Q: WHAT TYPE OF CONDITIONS CAN CAUSE DRY EYE ISSUES?

A: Certain diseases and conditions can cause a person to have dry eyes such as:

– Rheumatoid arthritis
– Sjogren’s syndrome
– Thyroid disease
– Lupus

• Blepharitis (when eyelids are swollen or red)
• Entropion (when eyelids turn in);
• Ectropion (eyelids turn outward)
• Time spent in smoke, wind or a very dry climate
• Looking at a computer for a long time (reduced blinking)
• Using contact lenses for a long time
• Having refractive eye surgery, such as LASIK
• Taking certain medicines, such as:
  • Diuretics (water pills) for high blood pressure
  • Beta-blockers, for heart problems or high blood pressure
  • Allergy medicines (antihistamines)
  • Sleeping pills
  • Anxiety medicines

Q: CAN I SAMPLE THE CONTACTS FIRST?

A: Before a patient gets a prescription they try out the contacts using samples. Our providers do not write a prescription for anyone until we see the sample lens on their eye and know that they are completely satisfied with their vision and their comfort. The technician spends time with them making sure that the patient can put them in and remove them correctly. Occasionally it will take two or three visits to get a contact that is just right, but we’re willing to do whatever it takes to make sure that our patients are happy and satisfied.

Q: WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO BE PREPARED FOR MY EXAM IF I WEAR CONTACT LENSES?

A: Please wear your contact lenses to your eye exam and bring information on the brand and prescription of the lenses. This will expedite your visit and allow us to serve you better. Please bring or have the names of any contact lens solutions you are using. Be aware that most insurance companies do not cover contact lenses and there may be an additional charge for evaluation and fitting of lenses.

Contact lens evaluations take 15-20 minutes and may include corneal imaging, refraction of your contact lens and observations of the lenses on your eyes. We offer a wide range of contact lenses at competitive prices.

Q: CAN I BUY MY CONTACT LENSES DIRECTLY FROM EYE CARE ASSOCIATES?

A: Our patients truly experience the benefits of buying contacts from us. Our pricing is extremely competitive; even when compared with internet pricing. For our patients’ convenience we maintain an extensive sample inventory so patients can try new contacts.