FAQs

General :: Medical

General

How do I make an appointment?

Simply call us at during our working hours or you can request an appointment online using this form.

Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

Most medical specialists will accept only referred patients. This is mainly to try to ensure that the specialist you are seeing is appropriate for you and your condition. Check with your insurance company to see if a referral is necessary.

What to bring for your initial consultation?

For your initial consultation you will need to bring a referral letter from your physician if required. Here is a checklist for your initial consultation:

• Driver’s License or a valid ID
• Insurance information
• Referral Letter (if required)
• Reports, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc. and any other relevant information
• List of medications (if any)

We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you visit the doctor.

Are my medical records kept private and confidential?

Your medical file is handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff is bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment regarding your medical records. We will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent.

Medical

What is Ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye diseases and vision problems.

When Should I See An Ophthalmologist?

You should visit an ophthalmologist if you experience:

• Blurry or decreased vision
• Eye pain or redness
• Sudden flashes or floaters
• Double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Persistent headaches with vision changes
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Sudden vision loss
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension

What is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and An Optometrist?

• Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor who can diagnose diseases, perform surgeries, and prescribe medications.
• Optometrist: A trained eye professional who checks vision, prescribes glasses/contact lenses, and manages some eye conditions.

How Often Should One Get an Eye Exam?

• Adults (18–39): Every 2 years
• Adults (40–64): Every 1–2 years
• 65+: Every year
• Diabetics: Every year or as advised
• Children: First exam at 6 months, then at 3 years, then before school, and every 1–2 years

What Tests are Done During a Routine Eye Exam?

A standard exam may include:

• Vision testing (refraction)
• Eye pressure check (tonometry)
• Slit-lamp exam
• Retina evaluation
• Visual field testing (if needed)

What are Common Eye Conditions?

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Dry eye disease
• Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia)

Can Too Much Screen Time Damage My Eyes?

It does not cause permanent damage but can lead to digital eye strain, causing dryness, headaches, and blurred vision. Blink often, keep proper distance, and take regular breaks.

Do Blue-Light–Blocking Glasses Help?

They may reduce digital eye strain for some people but do not prevent eye disease. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) is more effective.

Can Eye Exercises Improve Vision?

Eye exercises cannot cure refractive errors like myopia or astigmatism, but they may help reduce eye strain.

Can Diabetes Affect the Eyes?

Yes. Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Hence, annual eye exams are essential for individuals with diabetes.

Is Diabetic Retinopathy Reversible?

Early stages can be controlled with good blood sugar management. Advanced stages may require laser therapy, injections, or surgery to prevent further damage.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that causes blurry vision. It is common with aging and is treated with a quick surgery to replace the lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

What are Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)?

IOLs are artificial lenses implanted in the eye during cataract or refractive lens exchange surgery. Types include:

• Monofocal
• Multifocal
• EDOF (Extended-Depth-of-Focus) like Vivity
• Toric (for astigmatism)

Are Cataract Surgeries Safe?

Yes. Modern cataract surgery is highly advanced with over 98% success rates. Risks are minimal and include infection, inflammation, or glare/halos.

What is LASIK?

LASIK is a laser-based refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

What is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?

A surgical procedure similar to cataract surgery where the natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens to correct high refractive errors, presbyopia, or early cataracts.

What Causes Dry eyes?

Dry eyes occur due to insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. Causes include aging, screen use, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and environment.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?

AMD affects the central part of the retina (macula) and causes loss of central vision. Early detection and treatment (injections, supplements) can slow progression.

What is the Best Treatment for Refractive Errors?

The treatment options for refractive errors include:

• Glasses
• Contact lenses
• LASIK/PRK
• SMILE procedure
• ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
• Refractive Lens Exchange

When Should I Worry About Floaters?

A few floaters are normal with age. However, sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow may indicate a retinal tear or detachment and require urgent evaluation.

What Foods are Good for Eye Health?

Foods for good eye health include:

• Leafy greens
• Carrots
• Citrus fruits
• Fish rich in omega-3 (salmon, tuna)
• Nuts and seeds
• Lean meat and poultry
• Sweet potatoes
• Beans and legumes
• Eggs
• Broccoli and brussels sprouts

How Can I Prevent Common Eye Problems?

• Get regular eye exams
• Manage systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
• Wear sunglasses
• Take breaks from digital screens (20-20-20 rule)
• Avoid smoking
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants