Pediatric Eye Care Tips for Kids Digital Eye Health

6 Common Eye Concerns After 40

 Jan 25, 2021

A Pediatric Doctor’s Advice on Protecting Your Children’s Eye Health in the Digital Age

Like it or not, children are spending more time than ever on screens—whether for school, entertainment, or social connection. While technology offers undeniable benefits, it also presents unique challenges to your child’s eye health. Pediatric eye care professionals have become aware of how digital habits affect vision, and we want to share practical advice to help parents safeguard their children’s eyesight. 

Children’s eyes, the digital age, and pediatric eye care?

Children are being exposed to screens earlier and for longer periods than ever before. This constant near-focus activity can affect their developing vision. We see many young patients experiencing digital eye strain, headaches, and even early signs of myopia. With proper pediatric eye care, these issues can be managed and prevented.

  • Increased risk of myopia (nearsightedness) from prolonged screen use
  • Digital eye strain causes headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes
  • Reduced outdoor activity, which is vital for eye development
  • Sleep disruption from blue light exposure

How does our pediatric eye care support your child’s vision

Your child’s eyes are still developing, making them more vulnerable to lifestyle habits. Schedule yearly eye exams

Regular eye exams allow us to detect problems early and provide solutions before they affect learning or behaviour. At A-B-See Vision Care, we tailor our exams to children’s needs, ensuring they feel comfortable while receiving thorough care.

Yearly eye exams can aid in:

  • Early detection of vision problems before they impact school performance
  • Guidance on safe screen time management
  • Customized vision therapy for developmental concerns
  • Monitoring for conditions like strabismus or amblyopia
  • Professional advice suited to your child’s lifestyle

  1. Follow  child vision care seriously—practical tips 

We encourage families to adopt healthy screen habits at home. Simple adjustments can make a big difference in reducing strain and supporting long-term eye health.

  • Limit recreational screen time to two hours daily
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
  • Ensure proper lighting to reduce glare
  • Keep screens at least arm’s length away
  • Promote outdoor play to support healthy vision

  1. Our very popular vision therapy 

Some children struggle with focusing, tracking, or coordinating their eyes, especially with heavy digital use. Vision therapy is the core part of our pediatric eye care. It helps strengthen these skills, improving both academic and social performance.

  • Improves eye coordination and focus
  • Enhances reading ability and comprehension
  • Reduces symptoms of digital eye strain
  • Builds confidence in school and sports
  • Supports long-term visual development

Our team at A-B-See Vision Care designs vision therapy programs specifically for children.

2. Controlling Myopia 

Myopia is rising among children due to screen habits and limited outdoor activity. If left unchecked, it can progress quickly. As a part of our child vision care, we offer modern treatments to slow its development and protect long-term eye health.

  • Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are worn overnight
  • Special multifocal contact lenses
  • Prescription eye drops to slow progression
  • Lifestyle recommendations including outdoor play

Parents concerned about myopia can schedule an exam with us to explore these options.

Patients can now book their slot for their child’s vision exam!

To get your appointment, click on “Schedule Your Exam” and follow the steps 

It is designed to streamline the process of making an appointment with A-B-See Vision Care.

Key Features:

  • Select Location: Choose the clinic location where you want the exam.
  • Select Service: Options include:
    • New Patient – Comprehensive Eye Exam
    • Established Patient – Comprehensive Eye Exam
    • Dry Eye Evaluation
  • Select Provider: You can book with one of the available doctors.
    • Dr. Scott Hyatt
    • Dr. Brian McKeon
    • Dr. Jordan Evans
    • Dr. Lisa Porter
  • Schedule Confirmation: Once you select the service and provider, you confirm the date and time.

How It Works Step by Step

  1. Choose Location – The system may list multiple clinic sites.
  2. Pick Service Type – Decide if you need a new patient exam, a follow-up, or a specialized evaluation.
  3. Select Provider – Choose the doctor you prefer from the list.
  4. Confirm Appointment – Finalize the booking with date and time.
  5. Powered by ScheduleYourExam.com – The platform manages the scheduling securely.

