In the Dark on Blue Light?

In the Dark on Blue Light?

With the average person spending seven hours a day on their electronic devices it’s no surprise the growing concern surrounding blue light exposure and how it may be affecting our eye health. Add to that, Covid-19 has fueled the use of digital devices with online learning, working from home, binge watching netflix, etc. Let’s face it we’re all on digital devices more than we used to be so let’s shed some light on blue light.

What is Blue Light & How It Affects Us...

Blue light is a normal part of the visual light spectrum and it is found everywhere. Many people often associate blue light with computers and phones, however the largest source of blue light is sunlight. Other sources include LED light, fluorescent light, flat-screen TVs, computer monitors, and the screens of all digital devices. Concerns have grown from claims that prolonged exposure to blue light from screens is blinding us but there is NO scientific evidence that blue light from digital devices causes damage to your eyes!

What blue light does affect is the body’s circadian rhythm, our natural sleep and wake cycle. During the day, blue light wakes us up and stimulates us but prolonged exposure to blue light at night can affect melatonin release and thus affect your sleep cycle. 

Blue Light & Digital Eye Strain...

So if blue light exposure from screens doesn’t cause ocular damage then why are people experiencing eye pain when staring at the screen?

The discomfort some people experience after looking at screens is most likely Computer Vision Syndrome, also called digital eye strain, which describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged digital screen use. Symptoms include eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes and neck or shoulder pain. The good news is eye strain does not cause lasting damage and is easily preventable.

Digital eye strain is NOT caused by blue light. Instead, the symptoms of digital eye strain are linked to how and how long we use our digital devices. 

Tips To Combat Digital Eye Strain

• A pair of prescription glasses with a good quality anti reflective coating will reduce eye strain in those suffering from eye strain, headaches or blurry vision.

• Use the 20-20 Rule. After 20 minutes of exposure take a 20 second break and look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow the eyes a chance to refocus.

• Position your monitor so it's slightly below eye level and keep your computer roughly 25” or arms length away. 

• Remember to blink.

• Make regular eye exams.

What About Blue Light Blocking Glasses?

Blue light blocking glasses claim to filter out blue light from computers, smartphones and tablets and although they may have value in regulating your sleep cycle they DO NOT protect against eye strain. So before you jump on the blue light blocking bus and purchase a pair of glasses consider trying these tips to improve your beauty sleep.

Tips To Reduce Blue Light Exposure and Get More Z’s

• The best way to avoid sleep disruption is to avoid using screens one to two hours before bed.

• Utilize blue light filters for electronic devices. Mant devices have built-in features to filter out blue light. There are also third-party filtering apps available for smartphones, tablets and laptops. 

• Set your alarm. Remind yourself when to shut down with a daily alarm set before bedtime. 

• Remember, the sun is the largest source of blue light. Always wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays whenever outside.

If you’ve been experiencing eye strain symptoms or have more questions about blue light we’d love to help you! Just call or stop by our optical boutique at Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach. 850.608.3135

Protect Those Peepers!

Soak In The Sun and See

You’ve heard that sunshine is the best medicine? Well one of the simplest lifestyle changes we can suggest to both pre-myopes and patients with progressing myopia is to simply spend more time outdoors.

Myopia or nearsightedness means one sees nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear out of focus or blurred. You may be surprised to learn that time spent outdoors helps in preventing myopia. Two hours a day or fourteen hours a week soaking in the sunshine has been found to be effective in reducing the progression of myopia.

Studies are still underway to determine just how increasing your time outside can affect myopia. Some believe the exposure to sunlight releases dopamine in the retina or the increases in Vitamin D are beneficial. Other theories link exposure to beneficial microorganisms that increase serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is part of the signaling system within the retina and control eye growth.

Preventative effects on myopia from time outdoors is beneficial even in ages as young as 3 years old. And luckily, exposure to strong sunlight isn’t required for prevention of myopia. Relatively low light intensity, even in the shade of trees, has protective effects.

There are a lot of reasons to get our kids outside, but these links to increased time outdoors preventing the onset and progression of myopia just reinforces the mantra: fresh air is good for the mind, soul, AND the body! But please don’t forget to protect those peepers from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent UV whenever you are outdoors in daylight. Remember your eyes need protection even on cloudy days

Contact us or visit our optical boutique in Redfish Village along scenic highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach and let us help us help you with all your eye care needs.

Keeping an Eye on Screen Time

It’s summertime and here in Florida it is very hot outside. This can mean spending time indoors to beat the heat and for your kids that often leads to excessive screen time.

Optometrist are seeing a marked increase in children with dry eye and eye strain from spending too much time using digital devices. Also, the frequency of myopia (nearsightedness) has leapt in the last decade or two. Increased time spent looking up close at screens puts strain on the eyes and can worsen myopia’s progression.

Taking breaks from digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers are the easiest way to prevent excessive exposure.

