Florence, Kentucky, might be just a stone's throw from bustling Cincinnati, but it offers a world of its own, teeming with charm and a hospitable atmosphere that embraces all. This vibrant city, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Bluegrass State, has developed a reputation as a delightful place to call home.
Florence is famed for its unique blend of suburban serenity and urban amenities. Residents enjoy the perks of excellent public services, quality schools, and expansive parks that encourage outdoor fun and family gatherings. Take a stroll through the scenic
Stringtown Park or participate in the city's many vibrant festivals, and you’ll see how Florence fosters a strong sense of community.
The city's diverse culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with local favorites catering to all tastes, from classic American diners to world cuisine. And let’s not forget shopping enthusiasts; they can explore an array of retail treasures at the Florence Mall and
Florence, Kentucky
4 | HelloFlorence, Kentucky • Winter Issue
Hello Florence, Kentucky • Winter Issue |5
Florence, Kentucky
beyond, making it a true shopper's haven.
With its rich history, friendly neighborhoods, and an exceptional range of activities catering to all ages, Florence, Kentucky, is a place where community spirit truly shines. Whether you’re raising a
family or starting fresh, the warmth and vitality of Florence welcome you with open arms.
Florence, Kentucky: Where Community Spirit Shines Bright
Florence, Kentucky, might be just a stone's throw from bustling Cincinnati, but it offers a world of its own, teeming with charm and a hospitable atmosphere that embraces all. This vibrant city, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Bluegrass State, has developed a reputation as a delightful place to call home.
Florence is famed for its unique blend of suburban serenity and urban amenities. Residents enjoy the perks of excellent public services, quality schools, and expansive parks that encourage outdoor fun and family gatherings. Take a stroll through the scenic Stringtown Park or participate in the city's many vibrant festivals, and you’ll see how Florence fosters a strong sense of community.
The city's diverse culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with local favorites catering to all tastes, from classic American diners to world cuisine. And let’s not forget shopping enthusiasts; they can explore an array of retail treasures at the Florence Mall and beyond, making it a true shopper's haven.
With its rich history, friendly neighborhoods, and an exceptional range of activities catering to all ages, Florence, Kentucky, is a place where community spirit truly shines. Whether you’re raising a family or starting fresh, the warmth and vitality of Florence welcome you with open arms.
The Hidden Health Clues Found in an Eye Exam
Many people think of an eye exam as something they do only when they need a new prescription for glasses or contacts. That is a common misunderstanding. An actual eye exam is about much more than sharper vision. It is a detailed look at the overall health of the eyes, and in many cases, a window into a
person’s general health.When an optometrist examines the eyes, they are checking for common conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts. Both can cause severe vision loss if left untreated. The challenge is that these conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms. A person may feel their
6 | HelloFlorence, Kentucky • Winter Issue
The Hidden Health Clues Found in an Eye Exam
Many people think of an eye exam as something they do only when they need a new prescription for glasses or contacts. That is a common misunderstanding. An actual eye exam is about much more than sharper vision. It is a detailed look at the overall health of the eyes, and in many cases, a window into a person’s general health.
When an optometrist examines the eyes, they are checking for common conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts. Both can cause severe vision loss if left untreated. The challenge is that these conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms. A person may feel their vision is fine, yet damage may already be occurring. Detecting problems before symptoms appear is one of the most important reasons for scheduling regular exams.
Eye exams can also reveal signs of health conditions that affect more than just vision. Diabetes, for example, often leaves clues in the small blood vessels at the back of the eye. An eye doctor may see these changes before a person realizes they have blood sugar issues.
High blood pressure can also show up during an exam. This makes the eye exam not only a vision check, but also a way to catch early warnings of systemic health problems.
The eyes often reveal the earliest signs of conditions that affect the entire body.
Relying on how vision “feels” is not always reliable. Many eye diseases develop silently, progressing without pain or noticeable changes until the damage becomes harder to treat. Regular visits make it possible to identify these conditions in their earliest stages, when treatment options are often simpler and outcomes are more favorable.
A thorough exam also looks beyond clarity of sight. It measures how the eyes work together, testing focus, depth perception, and coordination. Problems in these areas may cause headaches, eyestrain, or difficulty reading. Because the symptoms are easy to overlook, many people live with discomfort without realizing the cause is related to eye function.
For children, comprehensive eye exams are crucial. Good vision plays a vital role in learning, reading, and maintaining attention in the classroom. School screenings typically only check for basic distance vision and often miss subtle issues, such as eye teaming or focusing problems. A child who struggles to read or concentrate may actually be dealing with a vision problem that a simple screening cannot identify.
Adults should not assume that stable vision means their eyes are healthy. As people age, their risk for conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma increases. These conditions do not always cause immediate vision changes. Routine monitoring by an eye doctor can ensure that changes are detected and managed early. Just as most people understand the need for regular dental exams or annual checkups with a primary care doctor, eye exams deserve a place in preventive care routines.
The connection between vision and quality of life is easy to overlook until problems arise. Clear vision supports independence, safety, and everyday tasks, from driving to reading. Beyond that, healthy eyes often reflect healthy systems throughout the body. That is why a comprehensive eye exam should be seen as more than just an update for glasses or contacts. It is a tool that protects vision, health, and overall well-being.
