Happy Holidays

" And so this is Christmas; and what have we done?
" Anther year over; a new one just begun;
" And so Happy Christmas; I hope you have fun;
" The near ones and dear ones; the old and the young."
John Lennon

Warm Holiday well wishes from our family to yours!

May your vision be clear and your future bright.

To your health,

Dr Vincent Facchiano & Staff.

Are digital high definition lenses right for me?

[caption id="attachment_1294" align="alignleft" width="333" caption="Amazingly sharp images with HD lens technology"][/caption]Did you know that there are higher-order aberrations that can affect your vision, even if your prescription eyeglasses fully correct your special ophthalmic prescription needs? Well eye Drs have known for years that there are aberrations due to the optical characteristics of your eyes and often more from the optical limitations of conventional eyeglass lenses. The frustrating issue for an optometrist was that there was no ideal lens treatment or process that could either solve or reduce such aberrations. Drs knew many patients just did not see as well as they could but there was nothing Drs could due because of the limitations in eyeglass lens fabrication technology.

Times have changed now and recent advances in eyeglass lens manufacturing have made possible new high-definition digital eyeglass lenses that correct these aberrations, potentially giving a patient sharper vision than what was ever possible with conventional eyeglasses. These lenses are designed to provide sharper vision in all lighting conditions, provide wider progressive lens corridors, keep the prescription optically true over a much wider zone in the lens and reduce glare for nighttime driving and other night vision tasks.

Many brands of high-definition eyeglass lenses currently are available today, including high-definition versions of high-index lenses and progressive lenses.

Digital lens surfacing is six times more accurate than conventional lens processing because the new digital surfacing equipment uses less tooling and has direct contact with the lens enabling a high degree of accuracy. The analogy can be just like a digital camera. The higher pixal count yields a higher degree of resolution. When this happens as you have seen in your digital camera images, you get this amazing crisp image. So this is the same experience with the HD digital ophthalmic lenses today. The result is a very highly defined vision along with and unmatched depth and clarity never before possible. In the case of progressive addition lenses fabricated using the digital technology get ready for a refreshing change because of a 20% wider progressive field of view. From personal experience I know it makes for exceptional intermediate and near working ranges exceeding the conventional options. I am getting the benefit right now with my new digital lenses I am wearing. It really makes reading and computer use so much more comfortable and enjoyable; my eyes just get less tired with near visual tasks.

So wow! I can really appreciate the HD lenses wider, sharp and true optical zone and the crispness of detail is an awesome experience. You owe it to yourself to investigate this option the next time you fill your new eyeglass presciption.

Please ask your optometrist if these new lenses are right for your eyes.

To your eye health,

Dr Vincent Facchiano

Teens in Contacts?

Needing to purchase eyeglasses is often met with great resistance from a teenager. Adolescents may cringe at the idea of being seen in eyeglasses and looking ''nerdy''. As opposed to glasses, kids and teens who opt for contact lenses feel a significant enhancement in their appearance, a newly published report shows. The research results show that starting at the age of eight, children may prefer being offered the choice of contact lenses. Results were recorded in the November issue of Eye & Contact Lens, published by the Contact Lens Association.

What is it about contacts that adolescents prefer? Young adults are self-conscious, and they often feel better about themselves if they don't have eye glasses being the center of their appearance. Contact lenses may increase a young adult's self-image by providing them a less visible alternative for their vision needs.

Although teens are generally provided with contact lenses, children under 13 are usually not offered the choice of contacts, since eye care providers or parents don't feel that children are ready to deal with them appropriately. However, with proper guidance, children as young as eight are as competent at using and caring for contacts and they should be offered the choice.

Generally before your child purchases lenses you will want to consult your optometrist to go over any possible problems your child might have. Our Rockford IL optometry practice can assist you in determining the right prescription for your teenager's contact lenses.

There are many options in disposable lenses that make lens wear both safe and convenient Dr Facchiano says. The ultimate in safety if your concerned about your child's compliance is our the daily use type available in single vision and with astigmatism. With emerging nearsighted prescriptions some patients are great candidates for our genital corneal molding programs ( CRT). The CRT programs offer device free vision throughout the day while treating the condition in just overnight wear. ( for more information please review our links under More Eye Care Resources: Paragon Contact Therapy Lenses " "> ) & Contact Lens headlines

If your pre-teen or teenager is in need of vision correction, why not consider contacts? Through just a simple contact lens, you can really change your teen's life. With the wide variety of contacts on the market, you and your eye doctor can work with your child to decide what modality is most suitable for their personality, maturity and lifestyle.

To your eye health ,

Dr Facchiano and Staff

What can a parent do to keep their child's eye safe??