Here are a couple simple strategies to protect your child’s eyes from screen eye strain:

●     Set timers and take breaks from screens every 20 minutes. Have fun and make a game of it with silly sounding alarms or impromptu dance parties while you’re taking a break.

●     Encourage kids to hold digital screens 18 to 24 inches away from their faces.

●     When playing video games remind your kids to look up and out the window for a minute or two when each level is completed.

●     Ask your kids to evaluate the brightness on their screens if they are straining or their eyes are hurting.

●     Remind children to frequently blink! It may seem trivial and it may initially take a bit of nagging, but soon they will be aware of it.

Just by making yourself and your kids aware of good screen use habits, you’re seeing to helping their eye health now and in the long run.

PROTECT THOSE PEEPERS IN THE WORKPLACE

March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month, a month dedicated to promoting proper eye safety and care in the workplace. Before you think that this topic does not apply to you, think again! According to International Safety & Hygiene News (ISHN), in the U.S., each year, nearly 25,000 Americans visit the emergency room due to a workplace eye injury and more than 2000 workers injure their eyes on the job every single day, with roughly one out of every 10 of those injuries resulting in employees missing work in order to recuperate. Scary thought, right!

Even with these alarming statistics we understand many of our readers may still consider themselves at low risk for eye-related injuries if their workplace is in an office setting. When people think of work-related eye injuries, they often think of high risk jobs like construction, landscaping or factory workers being the most at risk; however, in our high-tech society, one of the most common vision problems is Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS, also called Digital Eye Strain, is a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer screen or other digital device, such as a smartphone or tablet for extended, uninterrupted periods of time. These digital devices can cause headaches, blurry vision, eye fatigue, difficulty focusing, and Dry Eye Syndrome. Chances are most of us spend some portion of our work day and home life in front of a screen. Whether your workplace is in the field or in the office chances are you spend some portion of your day in front of a screen.

So, for those that have to spend prolonged hours in front of a screen here are some ways you can remedy vision strain:  

POSITION IS EVERYTHING

Position your monitor so it is slightly below eye level and keep your computer roughly 28 inches away from your eyes.

UTILIZE THE 20/20/20 RULE

Take frequent breaks. We like the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds and focus your vision on something that is 20 feet away. Every hour take a 5 minute break to stretch and walk around.

REMEMBER TO BLINK

Remember to blink frequently and use artificial tears as needed. When working on a computer or any other electronic device for an extended amount of time, you tend to blink less often. Studies have shown that a computer user’s blink rate is reduced which exacerbates dry eye symptoms.

REGULAR EYE EXAMS

The first step in preventing computer vision syndrome is to schedule a regular eye examination. Eye exams are a great way to keep tabs on your eye health. Be sure to tell us if you use electronic devices as part of your daily work routine.

COMPUTER EYEWEAR

Prescribed eyewear specifically designed for computer use can help alleviate eye strain when using electronic devices. Ask us about custom digital office lenses.

Whether you spend hours behind the computer or use power tools at your job, it is always important to keep eye health and safety in mind and remember that even minor eye injuries can cause life-long vision problems. If you’ve been experiencing eye strain symptoms or think you might not be doing everything you can to protect your eyes from injury at work, just call us or stop by our Optical Boutique in Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach today! Together, we can get ahead of vision loss!

Protect Those Peepers!

INDEED...THE SNEAKIEST EYE DISEASE

As part of January’s National Glaucoma Awareness Month, Optikk 30A is joining with other leading eye health organizations in urging our patients to know their risks for the sneakiest, sight stealing disease. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States. It is estimated that over 3 million Americans suffer from glaucoma, with only half of them even aware they have it. That’s a scary thought!  Appropriately nicknamed, sneak thief of sight, glaucoma can strike without pain or other symptoms causing its sufferers to lose a small fraction of their vision daily. Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma and treatment cannot reverse damage that has already occurred. The key is early diagnosis...and it’s as simple as scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist! With treatment, glaucoma can be controlled, minimizing and even preventing further damage.

IMAGE CREDIT: https://www.retinalyze.com/post/glaucoma-regular-eye-exams-prevent-loss-of-sight

WHAT IS IT?

Let’s take a closer look at what glaucoma is. Glaucoma is a multi-factorial, complex group of eye diseases in which damage to the optic nerve leads to vision loss. The cause of glaucoma is not known however increased pressure in the eye is usually present. There is no specific level of eye pressure that leads to glaucoma and those with completely normal eye pressure can develop glaucoma as well. Current research suggests that reduced blood flow and nutritional deficiencies could also play a role in the development of glaucoma. Untreated, it will result vision loss progressing to a narrow field of vision also known as  “tunnel vision” and ultimately blindness.

Image Credit: Glaucoma Research Foundation

WHO IS AT RISK?

Everyone is at risk for Glaucoma, but there are certain groups of people who are at a higher risk. Age, race, family history, and medical history are all risk factors that may increase your chance of having glaucoma.

