To minimize vision-related mishaps while traveling, Dr. Esquibel recommends the following:

• Bring an extra pair of contact lenses or glasses in case you lose, tear or break yours. It is often difficult to find an eye doctor quickly while away from home.
• Put your name and address on your eyeglass case so it can be returned to you if you misplace your glasses.
• Bring ophthalmic antibiotic drops if you are traveling to a remote area in case your eyes become infected while camping, hiking, swimming in the ocean, etc. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Esquibel before your trip for a pre-trip eye health evaluation, to prescribe antibiotics for your medical emergency kit.

The Ishihara Color Test is a color perception test for red-green color deficiencies.

Dry eye syndrome is prevalent in Palm Springs because of our desert environment with low humidity. Contact lens wear, LASIK, and certain medications can also contribute to dry eyes by decreasing tear production or tear quality. Dry eyes can lead to red, irritated eyes and frequent infections when there are insufficient tears to cleanse, lubricate and nourish the front surface of the eyes. The quality and quantity of tears also affects your vision by providing a smooth optical surface to see through.

Although half of the 14 million Americans with diabetes have some form of diabetic eye disease, health officials report that many are not having their eyes examined regularly to prevent possible vision loss or blindness.

Diabetic eye disease is a group of sight-threatening conditions that people may develop as a complication of diabetes. These include diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts.