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Author Archives: Silvia Del Rio

Zeker Zicht Eye Care Practice Amsterdam > Articles by: Silvia Del Rio
Categories Blog Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio

Comprehensive Eye Exam Amsterdam | Eye Care for Expats

The "Quick Check" vs. The Medical Exam: Why your eyes need more

Optometrist performing a slit lamp examination

Welcome to the Netherlands! As an expat, you might have noticed that the healthcare system here works a bit differently than back home. One common confusion is eye care. You walk into a shop, get a free "eye test," and walk out with glasses.

But something feels missing. Where was the pressure check? Did they look at the retina? Was it just a sales pitch?

At Zeker Zicht, we believe in the medical model of eye care. We understand that seeing 20/20 doesn't necessarily mean your eyes are healthy.

What is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

A standard "oogmeting" (refraction) at a retail chain only determines your prescription for glasses. A comprehensive exam performed by an optometrist goes much deeper. We look at the total health of your visual system.

What do we check?

During an annual or bi-annual exam at our practice, we screen for issues that often show no early symptoms:

  • Glaucoma: We measure intraocular pressure and check the optic nerve.
  • Retinal Health: Using advanced imaging, we look for signs of diabetes, hypertension, or retinal detachments.
  • Dry Eye Disease: Essential for office workers. We analyze your tear film quality, not just the quantity.
  • Binocular Vision: How well do your eyes work together? (Crucial for headaches and screen fatigue).
Retina scan on a computer screen

Why choose an independent optometrist?

In many countries, you visit an "Eye Doctor" for these checks. In the Netherlands, the Optometrist fulfills this role. We are the bridge between the GP and the hospital.

At Zeker Zicht, we take the time to explain what we see. No rushing, no sales pressure. Just honest, medical advice regarding your most valuable sense.

Time for your annual check-up?

Don't wait until your vision gets blurry. Prevention is key. Book a comprehensive medical eye exam today and get peace of mind.

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Categories Blog Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio

Dutch Eye Care: A guide for Expats in Amsterdam

Expat navigeert door oogzorg in Amsterdam

Navigating Dutch Eye Care: An Expat’s Guide for Amsterdam

Moving to a new country involves figuring out a lot of new systems, and healthcare is a big one. If you're an expat in Amsterdam, you might be wondering: how does eye care work in the Netherlands? The system can be different from what you're used to, with various specialists and specific rules for insurance. This guide will walk you through the essentials.

Who's Who in Dutch Eye Care?

First, let's clarify the different professionals you might encounter:

Optician (Opticien)

Typically found in high-street optical shops. Opticians are qualified to perform standard eye measurements (refractions) to determine the prescription for your glasses or contact lenses. However, their expertise is primarily focused on eyewear, not on eye health. Often, the eye test fee is waived when you purchase glasses from them.

Optometrist (Optometrist)

An optometrist is a primary eye care professional trained to perform comprehensive eye health examinations. They not only check your vision but also screen for eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. They are your first point of contact for concerns about your eye health.

Ophthalmologist (Oogarts)

This is a medical doctor who specializes in eye surgery and treating complex eye diseases. You typically need a referral from a GP (huisarts) or an optometrist to see an ophthalmologist.

Orthoptist (Orthoptist)

A specialist focused on issues with eye alignment, coordination, and vision development, such as a lazy eye (lui oog) or crossed eyes (scheelzien). They primarily work with children up to the age of 8.

Verschillende oogzorgprofessionals in Nederland

The Patient Journey: Two Common Paths

How you access eye care often depends on your needs.

Path 1: The Standard Route for Glasses

Many people in the Netherlands go directly to an optical shop for a vision test. An optician performs the measurement, and you select a pair of glasses. If the optician suspects an underlying health issue, they will advise you to see your GP. Your GP then assesses the situation and decides whether to refer you to an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

Path 2: Addressing Eye Health Concerns

If you have complaints or concerns about your eye health, the official route is to visit your GP (huisarts). They act as a gatekeeper and will provide a referral (verwijzing) for specialized care.

However, a significant challenge in Amsterdam is the long waiting time for ophthalmologists, which can often be 4-6 months, depending on the urgency.