AGE:  

• People over the age of 60 are 6 times more likely to develop some form of glaucoma.

RACE:  

• African Americans  are 3 times more likely to have glaucoma than others and 6 times more likely to be blinded by the disease.

• Hispanics are also at increased risk for glaucoma as they age.

• Those of Asian and Native American descent are at increased risk for angle closure glaucoma.

FAMILY HISTORY:  

• Family history increases your risk of developing glaucoma four to nine times.

MEDICAL HISTORY:  

• Primary open-angle glaucoma is hereditary, so it is important to keep a record of your family medical history.

• Eye injuries that “bruise” the eye (called blunt trauma) or injuries that penetrate the eye can damage the eye’s drainage system, leading to traumatic glaucoma.

• You are at risk if you have a history of high pressure in your eyes, previous eye injury, long term steroid use, or nearsightedness.

PROTECT YOUR SIGHT!

Glaucoma and its symptoms have a life-changing impact. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye exam and detect it early!  

HOW IS GLAUCOMA TREATED?

The most common first line of treatment involves eye drops to lower the eye pressure. If the prescribed eye drops fail to lower the eye pressure adequately, then surgical intervention is indicated. The ultimate goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower the eye pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage. A diagnosis of glaucoma requires close monitoring of the ocular pressure and the optic nerve by your eye doctor. At Optikk 30A have the latest in optical coherence tomography (OCT) technology which allows us to closely monitor the retinal nerve fiber layer for thinning and thus progression of the disease. Visual field testing is another valuable tool in monitoring the progression of visual field loss in glaucoma.  

With the start of this New Year we encourage you to talk to your friends and family about glaucoma and its many risk factors and possible symptoms. There may not currently be a cure for this sight stealing disease, but steps can be taken to protect and preserve your vision. Call or stop by our optical boutique in Redfish Village on Scenic 30A. Together, we can get ahead of vision loss as well as make a New Year’s resolution to make eye health a priority.

Dr. Korrie Lalim

Read more about Glaucoma from the Glaucoma Research Institute at www.glaucoma.org.

EYE-AMAZING SCHOOL YEAR

Although it still feels like Summer here on the Gulf Coast, the new school year is in full swing. For many parents this means adjusting back into early morning routines and busy schedules filled with after school activities. While you’re checking off your to-do list and making sure your kids have everything they need for a successful new school year Dr. Korrie Lalim and the staff at Optikk 30A would like to remind parents not to neglect one of the most important development tools needed for a successful school year is healthy eyes!

It’s no surprise that the increased use of classroom technology, along with time spent on personal devices can lead to eye tiredness and dryness which are two symptoms commonly associated with digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS). Ask us about Zeiss digital lenses designed specifically for CVS!

Because children are still growing, being vigilant about eye health is important. The earlier the eye and vision problems are identified, the sooner they can be addressed.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your child’s eye health in check this year!

Limit Screen Time At Home:

Kids should take frequent screen breaks to relax their eyes while working on the computer, watching television, and playing on tablets or smartphones. Try the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes have them look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.  We are seeing an alarming increase in dry eye issues in children associated with excessive screen time. This can lead to inflammation and chronic dry eye disease down the road.

Encourage Outdoor Activities:

We all know how easy it is to get pulled into the digital world of social media for hours. Make it a new school year goal to get off the screens and get moving outside. Increased time outdoors has been shown to be protective for the development of myopia in young children. An extra 1.25 hours spent outside per day may reduce the risk of onset of myopia by as much as 50%. Take Fido for a walk as a family, spend a few hours at the beach, go on a bike ride to watch sunset. Nature has a way of resetting so many parts of your life, so get out there and enjoy it!

Create Colorful Plates For Meal Time:

Pack lunches full of fruits and vegetables like kale, spinach and berries to promote retinal health. Add cold-water fish and nuts to the dinner menu to support good quality tear production. Try and limit sugary drinks and encourage more water!

Wash Your Hands:

Hands come into contact with germs during the day, especially at school. Encourage kids not to touch their eyes and to keep their hands clean in order to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading an eye infection.

Schedule A Comprehensive Eye Exam:

Children may not know the difference between clear and blurry vision. If you notice them squinting, sitting close to the television or closing one eye when reading, they may need glasses. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist can facilitate diagnosis of vision problems.

Eyes are both delicate and important, so it’s crucial to take care of them. Help your child understand proper eye care, eye protection, precautions and safety, and contact us to schedule an eye exam today. At Optikk 30A we are committed to excellence in patient care and offering the whole family the latest in eye examination, fashionable eyewear and contact lens technology. Stop by our optical boutique located in Redfish village along scenic 30A in Blue Mountain Beach. From all of us at Optikk 30A we wish parents, students and faculty an eye-mazing school year!

NATIONAL SUNGLASSES DAY

It’s National Sunglasses Day! Recognized on June 27th, National Sunglasses Day is an annual commemorative campaign brought to you by The Vision Council celebrating sunnies and sharing the importance of UV eye protection.