Are you aware that annual statistics show that sports-related eye injuries account for 40,000 trips to the hospital? That's one injury every 13 minutes! Eye Care professionals report that most of the injuries would have been easily prevented by wearing protective eyewear. More often than not eye damaging accidents take place when playing recreational activities or doing work around the house. Kids are especially vulnerable to accidents involving eye damage, which often happen during active play.So the remedy is safety glasses and they don't have to be some dreaded ugly glasses that make your child look like they are from another planet. Safety glasses come in school colors, all clear, can also include fashion sun wear with the correct protective lens material and tint. Don't forget the age old accessory the sport band that keeps the glasses attached and in place in contact sports. A popular brand of sport elastic band is Croakies offering the original band to color cords and floating cord options. Every household should have plano safety goggles available if outdoor work is done to protect the eyes from projectiles that can result from activities that may seem benign such as simple grass clipping to the more dangerous weed whacking. This summer don't forget the swim goggles either and if you have a swimmer in the family swim goggles can be made in prescription too.

Being strong about ensuring your kids use protective glasses during contact sports will protect them from potential eye damage. A good idea is to lead by example by purchasing a pair of new wraparound safety glasses for yourself that you use when involved in contact sports or working with power tools. Insist your children follow your example. In addition, let your kids select safety glasses in the style they prefer. Safety also involves consideration of sun protection when outdoors to prevent not only damaging UV rays from harming the eyes and creating eye sun burns but also enhances performance by promoting a higher degrees of clarity and less hesitation that is produced with glare.

To ensure you choose a pair with the right fit and the proper amount of safety, ask an experienced eye care professional for recommendations. Our professionals can help you in purchasing the right pair of glasses for your child, based on your child's particular needs. If your child has glasses, safety glasses can be customized with prescription lenses from your eye care center. Trivex or polylcarbonate lenses are recommended for a child that plays contact sports such as football. They are not only more shatter-proof, they are also lighter than plastic lenses, offering greater comfort.

Don't skimp when purchasing safety eyewear. It's a simple step to guard your child's eyes!

Photoker-what?

Photokeratitis. This is the “sunburn” of the cornea. During the past 4th of July holiday were you out playing yard games with the family? Boating on the lake? Sunbathing on a beach? More importantly, were you wearing eye protection?



Sunglasses are beneficial to help prevent Photokeratitis. Symptoms may include discomfort, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. Many times the sunburn is not usually noticed until several hours after exposure. The temporary vision loss that may result from Photokeratitis is called “snow blindness.” Ultraviolet (UV) rays and excessive sunlight, especially the type of rays which bounce off of snow and ice may lead to this painful sunburn. Being knowledgeable in regards to UV light is important to protect your eyes.

Outdoor risk factors including geographic location, altitude, the time of day, setting, and medications all determine the risk of damage. UV levels are greater when the sun is high in the sky, typically from 10am to 2pm. Also UV levels are greater in wide open spaces, especially when highly reflective surfaces are present such as sand. Always be aware of your medications, birth control pills, sulfa drugs, and tranquilizers are a few of the medications that may increase your body’s sensitivity to UV radiation.

This “sunburn” of the eye is preventable by understanding what Photokeratitis is, how UV rays are harmful, and wearing sun protection. Sunglasses or eye protection that transmits 5-10% of visible light and absorbs almost all UV rays are most beneficial. Look for sun protection that has large lenses and side shields to avoid incidental exposure from light as well. Call your optician in Lenscrafters at (815) 332-3233 to discuss more options.

If you feel that you or a family member may have symptoms of Photokeratitis, please call Dr. Facchiano and Associates at (815) 332-2223 to schedule an appointment.

Please read more information here: http://www.allaboutvision.com/parents/protective.htm#ixzz1RRvNN8SN

Can I sleep in my contacts?

Yes.. and no.


There are two different types of contact lenses available daily wear (you remove them before sleeping) and extended wear (you leave them in overnight). The extended wear lenses allow for more oxygen to reach your cornea, thus making it more acceptable to be slept in. These lenses are typically allowed to be left in without removal for up to seven days.

The latest technology in contact lens material called silicone hydrogel, are approved by the FDA for up to 30 days of wear without removal. If interested, please consult your doctor about these lenses. “Continuous wear” lenses, also known as gas permeable lenses may also be worn for up to a month at a time. “After recent improvements in design and materials, these lenses now can be worn safely for the full 30 days for those who can tolerate them. Your optometrist will advise you about how your eyes are responding to extended wear and how frequently you should remove your lenses.”

So you’ve heard the “You’ll be more prone to eye infections if you leave your contacts in!” Well its true, researchers found that eye infections are greater among people who sleep with their contacts in. FDA has approved the maximum extended wear period to just seven days.

Our doctor’s still do not recommend leaving them in for a full seven-day period. Taking them out before you go to sleep will help decrease the chance of getting an eye infection significantly. Extended wear lenses are a concern for dangerous little organisms that start on your finger, may get on your contact, and then in your eye! These bacteria may lead to infections such as pink eye and in very serious conditions even blindness! If you feel you are having any problems with your contacts from extended wear, please consult with your Optometrist.

Sleeping in your contacts is possible with new silicone hydrogel lenses as they provide more oxygen to the eye than previous soft lenses. Although these materials make overnight wear safer, keep in mind the possibility for infections!

If you are interested in extended wear type contacts, please consult with your Optometrist at Dr. Facchiano and Associates. Call (815) 332-2223

Read more here: http://www.allaboutvision.com/contacts/extended.htm#ixzz1QbZ0NkfY

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July from Dr. Facchiano and Associates!


