entertainment Attempts To Imitate Normal Vision Put simply, 3D films attempt to imitate how we see things all the time—in three

## Pages

- [Home](https://oldtownoptometry.com/) - Welcome to Total Vision La Quinta! Visit us for your eyewear and eye care needs. We provide eye exams and specialty services for the whole family. Book online.
- [Our Doctors](https://oldtownoptometry.com/our-doctors/) - Meet our team of doctors and staff at Old Town Optix Optometry in La Quinta. Get to know your eye care providers and our dedication to eye health and vision.
- [Contact Us](https://oldtownoptometry.com/contact-us/) - Please fill out our online form to book an appointment. Our team at Old Town Optix Optometry is available to answer your eye care questions.
- [Insurance Information](https://oldtownoptometry.com/insurance-information/) - We’re here to make your next visit easier. View our accepted insurance providers or contact us at Old Town Optix Optometry if you have questions about payment.
- [Notice of Nondiscrimination and Language Services](https://oldtownoptometry.com/notice-of-nondiscrimination-and-language-services/) - This practice and its affiliates and subsidiaries comply with applicable civil rights laws and does not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them less favorably because of their race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex as defined under applicable law. This practice and its affiliates and subsidiaries provide: People with disabilities with reasonable modifications and
- [Terms of Use](https://oldtownoptometry.com/terms-and-conditions/) - 1. Acceptance of Terms Welcome to the website of Total Vision (“we,” “us,” or “our”), located at yourtotalvision.com (the “Website”). Total Vision is a network of optometry practices with multiple locations throughout California. By accessing or using this Website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use (“Terms”). If you do not agree
- [Terms and Conditions](https://oldtownoptometry.com/terms-and-conditions-2/) - Terms & ConditionsScope and Purpose of this Disclaimer This disclaimer document governs your use of our informational website. By using the website located at https://oldtownoptometry.com and it’s subdirectories, you agree to, and accept this disclaimer in full. If you disagree with any part of this disclaimer, do not use our website, as that condition prohibits
- [Accessibility Statement](https://oldtownoptometry.com/accessibility-statement/) - 1. Our Commitment to Accessibility Total Vision is committed to ensuring that our website, yourtotalvision.com, is accessible to all individuals, including people with disabilities. We believe that every patient and visitor deserves equal access to the information, services, and functionality available on our website, regardless of ability. As a healthcare provider network serving diverse communities
- [Privacy Policy](https://oldtownoptometry.com/privacy-policy/) - 1. Introduction Total Vision (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of the personal information of our patients, website visitors, and users of our services. This Website Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you visit yourtotalvision.com (the “Website”). We operate a network
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://oldtownoptometry.com/frequently-asked-questions/) - Preparing for your visit? Get answers to FAQs about appointments, insurance, parking, and more from your eye doctor at Total Vision La Quinta.
- [Our Practice](https://oldtownoptometry.com/our-practice/) - Visit our eye care practice in La Quinta today! Old Town Optix Optometry is committed to helping you achieve & maintain clear vision with our eye care services.
- [Patient Forms](https://oldtownoptometry.com/patient-forms/) - Welcome new patients! Please print and fill out the new patient form before visiting us at Old Town Optix Optometry. Contact our team if you have questions.
- [Order Contacts](https://oldtownoptometry.com/order-contacts/) - Order contacts online with a valid prescription. Update your contact lenses by visiting Old Town Optix Optometry for a contact lens exam and fitting today!
- [Site Map](https://oldtownoptometry.com/sitemap/) - Sitemap - Total Vision La Quinta Pages10/04/26: Notice of Nondiscrimination and Language Services10/04/26: Terms and Conditions10/04/26: Accessibility Statement16/01/26: Frequently Asked Questions15/09/22: Our Doctors15/09/22: Contact Us12/03/21: Terms of Use12/03/21: Privacy Policy12/03/21: Site Map04/03/21: Patient Forms04/03/21: Order Contacts04/03/21: Our Practice04/03/21: Insurance Information04/03/21: Blog04/03/21: HomePosts27/08/26: Is Glaucoma Hereditary?31/07/26: Does My Child Need an Eye Exam Before Starting School?08/06/26:

