At Tres Vision Group, our board-certified eye doctors provide comprehensive glaucoma care for patients throughout Brevard County, including Melbourne, Merritt Island, and Suntree, using the latest medical and surgical techniques.

First-Line Treatment: Prescription Eye Drops

For many patients, glaucoma management begins with medicated eye drops. These medications work either by reducing fluid production inside the eye or by improving fluid drainage. When used consistently, eye drops can effectively lower eye pressure and slow optic nerve damage.

There are several classes of glaucoma drops, and the right choice depends on the patient’s pressure level, overall health, and tolerance. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor effectiveness and adjust treatment if needed.

Laser Therapy: A Step Beyond Drops

If eye drops alone are not sufficient, laser treatment may be recommended. One common option is selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT). This in-office procedure improves the eye’s natural drainage system, lowering pressure. SLT is quick, minimally invasive, and can reduce or eliminate the need for daily drops in some patients.

Laser therapy is often used for open-angle glaucoma and can be repeated if necessary.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

For patients who need additional pressure control, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) offers a safer and less invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery. MIGS procedures are typically performed through tiny incisions and are often combined with cataract surgery.

These procedures improve fluid outflow while minimizing tissue disruption, which helps shorten recovery time and reduce surgical risks compared to more invasive operations. MIGS can be especially beneficial for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma who require better pressure control but want to avoid more extensive surgery.

Personalized Glaucoma Care in Melbourne, FL

Glaucoma treatment is not one-size-fits-all. At Tres Vision Group, our talented doctors use advanced diagnostic imaging, optic nerve analysis, and pressure monitoring to tailor care plans to each patient’s condition and progression risk. Early detection and ongoing management remain critical to preserving long-term vision.

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma — or are at higher risk due to family history, diabetes, or age — regular monitoring is essential. To schedule a glaucoma evaluation in Melbourne, Merritt Island, or Suntree, FL, contact our practice at (321) 984-3200 today.

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1. Eye Strain After Reading or Screen Use

One of the earliest signs of farsightedness is eye fatigue during close-up tasks. Reading, working on a computer, or using a smartphone for extended periods may cause discomfort, burning, or a heavy feeling around your eyes. This happens because your eyes must work harder to focus on nearby objects.

2. Frequent Headaches

Headaches (especially those felt in the forehead or temples) are often linked to uncorrected/undiagnosed hyperopia. When your eyes constantly strain to maintain focus, tension builds, often resulting in recurring headaches that may worsen at the end of the day.

3. Blurred Vision Up Close

Unlike nearsightedness, farsightedness doesn’t always cause consistent blur. You may notice intermittent difficulty focusing on near objects, particularly when tired or in low-light conditions. Because symptoms can fluctuate, farsightedness can go undiagnosed for years.

4. Difficulty Concentrating on Detailed Tasks

Tasks that require sustained visual attention, such as sewing, reading small print, or reviewing documents, may feel more mentally and visually exhausting. You may even find yourself avoiding close-up tasks altogether without realizing vision strain is the reason.

5. Squinting to See Clearly

Squinting can temporarily sharpen your focus by reducing incoming light, but it’s also a common subconscious response to farsightedness. If you notice yourself squinting while reading or using a screen, your eyes may be compensating for a focusing issue.

Why an Eye Exam Matters

Farsightedness can affect people of all ages, including children, and often worsens with time. A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to accurately diagnose hyperopia and determine whether correction is needed. Early detection can help prevent unnecessary strain and put you on the path to clearer vision. 

At Tres Vision Group, our eye doctors use advanced diagnostic testing to evaluate how your eyes focus at both near and far distances, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Schedule an Eye Exam

If you’re experiencing subtle vision changes or eye discomfort, an eye exam can provide clarity and peace of mind. Tres Vision Group proudly serves patients in Melbourne, Merritt Island, Suntree, Viera, and throughout Brevard County, Florida. To schedule your appointment, contact (321) 984-3200.

The post 5 Subtle Signs You May Be Farsighted appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is a type of high-energy visible light with a wavelength between approximately 380 and 500 nanometers. It is naturally present in sunlight but is also prominently emitted by LED screens, fluorescent lights, and other digital devices.

Myths and Facts

Myth #1: Blue Light is Unnatural

Fact: Blue light is a natural part of sunlight. However, the concern arises from the increased exposure from artificial sources, especially digital screens. While the blue light from screens is much less intense than that from the sun, the duration of exposure can lead to potential eye strain and discomfort.

Myth #2: Blue Light Causes Serious Eye Damage

Fact: There is currently no evidence that the blue light from digital devices produces eye damage. However, prolonged exposure to blue light can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by dry eyes, irritation, and difficulty focusing.

