greenville eye care

Why Are Blue Eyes More Sensitive To Light?

Why Do Your Eyes Need Sun Protection?

Eyes of all colors need shielding from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Exposure to UV light can contribute to the formation of short-term and long-term eye conditions such as corneal sunburn and macular degeneration.

That’s why it’s so important to choose high-quality Sunwear with 100% UV blocking lenses and to throw on a sun hat for an added layer of protection.

UV protection is important for individuals of all ages—especially children—who are more susceptible than adults to the sun’s harmful rays and tend to spend more time outdoors. It is estimated that up to 80% of a person’s lifetime exposure to UV rays happens before the age of 18.

Why are Blue Eyes More Sensitive to Light?

Lighter-colored eyes like blue, hazel, and green have less of a pigment called ‘melanin’ than brown eyes do.

Melanin helps protect the retina from UV damage and blue light, putting those with blue eyes at a higher risk of developing UV-related eye damage.

If you have blue eyes, you may have experienced this first-hand. Bright light may be uncomfortable or you may want to reach for your shades as soon as you leave the house on a sunny day.

That’s why optometrists urge blue-eyed patients to be particularly vigilant about UV protection, so as to mitigate their chances of developing eye disease and other complications.

How We Can Help

Whether you have blue eyes or not, sunglasses are an important part of keeping your eyes healthy for a lifetime.

At Hopkins Eye Center, PA, we’ll be happy to advise on the perfect high-quality and protective pair of sunglasses to suit your needs and personal style.

Hopkins Eye Center, PA, your Greenville eye doctor for eye exams and eye care

Alternatively, book an appointment online here CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Should I wear sunglasses even when it’s not sunny outside?

Yes! You should wear your sunglasses whenever outdoors during the day, even on an overcast, winter day. UV light can pass through clouds and reflect off surfaces like car windows and pavement.

What type of sunglasses are the most suitable for blue eyes?

The most protective sunglasses are wraparound sunglasses that protect the eyes from every angle. You can also opt for photochromic lenses, which offer total UV protection but only become tinted when exposed to outdoor sunlight, and turn clear when you come indoors again. Your optometrist can help you choose the best lens and frame options for your needs and lifestyle.

Why Are Dilated Eye Exams So Important?

Hopkins Eye Center, PA Dilated Eye Exam near you in Greenville, South Carolina

Having your eyes dilated during an eye exam may seem like a nuisance. But when you consider the benefits of a dilated eye exam, the temporary blurred vision and sensitivity to light that typically follow are definitely worth it.

What Are Dilated Eye Exams?

At some point during a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist will shine a bright light into your eyes to examine the back of your eye, called the retina. The problem is that bright light causes the size of the pupil’s opening to shrink, which makes it hard for the optometrist to see a large portion of the retina.

That’s why eye doctors apply special eye drops in each eye to keep the pupils open. A dilated pupil allows for a much more accurate assessment of your eye’s structures, including the focusing lens, blood vessels and tissues at the back of the eye called the retina, as well as the optic nerve and macula.

Dilating the eyes makes it easier for your optometrist to detect the following conditions and diseases:

Cataracts
Glaucoma
Diabetic retinopathy
Macular degeneration
Retinal tumor
Retinal detachment or retinal tears
Eye floaters

It’s important to note that many of these conditions can develop without noticeable symptoms, until they cause vision loss at which point treatment may be more challenging, making dilated eye exams all the more crucial.

The Dilation Process

First, your eye doctor will apply eye drops to each eye to trigger dilation of the pupil. Your eyes should be fully dilated about 10-20 minutes later.

Your eyes will remain dilated for 4-6 hours, and during this time you may be sensitive to light. That’s because the larger pupil allows more light than usual to enter the eye. Many patients find it more comfortable to wear sunglasses until their eyes return to normal.

Reading and using a computer may be difficult with dilated eyes, and your vision may be blurred. Some patients report feeling a tightening sensation in their eyelids, or headaches.

Dilated eye exams are a crucial part of keeping your eyes healthy. To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, call our optometry practice today!

Hopkins Eye Center, PA, your Greenville eye doctor for eye exams and eye care

Alternatively, book an appointment online here CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT

At what age should one have a dilated eye exam?

You should have your dilated eye exam no matter your age. Most eye doctors will dilate a new patient at their first exam regardless of age to get a baseline of their retinal health.

Will I be able to return to work after a dilated eye exam?

Everyone reacts differently, so it’s hard to tell. If your job requires you to focus on small print or detail, it may be challenging. Typing and writing may also be difficult with dilated pupils. To be on the safe side, book your appointment at the end of your work day, clear your schedule after your eye exam and only plan to do activities which aren’t visually demanding.

