by EyeLASIK | Jun 27, 2017 | eye health, Seasonal Tips & Tricks
Happy Independence Day from EyeLASIK! America’s birthday is a wonderful holiday. Luckily, this year, it falls on a Tuesday, allowing for a four-day weekend. However, it’s important to know that even with the most fun holidays, there are certain precautions to take. We’ve got several 4th of July safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe the holiday weekend.
Stay Shady…In A Good Way
While being outside on sunny days is amazing, Texas heat in July can be brutal. It’s important to make sure that guests have access to shade. Whether this is under trees or created with canopies or tents, the coolness of the shade can help people to avoid heat exhaustion. Additionally, it helps to prevent sunburns.
Other shade(s) we need to mention? Sunshades! If you’re enjoying the 4th outdoors, be sure to wear sunglasses with UV protection in the lenses. Not only do they protect your eyes from sunburn (yes, eye sunburns are a thing), they keep you from squinting. And we all know that squinting causes wrinkles.
Lather Up
Just like sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays, frequent applications of sunscreen can protect your skin. It’s important to follow manufacturer’s instructions on reapplication, especially when you’re sweating or swimming. Additionally, we recommend using SPF around your eyes, too. Not only does it help to prevent certain cancers, it can help you avoid crows’ feet.
Watch Out For The Mist
Sounds like a summer horror B-movie, right? Not at all! We simply mean to be cautious of what might get into your eyes. These include bug sprays, sunscreen, water (from swimming in pools, rivers, lakes, or oceans, and activities such as water balloon or water gun fights
Take A Sip
Outdoor activities usually mean that the body will sweat more. This indicates that your body is losing water, so it’s important to replenish. Staying hydrated during the 4th of July (and all summer long) is important.
However, we caution those indulging in adult beverages to alternate each drink or two with a bottle of water. This prevents dehydration and *hopefully* and hangovers. If you’re interested in how alcohol can affect your vision, check out one of our other blogs by clicking here.
Be Wary Of Anything With Fire
We’re talking barbecue grills, bonfires, fire pits, and, of course, fireworks. Embers, sparks, smoke, and fumes can cause eye irritation. In some extreme cases, fireworks have been known to blind people. When using any kind of spark or open flame, we recommend using eye protection of some sort.
If you’re interested in finding out more about firework safety, please visit The National Council on Fireworks Safety or The American Pyrotechnics Association.
We will be closed July 3rd and, July 4th. However, feel free to fill out an online consultation request form. We will get back to you when we re-open on July 5th.
EyeLASIK wishes everyone a very safe and happy 4th of July!
SaveSave
by EyeLASIK | May 23, 2017 | eye health, Seasonal Tips & Tricks
It’s almost Memorial Day weekend! Can you believe it? Unhealthy food doesn’t have to be a big part of the holiday festivities. Today, we’re sharing a few of our favorite eye-healthy Memorial Day recipes.
Simple Grilled Salmon
Certain fishes, like salmon, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients can help to prevent conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and even dry eyes.
- 1 pound salmon, cut into 4 equal portions
- 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, sugar/syrup, water, garlic, and red pepper. Place salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag and pour liquid over them. Seal the bag and allow to marinate for 2-3 hours.
Heat grill to medium. Line a grill basket or small cookie sheet with foil and mist with nonstick cooking spray. Place salmon on sheet, skin-side down. Discard remaining marinade and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook on the grill for 8-12 minutes, or until the fish begins to flake easily with a fork.
Berry-Licious Trifle
Berries offer a big boost of Vitamin C, which is great for preventing several eye-related diseases.
- 1 pint each fresh raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, quartered
- 1 jar reduced sugar mixed berry jam
- 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 ounces reduced-fat frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 prepared angel food cake, broken into pieces
In a large bowl, carefully fold the berries and jam together, being careful not to smash any of the berries. Set aside
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla together until light and fluffy. Carefully fold in the whipped topping until mixed.
Cut the angel food cake into small, bite-sized pieces. Layer 1/2 of the cake at the bottom of a large glass serving bowl. Spoon a 1/2 of the berries on top of the cake, followed by half of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat layers. Garnish with any leftover berries.
All of us at EyeLASIK Midland want to wish you a safe and happy Memorial Day. Thank you to all of our troops and their families, and to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. We are the land of the free because of the brave. Happy Memorial Day!
by EyeLASIK | Apr 25, 2017 | Health Facts, Seasonal Tips & Tricks
March winds, April showers, and May flowers are all beautiful indicators of warmer weather and the end of winter. However, those things also have another thing in common. Though it is dependent on region, spring is often labeled as the worse season for allergy sufferers. Read on for tips from the EyeLASIK team on managing spring allergies.
