I got those specific lenses—you know, the computer/interview style ones—with a light prescription and all the anti-reflective coatings you need for staring at a screen all day. I ended up paying about $0.47 (just for the lenses, no frames) at LensCrafters in the Downtown Center, but they are definitely among the priciest spots in town. They charge $230 per lens—well, they phrase it like, *each lens will be $230*, as if you’re only buying one single lens... Honestly, I’m still wondering if they just charge a "stupid tax," because everywhere else seems way cheaper. But man, when you order, they really sell you on everything—*you definitely need this, or that... this is actually your best bet, blah blah blah*—they jack up the price before you even realize what's happening, making you feel like it's the only logical solution.
Btw, one more thing... obviously, their ads say the eye exam is free if you buy glasses from them (which is standard practice everywhere)... so after my exam with Dr. Bilić, I naturally picked out a frame and ordered the glasses. But then Dr. Bilić rushed out of her office and told the optician: *Make sure to charge her $83 (or maybe 200, I don't quite remember) for the exam*. 😲 Pretty shady, right? At the time, I just let it slide—whatever, let the chips fall where they may—but I won't be going back there. Even though they have a gorgeous selection of frames and the staff is super professional and friendly, it wasn't worth it. Those extra $67 I paid for the exam didn't make or break me, but it certainly shaped my opinion of her. And seeing how much lower prices are everywhere else in Washington, D.C. (I didn't realize that at the time—I just assumed prices were pretty uniform everywhere), I can't help but wonder what kind of game they're playing.
wearycobra48 said:I honestly wouldn't even know, since I was the one stuck at the recommendation appointment and ended up leaving with my hands and mouth completely paralyzed 😬
wearycobra48 said:For those brave souls who insist their bodies are stuck in an acidic state, feel free to try this little experiment—but honestly, do it at your own risk:
Just find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down and start breathing really fast, like you're hyperventilating. Start off a bit slow, I guess, but then pick up the pace and just hold that rapid rhythm consistently.
Now, after maybe five minutes or so, you’ll probably notice your hands and even parts of your face starting to cramp up. Once you feel that stiffness setting in, just stop the hyperventilation and try to ease yourself back to a normal breathing pattern.
It's a technique a lot of these "New Age gurus" swear by, but if you ask me, it's pretty dangerous. So, what's actually happening in there? When you hyperventilate, you're basically flushing out the CO2 in your blood, which messes with how hemoglobin behaves. Because the CO2 levels drop (along with some salts or compounds, I suppose), your blood pH shifts by about 0.1. The medical term for this is respiratory alkalosis, and it can get quite nasty.
I figure this gives you a tiny glimpse into what happens to your body when the pH shifts even slightly, so imagine what would happen with a much larger swing.
I should probably mention, though, that I don't have any clue how this kind of hyperventilation—some people call it "breathwork"—affects folks dealing with asthma, heart conditions, airway issues (where things might actually get blocked during respiratory alkalosis), or epilepsy.
I better be careful not to pass out... 😲 I wouldn't want Dr. Anthony trying to save me... Just kidding—I don't have those issues, so there's no reason for me to test it out... but man, you guys on this health forum are absolute geniuses 🙄 — I love reading your stuff, you really are one-of-a-kind characters!!! 😁 👍
Haha, well, I guess I’m more of a psychiatric case then (obviously! 😍). I get those random twitches here and there... you know, just from stress or anxiety—worrying about tomorrow, waiting on something, feeling nervous, and all that. Or maybe it's just the weather—like when there's a massive windstorm, thunder, or a crazy storm rolling in. Honestly, it doesn't matter if it's just a brain thing... everyone has their own quirks. 😛
Sam Hall15 said:First off, you’ve got to rule out any organic causes for the insomnia—if those are cleared, then it's all about managing the symptoms. Right now, Zolpidem is a common recommendation; it acts similarly to benzodiazepines without actually being one. Usually, you start with 10 mg about half an hour before bed—though maybe just 5 mg if you have liver issues—and then potentially titrate up to 20 mg. Of course, your doctor will walk you through the whole thing—and I trust you'll take charge of your own health and head to see one.😁
Sam, does it actually count as insomnia if it only happens occasionally (like once a week rather than every single night)? Or is it only medically classified as insomnia if it's a constant, nightly struggle?
Melissa Cruz2 said:The humidity is actually pretty low, so the temperature is totally manageable—aside from dealing with the streetcars and other little "obstacles," of course.