Eye Care Tips While Working From Home

Why is it important to take care of your eyes

You may find it difficult to work from home, but here’s what you can do to make the transition easier on your eyes. Read on to learn our top tips, and how we can help.

Where is the nearest Eye Clinic? Hopkins Eye Center, PA, near you in Greenville, South Carolina

Many people have swapped cubicles for couches as COVID-19 “work-from-home” policies have become the new norm. Working from home has its benefits, but some people are reporting more headaches and eyestrain due to several factors in their home/workplace.

If your eyes are giving you trouble — whether you work from home or not — Hopkins Eye Center, PA in Greenville, South Carolina can help!

Eye Care Tips While Working From Home

Stick to The 20-20-20 RuleTaking regular breaks from staring at a screen gives your eyes a chance to relax and refocus, minimizing eye strain.
Every 20 minutes, try to shift your gaze to something that is 20 feet away from you, for 20 seconds. It doesn’t have to be exactly 20 feet away — just anything that is significantly distant from your eyes.

And during your short break, why not grab a glass of water? Hydrated eyes feel better than dry eyes.
Sit Comfortably
It’s hard to be productive when you’re uncomfortable — which is why you shouldn’t overlook the importance of ergonomics when it comes to working from home.

The right seating and positioning can make all the difference for your eyes, and ultimately, for your productivity. Choose a comfortable chair that supports your back and aim for an overall neutral posture, avoiding strain on any joint or muscle.

Position your laptop or monitor at or below eye level, about an arm’s length away. Gazing at a screen above eye level can cause eyestrain.
Blink OftenDid you know that we blink 66% less when staring at a screen?
A decreased blink rate contributes to computer vision syndrome, a common eye problem that affects 75% of individuals who work in front of screens, especially those above the age of 40.

Blinking hydrates our eyes, and that’s important for eye health. Set up a reminder to pop up on your screen every 15 minutes or so.
Minimize GlareHere’s another cause of computer vision syndrome: glare and reflections that bounce off your screen and into your eyes.
Thankfully, reducing glare is pretty simple. You can easily apply an anti-glare screen protector for a more comfortable working experience. Ask your eye doctor about computer glasses or anti-glare coatings for your glasses, if you wear them.

You can also position your screen so that it’s not facing any bright windows or lights.
Visit Your Optometrist You may have seen this one coming, but it’s too important to skip.
If your work environment just isn’t cutting it for your eyes, we can help!

Book an eye exams at an eye clinic near you to learn more about your candidacy for contact lenses and which type is right for you.

Hopkins Eye Center, PA, your Greenville eye doctor for eye exams and eye care

Alternatively, book an appointment online here CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT

What Are Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)?

Common symptoms of CVS include eye fatigue, headache, dry eyes, blurred vision, burning eyes, light sensitivity, and neck or shoulder pain. The severity of symptoms can vary, and each treatment is personalized to target your specific symptoms.

Can Computer Vision Syndrome Be Treated?

Your eye doctor can guide you on how to optimize your workspace to accommodate your vision. Ask your eye doctor if computer glasses are right for you, or if there are any filters or coatings that can be added to your glasses to help. Don’t suffer any longer! There is help out there for those suffering from computer vision syndrome.

Are You Susceptible To Vision Loss?

Ask Our Eye Doctor in Greenville, South Carolina, how To Prevent Vision Loss

Vision loss is more common than you may think! In fact, it’s among the most prevalent disabilities in adults and children. Knowing what puts you at risk of developing vision loss is important and can help you to be proactive about caring for your eyes.

Below, we’ll explore the most common causes of vision loss and the risk factors associated with each.

Spreading awareness and education about visual health is just one way that our eye doctors near you can help. To schedule your Comprehensive eye exam, call us today (864) 476-4177.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases caused by a buildup of pressure within the eye. Too much inner-eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

Since symptoms don’t usually manifest in the early stages of glaucoma, getting regular eye exams is all the more crucial. Advanced or rapidly progressing glaucoma can show a variety of symptoms, such as blurred vision, headache, severe eye pain and redness, seeing halos around lights, and nausea.

Risk factors for developing glaucoma include:

Being 60 years or older
Family history of glaucoma
African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
High myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
Previous eye injury or certain eye surgeries
Certain medications, like corticosteroids
Thin corneas
Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and sickle-cell anemia

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy. A healthy lens is clear and allows light to pass through it undisturbed.

Common cataract symptoms include cloudy or blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, light sensitivity, double vision in the affected eye, and seeing colors as faded or yellowish.

Risk factors for developing cataracts include:

Aging
Diabetes
Hypertension
Smoking
Previous eye surgery, injury, or inflammation
Alcoholism
Extended use of corticosteroids

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over the age of 60. It occurs when the macula (the small central portion of the retina, which is responsible for sharp, colorful, central vision) begins to wear down.