Know Your Triggers
Some people are allergic to everything. However, it’s important to know what is actually triggering your allergy attacks. You can wing it based on past experiences or you can meet with an allergist who can conduct various testing. The testing, while time-consuming and (literally) irritating, can help you more effectively combat your allergies.
Protect Your Home
Simple solutions can help you to preventatively manage your spring allergies. Here are some easy tips that can keep irritants and allergens out of your home.
- Remove shoes at the door before walking through your home.
- Frequently change out your air conditioning/heating filters.
- Use a good quality vacuum with a HEPA-filter.
- Bathe furry family members often, particularly indoor/outdoor pets.
- Opt for a minimalist look by tossing dust-collecting pillows and upholstered items.
- If possible, choose tile, stone, or wood flooring, as carpets can be allergen gatherers.
- Clean your house! Scrub kitchens, floors, and bathrooms regularly.
- Toss the houseplants, particularly those that pollinate!
- Wash towels, sheets, blankets, and stuffed animals regularly.
- Use the air conditioner, which passes air through a filter, instead of fans.
- Keep windows closed (even those spring breezes can be so nice).
- Stay indoors on high allergen count days (check your local weather).
Prevent Attacks
Medication is one of the easiest ways to manage allergy symptoms. For many people, over the counter antihistamines can easily help allergy sufferers cope with seasonal attacks. However, some severe sufferers may need prescription medications. Be sure to talk to your doctor about eye drops, nose sprays, and oral medications that can help make spring allergies a bit more bearable.
When You’re In The Throes Already
Sometimes, all preventative measures in place, allergies happen. Here are a few suggestions on how to easy the suffering:
- Take a shower. The steam can help relieve the tenderness of sore eyes, ears, and throats.
- Drink plenty of clear liquids. We know, we know…this is the medical solution for everything, right? However, it’s important to stay hydrated. Hot tea works wonders, too.
- For eye allergies, keep your face clean. Washing your face regularly keeps allergens from your face.
- Additionally, you can ease eye allergy pain and irritation by applying a cool compress to your face for several minutes.
Though we can’t fix your eye allergies for you, we can correct your vision with LASIK. Be sure to set up your complimentary consultation so you can see clearly…well, unless you have watery allergy eyes.
Enjoy The Scenery Without The Sneezing
by EyeLASIK | Feb 9, 2017 | Eye Facts, Seasonal Tips & Tricks
Happy (early) Valentine’s Day! The human eye is a miraculous thing, which is why we wanted to share these facts to love about your eyes.
Love At At Glance.
The eye muscles are the fastest in the human body. When people say, “We fell in love in the blink of an eye,” they’re talking love at first sight.
Your Eyes Are One Of Your Biggest Supporters.
Did you know that routine eye exams could assist in diagnosing conditions such as thyroid diseases, high cholesterol, autoimmune disorders, hypertension, and diabetes? Talk about teamwork!
And They Call It Puppy Love!
A 2015 study indicated that when your dog stares at you with an unbroken gaze, your pup is actually “hugging” you with their eyes.
But Cats Are, Well, Catty.
Conversely, it’s suggested that full-out staring at a cat is a sign of aggression and intimidation. Some scientists recommend “blink kissing,” where owners slowly blink while making eye contact with their favorite feline.
Your Eyes Are As Sweet As Candy!
The lens of your eye is the size of a Skittle candy. It’s located just behind your pupil and acts just like a camera lens would…to focus your vision. Additionally, the human eyeball is 24mm, which is just a little smaller than a standard gumball.
Eyes Heal Faster Than Broken Hearts.
Eye injuries are some of the fastest to heal. In fact, most scratches heal within 24-48 hours. Be sure to see your doctor if you’re in immense pain…it could be a sign of infection.
Your Eyes & Your Brain Are In A Serious Relationship.
Whatever you view through your eyes is actually upside down. However, when that message is transmitted through the optic nerve, your brain automatically rights the image.
Eat More Chocolate!
Chocolate can be beneficial to your vision! Antioxidants found in dark chocolate can increase blood flow to the brain…and the retinas of your eyes. So eat up (in moderation, of course).
Eye Contact Is Important.
According to a recent study, engaging in mutual eye contact for two minutes (either with one’s partner or a stranger) can significantly increase feelings of love and attraction. Ooh la la!
Are you even more in love with your eyes yet? We wish you a loveable, fun-filled Valentine’s Day!
