It is summer,  time to enjoy the great outdoors.  You are all set to enjoy your day…. healthy refreshing drink to stay hydrated, sunscreen with the correct SPF, picnic blanket, beach chair….

But what have you done to protect your eyes? You have those trendy fashion sunglasses that make you look cool but are they eye-healthy?

Ultraviolet (UV) is a type of electromagnetic radiation which constitutes about 10% of the total light output of the Sun. Most of it is filtered out by the Earth’s atmosphere, although enough of it comes through to have implications. There are three types of UV radiation, UV-C is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not present any threat. UV-A and UV-B radiation, on the other hand, can have long and short-term negative effects.

The UV spectrum has both beneficial and harmful effects to human health. On the positive side, Ultraviolet is responsible for the formation of bone-strengthening vitamin D in humans, your suntan and cute freckling. These and a sunburn are familiar effects of over-exposure, along with higher risk of skin cancer.

Just as we have learned to protect our skin from the harmful rays, we must also protect our eyes. If your eyes are exposed to excessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time, you may experience Photokeratitis. This is equivalent to a ”sunburn of the eye,” and can be painful.  Symptoms include red eyes, a foreign body feeling or gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive tearing. The symptoms are usually temporary and rarely cause permanent damage to the eyes.

The longer your eyes are exposed to solar radiation, the greater the risk of developing cataracts or macular degeneration later in life. As a precaution, whenever you spend time outdoors, wear

quality sunglasses that offer UV protection and a wide brim hat.

Not all sunglasses protect you equally. The color and degree of darkness sunglasses provide have nothing to do with their ability to block UV rays. You can also opt for wraparound sunglasses or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses that protect your eyes from every angle. Some contact lenses also offer UV protection, but should be worn in combination with sunglasses to maximize protection.

In purchasing sunglasses, keep in mind:

• The larger the lenses, the more of your eye and soft tissue around it get protection.
• They should block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation
• They should screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light
• Lenses should be perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection
• Lenses should be gray for proper color recognition

Did you know that both your sunglasses and regular glasses should have UV protection? Chronic exposure to shorter-wavelength visible light (blue and violet light) may also be harmful to the retina. Many digital devices emit this shorter-wavelength visible light. Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. The sun emits blue light, as do artificial light sources, such as LEDs, computers, and even smartphones.

Blue-violet light can be harmful to the eyes, specifically the retina. It is a risk factor for the onset of age-related macular degeneration, a deterioration of the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. A recent study found that Americans spend 444 minutes every day looking at screens, or 7.4 hours. That breaks down to 147 minutes spent watching TV, 103 minutes in front of a computer, 151 minutes on a smartphones and 43 minutes with a tablet. In addition, most offices and stores use fluorescent light bulbs, and LED lights are becoming increasingly popular. There are lenses and coating for non-sunglasses to protect from this.

The first step in getting help is a visit to A quick visit to Dr. Beyer (William, Eric, or Mark) in any of their 3 convenient locations will give them a clear insight to your vision problem.

Drs. Beyer will discuss your eye health and vision. They invite you to visit their offices for an exam to discuss your eye care health and the same for your family. They take most medical insurances and have a wonderful selection of frames should you need glasses. A visit to them may be your first line of ocular defense!

Have questions?  Call us for answers!

If you have hit your 50’s, you cannot escape one topic of conversation…. CATARACTS.  Either it is someone being diagnosed, or their parents.

What exactly is this and why all of a sudden?  The all of a sudden part is an easy answer, it is age related.

They form as you age.  Cataracts affect more than 22 million Americans. As our population ages, more than 30 million Americans are expected to have cataracts by the year 2020.

Typically for those over 40, but on occasion earlier, vision becomes gradually blurry or cloudy.  This is a common symptom by 60, as it is caused by a protein buildup in the lens of your eye, which lies behind the iris and the pupil.

In addition to cloudy vision, you may slowly become nearsighted, colors may look different, night driving becomes difficult, you may experience glare or double vision, see halos around lights, and your normal glasses and lenses may not be working as well. If you experience any of these symptoms, a visit to Beyer Eye should be scheduled asap as cataracts is the principal cause of blindness in the world.