On National Sunglasses Day we would like to remind everyone that while wearing sunglasses is a fabulous fashion accessory, they also protect our precious eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. As most of us can already feel this summer is shaping up to be a hot one on the Emerald Coast, so whether you are cooling off in the water, headed offshore for some fishing, or cruising 30A by bike, make sure you are wearing UV protective eyewear. As you know UV radiation is damaging to your eyes and not wearing the proper UV protective eyewear can contribute to cataract formation, macular degeneration, skin cancer, pterygium a.k.a surfer’s eye, and the oh so dreaded …wrinkles!

Did you know that all sunglasses are not created equally? Here are the most important factors to consider when purchasing sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun…

The single most important thing to look for when buying sunglasses to protect your eyes is that they block 100 percent of UV rays. In addition, you will want to add polarized lenses to block unwanted glare which can degrade your vision and make it seem hazy. The views here on the Emerald Coast are breathtaking, polarized lenses help you see objects more clearly and colors more vividly. Fishermen and seafarers know that polarized lenses are the only way to see what lies beneath the surface making them a must-have watersport accessory.

Reward yourself and protect your eyes with a new pair of luxury sunglasses from us at Optikk 30A. We are proud to offer sunglasses from Maui Jim, Costa, Anne et Valentin and Etnia Barcelona and would be happy to help you find your perfect fit. Need prescription sunglasses? We can handle that too! Come by and see us at our optical boutique located in Redfish Village along scenic 30A in Blue Mountain Beach.

Oh, and don’t forget to join in the celebration of National Sunglasses Day by wearing your favorite pair of sunnies and sharing a photo on social media today (June 27th) using the official campaign hashtags #NationalSunglassesDay and #SunglassSelfie. If you got them from us add #optikk30a. Enjoy the sunshine and protect those peepers!

LOVE YOUR EYES

Love encompasses our lives every day.  We care about the health and safety of our loved ones, but often times forget to care for ourselves just as much. February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness month. At Optikk 30A, we want you to become more aware of the dangers of this common disease and how to take effective preventative measures.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in individuals over the age of 50.  This disease causes damage to the macula (central part of the retina) which can result in blurred vision, distorted vision and loss of the central vision needed to perform everyday tasks.

There are two types of AMD which can be summarized as either “dry” or “wet”. “Dry” AMD (the most common) refers to the deterioration of the central portion of the retina causing a gradual loss in vision. In the “wet” form of AMD, fluid leaks from beneath the retina causing a more rapid and severe loss of central vision. “Wet” AMD is monitored closely by a retina specialist and the treatment includes injections into the eye.  Regardless of the type of AMD a patient may be diagnosed with, the severity of the condition varies from patient to patient.

Leading risk factors for the development of AMD:

• Age - AMD will most commonly occur after the age of 60.

• Family History - People with a family history of AMD are at higher risk of developing the disease. Be sure to tell your optometrist if you have any family history of AMD.

• Poor Diet and Smoking - The retina has a high rate of oxygen consumption, so anything that reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the retina increases the risk of AMD. Smoking, inactivity and poor diet causes oxidative damage to the eye.

• Sun Exposure - Repeated exposure of the eye to ultraviolet (UV) light  damages  the retina and is cumulative over time.

You cannot prevent AMD from occurring, but you can take steps to reduce your risks. Optikk 30A’s Dr. Korrie Lalim suggests some simple yet effective eye-loving tips to protect your eyes.

• Exercise regularly! Improving blood flow nourishes and protects those retinal cells.

• Do not smoke! Smoking increases your risk of AMD significantly.

• Eat the rainbow! Studies have proven the macular protective benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin and other antioxidants which can be found in dark leafy greens, vegetables and fatty fish.

• Control your blood pressure and cholesterol and limit your consumption of refined carbohydrates and processed foods.  

• Ask your eye doctor about a multivitamin or an AREDS II supplement

• Wear UV protective eyewear at all times!

The first step in loving your eyes is to schedule an eye exam with your optometrist. Visit our optical boutique in Redfish Village along scenic highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach for a comprehensive eye exam. Dr. Korrie Lalim and her staff are committed to excellence in patient care.

Need more eye-loving tips? Contact us today!

Resources: National Eye Institute: https://nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_facts

Stay Trendy My Friends

We can’t believe we’re almost a full month into the New Year! Are you one of those who might still be contemplating a New Look but cannot afford the time and cost of a brand new wardrobe? Who can!? Make one simple change that will speak volumes - add a pair of stylish glasses.

At Optikk 30A, we believe in shaking up your wardrobe with a new pair of fashionable eyewear. Just a small change, like a fresh pop of color or funky frame can liven up any look and show off your vibrant personality. From bold colors to fresh takes on classic shapes, this year’s trending glasses are more exciting and flirty than ever before. Try one of these trends for a new look for this new year.

