Patient care at Mountain View Eye Care
Patient forms and patient portal
To help your visit run smoothly, patient forms may be completed before your appointment. Completing forms in advance allows more time for conversation and care during your exam.
Through our secure patient portal, you can:
- Complete or update medical history forms
- Review appointment details
- Communicate with our office when needed
What are you experiencing?
If you are noticing new symptoms or changes in your vision, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation. Many eye conditions develop gradually and respond best to early care. Below are common concerns we assess and help to treat and manage.
Flashers, floaters, or spots
Sudden flashes of light, new floaters, or dark spots in your vision can signal changes in the retina. While some floaters are harmless, new or increasing symptoms should be evaluated promptly. If you experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow in your vision, call our office immediately.
Headaches
Frequent headaches can be related to uncorrected vision, eye strain, focusing difficulties, or alignment issues. A comprehensive eye exam can determine whether your symptoms are vision-related and guide appropriate treatment.
Digital Eye Strain
Extended screen use can cause eye fatigue, blurred vision, dryness, and discomfort. Digital eye strain is increasingly common among both adults and children. We evaluate visual demands, screen habits, and ocular surface health to develop practical solutions that improve comfort and reduce strain.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Redness, irritation, discharge, and sensitivity may indicate conjunctivitis. Causes can include infection, allergies, or irritation. Prompt evaluation helps determine what type of treatment is needed and prevents unnecessary discomfort.
Allergies
Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes are common during allergy seasons in Western North Carolina. We assess ocular surface health and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms safely.
Farsightedness
Farsightedness can cause difficulty with near tasks, eye fatigue, and headaches. In children, it may interfere with reading and school performance. An accurate refraction and comprehensive exam determine the appropriate correction needed.
Nearsightedness
Nearsightedness causes distance blur and may progress over time. Regular monitoring is important, especially in children and adolescents. We evaluate prescription needs and discuss appropriate correction options.
Astigmatism (Blurred vision)
Astigmatism can cause blurred or distorted vision at any distance. It often occurs alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness. Proper diagnosis ensures accurate lens correction and improved clarity.
Presbyopia (Age-related vision changes)
Presbyopia is the natural age-related change that makes near tasks more difficult, often beginning in the early to mid-40s. We evaluate near vision needs and discuss reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses, and contact lens options.
When to call immediately
Seek prompt evaluation by calling our office at (828) 586-8080 if you experience:
- Sudden vision loss
- A shadow or curtain in your vision
- Sudden increase in flashes or floaters
- Severe eye pain
- Eye injury
Insurance
We offer various payment arrangements to help make your care as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our goal is to provide highly personalized, intentional care, and that starts with having the freedom to focus on what’s best for your eyes.
We’re happy to work with you to understand your coverage and benefits and walk you through what to expect. If you have medical or vision insurance and have questions about how your visit may be covered, please call us. Our team is here to listen, ask the right questions, and help you take the next steps.
We accept the following insurance plans:
- Medicare
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- United Healthcare
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Community Eye Care
- Medicaid Direct
We are here to help.
Changes in vision can be concerning, but most conditions are manageable when evaluated early. Dr. Hicks provides thorough, careful examinations and clear explanations so you understand what is happening and what steps come next.
Schedule an appointment today and let us help protect your vision!