It felt a bit dry to me too, which made it easier to handle. It’s more of a dry heat—kind of like being in the Sahara—rather than that sticky, tropical heat, which is definitely my worst nightmare... Not sure what the weather was like in New York today since I headed to the coast for the weekend. Still, I'm looking forward to the forecast saying things will cool down a few degrees in New York next week. 🙂
I managed to get through today pretty well, even though I had to spend a lot of time walking around outside... and honestly, I handle the heat terribly—my blood pressure tends to run quite low. I'm not sure if the secret is just that I've finally started carrying my own water bottle everywhere (it's a Jane, but let's not turn this into a 🙂 commercial)... In the past, I used to skip carrying water, and whenever I'd step inside after walking in the heat, everything would go dark and I felt like I was about to pass out (though I never actually did) 😛... But I'm done playing games with my health. It really seems like staying hydrated makes a massive difference...
The forecast says tomorrow will be the peak of this heatwave, so I'm gearing up with enough stubbornness to power through it without complaining too much... And I really hope this is the absolute peak, so things don't get any worse than they already have been this summer 😎.
Following those stories about doctors—I’ve got one of my own... It really makes you wonder how someone can grind through such an intense medical program, spend years specializing, and still end up being such a terrible, tactless communicator...
A few years back, I went to see my private OB-GYN for a routine checkup and an annual Pap smear... No issues at all, nothing wrong, just the usual maintenance... So, I’m lying there on the table, he starts the exam and says: "Hmm, I felt something on your ovary, we need to take a look with an ultrasound"... And honestly? I was done. I practically died right then and there. He calls the nurse in quite dramatically and tells her, "Can you help me out? I found something on the ovary"... At that point, I grabbed the nurse's hand so hard, shaking like a leaf from pure fear... and I wasn't letting go. She was the only thing keeping me grounded. Then, while they’re looking at the ultrasound, the doctor—totally nonchalant, stone-cold—just says: "Yeah, that's what I thought, it's just a follicle, you're ovulating! So, if you're planning on having sex today and don't want to get pregnant—be careful."
Good grief, I almost lost it on him. "That's what I thought!"... Seriously? You could have just told me immediately, you idiot, that it was most likely a follicle or ovulation. Instead, you go with, "Hmm, I felt SOMETHING on the ovary." Or better yet, just stay quiet until the ultrasound is actually finished.
I paid my bill, walked out of the office, and my legs were still shaking from the shock for an hour afterward. I haven't stepped foot in that tactless doctor's office since; I switched OB-GYNs immediately.
It’s all subjective, really—I think you get what you give when it comes to doctors. If someone is just a genuinely good person with solid character, that’s going to shine through and serve as a massive asset in their practice. I also feel it's incredibly important for doctors to be decent "psychologists" in their own right—knowing how to steady a patient or lift their spirits when they need it most. If someone lacks backbone or basic empathy, then regardless of their technical expertise, how much they studied, or their advanced certifications, they’ll just be a medical technician. They might know the science, but they'll never be one of those truly great physicians who heals through their presence, their bedside manner, and that certain psychological "impact" they have on a patient...
Man, I went through the same thing—sprained the exact same ankle twice in about two or three years. I didn't even bother seeing a doctor; I just rested for a few days and kept my leg elevated (though I wasn't exactly a model patient—I was still shuffling around the house quite a bit). I started walking outside pretty quickly, too, even though it was still aching and pretty swollen. The bruising colors went through the same stages yours did.
I don't know, looking back—I used ice packs and applied some Heparin gel, and the pain never really came back. It doesn't feel like anything is "off" on the inside. But, I do get the sense that my left ankle stays just a tiny bit more swollen than my right one. Like there's this permanent little puffiness there. Is that actually possible, and is there anything you can even do about it after all these years?
One more thing—I’ve got this astigmatism issue. My distance prescription is actually pretty mild, just -0.50... but I can't bring myself to wear the glasses I picked up at the mall near downtown. Everything feels "off" when I put them on—my perception gets weird, things look blurry, and I honestly feel a bit nauseous. A lot of people say you just need time to adjust, but I've seen some folks on here arguing that isn't true at all—that if the prescription is right, they should feel fine immediately (and my prescription is identical for both eyes).