Stay Trendy - Tortoiseshell

Tortoiseshell is a classic. With a wide variety of colors and styles, this trending fashionable go-to has a palette for every skin tone. Tortoiseshell looks good on any style frame from a subtle English look to a flirty cat eye to a classic rectangular frame, you simply cannot go wrong with this popular pattern. While many styles of eyewear change seasonally, tortoiseshell matches any outfit staying fresh throughout the seasons.

Like these beauties from the Anne et Valentin Collection.

Clearly Be Transparent

The most popular trend in eyewear this year is the transparent frame glasses. Their neutral colorway allows for more variety in shapes and styles to match any face shape for both men and women. Translucent frames provide an upscale contemporary look great for everyday wear.

Like these colored translucent frames from the Anne et Valentin collection.

Mix it Up - Metals & Plastics

Bright colors and unique frame shapes are not yet a trend of the past, but there is a new cat in town for the risk taking consumer. For individuals with an artistic flare or intriguing personality, the mix of metal and plastic in a frame creates unprecedented structures. For those who already have unique styles and features may stick with the simple and straight to the point metal frame.

These delicate metal styles add to an individual's unique features without overpowering them.

Like these BLUEtiful frames from the Anne et Valentin collection.

Regardless of the trend you choose this year, the shape of the frame is what matters most. Visit our optical boutique at Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach to get your own personal eyeglass fitting. Optikk 30A carries all the latest trends in fashionable eyewear featuring unique collections from independent companies from around the globe.

Shop our boutique, handcrafted and innovative eyewear at Optikk 30A to find your next look for 2018. Go for that big promotion with a pair of Anne & Valentin or find the perfect pair of polarized stylish sunglasses to protect your eyes while strolling down the beach with your loved ones. No matter the style, shape or need, we have you covered.

Be SPEC-tacular in 2018!

It’s almost the New Year - a time for new beginnings and fresh starts, as we make promises to live a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. This year, make it a point to take care of your eyes too!

Here are a few things you can do to protect the health of your eyes in 2018:

1. Wear Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses is not only fashionable but also protects your eyes from damaging UVA & UVB rays. Not wearing protective eyewear while enjoying the outdoors can contribute to cataract formation, macular degeneration, skin cancer and wrinkles. Before you head out the door for your daily run, to hit the waves, or conquer the trail, make sure you are protecting those peepers.  

2. Super Foods Equal Super Eyes

Eating a healthy diet is a major contributing factor in improving our quality of life. We all know carrots are good for your eyes, but there are a lot of other yummy foods that contain antioxidants that help protect your eye health. Blueberries contain vitamins A, C, E and zinc which fight inflammation and promote ocular health. Green leafy vegetables contain carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin which play an important role in preventing retinal changes associated with macular degeneration.. Omega 3 fatty acids are an important anti-inflammatory component in treating dry eye disease and can be found in foods such has fish, walnuts, flax seeds, and many supplements.

3. More Water and Less Caffeine

With cooler temps and an increase in exercise we tend to reach for the hot coffee or relaxing tea, but too much caffeine can cause dehydration in the body and eyes. By drinking at least eight, 8oz glasses of water a day you can increase your daily calorie burn while keeping your skin and eyes hydrated.

3. Be Cautious with Makeup Choices

Okay ladies, we all love to try the newest makeup trends, but before you fill your cart be sure to read the labels. Using hypoallergenic products can help reduce makeup related irritation of the eye and the delicate skin around it. Make sure you are thoroughly removing your eye makeup at the end of the day, not doing so can clog the oil glands which can lead to styes and a cascade of dry eye issues down the road.

4. Put Your Phone Down

Probably the most effective way to improve our quality of life this year is to simply put down the phone. With technology today, we can work anywhere at any time, communicate more easily, and educate ourselves more effectively on worldly matters. Although these are all great benefits to technology, it also can cause us to ignore the people sitting right next to us, miss the breathtaking views, and cause damage to our eyes.

If you experience eye discomfort, redness, blurry vision or headaches while using your digital devices, then you are most likely suffering from Digital Eye Strain – and it only worsens with increased use. Ask us about specialty lenses and coatings designed for digital eye strain.

5. Schedule Your Eye Exam

Get a jump start on the New Year and contact us to schedule a comprehensive eye exam for your whole family. A comprehensive eye exam can detect vision issues as well as underlying health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes and more.

Stop by our optical boutique located in Blue Mountain Beach to select a new pair of luxury eyewear to suit your personality and style. We are proud to have partnered with independent eyewear companies from around the globe such as Anne et Valentin, Bevel, Etnia Barcelona, L.A. Eyeworks, 141 Eyewear, Masunaga and  Zero G.

At Optikk 30A, it is our commitment every year to provide excellent patient care. Cheers to a healthy and happy 2018!

Feast for Your Eyes

When counting your blessings, one should never overlook their eyesight. Did you know you can help keep your eyes healthy while enjoying your favorite holiday dishes? We like to say: this Thanksgiving you can feast FOR your eyes!