## Eye Exams

- [Diabetic Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-exam/diabetic-eye-exams/) - Diabetes can lead to eye health complications & vision loss. Get help managing & treating your symptoms with diabetic eye exams at Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Children's Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-exam/childrens-eye-exams/) - Support your child’s vision and eye health with comprehensive eye exams! Learn about common childhood eye problems & solutions with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Contact Lens Exams, Fittings, & Brands](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-exam/contact-lens-exams-fittings-and-brands/) - The right contact lens fit should enhance your vision & support your eye health. Learn about contact lens fittings & exams with the Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Adult and Senior Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/eye-exam/adult-and-senior-eye-exams/) - Adult & senior comprehensive eye exams can protect & preserve your vision. Visit your optometrist at Old Town Optix Optometry for sight & eye health solutions.

## Specialty Services

- [Eye Disease Diagnosis & Management](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/eye-disease-diagnosis-and-management/) - Diagnosing & managing eye problems can preserve your sight. Learn about diagnosing and treating common eye diseases & conditions with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Dry Eye Therapy](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/dry-eye-therapy/) - Dry eye therapy can provide personalized relief for uncomfortable dry eye symptoms. Learn about what causes dry eye & how Old Town Optix Optometry can help.
- [Laser Eye Surgery Consultation](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/laser-eye-surgery-consultation/) - Looking for lens-free vision correction? Need more info? Request a laser eye surgery consultation at Old Town Optix Optometry to learn if you’re a candidate.
- [Glaucoma](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/glaucoma/) - Glaucoma causes progressive optic nerve damage leading to permanent blindness. Learn about diagnosing and managing glaucoma with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Digital Eye Strain](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/digital-eye-strain/) - Digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome can interrupt your work or play. Improve your eye comfort with eye care tips from Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Myopia Control](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/myopia-control/) - Control myopia progression to help preserve your child’s eye health & vision with Total Myopia. Schedule your child’s eye exam at Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Cataracts](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/cataracts/) - Cataracts can interfere with vision. Learn about cataracts and how eye care & vision solutions can help improve your comfort with Old Town Optix Optometry.
- [Emergency Eye Care](https://oldtownoptometry.com/specialty-service/emergency-eye-care/) - Get the help you need when you need it. Emergency eye care is available at Old Town Optix Optometry. Learn about how to respond to eye & vision emergencies.

## Brands

- [Nuance Audio](https://oldtownoptometry.com/brands/nuance-audio/) - Experience the Future of Eyewear with Nuance Audio at Total Vision Total Vision proudly offers Nuance Audio Glasses, groundbreaking eyewear that seamlessly combines vision and hearing enhancement in one sleek frame. This innovative technology provides an invisible solution for mild to moderate hearing loss. Equipped with directional microphones and open-ear speakers, Nuance Audio Glasses helps
- [Frames & Lenses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/brands/frames-and-lenses/) - Looking for spectacles that support your vision & fashion sense? Browse our curated collection of frames & lens brands. Visit Old Town Optix Optometry today!
- [Sunglasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/brands/sunglasses/) - Sunglasses can help you look better & see better. Stay sun safe with stylish shades from the wide brand selection available at Old Town Optix Optometry.

## Locations

- [Contact Us](https://oldtownoptometry.com/location/la-quinta/) - Please fill out our online form to contact us at Old Town Optix Optometry. We’ll get in touch as soon as possible.
- [Contact Us](https://oldtownoptometry.com/location/la-quinta/) - Please fill out our online form to contact us at Old Town Optix Optometry. We’ll get in touch as soon as possible.

## Categories

- [Vision Tips](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/vision-tips/)
- [News](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/news/)
- [Vision Care](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/vision-care/)
- [Eye Exams](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/eye-exams/)
- [Eyeglasses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/eyeglasses/)
- [Contact Lenses](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/contact-lenses/)
- [Eye Health](https://oldtownoptometry.com/category/eye-health/)