Can anyone weigh in on this? Also, does anyone have recommendations for solid ophthalmologists—someone you can actually trust to get the prescription right? I need to be certain whether I actually have astigmatism or if it was misdiagnosed... because I know plenty of people on these forums who dealt with the exact same thing!
And while we're at it, could someone explain astigmatism to me in plain English? I know the textbook definition and I've googled it, but how does it actually *feel* or manifest for those of us living with it? Like, what exactly is distorted? How does the world look different to me compared to someone without it? What's the actual core of the problem?
Alright, I’m bumping this thread because I could really use some advice.
Here’s a quick copy/paste of what I posted earlier today over in the "Ophthalmologists and Pricing" thread—though it doesn't seem to be getting much traction there:
***Does it actually matter if you have a minor distance prescription combined with astigmatism, but you don't wear glasses because you feel like your vision is basically fine? Could skipping those distance glasses actually cause my near-vision prescription (reading glasses) to increase faster? I think I heard somewhere that was a thing, but I honestly have no clue... Does anyone know the deal with that?
My distance prescription is -0.50 plus some astigmatism; I don't wear glasses for it since it doesn't feel necessary. I do use +1.25 reading glasses... I feel like I heard somewhere that if you neglect the distance correction (especially with astigmatism), your near-vision starts failing faster and that reading prescription creeps up quicker. ***
Side note: I’ve had a few exams with Dr. Miller at the downtown medical center... A few people here have mentioned her before. I can't say for sure if her prescriptions are spot on or not—mostly because I haven't seen anyone else besides her since I was a kid—but her optical boutique in that medical center is gorgeous. They have an incredible selection of frames and the staff is super friendly, but man, they are outrageously expensive. They always try to upsell you on these insanely pricey lenses by telling you these elaborate stories about how great they are. Has anyone else dealt with them? What’s the verdict? Please share your experiences with other ophthalmologists or optical shops around town... When I checked prices for lenses at some other very decent shops in the city, I almost fainted at how much cheaper they were compared to Miller's place.
Does it actually matter if I have a slight distance prescription along with some astigmatism, but I don't wear my glasses because I feel like my vision is mostly fine? Does skipping those distance glasses cause my reading prescription—you know, the plus diopters—to climb faster? I've heard rumors to that effect, but I'm not really sure... anyone have any insight?
I’m sitting at -0.50 for distance plus some astigmatism. I don't bother with the distance glasses since they don't feel necessary. I do use +1.25 readers, though... I think I heard somewhere that if you neglect the distance correction (especially with astigmatism), your near vision degrades faster and your reading prescription jumps up sooner? 😕
Kate Flores4 said:Look, maybe those doctors had the wrong approach or used flawed methods. Maybe some of the medications did more harm than good, or perhaps there's an advanced therapy out there you just haven't discovered yet. When you're young, it's easy to trust authority figures over your own gut, especially given your situation with your parents. Don't give up on yourself or the idea of being happy. Did you have a hobby as a kid that made you feel alive when things were tough? Some big dream that made you look forward to growing up? Let that be the thing that pulls you out of this depression so you can actually achieve it. Who you are right now isn't the real you. This is just a dark reflection caused by parental irresponsibility and immaturity. You have to leave that behind and find your true self. Have you tried getting out into nature, maybe hitting the coast for some sun when things get dark? For me, nature helps way more than people do. Being in the ocean and swimming is everything—the water cleanses you, and swimming itself is a metaphor for energy, control, and the ability to perform. Plus, you'll end up looking great 😉
Also, try experimenting with your diet. It’s huge. Cut out the foods that mess with your head and focus on the ones that actually lift you up
Then, try finding a part-time job. Take it one step at a time, and eventually, you'll be able to get back to your studies. School is hard; it requires massive willpower and concentration. If you're struggling right now, it makes sense—I've been there, and failing to hit your marks while depressed just pushes you deeper into the hole. People dealing with depression or any illness often find relief by indulging their impulses, even if those emotions seem childish or irrational. It’s basically regression. But after that, you come out emotionally stronger and gain better self-control
Come on, there is still so much you haven't tried. The best revenge against everyone who hurt you is simply being happy and being yourself
Kate Flores4, such beautiful advice. 😘 I think you're being incredibly constructive here—really lovely to read! 👍
Harold Anderson3, hang in there. Think about what actually brings you joy—do you daydream about anything specific? Is there anything you're genuinely interested in? Are there people you love (besides Mom)? Anyone you respect or look up to who might inspire or motivate you?