Our office will be open on Monday, July 4th. Please call (815) 332-2223 to schedule an appointment.

Shining a New Light on Sun

I see patients every day asking, “What are you doing about sun protection?" Yet less than half have an answer and some even think sun protection does not apply to them or is not a necessary priority. Ironically I can see sun damage in the eyes of many of those same patients already. So I see the effects of unprotected exposure to UV rays over longer period of times and I know it can and often does damage the eyes. The longer this happens the greater the risk of developing cataracts (which form at any age) , irreversible macular (central vision) degeneration and glaucoma (a silent optic neuropathy). So why wait for these conditions to seriously impair your vision to a point in which the Dr. then tells you it may be impossible to reverse?

The need is all around you each day. Its glare and this affects our daily lives. The sun’s glare presents risks to those who do not protect their eyes. Eye fatigue can be caused by this annoying glare. Ever drive into the sun and get annoyed with the sun’s glare? Who has not, right? How do you feel after enduring those situations where constant squinting was produced over a long period of time? What about the disabling and blinding glare? Intense light blocks vision. Each year, blinding glare results in accidents and fatalities in such critical situations as driving, cycling and walking in high traffic areas.

So take a close look around you. Is the morning sun too bright? Is there an accident risk for you? Has your environment changed and there is glare off the surrounding structures because the community you live in has high rise structures built with more reflective materials? Does your correction allow you to see and perform your best in this digital age? Smart phones, laptops, and other devices allow folks to work outside and on the go; how well can you see those when you are outdoors?

So many have this day to day relationship with the sun that causes stress and fatigue and in some cases present a danger to others and a risk to their eye health. It is a slow, stealthy deterioration to your eyesight. So then the prescription to your eye health is not exactly a hard pill to swallow either. For safety, comfort and protection on the job, in the car, on the water, on the beach, riding on a motorcycle, in a boat, on the golf course or in your back yard, sun protection is crucial. Important to all of us both who need ophthalmic prescription glasses as well as those who do not. Let us not leave out that fun feeling that comes from looking cool either.

Please talk to your eye care professional and learn what the best solutions are for you.


To your eye health!



Dr Facchiano

Allergy Season Is Here - Ask Your Eye Doctor For Help.

If you are experiencing red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes you may be suffering from spring eye allergies. For some, spring is pollen season, marking the onset of uncomfortable symptoms such as red eyes, itchy eyes, stinging, burning and watery eyes. Spring eye allergies are caused by an influx of tree and flower pollen into the atmosphere and can cause a severe impact on quality of life for those that experience them

How can you defend your eyes during allergy season? If at all feasible, try to reduce exposure to pollen by staying indoors, especially when the pollen count is high. Closing windows, cooling off with air conditioning and wearing full-coverage shades when going outside can also help to protect your eyes from allergens in the air. A HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter can be used clear irritants from the air inside your home or office.

Since most of us have to go outside on occasion, there are medications that can treat symptoms such as red eyes, watery eyes or itchy eyes. It's possible that a basic over-the-counter lubricating eye drop is all that's needed to moisturize and alleviate itchy eyes or red eyes and remove allergens. Products containing antihistamines, decongestants or mast cell stabilizers will reduce irritation of the eyes as well as other symptoms such as stuffed or runny nose and sneezing. Drops often work more quickly and effectively than oral products to treat eye problems.

Approximately 54 million people have allergies, almost 50% of which are eye allergies. Eye allergies often run in families and result from an over-sensitivity to a substance in the eye regardless of whether is it harmful. The eye releases histamines and other immune mediators which result in excessive tears, itching, burning, redness and irritation.

Most importantly, don't rub red, itchy. This will only exacerbate the inflammation. Due to the fact that often products that work to alleviate symptoms do require a prescription, if over-the-counter solutions do not help, see your optometrist.

Dr Facchiano and Dr Phelps are certified to evaluate and treat allergic ocular disease. Don't suffer through another season with itchy eyes or let allergy eye complications interfere with your contact lens wear .

3D Vision and Eye Health

As 3D viewing becomes more commonplace in movie theatres, on television and even in handheld gaming systems, American Optometric Association (AOA) doctors of optometry, together with industry experts from the 3D@Home Consortium, reinforce that 3D viewing is not harmful and actually has a distinct benefit of alerting individuals and parents to undetected vision disorders and eye diseases that, if caught early, are fully amenable to treatment. This includes eye diseases like amblyopia. If amblyopia is not detected early and treated, it often causes not only a loss of 3D viewing but lifelong vision impairment and disability.

The AOA recommends seeing a doctor of optometry for further evaluation if consumers answer yes to any of the following questions:

* Is the 3D viewing experience not as vivid as it is for others watching the same picture?

* Do you experience eyestrain or headaches during or after viewing?

* Do you feel nauseous or dizzy during or after viewing?

* Are you more comfortable viewing 2D TV or movies instead of 3D TV/movies?