There are different types of cataracts. They include:

• Age-related.
• Congenital can form in childhood or caused by infection, injury, or poor development in utero.
• Secondary is a result of other medical conditions, such as diabetes, taking medicines such as corticosteroids or diuretics, being around toxic substances, ultraviolet light, or radiation.
• Traumatic caused by injury.

They are classified into 3 groups:

subcapsular cataract occurs at the back of the lens, effecting people with diabetes or those taking high doses of steroid medications.

nuclear cataract forms deep in the central zone of the lens and are associated with aging.

cortical cataracts are characterized by white, wedge-like opacities that begin in the edge of the lens and work their way to the center.

To reduce your risk of getting cataracts, avoid smoking, heavy drinking, ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and other sources, and obesity. Diabetes, hypertension, prolonged use of corticosteroids and statins, hormone replacement therapy and injury or previous eye surgery also increases your risk as well as a family history.

The good news is, cataracts are easy to diagnose, and the fix is also pretty easy. A quick visit to Dr. Beyer (William, Eric, or Mark) in any of their 3 convenient locations will give them a clear insight to your vision problem.

Cataracts are diagnosed during a comprehensive eye examination.  Many factors are considered when making the decision to perform cataract surgery. These factors include Medical History, specifically any medications you are currently taking, and whether you have any allergies, prior eye disease, and previous surgeries.

Drs. Beyer will discuss that cataract surgery is very successful in restoring vision. In fact, it is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States. More than 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year, with 9 out of 10 people regaining very good vision, somewhere between 20/20 and 20/40. During this same day surgery, your surgeon will remove your clouded lens, and in most cases replace it with a clear, intraocular lens (IOL). They will go over your choices in IOLs. Choosing a cataract lens depends on many personal factors, including the activities do you do during the day and which ones would you like to do without glasses if possible.

Have questions?  Call us for answers!

Mercerville NJ

395 Highway 33
Mercerville NJ 08619

609-586-0273

Millstone NJ

498 Monmouth Rd
Millstone NJ 08510

609-259-2221

Newtown PA

11 Friends Lane, Suite 101
Newtown PA 18940

215-550-6136

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe, irreversible vision loss in people over age 60, and it is growing at an alarming rate all over the world. Join us in raising awareness of the importance of frequent vision screenings and retinal health checks.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has recognized February as Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss for people ages 60 and older in the United States. The most recent statistics show that over 10 million Americans have AMD.

According to a study funded by the U.S. Center of Disease Control and Prevention, in 2010 there were as many as 9.1 million people living with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the U.S., and it is estimated that 17.8 million people will have AMD by the year 2050. That’s a 95% increase—8.7 million more people who may be at risk of losing their vision, and they have no idea it’s even happening.

AMD is characterized by a loss of central vision due to damage to the retina. Although there is currently no cure available for this disease, recent advancements in treatment options for AMD are allowing for more and more patients to save their vision. Early detection is crucial when it comes to diagnosing, treating and managing Macular Degeneration. Our doctors at Beyer Eye Associates want to urge you to be aware of the risk factors associated with AMD and remind you to get your eyes checked on a regular basis.

The greatest risk factors for developing AMD include:

• Age (people over the age of 50)
• Family history of AMD
• History of smoking
• High cholesterol
• Lack of vitamins found in a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables
• Obesity

In order to reduce your risk of developing AMD, our doctors recommend the following:

Be sure schedule your annual eye exam. Early detection is key!

Eat a healthy diet, rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids (lots of fruits & veggies!!)

Exercise regularly

Control your blood pressure and cholesterol

Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays

Here at Beyer Eye Associates, our doctors are able to diagnose, treat and manage AMD. We use the latest technology and have all the resources available to help you preserve your vision. Contact our office today to learn more about AMD and to schedule an exam with one of our doctors.

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The eyes are the most expressive feature of the face, and the upper and lower eyelids have a large effect on the appearance of the eyes. Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is an effective procedure that has the potential to dramatically affect our facial appearance and make us look more youthful and rested.

Drooping eyelids, puffy eye bags, and dark circles under your eyes are common issues. They are often hereditary and part of the aging process. Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is designed to turn back the clock.

The procedure tightens or removes sagging skin around the eyes, resulting in a younger, well-rested look.

What is eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids.

Surgery can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids or both.

Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.