The bottom line 

Protecting your child’s vision in the digital age requires both healthy habits at home and professional guidance. With regular pediatric eye care, exams, tailored treatments, and expert advice, we can help ensure your child’s eyes develop properly and remain strong. At A-B-See Vision Care, we are committed to partnering with families to safeguard children’s eyesight. Don’t wait—schedule your child’s eye test today and take the first step toward lifelong healthy vision.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Why does my child need a pediatric eye exam?

Children’s eyes are still developing, and many vision problems can go unnoticed until they affect learning or behavior. A pediatric eye exam helps detect issues early, ensuring your child can see clearly and perform their best in school and daily life.

2. How often should my child have their eyes checked?

Most children should have their first eye exam before age one, another around age three, and then before starting school. After that, yearly exams are recommended to monitor changes and catch problems early.

3. What signs should I look for that my child may have vision problems?

Common signs include squinting, frequent headaches, sitting too close to screens, rubbing eyes often, or struggling with reading. If you notice these behaviors, it’s important to schedule an exam promptly.

4. How does screen time affect children’s eyes?

Extended screen use can cause digital eye strain, blurred vision, and increase the risk of myopia (nearsightedness). Following the 20-20-20 rule and limiting recreational screen time helps reduce these risks.

5. What treatments are available if my child has vision issues?

Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include glasses, vision therapy, or myopia control options like specialized lenses. Pediatric eye doctors tailor solutions to each child’s needs to ensure healthy visual development.

 

6 Common Eye Concerns After 40

 Jan 25, 2021

Why Your Dry Eye Symptoms May Not Be Improving and What You Can Do?

If you’ve been following a dry eye treatment plan but still feel like your eyes are burning, irritated, or constantly tired, you’re not alone. Many patients wonder why their symptoms don’t improve even with regular use of drops or other therapies. As your doctor, I want to help you understand the reasons behind this frustration. In this blog, you’ll learn why treatments sometimes fall short and what practical steps you can take to finally find relief.

Why Your Dry Eye Symptoms May Not Be Improving

While you have been trying your best to deal with it and even tried the so-called “best treatment for dry eye,” nothing seems to work. Here are some of the core symptoms. 

1. You’re Treating the Symptoms, Not the Cause

Artificial tears can provide temporary comfort, but they don’t always address the root problem. Dry eye disease may stem from poor tear quality, eyelid inflammation, or systemic conditions. Without targeting the underlying issue, even the best treatment for dry eye will feel incomplete.

2. Inconsistent Use 

Relief requires consistency. Skipping prescribed drops, neglecting eyelid hygiene, or forgetting warm compresses can reduce effectiveness. Just like managing blood pressure, dry eye treatment works best when it’s part of your daily routine.

3. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Your surroundings matter. Air conditioning, heating, prolonged screen time, or windy environments can worsen dryness. Even with the best dry eye treatment plan, constant exposure to these triggers may undo progress.

4. Incorrect Application of Drops

Technique is important. Touching the bottle tip to the eye, blinking too quickly, or using drops at the wrong intervals can reduce effectiveness. Proper application ensures your dry eye treatment works as intended.

5. Other Health Conditions

Autoimmune diseases, hormonal changes, or medications like antihistamines can worsen dryness. If these aren’t addressed, symptoms may remain stubborn despite treatment.

What You Can Do to Improve Your Dry Eye Treatment

1. Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam

If your symptoms aren’t improving, revisit your doctor. A detailed exam can uncover whether you have evaporative dry eye, aqueous deficiency, or another condition that requires the best treatment for dry eye tailored to your needs.

2. Follow a Consistent Routine

Make your care part of your daily schedule. Use prescribed drops as directed, apply warm compresses regularly, and practice eyelid hygiene. Consistency is the foundation of effective dry eye treatment.

3. Adjust Your Environment

  • Use a humidifier indoors.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks.
  • Wear wraparound glasses outdoors to protect against wind.

4. Improve Your Diet

Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseed, and walnuts) can improve tear quality. Staying hydrated also supports healthy tear production.

5. Discuss Advanced Options

If standard drops aren’t enough, ask your doctor about the following:

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops.
  • Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage.

Light therapy or eyelid treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction.

When to Seek Professional Help

Dry eye can often be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, but there comes a point when professional intervention is necessary. And guess what? ABSee Vision Care is at your rescue. 