Starting with the salad course, leafy greens are full of antioxidants proven to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. Be sure to visit the ever-popular crudité tray too, as carrots contain a high amount of beta-carotene which helps the retina and other parts of the eye function properly. Beta-carotene also helps slow the loss of peripheral vision.

In most families, sweet potatoes are a staple side dish on Turkey Day. These hearty tubers are not only delicious but are also full of nutrients, including Vitamin A, potassium and Vitamin C. Vitamin A helps stop the process of macular degeneration, while Vitamin C also helps reduce your risk of developing cataracts.

Jewel-hued cranberries are practically Thanksgiving royalty and these nutrition-packed fruits help protect your eyes from many eye health issues. The benefits of vitamins A and C in cranberries include preventing cataracts and conditions which can result in vision damage and loss.

The centerpiece for every table is the golden roasted turkey. This holiday bird is loaded with zinc. Zinc can significantly reduce the risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration and it also has a significant effect on the progression of cataracts.

Somehow after all that, we can still find room for pumpkin pie. Squash and that means pumpkins, contain a wealth of antioxidants as well as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-carotene that support eye health and prevent degenerative damage.

Here is a wonderful and healthful recipe for Pumpkin and Butternut Squash Puree with Nutmeg and Cinnamon.

Enjoying these classic Thanksgiving foods isn’t a difficult task and now you can see why we recommend feasting away on them. They all promote healthy eyes and will help protect your precious vision. Now that is certainly a reason to give thanks.

Treat Your Eyes Right This Halloween

Dressing up in costume is a ton of fun and this is the time of year for getting silly and spooky. Want to transform into a zombie or vampire before your friends’ very eyes? Decorative special-effect contact lenses are a great way to achieve this effect BUT did you know all contact lenses, including special-effects contacts, require a valid contact lens prescription? If they haven't first been properly fitted to your eyes, even wearing FDA-approved lenses can be dangerous!

Since we are eye care professionals (and your eye safety is a really big deal to us) we want to remind you that improper use of decorative contact lenses can lead to serious eye injuries.

Please follow these guidelines before you put anything on your eyes:

• Visit your eye doctor for a contact lens exam, fitting, and prescription (regardless of whether you need vision correction).
• Buy contact lenses from a licensed Eye Care Professional that requires you to have a prescription. Never buy contact lenses from an unlicensed source that doesn't require a prescription. Doing so greatly increases your risk of serious eye problems.
• Always carefully follow your ECP's instructions for wearing and caring for your contacts.
• Never share your contact lenses! Sharing contacts can spread harmful bacteria and may result in serious eye health problems...including loss of vision.
• Remember decorative contact lenses are typically designed for daily wear only and are not to be worn overnight.
• Wear only hypoallergenic and non-toxic makeup. For removal, use eye makeup remover or cold cream, not soap.
• If you experience any eye redness or discomfort, immediately remove your contact lenses and contact your eye doctor as soon as possible.

So, go ahead and put that perfect finishing touch on your Halloween costume. Just be sure to put the health of your peepers before making them look like scary creepers!

Optikk 30A as "Roll" Models

Recently Optikk 30A partnered in the production of a national commercial with Red Tricycle and VSP Vision Care. Dr. Korrie Lalim and staff were so honored to be a part of this national campaign to raise awareness for the importance of back to school eye exams.

We were thrilled to be a part of this campaign and work with Red Tricycle and 30A Television. Most parents don’t think about getting their child an eye exam before school starts, but it really should be a part of their back to school checklist. Children are visual learners and with 1 in 4 children having a vision issue, it’s imperative that parents make sure to schedule regular eye exams. ~ Dr. Korrie Lalim, Optikk 30A

Red Tricycle is a digital lifestyle brand that spans 20 major markets and offers daily inspiration for family fun. Red Tricycle believes in the opportunities that come from creating memories and connecting families through fun experiences together. They advocate and help promote key messages such as this one on family eye health.

The shoot itself took place at Optikk 30A’s optical boutique in Redfish Village along scenic highway 30A in Blue Mountain Beach and was filmed by 30A Television.  In the world of film production, you literally (and figuratively!) have to roll with what mother nature has in store. That day, like many late summer days along the Gulf Coast, it was pouring rain, so the planned outdoor shots were changed to interior ones. Despite the wet weather, the shoot was a lot of fun and everyone worked well together.

Not only was the filming located at Optikk 30A but Dr. Korrie Lalim, along with two of her young patients, played leading roles for the filming. When asked about the experience, Dr. Korrie Lalim said she doesn’t normally like to be in front of the camera but enjoyed the whole process. Most importantly, she wanted to emphasize the importance of comprehensive eye care for children because children with uncorrected vision conditions or eye health problems face many barriers in life – academically, socially and athletically.

We’d love you to check out the video here and be sure to schedule your eye exams for those precious peepers soon!