Early stages of AMD usually go unnoticed, but later stages of the disease can produce symptoms like blurred vision, dark or blurry areas in your central vision, and problems with color perception.

There’s not yet a cure for AMD, but certain treatments can help prevent vision loss.

Risk factors for developing AMD include:

Smoking
Obesity
Aging
Long-term sun exposure
Hypertension
Heart disease
Family history of AMD
Light-colored eyes
Farsightedness

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of Type 1 or 2 diabetes that affects the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye called the retina.

Initially, diabetic retinopathy shows no symptoms but can eventually lead to blindness. As it develops, it can cause increased floaters, impaired color vision, dark spots in your visual field, and blurred vision.

Risk factors for developing diabetic retinopathy include:

Length of time from diabetes diagnosis — the longer you’ve had it, the higher your chances of developing visual complications
Uncontrolled blood sugar
Obesity
High cholesterol or blood pressure
Pregnancy
Smoking
African American, Hispanic, and Native American ethnicities
Family history of DR

So, what’s the bottom line?

Multiple factors contribute to eye disease and vision loss, and some may even be relevant to you. If you think you may be at risk for vision loss or experience any of the symptoms listed above, speak with your eye doctor in Greenville as soon as possible. We also recommend you have your eyes thoroughly examined every 1-2 years, or as often as your eye doctor recommends. To schedule your comprehensive eye exam, call Hopkins Eye Center today.

Book an eye exam at an eye clinic near you to learn more about your candidacy for contact lenses and which type is right for you.

Hopkins Eye Center, PA, your Greenville eye doctor for eye exams and Contact lenses

Alternatively, book an appointment online here CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Can blindness be prevented?

When caught early, many eye diseases can be treated to halt or slow the progression of the disease and potentially prevent vision loss. The best things you can do to preserve your vision for the long term is to lead a healthy lifestyle and make sure you undergo a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years.

Which eye diseases are genetically inherited?

More than 350 ocular diseases have some sort of genetic component. Certain diseases, like retinitis pigmentosa and albinism, are directly inherited through chromosomal information. In other cases, a predisposition to the disease is inherited, rather than the disease itself.

What You Should Know About Night Blindness

Our Optometrist in Greenville, explains About The Causes of Night Blindness

Our eye doctor can help diagnose, manage and treat your night blindness so that you can enjoy being out at night again.

Here are 4 things you should know about night blindness:

The inability to see well at night can be the result of a condition such as:

Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A helps keep your cornea, the layer at the front of your eye, clear; it’s also an important component of rhodopsin, a protein that enables you to see in low light conditions. Although uncommon in North America, deficiency of this vitamin can induce night blindness.
Cataracts
A buildup of protein clouds the eye’s lens, leading to impaired vision, especially at night and in poor lighting conditions.
Diabetic retinopathy
Damage to the eyes’ blood vessels and nerves can result in vision loss, including difficulty seeing at night.
Glaucoma
This group of eye diseases is associated with pressure build-up in the eye that damages the optic nerve. Both Glaucoma and the medications used to treat it can cause night blindness.
Myopia
Also called nearsightedness, Myopia makes distant objects appear blurry, and patients with it describe a starburst effect around lights at night.
Keratoconus
An irregularly shaped cornea causes blurred vision and may involve sensitivity to light and glare which tend to be worse at night.
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
A progressive genetic eye disease which can be associated with other diseases, RP leads to night blindness and peripheral vision loss.
Usher Syndrome
This genetic condition causes both hearing loss and vision loss, including night blindness and RP, mentioned above.

Symptoms of Nyctalopia

Since night blindness is a symptom of some serious vision problems, it’s important to get your eyes checked regularly to ensure that everything is in good working order. Contact your eye doctor as soon as possible if you notice that you don’t see as well in dim light as you used to, such as when driving at night or when adjusting from being outdoors in the sunshine to being indoors.

Symptoms of Night Blindness Include:

Reduced contrast sensitivity
Difficulty seeing people outdoors at night
Difficulty seeing in places with dim lighting, like a movie theater
Trouble adapting to the dark while driving
Excessive squinting at night
Trouble adjusting from bright areas to darker ones

Treatments for Night Blindness

Your eye doctor will want to diagnose the cause of your night blindness in order to treat it. For example, in the rare case of vitamin A deficiency, it can be treated with vitamin supplements and vitamin-A rich foods; Myopia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Other conditions may require medications or surgery.

If night blindness is caused by a birth defect, Usher syndrome, or retinitis pigmentosa, low vision aids and devices can help you make the most of your remaining vision.