Myth #3: Blue Light Filters are Essential for Everyone

Fact: Blue light filters can reduce exposure from screens and might decrease eye strain for some people, especially in settings with minimal natural light. However, not everyone is sensitive to blue light, and for many, taking regular breaks from screens can be just as effective.

Myth #4: All Blue Light is Bad

Fact: Blue light is not all bad. It boosts alertness, helps memory and cognitive function, and elevates mood. Moreover, it regulates circadian rhythm, the body’s natural wakefulness and sleep cycle. (That’s why limiting blue light exposure at night can help improve sleep quality.)

Reducing Blue Light Exposure

While blue light alone may not cause serious eye health issues, it’s important to manage your exposure, especially to reduce eye strain and promote better sleep. Here are some tips:

• Use Blue Light Filters: Enable blue light filters on your devices or use glasses with blue light filtering capabilities.
• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
• Adjust Screen Settings: Lower the brightness of your screens to reduce blue light exposure, especially during evening hours.
• Increase Text Size: Enlarging text and images can help reduce strain on your eyes when reading or viewing screens.

Conclusion

While the fears surrounding blue light may be overstated, it’s wise to be mindful of your screen time and take preventive measures to maintain your eye health. If you experience significant discomfort from screen use, it might be time to consult with an eye care professional. To meet with our team of esteemed eye doctors to address any outstanding concerns, please call our Melbourne, Merritt Island, or Suntree, FL, office at (321) 984-3200.

The post The Impact of Blue Light on Eye Health: Myths and Facts appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

Age-Related Vision Changes

As we age, our eyes change in several ways. The biggest changes happen when the eye lenses stiffen, and the muscles around the eyes weaken. This reduces our ability to focus close up but doesn’t affect our distance vision.

This focus problem, called presbyopia, leads to blurry eyesight close-ups. It’s why middle-aged and older adults usually need reading glasses. Presbyopia affects everyone, usually starting around age 40-45, though the degree can vary. It can worsen as you age, generally tapering off around age 60. So, it’s common to need frequent prescription changes up to that age.

Hyperopia (farsightedness) may also worsen as you age because of eye lens changes.

In addition, the risk of several eye diseases increases with age, leading us to the next big culprit behind frequent vision changes.

Eye Diseases

Several eye diseases can cause changes in your vision prescription. We recommend regular eye exams to detect and manage these conditions early. Here are some common eye diseases that can affect your vision:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Damage in the portion of the retina that manages central vision. It can lead to blurry or distorted vision and require frequent prescription upgrades.
• Astigmatism: An irregularly shaped cornea or lens, causing fuzzy or distorted vision.
• Cataracts: Eye lens protein buildup causing cloudy vision.
• Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes, which can result in vision loss.
• Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

These conditions can cause significant changes in your vision, which means an eye disease could be at the root of your frequent prescription updates.

We Can Help You Stabilize Your Vision

We understand frequent changes in your vision prescription can be unsettling, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Tres Vision Group, we are dedicated to helping you maintain stable, clear vision.

Our experienced team uses advanced technology to diagnose and treat refractive errors and eye diseases. Using a personalized treatment plan, we can stabilize your vision and improve your eye health.

Call us at (321) 984-3200 or contact us online to make an appointment in our Melbourne, Merritt Island, or Suntree office. Let us help you achieve the crystal-clear vision you deserve.

The post Why Does My Vision Prescription Change Frequently? appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

In this blog, we will explore how UV rays cause eye injury and discuss different ways to recognize signs of UV-related eye damage.

How UV Rays Cause Eye Injuries

UV rays emitted by the sun can severely damage the tissues of the eyes. It can affect your cornea, lens, and retina. It can lead to a range of eye conditions and injuries. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation without adequate protection can increase the risk of developing conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea).

Additionally, UV exposure can contribute to the risk of pterygium which is a growth on the eye’s surface. It can cause irritation, redness, and blurred vision. It is important to note that UV rays can cause damage to the eyes even on cloudy days or during the winter season when the sun’s rays may be less intense but still present.

How Do We Know If Our Eyes Have Been Damaged by UV?

Recognizing signs of UV-related eye damage can alert you to seek timely treatment. This way, you can prevent further complications. Symptoms of UV-related eye injuries may include redness, irritation, tearing, and sensitivity to light.

You might also experience blurred vision, difficulty focusing, or a feeling of grittiness in the eyes. In more severe cases, UV-related eye damage can lead to vision loss or permanent vision changes.

If you experience any of these symptoms after prolonged sun exposure or suspect that your eyes have been damaged by UV rays, consult an eye care professional immediately. Your eye doctor can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms.

Book Your Eye Examination in Florida

Protecting your eyes from UV-related injuries can maintain healthy vision and prevent long-term damage. Wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats, and staying indoors during peak sun hours can reduce your risk of UV-related eye injuries.

