Your first encounter with an eye doctor, also known as an optometrist, involves an assessment and discussion of your reason for the visit. You can see an optometrist for an eye exam, contact lens exam, or treatment of eye diseases and disorders. Optometrists also treat dry eyes, headaches and eye strains, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Here’s what to expect at your visit:

Initial Eye Assessment

During your first visit, the eye doctor assesses your medical history, current vision, symptoms, and medications. A medical history review involves asking questions about current and past eye conditions and if you have a family history of eye problems. Expect questions about any changes or issues you’ve noticed recently and treatments you’ve pursued. You can bring a medication list to help the doctor determine if any drugs you’re currently taking affect your vision or eye health. The first visit also involves a visual acuity test, which involves reading letters from an eye chart at a distance, one eye at a time. The test assesses your ability to see clearly at a distance. You may also be tested for close-up vision.

Eye Health Evaluation

A thorough evaluation of your eye health may be recommended based on the doctor’s initial assessment. They examine your cornea, lenses, and eyelids using a sit-lamp exam. Doctors also examine the retinas and optical nerves using a retinal exam and screen for eye conditions like glaucoma. The eye health evaluation may include a refraction test to determine your prescription for glasses and contact lenses. The test helps to identify the correct prescription for refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. You may be asked to look through a phoropter with different lenses to find the suitable combination for your vision. The doctor can also use an autorefractor to measure your prescription.

Additional Eye Tests

Your doctor may recommend additional eye tests like pupil dilation to assess your overall eye health and visual needs. A dilated eye exam involves drops that widen your pupils for detailed retinal evaluation. The doctor can also use a visual field test to check for peripheral vision issues and blind spots. Other assessments include color vision test, pupil test, tonometry, and eye muscle test. Color vision test involves identifying colors and shapes within patterns to assess your color vision. Pupil tests shine a light into your eyes to assess how your pupils react, while eye muscle tests involve following a moving object to check eye muscle coordination. Sit lamp tests use a special microscope to examine the cornea, iris, and lens. Tonometry tests measure the pressure inside your eyes to detect glaucoma.

Contact Lens Exam

A contact lens exam is usually conducted if you’re interested in wearing eye contacts, which offer a more natural appearance. Contacts can also correct visual issues caused by keratoconus or laser surgeries. The exam includes keratometry, which measures the curve of your cornea to determine the proper fit. Your doctor can also perform a tear film evaluation to check if you’re at risk for dry eyes, which impact contact lens comfort.

Contact lens exams help the doctor pick the right option for your needs and eye condition. They can recommend multifocal lenses if you’re older or scleral lenses for keratoconus, dry eyes, and faulty laser surgery. Soft contact lenses offer peak performance in sports. Other options include rigid gas permeable, hybrid, and astigmatism lenses.

Visit an Experienced Eye Doctor Today

Optometrists offer many services, including eye condition diagnosis, myopia management, and ultrasounds. They also provide recommendations for eye care, treatment, and follow-up appointments. You can schedule an appointment and bring your current glasses, contacts, and a list of vision changes or symptoms. Speak to an eye doctor today to find out more about their services and what to expect during your visit.

Nursing is a physically demanding job that often requires standing for long hours while tending to patients, moving between rooms, and handling various tasks. This prolonged standing can lead to fatigue, muscle soreness, and even long-term health issues like back pain and varicose veins. However, by adopting the right strategies, nurses can alleviate discomfort and minimize the impact of standing for extended periods. Here are some practical ways to reduce strain and stay comfortable on the job.

1.  Choose Supportive Footwear

Wearing the right shoes is one of the most effective ways to prevent foot and leg pain. Clogs, a popular choice among nurses, provide excellent arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption, helping to distribute weight more evenly and reduce stress on joints. Additionally, clogs are designed for stability and slip resistance, making them a safe and practical choice for busy healthcare environments. Investing in high-quality footwear can make a significant difference in preventing discomfort and fatigue.

2. Take Short Breaks When Possible

While nursing shifts can be demanding, it’s important to take short breaks whenever time allows. Even a few minutes of sitting can help relieve pressure on the legs and back. If sitting isn’t an option, shifting weight from one foot to another or performing small movements can help improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Taking small moments to rest throughout a shift can prevent long-term strain.

3. Use Anti-Fatigues Mats

Standing on hard surfaces for long periods can be tough on the body. Anti-fatigue mats provide a cushioned surface that reduces pressure on the feet, legs, and lower back. Placing these mats in areas where nurses frequently stand, such as nursing stations, can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with prolonged standing.