Moderne optometrische praktijk

A Smarter, Faster Alternative: The Optometrist

Visiting an optometrist directly offers a major advantage. Waiting times are usually much shorter, and they can conduct a thorough health check on the spot. If an optometrist detects a serious condition that requires urgent attention, they can refer you to an ophthalmologist with a higher priority, helping you bypass the long standard waiting lists. Some eye conditions show few or no symptoms but require treatment within days or even hours.

Understanding Insurance and Costs

Here’s where it gets tricky.

  • Referrals are key: Care from an ophthalmologist or orthoptist is generally covered by your basic health insurance (basispakket), but only with a referral from your GP.
  • The eigen risico: Most reimbursed healthcare costs first count towards your annual deductible (eigen risico). For optometrist visits, coverage varies. Often, you may have to pay a portion yourself (e.g., 70% is covered, 30% is your own contribution) after your eigen risico is met. But not at Zeker Zicht, we are different. Keep reading.
  • Without a referral: Almost nothing is covered, with a few exceptions from specific supplementary insurance packages.

The Zeker Zicht Advantage

At Zeker Zicht, we make it simple. With a referral from your GP, your complete eye examination with us is 100% covered by your basic insurance package. This means:

  • No contribution from your deductible (geen eigen risico).
  • No co-payment (geen eigen bijdrage).

You can read more about how to get a referral here: How to get a referral.

Information for your GP to create the referral can be found here: Information for GPs.

Book Your Eye Examination Now
oogmigraine met aura
Categories Blog Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio Tags , , ,

Why do I see flashes in the corner of my eye?

You have been experiencing flashes on the side of your eye for several months. Your vision is good, and you have no other complaints. What could this be, and should you have your eyes examined?
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glaucoom stadium
Categories Blog, Glaucoom Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio Tags ,

Glaucoma: The Silent Thief of Vision

Glaucoma, often described as the ‘silent thief of vision,’ is a stealthy eye condition that gradually affects vision without clear symptoms in the early stages. This condition, which causes damage to the optic nerve, can lead to permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated in time. In this post, we will delve deeper into what glaucoma is, the risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
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A Complete Guide to Astigmatism (cylinder): Understanding Eye Shape Irregularities

 
astigmatisme vision

Astigmatism, or cylindrical refractive error, is a common refractive error that affects how light enters the eye, resulting in blurred vision. Unlike a perfectly spherical cornea, an astigmatic cornea has an irregular shape, similar to a rugby ball. This irregularity causes light to focus at multiple points within the eye, leading to distorted and blurred vision at both near and far distances.

Causes of Astigmatism

cilinderafwijkingAstigmatism can be hereditary, meaning it can be passed down from parents to children. It can also be caused by external factors, such as eye injuries, corneal scars, or eyelid conditions. An irregular curvature of the cornea can lead to astigmatism, resulting in a distorted image on the retina.
 

Symptoms of Astigmatism

oogklachten cilinder

People with astigmatism often experience blurry vision, distorted images, and eye strain. Headaches and eye irritation are also common complaints. Individuals with astigmatism may find it difficult to see sharp outlines or small details. It’s important to note that astigmatism often occurs alongside nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).

Diagnosis of Astigmatism

oogtest cilinderAn optometrist can diagnose astigmatism during a comprehensive eye exam. This involves measuring the refractive errors of the eye using a refraction test. During this test, the optometrist uses cylindrical lenses to determine the presence of astigmatism.
 

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available to correct the visual effects of astigmatism. A common solution is wearing glasses or contact lenses with a cylindrical correction. These correct the irregular shape of the cornea, focusing light at a single point.
For those considering a more permanent solution, laser eye surgery, such as LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), may be an option. This surgical procedure reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors, enabling clear vision without the need for external corrective aids.

bril

Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice: Your Partner in Eye Care

At Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice, we understand the impact that astigmatism can have on your daily life. Our experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing personalized care to ensure you experience clear and sharp vision.
Would you like to have your astigmatism checked or are you looking for the most suitable treatment options?
Make an appointment today at Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice for a thorough eye exam. Discover how we can help you correct the shape irregularities in your eyes and enjoy improved vision. Your eyes deserve the best care, and we’re here to provide it. Call now to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a clear, sharper world of visual comfort.

oogvermoeidheid
Categories Blog Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio Tags , , ,

Computer Vision Syndrome: How to Identify and Alleviate Symptoms

In today’s fast-paced digital world, our eyes are constantly exposed to the prolonged use of computers, smartphones, and other digital screens. This constant strain can lead to digital eye strain, a common condition that can significantly impact our overall well-being. In this post, we will delve deeper into recognizing digital eye strain and provide practical tips for relief.

