Dr. Jeremy Steinberg, O.D. has a Bachelor of Science from McGill University, a Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University, and completed his internship at the renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Florida. He has many areas of expertise, including ocular dryness, ocular diseases, and binocular vision disorders. He’s practiced with several clinics, and needless to say, we’re lucky to have him!
How many times a day do we blink?
Blinking is important as it helps lubricate the eyes. The average person blinks 15 to 20 times per minute. In a full day, that equals 14,400-19,200 times. When we focus on a specific visual task like reading or computer work, we blink approximately 60% less which can lead to dry eyes and ocular fatigue. To avoid this, remember to blink more often.
How do pupils dilate?
The iris regulates the amount of light entering the eye. The iris is made of two types of muscles, with one solely responsible for constricting the pupil and another set of muscles that can only dilate the pupil. Dilation of the pupil is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. The pupil will dilate in low light or when the body is in “fight or flight mode”. It’s characterized by increase in mental effort or arousal.
How can good eyesight be maintained?
It’s important to take care of your eyes to maintain good eyesight. It starts with a good diet rich in antioxidants, omega three fatty acids, and vitamin C and E. It’s also essential to shield the eyes with proper sunglasses outdoors and protect them from injuries with safety glasses. Taking breaks from the computer screen will avoid strain and dry eyes. Finally, getting a regular eye exam will help protect your eyesight. Some eye diseases have no symptoms and can only be detected in a routine eye exam.
Can COVID-19 be contracted through the eyes?
Coronavirus can spread through the eyes, just as it does through your nose and mouth. When an infected person with COVID-19 talks or coughs, the virus particles can spray from their nose or mouth and into your face. Depending on how close they are, you can breathe in the small droplets, or they can enter your body through your eyes.
You can also contract the virus by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes. This transmission route only accounts for a small number of cases and can be prevented through regular handwashing.
What causes colour-blindness?
Colour-blindness or daltonism is the decreased ability to distinguish between red and green, occurring at mild, moderate, and severe levels. It is typically an inherited genetic disorder with mutations on the X chromosome. Women are less likely to be colour-blind because they need to have two X chromosomes and need both chromosomes to be defective. Whereas men only have one X chromosome and will be colour-blind if they receive the mutated copy from their mother.
Dr. Jeremy Steinberg is now offering a wider range of appointment availabilities at our Notre-Dame location – book your appointment!