* Is it difficult for your eyes to adjust back to normal after watching 3D TV/movies?

Dr Facchiano recommends that you make an appoinment to see your eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam in you have any of the 3D's of stereoscopic vision 3 D viewing. Those are dizziness,lack of depth and discomfort when attempting to view in 3D.

So interested in more information? Dr Facchiano suggests that you please check out the new AOA link for more insight on 3D vision:http://www.3deyehealth.org/

To your eye health!

Dr Facchiano OD FAAO

Should you purchase your eye glasses on line ?

In today's world, where more and more consumers are used to shopping for more and more products online, glasses are one item that should be cautiously reviewed before you click that purchase button. Here's why. Even though online e-commerce sites often advertise cheap prices, the benefits of choosing an optical store far outweigh the ''deals'' you might encounter through the Internet.

A persuasive reason for purchasing your glasses at an optical boutique rather than online is that you have a qualified optician to guide you through the process. Our opticians can walk you through the numerous decisions you'll make in purchasing a eyeglasses. In instances where you order through the Internet, you forgo the specialized input of an eye care expert.

Above and beyond the assistance you will find at a real optical boutique, another benefit you have is that you get to try on the eyeglasses prior to buying. Eyeglasses that don't sit right can cause annoyance and discomfort and may even reduce the efficacy of your prescription. Plus, you don't get to see how they really look or feel until you have them in your hands to try on. Even more than your clothing, eyeglasses require proper fit and comfort to work effectively.

Even more than the fit and feel of your glasses, proper eyesight requires correct Pupillary Distance calculation. The optical focus of your lenses provides you the clearest vision, making it essential to correctly determine the pupillary distance, or PD. It can be complicated to measure your own PD, but without this measurement, your lenses won't be aligned properly within the frames.

Yes, Web-based buying is often good for other purchases, but when it comes to glasses your best bet is staying with your nearby optometry center where you can benefit from the staff expertise and advice.
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Save Your Vision Month

Imagine struggling to see the numbers on a clock, or the letters on a sign, or the cars coming down the road. Think how discouraging it would be if you got a headache every time you read, or did homework, or tried to see an assignment on the blackboard. For a student to learn, he or she must be able to see. In the fast paced world most adults live in today clear comfortable vision is mandatory to function at peak capacity.

One out of four children has a vision problem, yet only one out of seven children has had an eye examination before starting school. Only one out of two teenagers has an eye examination by high school graduation. Less than half of all adults have their eyes examined on a regular basis.

Eye health is intrinsically linked to overall health. Thus Save Your Vision Month, celebrating its 80th year this March, has taken on a greater prominence in the health world with its emphasis on Healthy Eyes Healthy People.

Your eyes are often the best windows to your health. By looking into your eyes, your optometrist can tell a lot about your general health. For example, did you know that some systemic and chronic diseases, especially diabetes, can often be detected by an optometrist during a comprehensive eye exam?

Since over 33 percent of people with diabetes don't know that they have it, an eye examination can be the only clue to detecting this potentially life-threatening disease. By dilating the pupil, your optometrist can see inside your eye using an ophthalmoscope, which lights and magnifies the blood vessels in your eyes. Changes to these blood vessels can signify various stages of diabetic retinopathy. Left untreated, it can cause blindness. For those suffering from diabetes without knowing it, the detection and treatment of this disease can mean relief on many levels.

Other eye diseases, like glaucoma, may cause vision damage and eventually blindness without the patient ever experiencing any symptoms. During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist measures the pressure within your eye and examines the optic nerve in the eye, thereby determining the existence of glaucoma.

Save Your Vision Month raises awareness among the general public and targets at-risk groups to remind them of the need for regular, comprehensive eye examinations to detect eye health problems, general health issues, and vision difficulties.

More information is also available at the AOA Website

Does Reading in Very Little Light Affect Eyesight ?

As a child I recall mother saying, "Don't sit too close to the TV". "Do not read in bad lighting". "Do not lay on your stomach in bed and read". It will wreck your eye sight and cause you to need an eye glass prescription. Yet we know today mom meant well. While near point stress has been associated with myopia, science has not yet proven that reading in bad light is detrimental to eyesight and opinions do vary greatly.

What Studies on Humans Show

There is no scientific evidence that reading in poor light affects your eyes because there have been no studies on humans in this area to test the theory that poor lighting helps or harms the eyes.

In the late 1960s Eskimos who were introduced to modern civilization around World War II became more entrenched in modern culture, and myopia increased dramatically in groups of younger people. So much so that more than half of the children were myopic just 20 years after these Eskimos entered the civilized world.

Studies have been only done with monkeys and many of those show that eyestrain can lead to nearsightedness.

What the Evidence Shows

There is some support to the theory that reading in poor light may lead to myopia, or nearsightedness. The idea behind this is that in dim light you have to strain to see the words on the page, and this straining over time leads to myopia. Seeing part of the page or word, will cause your eyes to strain to see the rest. So when children who do a lot of reading and writing there is more eyestrain on their young eyes in this important developmental time of their life. There are articles that report evidence to support this risk in young children. So expect your eye doctor to express concern with prolonged visual use when using small digital devices and small computer games. In fact all excessive near visual tasks can raise the relative risk of making your child nearsighted.

