Frequently Asked Questions

General Eye Care & Exams

  • When was the last time I had an eye exam, and how often do I need one?

    The American Optometric Association recommends that low-risk adults ages 18 and up should have a comprehensive eye exam yearly. However, if you have conditions like diabetes or high myopia, you may need more frequent examinations. We'll work with you to determine the best schedule for your unique needs.

  • What happens during a comprehensive eye exam at Feeser Eyecare?

    When you arrive, our friendly team will greet you. We'll discuss your health and family history, lifestyle, and any concerns you may have. The exam is more than just a vision test; we will thoroughly evaluate both the internal and external structures of your eye using the latest technology. We'll check your visual acuity, color vision, depth perception, and how well your eyes work together to assess your risk for eye diseases and other conditions.

  • Why are regular eye exams so important?

    Regular eye exams are an essential part of preventive health care. Many serious eye diseases can begin with few to no symptoms, so a comprehensive exam is the best way to detect early signs of a problem. This allows us to begin treatment and management as soon as possible to preserve your sight for years to come.

Children's Eye Exams

  • At what age should my child get their first eye exam?

    The American Optometric Association recommends children have their first comprehensive exam between 6 and 12 months of age, another between 3 and 5, and then annual exams starting before first grade. Please note that we can't treat children younger than four years old.

  • Why are children's eye exams so important?

    Proper vision is crucial for a child's success in life and academics, as approximately 80% of what they learn is through their vision. Undiagnosed vision problems can lead to slower learning, behavioral issues, and disciplinary problems. Early detection and treatment help ensure your child develops the visual skills they need to succeed.

  • How do I know if my child needs glasses?

    Unlike adults, children often can't articulate a vision problem because they don't have a baseline for what "proper" vision looks like. Regular, comprehensive eye exams are the best way to establish that baseline and detect any issues early on. Our optometrists are experienced with children and can put them at ease.

Contact Lenses

  • What is the process for getting contact lenses?

    A contact lens prescription is different from your glasses prescription. We will perform a detailed eye exam and take measurements to ensure a proper fit. We'll also discuss your lifestyle and vision needs to find the right type of lens for you—whether you're a full-time wearer or just want them for special occasions. We’ll also provide all the training you need for proper insertion, removal, and care.

  • Why do I need a separate exam for contact lenses if I already have a glasses prescription?

    Contact lenses sit directly on your cornea and are considered medical devices. A proper fitting is critical for comfort and eye health. During a contact lens exam, we evaluate your overall eye health and take specific measurements to ensure the lenses fit correctly and do not cause irritation or damage.

  • How can I care for my contact lenses to avoid infections?

    Proper hygiene is essential. Always wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses. Never use tap water to clean them. Remove your lenses before sleeping (unless they are extended-wear and approved by your optometrist), and do not shower or swim while wearing them. Regular annual exams are also important to ensure your eyes are tolerating the lenses well.

Diabetic Eye Care

  • I have diabetes. Why is it so important to have a regular eye exam?

    Diabetes can severely impact your vision and is a leading cause of blindness in adults. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema often progress without noticeable symptoms until irreversible vision loss occurs. An annual, comprehensive diabetic eye exam at Feeser Eyecare is the best way to proactively protect your sight by detecting these issues early.

  • What is the difference between diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema?

    Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where elevated blood sugar causes the blood vessels in your retina to swell and, in later stages, leak fluid or bleed, leading to blurry vision and potential vision loss. Diabetic macular edema is a serious complication where the macula swells due to this leakage, impacting your central vision and potentially leading to blindness.

Specialty Care

  • What is digital eye strain, and how can I find relief?

    Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a group of eye issues caused by prolonged use of digital devices. Symptoms include dry eyes, headaches, blurry vision, and neck pain. We can help by assessing your habits and providing strategies like the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), adjusting your workspace ergonomics, and using anti-glare glasses.

  • What is dry eye syndrome, and what are the symptoms?

    Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when your tears are of poor quality. This can be caused by aging, medications, or blockages in the glands that produce the oil layer of your tears. Symptoms typically include a stinging or burning sensation, a gritty feeling, red or watery eyes, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue. Relief is available, and we can develop a customized treatment plan for you.

  • My child has been diagnosed with myopia. Can it be controlled?

    Yes. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing concern in children, but it can be managed. While there is no cure, we can implement treatment plans to slow its progression. Early intervention is key, as severe myopia can increase the risk of serious conditions like retinal detachment and glaucoma later in life. We treat children at least 8 years old and up to 12 years old.

  • What kind of specialty contact lenses does Feeser Eyecare offer?

    Feeser Eyecare offers a variety of specialty contact lenses for patients with unique vision needs, including those with ocular allergies. During your consultation, we'll determine the best type of lens for your specific condition to ensure clear and comfortable vision.

Eye Emergencies

  • I think I have an eye emergency. What should I do?

    If you have an eye injury, trauma, or sudden changes to your vision, you should consider it an emergency. Call our office at 512-252-7075 immediately. We provide emergency care in the office, and our main line is also a 24-hour emergency call line. If our office is closed, you should go to your nearest hospital.

  • What are some common symptoms of an eye emergency?

    While some emergencies are obvious (like a chemical splash), others are not. Any sudden change in vision, severe eye pain, bulging eyes, double vision, flashes or floaters, or pupils of different sizes could indicate an emergency. Call us immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Eye Diseases

  • What is glaucoma, and why is it called "the silent thief of sight"?

    Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. It is nicknamed "the silent thief of sight" because its progression is often slow and symptom-free, and any vision loss that occurs is irreversible. Early detection through regular eye exams is crucial for managing this condition.

  • What are cataracts, and how are they treated?

    A cataract is when the clear lens of your eye hardens and becomes opaque, often as a result of aging. Symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty with night vision, and muted colors. While a strong pair of sunglasses can help slow their growth, cataracts may eventually require surgery to restore clear vision if they begin to interfere with your daily life. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure.

  • What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

    AMD is a disease that causes the breakdown of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for your central vision. This can lead to vision loss, impacting your ability to read, drive, and recognize faces. There are two types: dry AMD, the more common form, and wet AMD, which is responsible for the majority of blindness cases from the disease.