If you experience any symptoms of UV-related eye damage, call us at (321) 984-3200 and schedule an appointment with Tres Vision Group. Our experts can help you safeguard your eyes and make sure you enjoy clear, comfortable vision for years.

The post UV-Related Eye Injuries: How Do I Know If My Eyes Have Been Damaged? appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

Hypertension and Glaucoma

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can increase intraocular pressure. This is because hypertension influences the amount of fluid the eye produces; it can also negatively affect the eye’s natural drainage system, which can lead to an increase in eye pressure. The optic nerve can indeed become damaged due to eye pressure, leading to vision loss. However, when blood pressure can result in increased eye pressure, the effects are minimal. Hypertension can have other effects on the eye, such as retinal damage.

Can Low Blood Pressure Lead to Glaucoma?

It is common to assume that if high blood pressure increases intraocular pressure, then low blood pressure is better for eye health. However, low blood pressure can also be a risk factor for glaucoma. Ocular perfusion pressure is the difference between blood pressure and intraocular pressure. If blood pressure is too low, the blood may not reach the eye to nourish it with enough oxygen and nutrients. This, in turn, compromises the health of the optic nerve.

Glaucoma Risk Factors

Those at risk of developing glaucoma are advised to get regular eye examinations. Risk factors for this condition include:

Age of the patient: As we grow older, the risk for glaucoma increases. This is because the eye’s natural drainage mechanism begins to decrease in function, making it easier for fluid to build in the eye and increase pressure.

Eye pressure: If you suffer from elevated eye pressure, which may or may not be influenced by hypertension, your glaucoma risk can increase. Eye drops are typically used to manage high eye pressure.

Family history of glaucoma: If those in your family suffer from glaucoma, you are more likely to develop the condition, especially if the affected family members are siblings or parents. If you are given a glaucoma diagnosis, you might consider advising your immediate family members to undergo an eye examination so that doctors can assess their risk for glaucoma.

Certain medical conditions: Those with medical conditions like diabetes are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma.

Talk to an Expert

Once vision is lost from glaucoma, it cannot be restored. Prioritize the health of your eyes with a comprehensive eye examination. Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors by calling our office today.

The post Can Hypertension Contribute to Your Risk of Developing Glaucoma? appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

What Does a Healthy Diet Look Like?

When it comes to consuming a healthy diet, it is important to include nutrient-dense foods. This includes foods that are high in:

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is recommended for healthy eye function. Foods and beverages like orange juice, kiwi fruit, strawberries, bell peppers, and cruciferous vegetables are all great sources of Vitamin C.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E plays a critical role in protecting the eyes from free radicals, which can negatively impact healthy tissue in the body. In fact, retinopathy, which is caused by blood vessel damage within the eye, often indicates a Vitamin E deficiency. Vitamin E can be found in food sources like vegetable oils, asparagus, mangos, avocados, and spinach.

Zinc: Zinc helps support the health of the retina, which is the layer located at the back of the eye that converts entering light into electrical signals. Get your recommended amount of zinc from meat, fish, and seafood, such as oysters.

Lutein: Lutein is a naturally occurring antioxidant that supports the healthy function of the eyes. It can even help slow the progression of certain eye diseases. Having a diet rich in lutein can boost the health of your eyes. Consider adding colorful foods like raspberries, peaches, and green, leafy vegetables to your diet.

Fatty acids: Getting sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids can support tear production, among other functions. Look to foods like salmon and tuna for healthy amounts of this substance.

A Closer Look at Antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals and delay cell oxidation, which can lead to cell damage. Fruits and vegetables of all kinds are rich in this substance.

Can a Good Diet Prevent Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common condition among older adults that is characterized by the natural clouding of the lens of the eye. If left untreated, cataracts can cause vision loss. As such, many people are interested in how to prevent cataracts. One of the steps you can take to protect your eyes is to make healthy food choices.

Maintain Your Healthy Eyes

As you discover the benefits of diet on eye health, it is important to note that regular eye examinations are necessary to maintain the health of your eyes. Even if your eyes feel healthy, comprehensive exams can detect early signs of disease, some of which do not present symptoms in their early stages. Schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations by calling or emailing today.

The post Exploring the Link Between Nutrition and Eye Health appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

About Dry Eyes

To understand why your eyes may be feeling dry, it is important to grasp the concept of the tear film. Tears are produced to keep the eyes comfortable, and moist, and they also wash away debris that could cause irritation. They are made up of three distinct layers: the watery layer, the oil layer, and the mucus layer. These three layers work together; therefore, when there is an issue with one of the layers, tear quality can become compromised.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Problems with the meibomian glands, such as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), are often the cause of eye dryness. These important glands are responsible for the oil layer of the tear film, which ensures that the tears do not evaporate too quickly. In addition to dryness, MGD is associated with symptoms such as eye redness, eye crust, blurry vision, or a scratchy sensation in the eye. This common condition is the result of oil gland blockages, which prevent the natural flow of oil that supports the tear film. If MGD is left untreated, the glands can become damaged permanently.