1. Signs Your Condition Is Worsening

  • Persistent burning, stinging, or gritty sensation despite regular use of artificial tears
  • Blurred vision that interferes with reading, driving, or daily tasks
  • Increased sensitivity to light or ongoing redness
  • Dependence on eye drops without lasting relief

2. How an Eye Specialist team at ABSee Vision Care Can Tailor Treatment

  • Conducting a thorough evaluation to identify whether the issue is tear quantity, tear quality, or an underlying medical condition
  • Prescribing targeted therapies such as medicated eye drops, anti-inflammatory treatments, or punctal plugs to conserve tears
  • Offering advanced options like light therapy or eyelid treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction
  • Adjusting treatment plans based on your specific symptoms and lifestyle needs

3. Importance of Regular Follow-Ups

  • Dry eye is often chronic, requiring ongoing management rather than a one-time solution
  • Follow-up visits allow your doctor to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed
  • Regular check-ins help prevent complications such as corneal damage or infections
  • These appointments also provide opportunities to review lifestyle changes, medication side effects, and evolving treatment options

4. How to Use It

  • Browse the articles to learn about different therapies.
  • Identify whether your symptoms match those described.
  • Use the scheduling link provided on the site to book an appointment for a dry eye evaluation.

By seeking timely professional help and committing to regular follow-ups, you can move beyond temporary relief and achieve long-term comfort and protection for your eyes.

Part of ABSee Vision Care’s dry eye treatment plan

1. Dry Eye Services

Dry eye can be caused by multiple factors, and standard lubricating drops often fail to address the root problem. ABSee Vision Care offers advanced therapies designed to improve tear quality, reduce inflammation, and restore comfort.

  • Punctual Occlusion: A minimally invasive procedure where a semi-permanent silicone implant is placed to slow tear drainage. This helps retain moisture on the eye’s surface, reducing dryness and irritation.
  • IPL (Intense Pulse Light): A clinically proven treatment for conditions such as rosacea, blepharitis, demodex, and meibomian gland dysfunction. IPL uses specific light filters to target eyelid tissue safely and comfortably, improving gland function and reducing inflammation.
  • Red Light Therapy: Focused on reducing eyelid inflammation, this therapy lowers bacterial load and helps restore healthier tear film over time.
  • Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT): Enhances cellular metabolism and boosts mitochondrial function, particularly in meibomian gland cells, supporting long-term tear stability.

Read More: Can Your Diet Improve Eye Health? Nutrients That Help Prevent Eye Diseases

2. Autoimmune-Related Eye Treatments

For patients with autoimmune conditions, dry eye symptoms can be more severe and persistent. ABSee Vision Care provides specialized diagnostic and therapeutic options to address these complex cases.

  • Ocular Surface Inflammation Testing: Measures immune system markers such as MMP-9 to identify the type and severity of inflammation, guiding more precise treatment.
  • IPL (Intense Pulse Light): Beyond dry eye, IPL is effective for autoimmune-related eyelid and ocular surface conditions, offering safe and comfortable relief.
  • Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT): Supports cellular repair and improves gland function, which is often compromised in autoimmune-related dry eye.

The bottom line 

At ABSee Vision Care, the team focuses on personalized, advanced dry eye treatment that goes beyond temporary relief. They combine precise diagnostics with innovative therapies such as IPL, Red Light Therapy, LLLT, and punctual occlusion to address both dry eye and autoimmune-related conditions. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort, safety, and long-term results. With a commitment to regular monitoring and individualized care, ABSee Vision Care works to restore eye health, protect vision, and improve overall quality of life through compassionate expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes ABSee Vision Care’s approach to dry eye different?

ABSee Vision Care focuses on identifying the root cause of dry eye rather than just masking symptoms. Their team uses advanced diagnostics and therapies like IPL, Red Light Therapy, and punctual occlusion to create personalized treatment plans that deliver long-term relief.

 

2. Is IPL therapy safe for treating eye conditions?

Yes. IPL (Intense Pulse Light) is not a laser but uses specific light filters to safely target eyelid tissue. It is clinically proven for conditions such as rosacea, blepharitis, demodex, and meibomian gland dysfunction, making it both effective and comfortable.

 

3. How does punctual occlusion help with dry eye?

Punctual occlusion involves placing a semi-permanent silicone implant to slow tear drainage. This helps retain moisture on the eye’s surface, reducing dryness and irritation while improving overall comfort.