Prevention

While there is no proven way to prevent night blindness resulting from genetic conditions or birth defects, consuming healthy, nourishing foods and taking certain vitamin supplements may prevent or slow the onset of some eye conditions that cause night blindness.

If you experience poor vision at night or in dim lighting, we can help. Contact Hopkins Eye Center, PA in Greenville to schedule your appointment today.

Book an eye exam at an eye clinic near you to learn more about your candidacy for contact lenses and which type is right for you.

Hopkins Eye Center, PA, your Greenville eye doctor for eye exams and eye care

Alternatively, book an appointment online here CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Frequently asked questions answered by our Eye Doctor in Greenville, South Carolina:

What are the reasons for Cataract Removal?

Cataracts can interfere with your ability to live normally. They may make it impossible to drive, read, use a computer, watch TV, climb staircases, or identify faces. Cataracts can also get in the way of medical treatment for other eye diseases, such as macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy because they prevent your eye doctor from inspecting the back tissues of your eye thoroughly. These are all reasons why your eye doctor may recommend cataract surgery.
Why Diabetic Eye Exams are Essential?

At present, one in 10 Americans has diabetes – and the trend is continuing upwards. While routine comprehensive eye exams are important for diagnosing the early signs of diabetes, that doesn’t mean eye exams become insignificant after diagnosis!
What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma describes a type of ocular disease that causes damage to your optic nerve and destroys your quality of vision. With no early symptoms, glaucoma can only be detected by a complete eye examination. When left untreated, glaucoma can result in detrimental vision loss. When treated early by one of our professional, knowledgeable eye doctors, we can help preserve your healthy eyesight.
What is Myopia?

Cataracts can interfere with your ability to live normally. They may make it impossible to drive, read, use a computer, watch TV, climb staircases, or identify faces. Cataracts can also get in the way of medical treatment for other eye diseases, such as macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy because they prevent your eye doctor from inspecting the back tissues of your eye thoroughly. These are all reasons why your eye doctor may recommend cataract surgery.

Hopkins Eye Center Specializes in Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation

Welcome to Hopkins Eye Center in Greenville, South Carolina

Hopkins Eye Center was established in 2003 to serve Greenville, SC, Simpsonville, SC, and surrounding areas.

Getting the right prescription for your eyeglasses or contact lenses is an important part of good eye care. But seeing clearly is just one part of your overall eye health. It’s important to have regular eye exams with an optometrist whether or not you wear eyeglasses or contacts, and even if your vision is sharp.

Have you been looking for that special eye doctor near me or a gentle pediatric optometrist? You have come to the right place for eye care in Greenville!

Your optometrist in Greenville, South Carolina at Hopkins Eye Center believe in looking at the big picture when it comes to your eye health, so we take the time to get to know you, your eye care history and your vision needs.

Official Eye Care Center of the Greenville Triumph!

Schedule An Appointment to Meet Your Eye Doctors in Greenville SC. Also serving Greer, Simpsonville, Asheville, Spartanburg, Fountain Inn and Mauldin.

Why We Love Greenville

We offer the latest in dry eye technology!

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What Our Patients Are Saying...

Meet Our Greenville, SC Eye Doctors

Dr. Joe Hopkins OD

Dr. Rosalie Hopkins OD, FCOVD, FAAO

We Are Proud Members Of:

150 South Carolina Optometric Association

Myopia Management

Orthokeratology, or "ortho-k," is the process of reshaping the eye with specially-designed rigid gas permeable contact lenses.

Specialty Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses can also be the ideal treatment for people with a vision prescription that exceeds the standard parameters of soft contacts.

Eye Exams in Greenville

Learn about eye exams, what’s involved in a comprehensive exam, and special considerations for kids and contacts.

Vision Therapy In Greenville, SC

Watch Dr. Hopkins’ Vision Therapy Success story!

Designer Optical Shop

When you make a decision about your eyewear, you are making a statement about who you are. Your decision affects your vision. Glasses, if picked appropriately, can improve your best facial features.

Kate Spade

Ray Ban

Oakley

Eye Emergencies

If you experience loss of vision, double vision, swelling, infection or any eye emergency, contact us immediately for guidance. We’ll help you with the best treatment to prevent complications and promote long-lasting clear eyesight.

Please call our office at: 864-234-5335 for further instructions. Use your best judgment on urgency, if you feel your need to find the nearest emergency room.

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Childhood Myopia Is in Crisis Mode on a Global Scale

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Hopkins Eye Center, PA

3921 S Highway 14, Suite D
Greenville, SC 29615

Phone: 864-234-5335
Email: info@hopkinseyecenter.com
(Do not send personal health information by email.)

Locate Us

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed