3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Dr. Rabia Awan of Lumen Optical

Patch partner Dr. Rabia Awan of Lumen Optical shares her 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?

Rabia Awan: Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the US. Once diabetes starts affecting the health of the eyes, it is very hard to reverse it. Often an eye exam is the first place diabetes is detected.

Patch: What made you want to become an Optometrist?

Rabia Awan: I always wanted to be a doctor since I was very young. I went to an optometrist regularly myself starting at an early age and fell in love with the profession. I loved that there were no needles involved.

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

Rabia Awan: Out of the five senses, I believe the most important one is vision. About 80% of all impressions are perceived by sight. It’s important to have an updated prescription on your glasses or to be discarding your contact lenses appropriately. Your leftover FSA dollars are a great use to make sure your prescription, and your look, is up-to-date.

Patch: What is your definition of success?

Rabia Awan: My definition of success is when I see a guest, and they feel they have had an experience like they have never had before with an optometrist.

Patch: How are you involved in the community?

Rabia Awan: We are members of the Lake Zurich and Barrington Chambers, so I attend and meet community members at events. We also do philanthropy events in our store to help children in need in our community.

Patch: What are the most common conditions you treat?

Rabia Awan: Some of the most common conditions are dry eye, conjunctivitis (pink eye), macular degeneration, glaucoma.

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

Rabia Awan: We strive to differ from others by creating an exceptional guest experience. We also offer advanced testing at no extra charge, ensuring you receive the best comprehensive eye exam available.

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

Rabia Awan: The most common way people know is when they can't see as clear or when they have an infection. But it is encouraged to see an optometrist every year whether there are symptoms or not, in order to receive a thorough eye health check.

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

Rabia Awan: Try to refrain from using iPads or phones (near devices) for more than 30 minutes at a time. Wear sunglasses. Eat green vegetables. Quit smoking. See an optometrist annually.

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

Rabia Awan: Readers can go to LumenOptical.com or they can stop by anytime, walk-ins are always welcome! We look forward to meeting you.

You can find Doctor Awan at the below location:

Lumen Optical Kildeer

20505 N Rand Rd, Ste 500

Kildeer, IL 60047

847-796-7060