To be complete this is a highly charged area of theory and opinion. Some claim there is a great deal of information that supports reading in poor light has no affect on the eye and there is no support that it causes permanent damage.

Doctors advice

If you buy the eyestrain argument you could feed the kids supplements and chuck the books, TV, and needlepoint lessons, but the tradeoff might not be worth it. Having to wear eyeglasses is hardly a major handicap these days whereas being uneducated is. Till such time as the myopia-inducing component of civilization (if any) is isolated, you're probably best off chalking up a little nearsightedness as a small price to pay for enlightenment. So what are you to do and what will most eye doctors recommend? Many eye doctors recommend visual breaks with any prolonged use of small computer games and reading. As a guide your eye doctor will most likely recommend keeping the room well illuminated and using a working distance of at least 20 inches away for a visual work period of 20 minutes and then taking a 20 minute break before repeating the cycle.

Most importantly have the eyes checked each year. A current prescription is as important as great visual working habits are in the reduction of visual stress coming from prolonged uninterrupted near point visual tasks.

What Are Those Floaters Anyways?

AllAboutVision.com has a great article about floaters, here is a portion of it. Eye floaters are those tiny spots, specks, flecks and "cobwebs" that drift aimlessly around in your field of vision. While annoying, ordinary eye floaters and spots are very common and usually aren't cause for alarm.

Floaters and spots typically appear when tiny pieces of the eye's gel-like vitreous break loose within the inner back portion of the eye.
When we are born and throughout our youth, the vitreous has a gel-like consistency. But as we age, the vitreous begins to dissolve and liquefy to create a watery center.
Some undissolved gel particles occasionally will float around in the more liquid center of the vitreous. These particles can take on many shapes and sizes to become what we refer to as "floaters."

You'll notice that these types of spots and floaters are particularly pronounced when you peer at a bright, clear sky or a white computer screen. But you can't actually see tiny bits of debris floating loose within your eye. Instead, shadows from these floaters are cast on the retina as light passes through the eye, and those shadows are what you see.

You'll also notice that these specks never seem to stay still when you try to focus on them. Floaters and spots move when your eye moves, creating the impression that they are "drifting."

When Are Eye Floaters and Flashes a Medical Emergency?
If you see a shower of floaters and spots, sometimes accompanied by light flashes, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Clumps occur when the vitreous gel begins to liquefy or shrink, usually with aging, and detaches from the retina.

For some people, floaters are clumpy; for others, they're stringy. They may be light or dark. What you see is actually the shadows cast by clumps of vitreous gel when light shines past them onto the retina. (If you can't see the image, you may need Flash Player.)The sudden appearance of these symptoms could mean that the vitreous is pulling away from your retina or that the retina itself is becoming dislodged from the inner back of the eye that contains blood, nutrients and oxygen vital to healthy function. When the retina is torn, vitreous can invade the opening and push out the retina — leading to a detachment.


Read more: http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/spotsfloats.htm#ixzz1EGFJKWzk

With her by my side I step out with confidence and conquer any challenge life has to give.

Yes this Valentines day we recognize our special love ones. For those with low vision the love of their life may just be their guide dog. Do you know the history of seeing eye dogs? Dogs have been used as a guide in various cultures for a very long time yet there was no formal guide dog program in existence until after the First World War.

The first guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired were trained in Germany to provided assistance for those blinded in the war were german shepards.

German Shepherds have a strong sense of loyalty to their owners, giving it a natural tendency to be protective. Having a very protective dog as a companion is an obvious asset for someone who may otherwise be easily attacked by less then scrupulous individuals.

After the end of World War I the nation of Germany was devastated by financial depression. Many private businesses failed and the Potsdam, Germany school that trained the guide dogs for the blind was one of them.

An American woman named Dorothy Eustis had heard about the program and decided it was a very worthwhile endeavor. Because she owned a company that was training German Shepherds as working dogs, she decided she might try to train guide dogs for the blind. She did not start this right away, however. In fact she was still considering the possibilities when she penned a story for The Saturday Evening Post about the potential for guide dogs for the blind.

A Nashville man named Morris Frank had heard the story and decided to write to Ms. Eustis and ask her to train a dog for him. She did and Mr. Frank became known as the first blind person to use a guide dog.

As part of an arrangement he’d made with Ms. Eustis, Mr. Frank started training guide dogs in the United States. The foundation that Mr. Frank started was dubbed “The Seeing Eye” and the so-called Seeing Eye dog was effectively born.

Today guide dogs are trained to assist people with many different disabilities.

For more information and way to donate to Guide Dogs reveiw this web page: http://www.guidedogs.com

Protect the ones you love with an eye exam today.

To your eye health,
Dr Facchiano

Eyelid Twitching

Eye twitching, eyelid tics and spasms are pretty common. Usually only the bottom lid of one eye is involved, but the top eyelid also can twitch. Most eye twitches come and go, although they can last for weeks or even months.

