Eye Health

It is normal to notice changes in your vision as you get older. These may include loss of focus, having trouble distinguishing colors, and needing more time to adjust changing levels of light. Still, it is important to take precaution to minimize the risk of serious eye problems as you get older.

By now, you’re aware that wearing sunglasses is important to protect your eyes from the sun and harmful ultraviolet rays. But did you know not all eyes are created equal? Factors such as age and even eye color play a part in how much at risk a person is for UV damage. People with light-colored eyes, including hazel, green or blue eyes, are at higher risk for damage and eye diseases tied to UV exposure.

Despite the detrimental effect diabetes can have on ocular health, many people with diabetes are unaware of their risk. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recognizes November as “Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month” in an effort to familiarize the public with what diabetes can do to the eyes. Mark Mandel, MD, would like to join the AAO’s efforts and help make you aware of what diabetes can do to your eyes.

Take a moment to think about all the time you spend looking at screens throughout the day. Between your smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop, gaming system and television, you may be spending more time looking at a screen than you do sleeping.

On August 21, North America experienced the first total solar eclipse in 99 years. The skies darkened from Oregon to South Carolina as the moon passed in between the sun and the Earth. Millions of people headed outside to catch a glimpse of the exciting natural phenomenon.
In the weeks leading up to the eclipse, national news outlets warned viewers about the dangers of staring directly into the sun during the eclipse. As a Bay Area vision specialist, Mark Mandel, MD, wants to explain why these warnings were so important, why it is dangerous to stare at the sun during a solar eclipse and how to take the proper precautions. With scientists predicting the next total eclipse for North America coming in 2024, it’s a good idea to know how to protect yourself!

By now you are aware that the sun can take a toll on your skin. But did you know your eyes are also at risk of sun damage? In addition, the summer season brings with it certain dangers that can put your eye health at risk. San Jose LASIK expert Dr. Mark Mandel outlines summer eye health risks. Before you step outside to enjoy the sun, take a moment to read these tips on how to keep your eyes happy and healthy during the summer season.

Before undergoing treatment for vision correction or an eye condition, your eye doctor will ask about your family eye health. But why is this? Bay Area Lasik surgeon and corneal specialist Mark Mandel, M.D., of Optima Eye explains the importance of your family eye health.

When you notice a change in your vision or a problem with your eyes, do you get your eyes checked? If you answered no, you’re not alone. According to a recent poll commissioned by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the majority of American adults report having eye or vision problems but most fail to have their eyes checked. In this blog post, Mark Mandel, M.D., of Optima Eye discusses the findings of the survey and explains the importance of routine eye exams.

Harmful UV rays don’t go away during winter. The sun can still damage your skin and eyes, increasing your risk of cancer and other conditions. In this post, San Jose LASIK doctor, Mark Mandel, M.D., discusses why you still need UV protection in the winter.