Dr. Kimberly Arnett
at the back of the eye. An eye doctor may see these changes before a person realizes they have blood sugar issues.High blood pressure can also show up during an exam. This makes the eye exam not only a vision check, but also a way to catch early warnings of systemic health problems.The eyes often reveal the earliest signs of conditions that affect the entire body.Relying on how vision “feels” is not always reliable. Many eye diseases develop silently, progressing without pain or noticeable changes until the damage becomes harder to treat. Regular visits make it possible to identify these conditions in their earliest stages,...
vision is fine, yet damage may already be occurring. Detecting problems before symptoms appear is one of the most important reasons for scheduling regular exams.Eye exams can also reveal signs of health conditions that affect more than just vision. Diabetes, for example, often leaves clues in the small blood vessels
The eyes often reveal the earliest signs of conditions that affect the entire body.
About the Author
Dr. Kimberly Arnett brings 25+ years of optometric experience to her privately owned and operated practice, Arnett Vision Care, which opened in Spring of 2010. We are one of six optometrists located at Eyemart Express serving Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. We use state of the art equipment and electronic medical records to provide top quality service to our patients. Our digital retinal camera allows us to establish a wellness baseline, as well as perform an ass...
HelloFlorence, Kentucky • Winter Issue |7
Seasonal Allergies and Eye Health in Kentucky: How to Tell the Difference from Infection
Changing seasons in Kentucky bring more than just new weather patterns. For many people, spring and fall mean itchy, watery eyes that make daily activities uncomfortable. Seasonal eye allergies are a common issue in the region, especially with the mix of grass, tree, and weed pollen. The challenge is
that allergy symptoms often feel similar to an eye infection, which can make it difficult to know what is really happening.Eye infections tend to cause thick discharge, swelling, or pain that may affect one eye more than the other. Allergies, by contrast, usually bring itching, redness, tearing,
8 | HelloFlorence, Kentucky • Winter Issue
Seasonal Allergies and Eye Health in Kentucky: How to Tell the Difference from Infection
Changing seasons in Kentucky bring more than just new weather patterns. For many people, spring and fall mean itchy, watery eyes that make daily activities uncomfortable. Seasonal eye allergies are a common issue in the region, especially with the mix of grass, tree, and weed pollen. The challenge is that allergy symptoms often feel similar to an eye infection, which can make it difficult to know what is really happening.
Eye infections tend to cause thick discharge, swelling, or pain that may affect one eye more than the other. Allergies, by contrast, usually bring itching, redness, tearing, and a burning sensation in both eyes. Because the symptoms can overlap, it is easy to mistake one for the other. An accurate diagnosis matters since an infection may require medical treatment while allergies are usually managed with over-the-counter drops and daily habits.
Antihistamine eye drops are often the first step in managing seasonal allergies. They can reduce redness and irritation, making it easier to get through the day with clearer, more comfortable vision. Artificial tears can also help by rinsing away allergens that settle on the eyes. For people who wear contact lenses, switching to glasses or using daily disposable lenses during heavy pollen seasons can also bring relief.
Avoiding common triggers plays a role in reducing symptoms. Pollen is most active in the early morning and on dry, windy days. Limiting time outdoors during those periods can make a difference, especially for people who already deal with seasonal allergies. After spending time outside, washing the face and hands and even changing clothes can help remove pollen before it spreads indoors. Keeping windows closed during high pollen counts and using air filters indoors are additional ways to reduce exposure.
Another habit that helps protect the eyes is avoiding rubbing them. It can be tempting when itching is intense, but rubbing often makes symptoms worse. It can also introduce bacteria from the hands to the eyes, which increases the chance of infection. Instead, cool compresses or preservative-free artificial tears provide a safer way to calm irritation.
Seasonal eye allergies may seem minor, but they can affect comfort, focus, and even productivity if left unmanaged.
In Kentucky, allergy season can start as early as March and extend through late fall, depending on pollen levels. The variety of plant life in the region means that many people deal with repeated flare-ups through the year. While no single method prevents allergies completely, combining small daily steps often brings the best results. Showering at the end of the day, washing pillowcases regularly, and limiting outdoor activities when pollen counts are high all reduce exposure.
Regular eye care plays an important role as well. Even when symptoms seem typical, it is possible for other conditions to look similar to allergies. Dry eye syndrome, infections, and certain inflammatory conditions of the eye can all mimic allergic reactions. Consulting with an eye doctor ensures the problem is identified correctly and treated in the safest way. Seasonal discomfort should not prevent clear vision or daily comfort, and professional care provides guidance on how to manage symptoms effectively.
Dr. Kimberly Arnett
step in managing seasonal allergies. They can reduce redness and irritation, making it easier to get through the day with clearer, more comfortable vision. Artificial tears can also help by rinsing away allergens that settle on the eyes. For people who wear contact lenses, switching to glasses or using daily disposable lenses during heavy pollen seasons can also bring relief.Avoiding common triggers plays a role in reducing symptoms. Pollen is most active in the early morning and on dry, windy days. Limiting time outdoors during those periods can make a difference, especially for people who already deal with seasonal allergies...
and a burning sensation in both eyes. Because the symptoms can overlap, it is easy to mistake one for the other. An accurate diagnosis matters since an infection may require medical treatment while allergies are usually managed with over-the-counter drops and daily habits.Antihistamine eye drops are often the first
Seasonal eye allergies may seem minor, but they can affect comfort, focus, and even productivity if left unmanaged.
About the Author
Dr. Kimberly Arnett brings 25+ years of optometric experience to her privately owned and operated practice, Arnett Vision Care, which opened in Spring of 2010. We are one of six optometrists located at Eyemart Express serving Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. We use state of the art equipment and electronic medical records to provide top quality service to our patients. Our digital retinal camera allows us to establish a wellness baseline, as well as perform an ass...