Eyelid Surgery Candidates

If the eyelids are stretched, wrinkled, or baggy, the eyes can appear tired and older. Patients sometimes desire improvement in the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Similarly, upper and lower blepharoplasty can be performed separately or together. These surgeries are designed to remove excess skin (wrinkling) and fat (puffiness) and lead to wider, brighter eyes, which convey youth and alertness and more accurately reflects one’s vigor and energy level. You may be a candidate for eyelid surgery if:

What eyelid surgery can treat

• Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision
• Fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids
• Bags under the eyes
• Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
• Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid

You have excess skin or fat in the upper or lower eyelids

You have vision problems secondary to excessive skin on the upper eyelids

You have laxity of the lower eyelids and desire a tightening procedure

Eyelid surgery recovery

During your eyelid surgery recovery, lubricating ointment and cold compresses may be applied, and in some cases your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze, after your procedure is completed.

You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for your eyes, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your overall health and when to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, irritation, dry eyes and discomfort that can be controlled with medication, cold compresses and ointment. Irritation at the incision sites is also possible.

Be sure to ask your surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.

Eyelid surgery results

The results of eyelid surgery will be long lasting. While there usually is little pain involved in this surgery, there can be swelling or bruising. Most patients are presentable to the public in 10-14 days. However, it may take a few months before final healing is completed.

While eyelid surgery can be expected to correct certain conditions permanently, you will continue to age naturally. Ongoing sun protection will help to maintain your results.

Have you ever experienced stinging, burning or scratchiness in your eyes? Are your eyes sensitive to light, irritated, red, or watery and do you find yourself rubbing them more than normal?  This may be a sign of Dry Eye. Dry eye can occur when your basal tear production decreases, your tear evaporation increases, or the tear composition is imbalanced. When the quantity and/or quality of tears does not keep the surface of the eye adequately lubricated, it is a problem that needs to be addressed.

Yes, watery eyes are a sign of dryness too, your body produces excessive tears in response to the dryness. The condition is uncomfortable, but it can also cause blurry vision and eye fatigue, especially at night.  This can impact your safety behind the wheel.

Tears are from glands around your eye and are made of fatty oils, water, mucus, and more than 1500 different proteins.  This combination allows moisture, lubrication and special proteins that help fight against infections. Your eyes need tears to work effectively and maintain eye health.

Dry eyes can be a side effects from medications, a part of the natural aging process, changes in hormones, a symptom of several diseases, or syndromes such as bulging eyes that do not allow your eyelids to close normally.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above for a prolonged period of time,

it might be a good time to make an appointment with Beyer Eye to rule out disease and to get to the heart of the problem.

In order to determine the source of your problem, a comprehensive eye exam is necessary. We will go over your medical history as well as your ocular health to diagnose the cause of your dry eyes. Our doctor may measure your tear production and determine the surface condition of your eyes and the quality of your tears.

Once your Dry Eyes are confirmed and the cause rooted out, we can then safely determine the next course of action.

The most common treatment used to be drops and ointments to reduce inflammation and provide an artificial tear.  These need to be reapplied often, especially if your condition is chronic. There are many prescriptions as well as over-the-counter options that have varying degrees of success. Some patients report a rebound effect, when the treatment wears off, they feel the symptoms are exaggerated.

Beyer Eye is pleased to offer you a state-of-the-art alternative.

TrueTear® is a device that uses the latest technology called neurostimulation to help your eyes temporarily make more of your own tears with tiny pulses of energy. 

We are among a select group of practices offering TrueTear® which is a drug-free, drop-free option for a more comfortable life and better vision.

The device was just approved by the FDA in April 2017. It uses proven technology found in pacemakers, cochlear implants, and TENS Devices for back pain to stimulate the nerves that source the Lacrimal Function Unit (LFU). This is the part of your eye which supplies your tears.

Call any of our 3 convenient locations and visit to ask if TrueTear® is right for you.,

395 Highway 33
Mercerville NJ 08619
609-586-0273

498 Monmouth Rd
Millstone NJ 08510
609-259-2221

11 Friends Lane, Ste 101
Newtown PA 18940
215-550-6136

If you feel like your eyes aren’t making enough tears, our Eye Care Providers and you
can decide together if TrueTear® could be right for you. TrueTear® is a device that
uses state-of-the-art technology called neurostimulation to help your eyes temporarily
make more of your own tears.