,

Frame it Up

At Optikk 30A we take your vision and eye health very seriously. Dr. Korrie Lalim and our entire team of professionals are committed to excellence in patient care. But, we also believe: Life is too short to wear boring glasses!

This is why we support independent companies from around the globe that produce unique, handcrafted, and innovative eye wear. The boutique styles we offer are often exclusively designed innovations and most importantly, they utilize the latest and greatest technology.

We are very excited to introduce the unique collection of eyeglasses from l.a. Eyeworks to South Walton and the surrounding community. l.a.Eyeworks began on September 9, 1979 when Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi opened a single storefront on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Now, more than three decades later, they continue to create frame designs with new, provocative, and bold senses of spirit. You won’t have to look hard to spot this collection since these eyeglasses are immediately recognized for their bold shapes, imaginative handling of materials, and expressive use of color.

"We design eyewear to celebrate the diversity of faces and the uniqueness of individuals. The glasses we make are sparks of our imagination. You complete these thoughts and bring the dreams of l.a.Eyeworks into being."

-- Barbara McReynolds & Gai Gherardi

Their designs have framed the faces of celebrities, artists, and athletes, but the company’s goal is to create frames perfect for every individual’s style. They design eyewear to celebrate the diversity and uniqueness in all of us. In the words of l.a. Eyeworks: “A face is like a work of art. It deserves a great frame.” We couldn’t agree more!

Come see this unique collection and others at our optical boutique located at Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach along Scenic Highway 30A. We’d love to help you pick out the perfect frame for your work of art!

Bringing Life's Beauty into Focus for Another Year!

 

Two years ago, Optikk 30A opened their doors as South Walton’s premier optical boutique. Optometrist Dr. Korrie Lalim and her staff continue to Bring Life’s Beauty Into Focus for the 30A community and surrounding areas by providing comprehensive eyecare for the whole family and handpicked luxury eyewear from around the globe.

Friends of Optikk 30A chatted happily, enjoying bubbly libations and light bites provided by Debbie Hannan of Deep Dish Rescue, along with an exclusive viewing of the newest Anne et Valentin collection. Once again, Florian Devincenzi was on location to help guests pick the perfect frame shape, size, and color to complement their face shape, skin tone and personality.

Dr. Korrie continues in her dedication to giving back to the community and was excited to donate proceeds from the event to Dog-Harmony. This non-profit dog rescue places its focus on matching the right home with the right dog by training and supporting both humans and dogs to ensure a happy lifelong relationship. Nancy Bown, Founder of Dog-Harmony, along with a few volunteers joined the celebration and brought a couple very adorable and adoptable puppies to mix and mingle with guests!

“The tight-knit South Walton community has made Optikk 30A feel at home since the very start. We send our sincerest thanks to all of our many supporters and patients and are thrilled to serve this beautiful area. Here’s to another year of eye health and happiness!

Good Eye Contact: Supporting Local Charities

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” - Ghandi

Children’s Volunteer Health Network is a local 501 C 3 nonprofit. They facilitate free and immediate medical, dental, vision and specialized care for uninsured and underinsured children in both Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Since their inception, CVHN has assisted in coordinating more than 75,000 procedures for over 17,000 local children.

Our own Dr. Korrie Lalim was just named CVHN’s Volunteer of the Year! Through her practice at Optikk 30A, she provides eyecare, emergency services and glasses to local children in need. Dr. Korrie loves being involved with local charities. She believes in the importance for businesses owner to do their part and give back and it is a role she enjoys. She teamed up with CVHN because of their stellar reputation for helping kids in our area.

Dr. Korrie shared “Children cannot thrive in school if they cannot see, and I believe every child should have access to eye care.”

Children’s Volunteer Health Network is a volunteer-driven organization and they rely heavily on their sponsor and on the dedicated community members and professionals who volunteer.

Even if you aren’t a medical professional there are many ways you can help this wonderful cause and support area kids. You can provide transportation, volunteer at special events or in the CVHN office, or even serve on their board of directors. For more information visit their website at CVHN.org.

Optikk 30A will continue our dedication to the support of various local non-profits near and dear to us. Our two year anniversary celebration is July 13th from 2pm - 6pm and Dr. Korrie will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the Anne et Valentin Trunk show to the animal rescue and adoption organization, Dog-Harmony, for the second year in a row.

The gift of helping those in need can be as tremendous as the one who ultimately receives those gifts. Optikk 30A treasures the ability to support the community.

The Gift of Giving

At Optikk 30A we fundamentally believe in the importance of supporting smaller, independent businesses around the world that produce boutique handcrafted and innovative eyewear. We also feel it’s important to focus our support on causes that reach beyond ourselves which is why we are a proud partner with 141 Eyewear!