 

4. Can autoimmune-related eye problems be treated at Absee Vision?

Yes. ABSee Vision Care offers specialized testing, such as ocular surface inflammation testing, to measure immune markers like MMP-9. This allows the team to tailor treatments—including IPL and LLLT—to manage inflammation and improve eye health in autoimmune conditions.

 

5. Why are regular follow-ups important for dry eye patients?

Dry eye is often a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Regular follow-ups allow the team to monitor progress, adjust treatments, and prevent complications such as corneal damage, ensuring patients maintain long-term eye health.

 

6 Common Eye Concerns After 40

 Jan 25, 2021

Can Your Diet Improve Eye Health? Nutrients That Help Prevent Eye Diseases

When it comes to taking care of your eyes, most people focus on glasses, contacts, or eye exams. But did you know that what you eat plays a significant role in maintaining good vision? Your diet provides essential nutrients that support eye health and may help reduce the risk of certain eye diseases. Let’s dive into the connection between nutrition and vision and explore how you can nourish your eyes for long-term health!

How Diet Impacts Eye Health

Just like any other part of your body, your eyes need proper nutrients to function effectively. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help protect against oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy circulation—three key factors in maintaining good vision.

Certain nutrients have been shown to support eye health and may even help lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. While food alone can’t guarantee perfect vision, it can certainly give your eyes the support they need to stay strong and healthy.

Essential Nutrients for Eye Health

To keep your vision sharp, focus on including these essential nutrients in your daily diet:

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining excellent vision and preventing night blindness. It helps your eyes adjust to different lighting conditions and keeps your cornea (the eye’s surface) healthy.

Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dairy products.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s support retinal health and help prevent dry eyes by maintaining the eye’s natural lubrication. They also play a role in reducing inflammation.

Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), walnuts, and flaxseeds.

3. Lutein and Zeaxanthin

These powerful antioxidants filter harmful blue light and protect the retina from damage, reducing the risk of AMD and cataracts.

Sources: Kale, spinach, eggs, and corn.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your eyes from oxidative damage and supports healthy blood vessels in the eyes.

Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), bell peppers, and strawberries.

5. Zinc

Zinc is essential for maintaining retinal health and can help prevent night blindness and AMD.

Sources: Meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds, and nuts.

Making Dietary Changes for Better Eye Health

Improving your diet doesn’t have to be complicated! Here are a few simple steps to incorporate more eye-friendly nutrients into your meals:

  • Plan Balanced Meals: Add a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to your plate. Aim for at least five servings daily.
  • Eat More Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with eye-protecting antioxidants.
  • Incorporate Omega-3s: Enjoy fatty fish twice a week or add flaxseeds and walnuts to your snacks.
  • Snack Smart: Swap processed snacks for nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain moisture in your eyes and reduces dryness.

Regular Eye Exams Are Just as Important

While nutrition plays a vital role in eye health, routine eye exams are equally important. Regular check-ups can help detect potential issues early and ensure your vision remains in top condition. If you live in Idaho Falls, consult a trusted eye care professional to get personalized advice on protecting your eyesight.

FAQs About Diet and Eye Health

1. Can I take supplements instead of eating nutrient-rich foods?

While supplements can help if you have a deficiency, it’s always best to get nutrients from whole foods. Natural sources provide a combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work together for optimal health.

2. How long does it take for dietary changes to impact my eye health?

It varies from person to person, but consistent healthy eating habits can show benefits in a few months. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet long-term is key.

3. Are there any foods that can harm my eyes?

Excess sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation and increase the risk of conditions like diabetes, which can negatively affect eye health.

Conclusion

Your diet plays a crucial role in keeping your eyes healthy and reducing the risk of vision problems. By incorporating nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular eye exams, you can take proactive steps toward long-term eye health. Small changes today can lead to a lifetime of clearer vision—so why not start now?

Take care of your eyes by nourishing them with the right foods and visiting your eye care provider for regular check-ups. A little effort goes a long way in protecting your precious sight!