TrueTear® highlights

• Your own natural tears
• Drop-free, drug-free option
• Prescription only
• Fits into your daily routine

We are excited to be among a select group of practices offering TrueTear®.
Contact our office today to schedule a TrueTear® demo during your next appointment.

Contact Us Today To Learn More

Prevent Blindness America (PBA) has designated April as Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month in an effort to educate women about the steps they can take today to help preserve vision in the future.

More women than men face vision problems

Awareness is the key to educating women on why vision problems can directly impact their health.

Women are More Likely to Develop Dry Eye than Men

Dry Eye Syndrome, a painful condition that can impair vision and increase the risk of eye infection, affects millions of Americans.  Dry Eye is actually a group of disorders caused by the inability to produce enough tears with sufficient lubrication.  Symptoms can include burning or itchy eyes as well as increased eye mucus and a gritty or scratchy feeling on the eyes.  Severe cases may even include corneal scarring or ulcers.    Dry Eye is one of the leading causes of visits to eye care professionals.  Treatment options vary from eye drops and ointments to some types of surgery.

The highly prevalent nature of this disease and the loss of quality of life associated with it make it an important health concern. Risk factors for developing this disease include increased age, environmental exposure to irritants, and—one of the most important—sex.

Women are also more likely to develop Dry Eye.  Approximately 6 million have moderate to severe symptoms of dry eye syndrome, as compared to 3 million men, according to the National Women’s Health Resource Center.*

Women who are pregnant, on certain types of birth control, or experiencing menopause have increased rates of Dry Eye.  In fact, according to the National Eye Institute, women who are on hormone replacement therapy are also more likely to experience symptoms.  Women taking only estrogen are 70 percent more likely to experience Dry Eye, and those taking estrogen and progesterone have a 30 percent increased risk of developing the condition.

Here are tips on helping to avoid irritation from Dry Eye:

• Use a humidifier to keep natural moisture in the air
• Avoid hair dryers, harsh winds, overly warm rooms and cigarette smoke
• When outdoors, wear goggles or sunglasses that wrap around the
• eyes
• Use drops of artificial tears, if directed by your doctor, especially in climates with low humidity, in air conditioned environments, and in airplanes or cars when the heater or defroster is on
• When using a computer, remember to blink often and give eyes a rest from staring at the screen
• Apply a warm washcloth to soothe irritated eyes
• Do not use harsh soaps or cleansers on around the eye area

For more information on Dry Eye or other eye diseases or conditions with higher incidence rates in women, please contact Prevent Blindness Ohio at 800-301-2020 or visit www.pbohio.org.

*https://www.preventblindness.org/dry-eye-syndrome-affects-more-women-men

Before you think that this topic does not apply to you, think again. 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.

We usually think of work-related eye injuries as being isolated to outdoor jobs such as construction work, landscaping or animal handling. Ironically, working in an office can be just as hazardous to your eyesight. The most common eye problem is computer vision syndrome. While consistently being on your computer will not permanently damage your vision, it can make your eyes feel irritated and fatigued.

Computer vision syndrome is not just a myth. Too much screen time and not enough breaks can cause headaches, inattentiveness, neck pain, back strain, and dry eye. Studies show that staring at a screen for extended periods of time lengthens the interval between blinks, preventing eyes from staying lubricated and moistened (Source: Eye Med).

There are some ways to prevent computer vision syndrome and keep your eyes feeling comfortable:

1. Reposition your screen. Adjust your screen to be at a right angle away from any direct light source. Invest in an anti-glare screen for your monitor to make computer work gentler on your eyes.
2. Remember the 20-20-20 rule. This rule reminds you that every 20 minutes, you should look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
3. Don’t forget to blink. While it may sound ridiculous, write yourself a note and place it on your monitor. Write “Blink Often” or any other message that will remind you to regularly close your eyes to keep them from getting dried out.
4. Use artificial tears. Over-the-counter eye drops can be extremely helpful in preventing dry eye and keeping your eyes comfortable.
5. Drink water. Adequate hydration can make a big difference, especially during the winter months when heaters and furnaces can make the air particularly dry.
6. Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams. Nothing can replace the importance of having an eye exam by a licensed ophthalmologist at regular intervals. If you have any concerns about your vision or experience any changes with your eyesight, do not delay in making an appointment.

 Source: http://yoursightmatters.com/march-is-workplace-eye-wellness-month/