3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Dr. Tyler Doersam of Lumen Optical

Patch partner Dr. Tyler Doersam of Lumen Optical shares his definition of success and gives us three tips to maintain or improve eye health.

Patch: November is National Diabetes Month. What is the connection between eye health and diabetes?

Tyler Doersam: Often an eye exam is the first place diabetes is detected. The back layer of the eye is called the retina, and it is made of small blood vessels. Diabetes causes these vessels to become weak and break, which leads to blood and fluid in the back of the eye.

Patch: What made you want to become an Optometrist?

Tyler Doersam: I received my first pair of glasses in 5th grade and it changed my world. I had spent the whole beginning of the school year squinting to see the board, and I actually read something out loud in class completely wrong off the board. I wanted to help others feel the same way I felt when I first put on my glasses.

Patch: As the end of 2016 approaches, could you explain how maintaining eye health can be a good use of FSA dollars?

Tyler Doersam: I have always felt it is important to have a yearly eye exam and up-to date glasses. I see a lot of patients who have glasses that are three or four years old who only wear their glasses at night because they aren’t the correct prescription. If you have FSA dollars to spend, then why not come get an up-to date pair of glasses that you will want to wear in public? Or use it to buy contacts so you aren’t extending the length of your contact lenses past the discard period.

Patch: What is your definition of success?

Tyler Doersam: I look at success as having a strong faith, a loving family and a happy life by helping others make their lives better and see better.

Patch: How are you involved in the community?

Tyler Doersam: At Lumen, we are very involved in the community. We are a part of the Mount Prospect and Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce. We also often partner with community events. Just last Friday, my staff and I were at a “Monster Bash” in Mount Prospect and passed out candy to all the trick-or-treaters.

Patch: What are the most common conditions you treat?

Tyler Doersam: I treat patients for both vision and health problems. I diagnose and treat refractive errors including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by prescribing glasses and contact lenses. Common conditions I see are dry eyes, eye infections, allergies, and cataracts.

Patch: How does Lumen Optical distinguish itself from the competition?

Tyler Doersam: Lumen offers patients state-of-the art equipment and feel without the price tag. We reimagined the optical experience and designed it around our guests. With lenses produced at our local lab, patients receive their new look within 48 hours or less.

Patch: How does someone know when it is time to see an Optometrist?

Tyler Doersam: I normally recommend my patients to come see me on a yearly basis so we can always make sure their eye health stays in check. During a child’s school years, we see some of the biggest changes. We want to make sure parents bring their kids in at least every year. Some kids’ changes occur faster, and we may need to see them every six months.

Patch: What are the top three tips you could give readers to help improve or maintain their eye health?

Tyler Doersam: Get an eye exam regularly. Wear sunglasses and safety glasses when needed for eye protection. Eat healthy.

Patch: How can readers contact you or learn more about Lumen Optical?

Tyler Doersam: Readers can go to LumenOptical.com or they can stop by, walk-ins are always welcome! I look forward to meeting you.

You can find Doctor Doersam at the below location:

Lumen Optical Mount Prospect

182 Randhurst Village Drive

Mount Prospect, IL 60056

847-306-7044