6 Common Eye Concerns After 40

 Jan 25, 2021

3 TOOLS TO HELP WITH DRY EYE DISEASE

Do your eyes feel dry? Do they ache or burn or itch? Does it feel like you have a “gravel” sensation that comes and goes? Does your vision seem to get blurrier as the day goes on? Or maybe your vision seems clearest right after you blink? Now, most people at some time or another could answer “yes” to these questions. But there are many individuals out there who unfortunately suffer from these symptoms daily, even to the point where their poor eyes always feel uncomfortable.

Although multiple eye conditions can play a role in these symptoms, the most common cause of all these symptoms is called ocular surface disease (OSD). OSD is a blanket term for eye conditions that affect the surface of the eyeball. What you see when you look in the mirror at your eye: your eyelids, eyelashes, sclera (the white part of your eye), conjunctiva (the transparent membrane you can’t see on top of the sclera), and one of the most sensitive structures on our whole body, the cornea (the clear structure that is in front of the colored part of your eye (iris).

Of all the ocular surface diseases out there, the most common type is Dry Eye Disease (DED), which affects as many as 50 million Americans every year. There are a wide array of causes of DED and those causes can have connections to other systemic issues happening in the body. There are two major types of DED. The first and most common is evaporative DED. This is where our tear film doesn’t last as long as it should between our blink and the tears evaporate too quickly. The other is called Aqueous-Deficient DED. This is where our lacrimal gland (our tear-making gland located behind the corner of our eyebrow) doesn’t produce enough tears or in some cases too many low-quality tears. Most DED sufferers have a combination of these two types.

There are far too many causes and effective treatment options for those causes, to cover in this short article. But some easy at-home treatments tend to help across the DED spectrum. I will recommend three high-yield simple treatments that can serve as a starting point for finding some relief to the discomfort produced by DED. These recommendations are based on what I see most commonly every day in our OSD/DED clinic at ABSee Vision Care.

Our eyes are constantly being coated with a special mixture of oil, immune modulators, and enzymes. This coating is called the tear film and it has 3 key layers: The superficial lipid (oil) layer, and the aqueous and mucin layer. These components of the tear film come from different sources. The lipid layer is supplied mainly by oil-producing glands in our eyelids called meibomian glands. When these glands function properly, our blinking causes them to pump lubricating and clearing meibum (good oil) into our tears and onto our eyes. However, in many people, these glands are plugged up from debris, dead skin cells, and old solidified oil. This blockage can be improved and sometimes reversed with the right tools.

TOOL ONE

A nightly warm compress. The best way to improve the functioning of these oil glands is through heat. Using an eye-specific microwavable heat mask (one that holds heat for at least 8-10 minutes is ideal). A brand called Bruder makes a good one and 20 seconds in the microwave is usually enough heat and then rest that heat mask on your closed eyes nightly. After about 2 weeks, you’ll usually notice an improvement in how your eyes feel. Your vision may even be a little murky right after using the mask. Don’t worry, that’s just the oil that has been blocked up (think of liquifying solid butter).

TOOL TWO

An “oil-based” preservative-free artificial tear. Supplementing our oil from an outside source, while we work on improving our eye oil gland health with the heat mask can be very helpful in getting faster relief. Many artificial tear brands make an “evaporative dry eye” drop. I’ll list a few of my favorites (all of the following should be used at least 4 times a day and say “preservative free” on the label): Systane Complete, Refresh Mega, Retaine MGD, Soothe XP, and iVizia.

TOOL THREE

Drinking enough water. This one sounds simple, but many of my dry eye sufferers are surprised when they start monitoring their water intake and find that it is very low. The recommended range depends on the person, but a good goal for DED sufferers is between 64-100 ounces of water daily. There are also “Dry Eye Drink” mixes now available that I have seen be particularly helpful in DED that have an autoimmune origin/component (Rheumatoid Arthritis and Sjogren’s Syndrome sufferers for example.) Bruder also makes a quality version of this drink mix that I would recommend.

Now, if these tools don’t yield much improvement in how your eyes are feeling after about two weeks of consistent use, I recommend that you get a dry eye evaluation from a dry eye and ocular surface disease specialist such as myself. During these evaluations, we use state-of-the-art measuring equipment and thorough eye examinations to determine the sources of your eye issues and create customized treatment plans and systems to fix your eyes. There is relief out there for your achy dry eyes, but usually, the first step is identifying the cause so the treatment can be tailored appropriately.

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