The Role of Eye Makeup in MGD

The meibomian glands are along the eyelash line, where makeup is typically applied. As such, eye makeup, like eyeliner, mascara, and eye shadow, can result in clogged glands, which may indeed contribute to dry eyes. Eye makeup can be difficult to remove thoroughly, especially when using products that are designed to be waterproof. However, even washable eyeliners can remain along the lash line after cleansing, which raises the risk of experiencing gland blockages.

Dry Eye Treatment

Our team offers LipiFlow for the treatment of chronic dry eye. In a convenient procedure, LipiFlow can help reduce your reliance on eye drops and ointments, allowing you to achieve optimal eye comfort.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Eye dryness can significantly impact your quality of life; however, effective treatment is available. To learn more about dry eye causes as well as the benefits of LipiFlow, contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled and experienced eye doctors today.

The post Could Eye Makeup Be the Cause of Your Dry Eyes? appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

What Causes Myopia?

Nearsightedness is typically the result of an irregularly shaped eyeball. Eyes that are slightly longer than normal or have a shape that is more oval than round tend to have myopia. Most people with myopia develop the condition during childhood, specifically their elementary school years, although it is not uncommon for people to develop it earlier or well beyond that timeframe.

The exact cause of irregular myopia is unknown. Doctors believe that there is a genetic component to eyeball shape, which is supported by the fact that parents with nearsightedness are more likely to have nearsighted children. However, environmental factors also appear to be at play, especially considering the rapid prevalence of myopia.

Theories on the Rise in Myopia

Researchers believe that the increase in nearsightedness is probably related to the change in the way children are raised. The first pertains to outdoor time. Kids used to spend more time playing and exploring outside and that seemed to have a positive effect on the eyes. Part of this has to do with the fact that children use their distance vision more in outdoor settings since there are things to see further out. Scientists have also found that natural light exposure may be a key to mitigating or decreasing myopia.

Researchers have also found a correlation between nearsightedness and screentime. These days, much of people’s lives involves staring at screens from only a few feet away. Since this is not the way people lived mere decades ago, this could help to explain the sudden increase in myopia. While everyone’s eyes can benefit from less screen time, limiting screentime seems most important during childhood when the eyes are still developing.

If You Already Have Myopia…

Fortunately, even if you do have myopia due to genetic/environmental factors, you do not have to suffer from blurry distance vision forever. If wearing eyeglasses or contacts is not to your liking, our eye team can also recommend a refractive surgery like LASIK  to help you see clearly without the daily hassles of wearing prescription lenses. To learn more about overcoming myopia, please call (321) 984-3200.

The post Why Are So Many Americans Nearsighted? appeared first on Tres Vision Group.

What Is Covered by Vision Insurance?

Standard optometry appointments are not generally covered by medical insurance plans. If you have a refractive error like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, it generally makes financial sense to have vision insurance to help cover costs on annual eye exams, contact lenses, and eyeglass frames.

Be aware that most vision insurance plans still require you to pay some out-of-pocket expenses and co-pays. More expensive policies may cover more advanced lenses like transition lenses or lenses with scratch-resistant coating. Although LASIK is not covered by most vision insurance plans, some do offer discounts.

What Is Covered by Medical Insurance?

Medical insurance is usually applied to eye issues not related to your prescription. Almost any issue that poses a threat to your eye’s health is covered by your health insurance. Diseases and conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, keratoconus, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye all fall under that umbrella. The same goes for medical emergencies (such as a traumatic injury to your eye) or vision impairment that is the result of a medical condition like diabetes or heart disease.

Can You Combine Both Forms of Insurance?

Although some ailments may seem like they could be covered by both forms of insurance, we cannot legally file a claim for a single appointment to two different insurance companies. If you are unsure which type of insurance applies to your situation, we encourage you to bring all relevant insurance cards to your appointment so that we can help you file the claim that will be most financially advantageous to you.  Based on the reason for your visit, the doctor will determine if it should be billed under your vision or medical insurance.

Speak to the Team at TRES VISION Group

Insurance policies are rarely as simple as we wish they were, but to recap briefly, your vision insurance covers standard eye care like examinations and prescription lenses, while medical insurance deals with most other eye issues.

At TRES VISION Group, we accept a long list of major insurance plans. Better yet, our team will go the extra mile to help you understand your individual policies so that you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to. Don’t let confusing policies prevent you from seeking standard eye care, including annual examinations. Our eye doctors are eager to help you maintain clear vision and healthy eyes. Call (321) 984-3200 to make an appointment.

The post Medical vs. Vision Insurance: Making Sure Your Treatment Is Covered appeared first on Tres Vision Group.