Recognizing Digital Eye Strain

  • Dry and Itchy Eyes: A common symptom of digital eye strain is experiencing dry and itchy eyes. This can be caused by reduced blinking during extended screen use.
  • Blurred Vision: Digital eye strain can result in temporary blurred vision, making it difficult to see sharp details.
  • Headaches: Digital eye strain often goes hand-in-hand with headaches, especially around the forehead and temples.
  • Light Sensitivity: Individuals with digital eye strain may be more sensitive to light, both natural and artificial.
  • Double Vision: In some cases, digital eye strain can lead to experiencing double vision or difficulty focusing.
oogvermoeidheid

Tips for Relieving Digital Eye Strain

  • Take Regular Breaks: Implementing the 20-20-20 rule can reduce digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet away.
  • Eye Exercises: Blink consciously and practice eye movements, such as rolling your eyes in different directions, to relax the eye muscles.
  • Good Workstation Ergonomics: Ensure an ergonomic workspace with the screen at eye level and adequate lighting to reduce strain.
  • Adjust Screen Brightness: Adjust the brightness and contrast of your screen to prevent excessive eye strain.
  • Hydration: Stay hydrated to prevent dry eyes. Blink frequently to keep your eyes moist.
  • Eyeglass Correction: If you wear glasses, ensure your prescription is up-to-date and tailored to your current viewing needs.
  • Lighting Conditions: Avoid glare by ensuring good lighting in your workspace and reducing glare from windows or artificial lights.
  • Sleep Habits: Get enough sleep, as tired eyes are often linked to a lack of rest.

Professional Eye Care at Zeker Zicht

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If you experience regular digital eye strain and these tips do not provide relief, it is advisable to undergo a professional eye examination at Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice. Our experienced optometrists can determine the cause of your eye strain and provide a customized treatment plan. Don’t wait if digital eye strain is affecting your daily life. Make an appointment today at Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice and discover how we can help you enjoy clear, comfortable vision. Your eyes deserve the best care, and we’re here to provide it. Call now to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relieving digital eye strain.

Categories Blog Posted on Author Silvia Del Rio Tags , , ,

Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dry eye is a common condition affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It is characterized by a lack of sufficient tears to lubricate and protect the eyes. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the ocular surface. In this post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dry eyes.
oog onderzoek

Causes of Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can result from a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is a decrease in tear production. This can be caused by aging, hormonal changes (such as those experienced by women during menopause), medication use, and environmental factors such as exposure to air conditioning or heating. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases (like Sjögren’s syndrome), diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause dry eyes. Incomplete blinking, where the eyelids do not fully close, can also contribute to this problem.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

branderige ogen
The symptoms of dry eyes vary from mild to severe and can impact daily functioning. Common symptoms include a burning sensation, itching, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of something being in the eye. Some people also experience excessive tearing in response to the irritation, a paradoxical reaction to the dryness.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to relieve and manage dry eyes. One of the simplest steps is the regular use of artificial tears. These drops contain moisturizing ingredients that mimic natural tears and lubricate the ocular surface.

For more severe cases of dry eyes, an optometrist may prescribe medicated eye drops that reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production. For individuals with dry eyes as a result of underlying health conditions, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, treatment may focus on managing the underlying condition. In some cases, using warm compresses on the eyelids can help unclog blocked glands around the eyes, which can contribute to dryness. Avoiding environmental factors that cause dry eyes, such as smoky rooms or windy conditions, can also be beneficial.

For people with persistent symptoms, consulting an optometrist is essential. A thorough eye examination can identify the specific cause of the dry eyes and develop a customized treatment plan.

In conclusion, dry eyes can cause discomfort and irritation, but there are several effective treatment options available. It is important to identify the cause of the dryness and seek appropriate treatment under the guidance of an optometrist.

Regular eye care and adopting healthy habits can also contribute to maintaining a healthy ocular surface and comfortable eyes.

Want to learn more about your eye health? Make an appointment today at Zeker Zicht Optometry Practice for a thorough eye exam and personalized advice. Your eyes deserve the best care!

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