Summer is a time for sunshine, outdoor fun, and water activities- but it's also a season when your eyes face unique risks. From harsh UV rays to the dangers lurking in swimming pools and lakes, your eyes deserve just as much protection as your skin. Here's how to keep your vision clear and comfortable all summer long.
1. Shield Your Eyes from UV Rays
Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of:
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
Pinguecula and pterygium (abnormal tissue growth on the eye)
Photokeratitis (a painful "sunburn" of the eye)
What to look for in Sunglasses:
100% UVA and UVB protection (often labled UV400)
Wraparound frames to block light from the sides
Polarized lenses to reduce glare (especially helpful when near water or driving)
A wide - brimmed hat also adds extra shade and cuts down on UV exposure
2. Water Safety: The Hidden Risk for Contact Lens Wearers
Swimming is one of summer's greatest joys, but it poses a serious risk for contact lens wearers. Water- whether in pools, lakes, hot tubs, or even the shower can harbor harmful microorganisms. One of the most dangerous is Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism found in tap water and natural water sources.
What is Acanthamoeba Keratitis?
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but serious infection of the cornea that can cause permanent vision loss. Contact lens wearers are at much greater risk, especially when lenses are exposed to water.
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
Never swim or shower while wearing contact lenses. Water can trap bacteria or amoebae under the lens, increasing the risk of infection.
Do not rinse lenses with tap water or store them in dirty cases.
Safer Options:
Swim goggles over your lenses (not ideal, but better than unprotected swimming)
Daily disposable lenses - discard them immediately after swimming.
Prescription swim goggles, which allow you to swim clearly and safely without contacts.
If you suspect eye redness, pain, or blurry vision after swimming, seek immediate medical attention- early treatment is critical for Acanthamoeba infections.
3. Protect Against Dryness and Irritants
Summer heat, air conditioning, and wind can all contribute to dry eye syndrome, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or traveling.
Tips for Relief
Use preservative- free artificial tears
Wear wraparound sunglasses to block wind
stay hydrated and take breaks from dry air.
4. Eye Safety Around Fireworks
Fireworks can be dangerous, especially for children. The most common injuries from fireworks involve the eyes.
Be Safe
Never let children handle fireworks- even sparklers.
Keep a safe distance and wear protective eyewear if you're lighting them.
Be cautious with DIY displays- accidents can happen in a flash.
Eat for Eye Health
Summer offers a bounty of seasonal produce rich in Lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C, all great for your eyes. Load up on:
Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
Berries
Bell peppers
Corn
Watermelon (hydration + viatmin A!)
Final Thoughts
Summertime brings brighter days- but also more reasons to protect your vision. Sunglasses, smart swimming habits, and a little awareness go a long way toward keeping your eyes safe, comfortable, and healthy. Talk to one of our doctors about the best precautions for your lifestyle.
While you drift off into dreamland, your eyes are far from inactive. In fact, your eyes fo through a fascinating series of changes and processes while you sleep- some essential for healing, some involved in dreaming, and others that can explain why you sometimes wake up with dry or puffy eyes. Let’s take a look behind the eyelids to explore the secret life of your eyes at night.
Your eyes get a much-needed break
During the day, your eyes are constantly in motion- focusing, adjusting to light, blinking, and processing information. When you sleep, your eyes finally get a chance to rest. Your blink rate slows dramatically, reducing strain and allowing the tear film to stabilize and repair the eye’s surface.
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep
One of the most intriguing parts of sleep is the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage. This is when most dreaming happens-and yes, your eyes do move rapidly under your closed lids. While scientists are still studying why this occurs, some believe the eye movements may be connected to visual processing in dreams, like you’re “watching” the dream play out.
Natural Eye Healing
Your eyes use sleep time to recover from daily stress. Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the eye tissues. This natural repair process helps maintain eye health and may even reduce inflammation caused by screen exposure, dry air, or allergies.
Why you wake up with puffy or dry eyes
It’s not uncommon to wake up with dry, itchy, or puffy eyes. Several factors can contribute to this:
Sleeping with your eyes slightly open (a condition called nocturnal lagophthalmos)
Allergies or sinus congestion
Poor-quality sleep or sleeping face down
Using fans or sleeping in dry environments without a humidifier
A good sleep posture, a gentle eye mask, and proper hydration can help reduce morning eye issues.
Tear Production Slows Down
Your body slows tear production at night, which is why people with dry eye syndrome may feel worse in the morning. If you frequently wake up with stinging or gritty eyes, talk to one of our doctors about night-time lubricating gels,drops, or other possible treatments.
Tips for happy eyes overnight:
Remove all makeup before bed to prevent irritation and infections.