To find a solution for twitching eyes, we needed to determine the underlying cause of this annoying problem. Called myokymia in doctor lingo, these rippling muscle contractions in an eyelid can be triggered by:

•Stress
•Tiredness
•Eyestrain
•Caffeine
•Alcohol
•Dry eyes
•Nutritional imbalances
•Allergies


Eye Twitching Remedies:
In rare cases, some eye twitches just don't go away. Some of these types of twitches can be successfully treated with Botox injections that help stop muscle contractions. See your eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment if the twitching affects half your face or your entire eye, causing the lids to clamp shut.


To read the full article go to:
http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/eye-twitching.htm

Color blind - What does that really mean?

Color blindness means you have trouble seeing red, green, blue or a mix of these colors. It’s rare that a person sees no color at all or black and white. Most patients who are labeled as color blind are really only color deficient and that problem can change your life. It makes it harder to learn and read, and you may not be able to have certain careers. But children and adults with color vision problems can learn to make up for their problems seeing color.

What causes color blindness?

Most color vision problems are inherited (genetic) and are present at birth.
People usually have three types of cone cells in the eye. Each type senses either red, green, or blue light. You see color when your cone cells sense different amounts of these three basic colors. Most cone cells are found in the macula, which is the central part of the retina.

Inherited color blindness happens when you don't have one of these types of cone cells or they don't work right. You may not see one of these three basic colors, or you may see a different shade of that color or a different color. This type of color vision problem doesn't change over time.

A color vision problem is not always inherited. In some cases, a person can have an acquired color vision problem. This can be caused by:

Aging.
Eye problems, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy.
Injury to the eye.
Side effects of some medicines.


What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of color vision problems vary:
You may see many colors, so you may not know that you see color differently from others.
You may only be able to see a few shades of color, while most people can see thousands of colors.
In rare cases, you may see only black, white, and gray.


How is color blindness diagnosed?
Tests measure how well you recognize different colors. In one type of test, you look at sets of colored dots and try to find a pattern in them, such as a letter or number. The patterns you see help your doctor determine which colors you have trouble with.
In another type of test, you arrange colored chips in order according to how similar the colors are. People with color vision problems cannot arrange the colored chips correctly.

How is it treated?
Inherited color vision problems cannot be treated or corrected. In some cases a special ophthalmic lens or contact lens, called a red lens, can be worm to a help a color deficient patient detect colors better. The red lens looks very different when worn on the eye. While unacceptable cosmetically this is a special use lens treatment. The choice of such a treatment is often driven by a work related task.

Some acquired color vision problems can be treated, depending on the cause. For example, if a cataract is causing a problem with color vision, surgery to remove the cataract may restore normal color vision.

Blizzard in Rockford

[caption id="attachment_942" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Snoopy Snow Time "][/caption] Like much of the Midwest, Dr. Facchiano & Associates PC located within Lenscrafters at Cherryvale Mall Rockford, IL is currently experiencing severe blizzard conditions. The Illinois State Police have urged people to stay off of the roads until further notice. For the safety of our patients & associates, our office and Cherryvale Mall will be closed until Thursday, February 3, at 10:00 a.m. If conditions change, and our operating hours are affected further, we will advise you immediately.

As always, you may submit orders by e-mail or use our phone recorder 815-332-2223 (Please leave your full name , contact number, e-mail and short description) , for processing upon our return. You can also make appointments 24/7 online. So please find the application on this web page. If there is an emergency, please report to the emergency room. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we make the safety of our patients our first priority.

Sincerely,

Vincent Facchiano OD FAAO
www.4GreatVision.com

Annual Eye Exams - Best Defense Against Glaucoma

[caption id="attachment_916" align="alignnone" width="285" caption="Ray Charles----The great Ray Charles, singer/songwriter had lost his vision to congenital glaucoma"][/caption] />[/caption][caption id="attachment_902" align="alignright" width="200" caption="Special eye pressure testing called Goldman Tonometry"][/caption]Nearly 4 million Americans and 70 million people worldwide are losing their sight to glaucoma, and many of them are not even aware they have the disease, which has no symptoms as it silently steals sight. Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve and vision loss begins with peripheral vision. Here are some of insights on risk factors and treatment for the disease as we wrap up Glaucoma Awareness Month from our Doctors of Optometry.

Here are some risk factors for the disease:
Elevated intraocular pressure ( pressures over 22-25 are considered high but may not indicate glaucoma alone)
Age (those over 40 have a higher risk)
Ethnic background (persons of African descent are five times more likely to develop glaucoma) Hispanics have a higher predilection also.
Other medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, and other vascular disorders)
Family history (particularly maternal family members)
Patients with myopia ( nearsightedness)

There are no presenting symptoms of the most common form of glaucoma -- primary open angle glaucoma,” Dr Facchiano indicated. “That’s why an annual eye exam is so important

There is no cure for glaucoma. Currently, glaucoma is usually treated pharmacologically through eye drops, . Other methods like laser and/or surgical treatments may be implemented if the eye drops are not effective. Each treatment is designed to reduce eye pressure and the resulting damage to the optic nerve.