Who is 141 Eyewear? This Portland Oregon based company is part business part charity with a business model that goes beyond innovative style and design. 141 Eyewear provides a sustainable solution to give eyewear to those who need it most but may lack the access or funds to attain it. For every 141 Eyewear purchase made, they donate a new pair of prescription glasses to a person in need proactively combatting the issue that 153 million people have vision impairments simply because they don’t have access to corrective eyewear. We proudly stand behind their mission as one of the only 141 Eyewear retail partners in Florida. We hope by sharing their story and mission others will follow.

Owners and founders Shu-Chu and Kyle echo how we at Optikk 30A feel: “Imagine what the world would look like if every one of us took a portion of what we know and what we’re passionate about, and gave it to someone else in need.”

At Optikk 30A, we are grateful to have the opportunity to do the work we love while experiencing the gift of giving back. Something as small as a pair of glasses has the power to change someone’s life and opens up a whole new world of possibilities which exemplifies our tagline…BRINGING LIFE’S BEAUTY INTO FOCUS!

Stop by our Optical Boutique located in Redfish Village along Scenic 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and let us show you our 141 Eyewear collection. Remember your purchase of a new pair of 141 frames will impact another’s life so help us advocate and spread the word…You Buy 141 Eyewear Gives! Contact us today to learn more!

Eye Safety is Important Work

March is Workplace Eye Safety Month, a good time to focus on eye injury prevention and first aid. Here are some scary statistics, according to International Safety & Hygiene News (ISHN) each year, nearly 25,000 Americans visit the emergency room due to a workplace eye injury. Each day, over 2,000 Americans suffer an eye injury. This means that almost one million Americans have experienced some vision loss due to eye injury, which has resulted in more than $300 million in lost work time, medical expenses and workman’s compensation. At Optikk 30A we feel it is important to note, eye injuries can occur both in manual labor jobs as well as office settings.

It's no surprise that manual labor jobs like construction workers have some of the highest eye injury rates according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health. Jobs involving hammering, grinding, sanding, and masonry work all share the common risk of various eye injuries from particles like dust, metal and wood entering the eye. Some of the most common issues resulting in eye injuries are the dust, metal, wood and other particles that can enter the eye. The key thing to remember here is: Eye Protection. In industries like construction, protection is essential. Whether it is goggles, face shields, or safety glasses, simply wearing them protects (or may even save) your eyesight.

The office environment is not as risky but you still need to keep ocular health in mind. The most common condition office workers experience is Computer Vision Syndrome, also called Digital Eye Strain which describes a group of eye and vision related problems resulting from computer, tablet and cell phone use. These digital devices can cause headaches, blurry vision, eye fatigue, difficulty focusing, and Dry Eye Syndrome.  The following suggestions can remedy vision strain:

·         Position your monitor so it is slightly below eye level and keep your computer roughly 28 inches away from your eyes.

·         Take frequent breaks.  We like the 20-20-20 rule.   Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds and look 20 feet away.  Every hour take a 5 minute break to stretch and walk around.

·         Remember to blink frequently and use artificial tears as needed. Studies have shown that a computer user’s blink rate is reduced which exacerbates dry eye symptoms.

·         Ask us about custom digital office lenses with blue-light blocking technology.

Regardless of your profession, workplace eye safety actions are relatively easy to incorporate and may serve invaluable to the health of your eyes. We want our readers to realize that even minor eye injuries can cause life-long vision problems. So SEE to it that you always use precaution and protect those precious peepers!

Call or stop by our Optical Boutique in Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach today! Together, we can get ahead of vision loss!

Your Eye Health: We'll SEE to it

February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness month and at Optikk 30A we are dedicated to raising awareness about important eye health topics.

AMD is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50 affecting more than 10 million Americans. Macular Degeneration is a deterioration of the macula, which is the part of your retina responsible for your central vision and maintaining sharp 20/20 vision.

There are two forms of age-related macular degeneration. The most common form is Dry (atrophic) macular degeneration and Wet (exudative) macular degeneration. Symptoms may not be present in the early stages and can range from mild to very severe.

Symptoms of AMD include:

Straight lines appear wavy

Difficulty seeing at a distance

Decreased ability to distinguish colors

Inability to see details, such as faces or words in a book

Dark or empty spots block the center of your vision

Unfortunately, some risk factors associated with AMD are out of your control. These risk factors include age, gender and genetics. Signs of this ocular disease are present in about 14% of people under the age 64, 20% ages 65 - 75 and up to 37% over 75 years of age. AMD is also more common in women.

What can you do to help prevent AMD?  Kick the nicotine habit, smoking significantly increases your risk of AMD.  Manage your high blood pressure.   Wear sunglasses to protect your retina from harmful UV rays. Eat a diet rich in leafy greens which contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin.  Stay active with regular exercise.  Talk to your optometrist about an appropriate supplement.

While there are treatments to slow the progression of the wet form of macular degeneration, there are no treatments for the dry form and no treatments to reverse the damage already caused by AMD. As the saying goes, prevention is the best medicine.

Call your local optometrist or contact us to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Keeping regularly scheduled eye exams will allow early detection of common and age related eye illness.