Use a humidifier if your bedroom air is dry
Try a warm compress before sleep if you suffer from dry or tired eyes
Limit screen time before bed to avoid over-stimulating your eyes and brain.
Final Thought:
Your eyes do more at night than simply stay shut. From dream-driven movements to healing and restoration, they play a key role in your overall health while you sleep. Treat your eyes well-both day and night- and they will serve you clearly for years to come. One important way to treat your eyes well is with an annual eye exam. Call us today to schedule yours!
In today’s digital world, our eyes are working harder than ever. Whether we’re answering emails, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching our favorite shows, screen time has become an unavoidable part of daily life. But with increased screen use comes a growing concern: digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. If you’ve ever experienced dry eyes, headaches, or blurry vision after a long day in front of a screen, you may already be feeling its effects.
The good news? There are simple ways to protect your vision while staying connected. Let’s explore what digital eye strain is, how it affects your eyes, and what you can do to keep your sight sharp.
What is digital eye strain?
Digital eye strain refers to a group of symptoms that occur after prolonged screen use. Unlike reading from a book or magazine, staring at a digital screen makes your eyes work harder. This is because:
Screens emit blue light, which can cause eye fatigue.
Blinking decreases when looking at screens, leading to dryness and irritation.
Glare and contrast differences on screens make focusing more difficult.
Poor screen positioning can lead to neck and shoulder discomfort, adding to the strain.
Common symptoms of digital eye strain:
If you regularly use digital devices, you might notice:
Dry, irritated, or watery eyes.
Blurred vision
Headaches
Difficulty focusing
Neck and shoulder pain
Increased sensitivity to light
These symptoms may come and go, but over time, excessive screen use without proper care can lead to lasting discomfort.
How to reduce digital eye strain
The key to preventing digital eye strain isn’t cutting out screens completely- it’s about using them smarter. Here’s how:
Follow the 20-20-20 rule
One of the easiest ways to relieve eye strain is by practicing the 20-20-20 rule.:
Every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit gives your eye muscles a chance to relax.
Adjust your screen settings
Increase text size to reduce the need for squinting.
Lower brightness so it’s similar to your surrounding lighting.
Use blue light filters to reduce exposure to blue light. At Koetting Eye Center, we offer many blue light filtering options built into eyeglass lenses or included in anti-reflective coatings for exceptional coverage no matter how many screens you view in a day.
Blink more often
When staring at a screen, people blink 50% less than usual. Since blinking keeps the eyes moist, try to make a conscious effort to blink more. If your eyes still feel dry, consider using artificial tears to keep them lubricated.
Maintain the right screen distance
Keep your screen about 25 inches (an arm’s length) away from your eyes.
Position your screen so the top is about eye level to reduce strain on your neck.
Reduce Glare
Wear blue-light blocking glasses if you spend long hours on the computer. Better yet, at Koetting Eye Center, we can incorporate blue light filters and coatings into your prescription eyewear, thus ensuring that you are protected from blue light at all times and in all situations.
Adjust lighting to minimize reflections
Take regular screen breaks
Besides the 20-20-20 rule, try to limit screen use outside of work or school hours. Spending time outdoors or engaging in non-digital activities helps your eyes recover.
Eat for eye health
A nutrient-rich diet can help maintain strong, healthy vision. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega – 3 fatty acids, support eye health. Some of the best foods for your eye include:
Carrots
Leafy greens
Fatty fish (like salmon)
Nuts and seeds
Eggs
Schedule regular eye exams
If you experience persistent discomfort or vision changes, call our office right away. Our doctors can check for underlying issues and recommend glasses, contact lenses, or treatments tailored to your needs.
Final thoughts
Digital devices are here to stay, but eye strain doesn’t have to be. By making a few small adjustments to your screen habits, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy for years to come. Try incorporating these tips into your daily routine and give your eyes the care they deserve - And call one of our locations – Brentwood or Ellisville – to schedule your yearly exam today!
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we thought we would share some green foods that are good for your eyes!
Your eyes are one of the most important organs in your body, and maintaining good eye health is essential for clear vision and preventing conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. One of the best ways to support your eyes is through a nutrient- rich diet, particularly by consuming green foods. These foods are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that can help protect and strengthen your vision.
Why green foods?
Green foods are loaded with eye-friendly nutrients such as:
Lutein and Zeaxanthin- These antioxidants help filter harmful blue light and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Vitamin C – Supports healthy blood vessels in the eyes and reduces the risk of cataracts.
Vitamin A – Crucial for good night vision and preventing dry eyes.
Vitamin E - Helps protect eye cells from damage.