Eye pressure testing is required by most states but that is not the only test needed to evaluate an eyes relative risk of loosing vision to glaucoma. Now more is known about diagnosis and new technologies have emerged that are essential in the diagnoses. In addition to eye pressures other tests are essential to correctly diagnos and treat glaucoma. These include images of the optic nerve over time and corneal thickness measurements. Also gonioscopy is a special test that views the angle anatomy dictating the eye fluid drainage of the eye. Very important to note is that loss of visual field is not noticed by patients. So unless a very sensitive threshold visual field analysis tests for subtle reduction and blind spots in the field of vision are preformed no one will know you have a loss until the disease is very advanced. Finally eye pressures are in flux throughout the day so eye pressures measured at different times of day are often required.

Such tests take time and extra technology and are offered in addition to the standard eye exam. Major medical insurance often covers such testing for a glaucoma suspect patient. No one at risk should deny themselves the full panel of diagnostic tests. Yet few receive this level of care because much of the public still considers eye pressure checks as all they need. The fact is more than half of glaucoma cases have normal pressures of 15-20 at the time of their eye examination.

At Dr Facchiano's office very sensitive and specific laser image tests are preformed on patients who are at risk. These tests aide the optometrist or your eye care provider in determining a relative risk of vision loss due to glaucoma and can result in early detection before loss of vision. Since most who suffer from glaucoma have the open angle glaucoma type, changes that do occur will do so slowly at a rate estimated about 3% each year. Such early changes in the optic nerve are impossible to detect visually until the disease is well established and visual damage is measurable. Yet such subtle changes that escape the human eye can be measured 5-8 years in advance of visual field loss with the new laser imaging tests called OCT, GDX-VCC or HRT-III laser scans . These sensitive tests give optometrists, or your eye care provider ,advanced notice of optic nerve change over time and that will indicate relative risk for glaucoma damage that allow timely medical intervention before vision is lost if necessary. Eminent loss of vision is determined through reduction in nerve fiber layer thickness and ganglion cell complex long before vision is lost.

This is one more reason that patients should take their eye care seriously and it is important to get a through annual eye exam from providers that specialize in complete eye care. For those who know they are at risk be sure to insist on a full evaluation that includes new image tests or ask to be referred for such testing.

At Dr's Facchiano & Associates we take the matter seriously and have the latest in technology to diagnose and treat glaucoma. Our web page has a number of great informational links about glaucoma. Please find Glaucoma Research info @ http://www.glaucoma.org/ and from All About Vision @ http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/glaucoma.htm.

What's a Lazy Eye?

Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is the loss or lack of development of central vision in one eye that is unrelated to any eye health problem and is not correctable with lenses. It can result from a failure to use both eyes together. Lazy eye is often associated with crossed-eyes or a large difference in the degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness between the two eyes. It usually develops before the age of 6, and it does not affect side vision.

Symptoms may include noticeably favoring one eye or a tendency to bump into objects on one side. Symptoms are not always obvious.
Treatment for lazy eye may include a combination of prescription lenses, prisms, vision therapy and eye patching. Vision therapy teaches the two eyes how to work together, which helps prevent lazy eye from reoccurring.

Early diagnosis increases the chance for a complete recovery. This is one reason why the American Optometric Association recommends that children have a comprehensive optometric examination by the age of 6 months and again at age 3. Lazy eye will not go away on its own. If not diagnosed until the pre-teen, teen or adult years, treatment takes longer and is often less effective. Also see our links in AOA and All About Vison for more information

Looking For Long Lashes?

When it comes to eyelashes, ladies are always looking for longer, thicker, more defined lashes. The way to achieve this look has always been with this mascara, that mascara, or even false eyelashes. Makeup companies are always marketing new products to make your eyelashes longer and more dramatic. But that look only lasts as long as you have your makeup on. Now there is a way to get your lashes to actually grow and look fuller on their own, without the help of makeup. Latisse is topical solution that helps your lashes grow. It works gradually and you usually see full results within 16 weeks. Ask one of the doctors at Dr. Facchiano and Associates about Latisse! Also go to www.latisse.com

You Will Not Believe Your Eyes!

The new guest can be seen at the Cherryvale Mall through May 15 on display to promote the "Giants: African Dinosaurs" exhibit at the Burpee Museum. It is just amazing to see and you will want to see it with your best correction from Lenscrafters. Take the family out to see Jaboria and then schedule eye care for your entire family. Please go to specials and print our coupon for family and friends savings this month. You will not believe your eyes!

Comfortable Contacts You've Been Looking For!

Looking for more comfortable contact lenses? These videos from CooperVision explain the benefits of Biofinity and Proclear contacts.

Best Eye Care for Bags Around Eyes

Ever have someone indicate that you look tired? It is a safe bet that the area around your eyes may provide a visual clue. Yes that dreaded under eye "baggage" or puffy eyes, eye bags, dark circles, and shadows. So Dr. Facchiano wants to help you explore the various reasons and treatments of this common concern. Don’t think this is an old age concern Dr. Facchiano says “the root cause can begin in subtle ways when in the twenties with little pillow like changes, so by the thirties is a noticeable cosmetic problem with full blown bags that has equal prevalence in both men and women”. Dr. Facchiano reports that there is a certain amount of fat naturally in the under-eye area that is held in place by ligaments. “As we age, those ligaments get weaker, allowing the fat to push forward, forming that little puffy pillow under your eye."