Happy (early) Valentine’s Day! The human eye is a miraculous thing, which is why we wanted to share these facts to love about your eyes.
by EyeLASIK | Dec 20, 2016 | Seasonal Tips & Tricks
While we generally try to focus our blog on eye health and LASIK facts, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to share some of our favorite easy Christmas desserts. These sweet treats are sure to make everyone’s eyes sparkle…and you will be less stressed than Santa’s elves on December 23rd!
S’mores Bars
EnJOY these desserts!
Enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of s’mores without the wait…or the heat from the fireplace!
- 8 cups Golden Grahams cereal
- 10 ounces marshmallows (miniature work best)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter or margarine
- 1 1/4 cups chocolate chunks or chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Place cereal in a large mixing bowl and mist a 13×9 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside 1 cup of marshmallows.
In a large saucepan, melt marshmallows, butter, and chocolate together over medium-low heat, stirring frequently so that the marshmallows don’t burn. Once the mixture has melted together, remove pan from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour chocolate-marshmallow mixture over the cereal. Stir until well incorporated, then stir in the remaining marshmallows. Pour contents into the prepared pan, using a spatula to press the mixture firmly into the pan.
Allow to cool for at least 2 hours. Cut into squares to serve.
Homemade Hot Cocoa
Keep warm with hot cocoa.
Skip the mix! This winter classic is sure to keep you warm on chilly nights.
- 1/3 cup good quality cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar or sugar alternative
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/3 cups boiling water
- 3 1/2 cups milk of your choice (also works very well with vanilla almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fat free half and half
- Optional: see note below
In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Stir cocoa powder, sugar, and salt together and whisk into the boiling water. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Whisk the milk into the chocolate mixture. Stir frequently and heat until very hot but not boiling (this will scald the milk). Remove pan from the stovetop and stir in the vanilla extract and half and half. Serve immediately.
(Note: For holiday parties, you can create a “hot cocoa bar.” Guests can add what they like to their mugs. Options include candy canes, whipped cream, marshmallows, peppermint extract, sprinkles, caramel and chocolate syrup, and others…let your imagination go wild!)
From all of us at EyeLASIK…Merry Christmas!
by EyeLASIK | Dec 7, 2016 | eye health, Seasonal Tips & Tricks
Though many people love the wonderland that winter can bring, there are also several downsides to the colder weather. Winter chills can cause several eye conditions, which, though treatable, can be annoying. EyeLASIK is here to share some ways to avoid winter eye irritation.
Winter Eye Irritation #1 – Painful Eyes
Did you know that cold, blustery weather can cause your corneas to freeze? That’s terrifying! Also, the sensitive skin around your eyes is also susceptible to getting wind and sunburned.
Winter Eye Irritation #2 – Dry Eyes
Cold wind and weather often dry out a person’s eyes. When exposed to prolong or extreme conditions, your eyes cannot naturally produce the amount of tears necessary to maintain comfort. The result is dry, itchy, painful eyes. However, there are several solutions to this irritation.
Winter Eye Irritation #3 – Itchy, Watery Eyes
Though it’s not a “big” allergy season, there are still allergens floating around during the winter months. It’s still important to take your regular allergy medications, including eye drops.
Winter Eye Irritation #4 – Tearing
Instead of drying eyes out, wind, allergens, and other eye irritants can actually cause a person’s eyes to tear excessively. This can become incredibly annoying, as it can prevent seeing clearly.
How Can You Combat These Issues?
- Wear sunglasses. Even though the days are often overcast, it’s important to protect your eyes from potentially harmful weather conditions. If you enjoy winter activities such as snowboarding or hiking, be sure to use proper protective eyewear.
- Drink up. People are less inclined to drink water during the winter months than they are in the summer heat. Hot teas and brothy soups are a great way to stay warm and
- Use eye drops frequently. If you experience dry eyes, find a lubricating eye drop at your local pharmacy. However, if you experience chronic dry eyes, we recommend speaking to your optometrist about prescription-strength drops.
- Add a little humidity. Furnaces, fires, and other heat sources to stay warm can be a cause of dry eyes. Purchase a humidifier in your bedroom at night to add a burst of humidity to the air. Your eyes (as well as your throat, nose, and sinuses) will appreciate the extra moisture in the air.
- Allergy medications are still necessary, even during the winter months.
EyeLASIK is happy to welcome the wintery months. We hope you’ll be able to combat these winter eye irritations with these tips, though! Don’t forget: it’s not too late to schedule your complimentary LASIK consultation today.