Green foods that are good for your eyes:
Spinach – Spinach is packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that help filter harmful blue light and reduce the risk of macular degeneration. It also contains vitamin A, which supports good vision, especially in low light conditions.
Kale – Kale is one of the most nutrient-dens leafy greens and an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene. These nutrients help protect against cataracts and keep your eyes hydrated.
Broccoli – Rich in vitamin C and fiber, broccoli supports overall eye health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound that may protect the eyes from damage caused by UV light.
Peas – Peas are high in lutein and vitamin A, both of which contribute to better night vision and help prevent age-related eye conditions. They also contain zinc, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy retinas.
Green Bell Peppers – Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, green bell peppers help maintain healthy blood vessels in the eyes and may lower the risk of cataracts. They also provide a good amount of vitamin E, which helps protect eye cells from damage.
Avocados – Avocados are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the eyes from harmful light exposure. they also contain healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins essential for eye health.
Green Grapes – Green grapes contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that helps prevent damage from UV light and oxidative stress. They also support healthy blood circulation, which benefits the small blood vessels in the eyes.
Cucumbers – Cucumbers are high in water content, helping to keep your eyes hydrated and reducing dryness. They also contain vitamin K, which supports eye tissue health.
Incorporating these green foods into your diet can help protect your vision, reduce the risk of eye diseases and support overall eye health. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich greens regularly, along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is one of the best ways to care for your eyes for years to come. Another is to be sure to have your eyes checked and monitored annually by an eyecare professional.
The doctors at Koetting Eye Center are dedicated to early intervention and treatment of eye disease. It is our goal to help you maintain the best possible vision and eye health for your whole life.
Call today for an appointment or book online at one of our two locations:
Brentwood 314-863-0000 or Ellisville 636-256-7800.
Spectacle frames have come a long way from being mere vision aids to becoming essential fashion accessories. Whether you wear prescription glasses or non- prescription sunwear, the right pair can define your personality, enhance your facial features, and complement your wardrobe. Let's take a closer look at how spectacle frame fashion has evolved and what trends dominate today.
A brief history of spectacle frame fashion:
Eyewear has evolved significantly over the centuries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, glasses were largely functional, with simple wire or tortoiseshell frames. The early 20th century saw the rise of round and oval frames, often made from metal, as popularized by intellectuals and scientists.
By the 1950s and 1960s, spectacle fashion exploded with the introduction of bold cat-eye and horn-rimmed styles, reflecting the era's love for dramatic aesthetics. The 1980s and 1990s embraced oversized frames and colorful designs, setting the stage for the diverse eyewear fashion we see today.
Current trends in spectacle frames:
1. Minimalist Metal Frames
Thin, wire-rimmed frames have made a strong comeback, offering a lightweight and elegant look. Gold, silver, and rose gold frames provide a timeless appeal that suits both professional and casual styles.
2. Oversized and Statement Frames
Fashion-forward individuals are opting for oversized square, round, or geometric frames that add personality and boldness to their appearance. Thick acetate frames in black, tortoiseshell, or transparent hues are particularly trendy.
3. Retro and Vintage Revival
Styles from the 1950s to 1970s, such as aviator and wayfarer frames, continue to influence modern eyewear fashion. the resurgence of these classic designs adds a nostalgic touch to contemporary looks.
4. Translucent and Clear Frames
Transparent and frosted spectacle frames offer a subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic. These frames blend well with any outfit, making them a versatile choice for fashion enthusiasts.
5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Frames
With sustainability in focus, many brands are offering frames made from recycled materials, bio-acetate, or wood. Eco-conscious consumers can now stay stylish while making environmentally responsible choices.
6. Geometric and Asymmetrical Frames
For those who love edgy and artistic fashion, geometric frames - hexagonal, octagonal, or asymmetrical shapes- are an exciting choice. These unique designs add a futuristic touch to eyewear fashion.
Choosing the Right Frame for Your Face Shape
- Oval Face: Almost any frame shape works, but rectangular or geometric frames add definition.
- Round Face:
Angular or rectangular frames create balance and enhance facial structure.
- Heart- Shaped Face:
Cat-Eye or rounded frames balance out the face's proportions.
- Diamond face:
Oval and rimless styles complement high cheekbones.
At Koetting Eye Center, we work tirelessly to stock our optical dispensaries with the very best quality frames. We appreciate the fact that spectacle frame fashion is more dynamic than ever, and we are continually adding new stock every week. It is our goal to allow wearers to express their individuality while improving their vision. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look , vintage aesthetic, or bold statement frames, there's a perfect pair at Koetting Eye Center. Call today to schedule your eye exam and get styled by one of our expert opticians!