Then unfortunately it all gets worse because the skin loses elasticity, allowing the formation of those loose wads of skin we call "bags.” The rate depends on both hereditary factors as well as lifestyle. With regard to lifestyle, Dr. Facchiano reminds patients getting enough rest matters as does aerobic capacity, so exercise is important also. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol is important too. The worst accelerator of aging and wrinkles to our lower eyelids is sun exposure. So, wear sun block and UV absorbing sun glasses when outdoors. It is recommended that if you’re concerned about bags forming a lot sooner, avoid a high salt intake (salted popcorn, Chinese food, etc.) which causes the fat beneath the lower eyelid to absorb fluid and swell, making puffiness worse.



Although cosmetic surgery may certainly be the most effective and permanent treatment option there are other ways to treat under-eye bags, sags, dark circles, and puffiness. Let’s start with the time tested folk remedies that act as astringents on that delicate lid tissue. Ah! Some apply the egg whites under their eyes and let it dry. You will feel your skin tightening. When that is washed off, some report success cause this process visibly reduces under eye puffiness. Some recommend doing this on mornings when you did not catch enough sleep. Second, you can get an ice cube and rub it around your eye it helps with swelling. And many have heard that you can use either potato slices, tea bags or cucumber slices placed over the closed eye and lids in the evenings because they help too using the same principle.

Best get enough rest, drink plenty of water, wear sun block, sun glasses, avoid high salt intake and apply artificial tears to dry eyes. You may not be able to fight hereditary bags completely with folk remedies, as surgery for some cases is the most effective. Dr. Facchiano will discuss those surgical options later. But go ahead and put cucumbers on the eyes at night for about an hour before you go to bed while relaxing to music. Ahh the best thing is rest!!!!

How To Enhance Your Vision

Age-related macular degeneration is a very common and dreaded disease of our senior years which may lead to irreparable vision loss. This acquired retinal disease affects millions of elderly adults. It can cause loss of the ability to see details, causing blurry vision and possibly legal blindness. Despite the social costs that include depression and loss of interest in activities, and the societal health costs including retina eye surgery, many people are unaware that new research has proven that vitamin supplements for macular degeneration can halt the progress of this disease, and in some cases, actually improve vision.

 

Over 90% of macular degeneration cases are diagnosed as dry non bleeding macular degeneration. Seen most commonly in those aged 50 and older and its prevalence gets worse with age. A healthy central retina or macula is necessary for all accurate vision. Degeneration of this important aspect of the retina causes permanent reduction in vision. The fact is dry macular degeneration starts slowly and as a result many people attribute their vision loss to the natural aging process. Early detection and treatment is key to slowing its effects. There is no cure, but studies show that macular degeneration supplements work to help slow the loss due to macular degeneration. There have been many causes identified such as age, heredity, nutrition, smoking, and sunlight. Sufferers report seeing blind spots, which affect their driving and reading abilities. Failure to treat dry macular degeneration can result in permanent blind spots and chronic eye irritation.

As America's baby boomers age, dry macular degeneration has been in the news quite a bit lately. It's difficult to find the true facts on but our info links from AOA and all about vision include more on this topic.The retina is known to be particularly susceptible to oxidative stress as its need for oxygen is large, it is exposed to high levels of light and its membranes have high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids which are readily oxidized. Consequently, much interest has centered on studying the effects of antioxidants as a possible means of preventing the development of age-related macular degeneration.

The National Institutes of Health recently published the Age Related Eye Disease Study, or (AREDS-2). The AREDS-2 found that taking eye vitamins containing high doses of anti-oxidants and zinc minimized the progression of macular degeneration by 25%. AREDS-2 new formula included 10 mg lutein and 2 mg zeaxanthin (1 tablet) 350 mg DHA and 650 mg EPA (2 soft-gel capsules). In addition the June 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology indicated long-chain omega-3 essential fatty acids were shown in a study performed by researchers in Australia and Singapore to prevent the development of macular degeneration in people age 49 years or older. Since then it has been recommended that 1000mg of omega three oils or krill oil be added to the daily diet.

While sadly there is no cure for dry macular degeneration studies have shown that the specific vitamins and supplements can slow the effects of dry macular degeneration. It starts with a detailed evaluation of your retina. Dr Vincent Facchiano OD FAAO recommends that you ask your optometrist to do a dilated eye exam each year and evaluate the central retina area with HD digital images. In some cases specialized visual fields will be ordered and special laser OCT scans will be used to detect the cause of early macular vision loss. Early detection is important. For healthy eyes Dr Facchiano recommends that you protect your eyes from damaging ultraviolet light with sunglasses when outdoors and ask your optometrist if there is a vitamin and supplement program that is right for you.