4. Maintain Good Posture

Proper posture is key to preventing back and joint pain. Standing with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and weight evenly distributed between both feet can help reduce strain on muscles. Avoid locking your knees, as this can lead to poor circulation and fatigue. Additionally, when walking, take smaller, deliberate steps to minimize the impact on your joints.

5. Incorporate Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Engaging in regular exercises that focus on core strength, flexibility, and leg endurance can significantly help with the physical demands of nursing. Stretching before and after shifts can prevent muscle tightness, while strength training exercises can build endurance to withstand long hours on your feet. Simple calf raises, lunges, and lower back stretches can be beneficial in reducing discomfort.

6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods

Proper hydration and nutrition play a key role in maintaining energy levels and preventing muscle fatigue. Drinking enough water throughout the day can prevent dehydration-related fatigue and cramping. Additionally, eating balanced meals with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals can help support overall health and endurance during long shifts.

7. Wear Compression Stockings

Compression stockings can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet, which are common issues for nurses who spend hours standing. These stockings provide gentle pressure that prevents blood from pooling in the lower extremities, reducing the risk of varicose veins and discomfort.

Conclusion

Standing for extended periods is an unavoidable part of nursing, but taking proactive steps can help minimize its negative effects. Choosing supportive footwear like clogs, maintaining good posture, using anti-fatigue mats, taking short breaks, stretching, and staying hydrated can all contribute to better comfort and long-term health. By implementing these strategies, nurses can protect their bodies and continue delivering quality patient care without unnecessary strain.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event. For veterans, particularly those exposed to combat, PTSD can have significant effects on their personal lives, careers, and overall well-being. Recognizing the impact of PTSD in veterans is crucial, not only for those affected but also for their families, caregivers, and the broader community.

What is PTSD?

PTSD arises when someone struggles to cope with the psychological aftermath of a life-threatening or distressing event. Common symptoms include recurring flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and emotional detachment. While many individuals recover from trauma over time with the right support, PTSD can persist for months or even years, making it difficult to lead a normal life.

For veterans, PTSD often stems from combat exposure, where they may have witnessed violence, death, or faced constant danger. However, it can also be triggered by other traumatic events, such as sexual assault, serious accidents, or natural disasters.

Symptoms of PTSD in Veterans

PTSD symptoms can differ from person to person, with severity fluctuating over time. Common ways it manifests in veterans include:

1. Reliving the Trauma: Veterans may experience vivid flashbacks or distressing nightmares, making them feel as though they are reliving the event. This can cause intense emotional distress and panic attacks.
2. Avoidance Behavior: Those with PTSD may go to great lengths to steer clear of anything that reminds them of the trauma, such as specific places, people, or even discussions. This avoidance can lead to social withdrawal and emotional numbness.
3. Heightened Anxiety (Hyperarousal): Many veterans develop an increased sense of vigilance, leading to irritability, difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, and an exaggerated startle response.
4. Negative Thoughts and Emotions: PTSD can lead to persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness. Many veterans struggle to experience positive emotions, have difficulty trusting others, and may feel disconnected from loved ones.

The Impact of PTSD on Veterans’ Lives

PTSD can significantly disrupt many areas of a veteran’s life. It often affects employment, as symptoms like anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and trouble handling stress can make it hard to maintain a job. Additionally, PTSD can strain relationships, making communication and emotional connection difficult. Many veterans may also turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with their symptoms, which can worsen their struggles.

Without proper treatment, PTSD can contribute to depression, chronic physical health issues, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans have a higher risk of suicide, with PTSD being a major contributing factor.

Treatment and Support for Veterans with PTSD

The good news is that PTSD is treatable, and veterans have access to various resources for recovery. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers specialized programs, including therapy (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Exposure Therapy) and medication to help manage symptoms. Alternative treatments like peer support groups, mindfulness practices, and creative therapies (such as art or music therapy) can also play a vital role in the healing process.

Seeking help early is essential for effective management of PTSD. Increasing awareness and understanding of PTSD in veterans ensures they receive the support, compassion, and care they need to heal and successfully transition to civilian life.

Conclusion

PTSD is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects many veterans. The psychological wounds left by combat and other traumatic experiences can have long-lasting effects, making it essential for society to provide proper resources and support. By fostering awareness and offering comprehensive treatment options, we can help veterans reclaim their lives and move forward with hope and resilience.

Infographic provided by Veteran Car Donations