Kyle Nelson2 said:and it’s not even a big deal... I guess what I'm trying to say is you just need to get into the habit of questioning your own views... you know, making yourself the standard you measure everything against...
That said, I think it's actually a good thing that they communicate and want to share their experiences with others.
Harold Anderson3 said:I actually called my old man today and just laid it all out—told him exactly what I think about his parenting and how he has absolutely no right to demand academic results from me at college when his own upbringing is the root cause of my struggles. It wasn't like he reached out to check in on me out of the goodness of his heart, after all.
Naturally, things got pretty heated. He’s convinced this is all just laziness on my part, or that I'm some kind of manipulator who only moved back in with my mom because I can get away with whatever I want... His mindset is just so narrow; he doesn't have any concept of psychology or the fact that people actually have feelings, let alone understanding anything regarding mental health. And honestly, he ended up marrying someone struggling with schizophrenia. I mean, the whole thing fell apart after three years, but still... In any case, I feel a little lighter now that we've talked, even if it was through a massive argument. I just needed to vent those negative emotions and make sure he knows that I hold him responsible for where I am today. Am I being fair here, or am I totally off base?
You’re right to speak up—there's no point in bottling everything inside. He’s had plenty of time to reflect on how much you've been struggling, so it’s pretty sad if he still can't grasp it. Maybe he can, but he’s just pretending not to understand what you're saying. Some people are just built that way—stubborn, rigid, and they won't admit they're wrong even if their life depends on it; they'd rather dig their heels in and stick to a destructive mindset.
Stick to your treatment plan and keep working closely with your therapist. If you feel like things are improving even just a tiny bit, keep following her lead. I think you'll see progress if you stay persistent—just take it one small step at a time. That slow progress is what eventually leads to independence and feeling secure again.
Hang in there and stay strong. You've got what it takes! 🙂
Harold Anderson3 said:That is absolutely spot on; she also dealt with physical abuse when she was growing up. Does that mean I'm supposed to just 'look the other way' because of her past? Objectively speaking, life would be easier for both of us if we had a decent relationship, even though, if I'm being honest, I don't feel any personal urge to maintain a connection with her at all.
I don't think you need to "look the other way," especially since you mentioned you don't actually care about having a relationship with her. You shouldn't feel forced to maintain one—it would just be more stress and unnecessary drama for you. It would require constant effort, and those old memories would just keep resurfacing, creating constant friction. So—NO, just keep things with her to an absolute minimum and don't let it weigh on you.
I’m honestly losing my mind reading this!!!! Sorry for the outburst, but, Harold Anderson3, I just can't wrap my head around what some parents do to their kids. You’re incredible, Harold Anderson3! You’re such a strong person for being able to process all of this so rationally. And the fact that you don't hold any hate toward those people—you’re just trying to look at things realistically—is amazing.
I can't believe that woman—your own stepmother—actually hit you just because you were wetting the bed!!! 😱 I mean, is there anyone out there with even a shred of education who doesn't understand why kids do that, or what happens when they get beaten for it!!! You already had enough stress in that little head of yours—growing up without a mother and everything else—and she was hitting you over bedwetting. On top of all that, you were actually winning competitions, and she still managed to belittle you. Then your dad tells you you did it "out of spite." Unbelievable.
But whatever... they probably just didn't know any better, because if they did, they would have handled it better... that’s how psychotherapists usually frame it... You’re on the right track, Harold Anderson3, I’m certain of it, because like I said, you don't harbor any resentment; you’re just trying to see things for what they really are. Yeah, lacking parental love during childhood is devastating and hard to make up for. But I truly think that one day, when you have your own family, you’ll do things differently and more constructively—simply because you learned from their mistakes.
Maybe try spending a bit more time with your mom; I’m convinced she suffered terribly being separated from you. And stay open with people—vent about what’s bothering you instead of letting it eat you up inside. Don't ever shut yourself off from the world. Wishing you nothing but the best, hang in there. 😘
All of this is just incredibly saddening, but I think you are a creative, smart person and you're going to come out on top of all this.
I don't get why this is weighing on you so much. I personally know plenty of guys who were completely bald by their late 20s—not just graying, but totally gone. Honestly, take the win and be happy you still have hair, even if there's a little gray mixed in.
As for when the graying actually starts—it’s mostly down to genetics. Just ask your parents when they started seeing silver hairs; you'll likely follow pretty much the same timeline.