Dr. John Steven Jarstad, MD
Ophthalmologist
34719 6th Ave S Federal Way WA, 98003About
Dr. John Jarstad is an ophthalmologist practicing in Federal Way, WA. Dr. Jarstad specializes in eye and vision care. As an ophthalmologist, Dr. Jarstad can practice medicine as well as surgery. Opthalmologists can perform surgeries because they have their medical degrees along with at least eight years of additional training. Dr. Jarstad can diagnose and treat diseases, perform eye operations and prescribe eye glasses and contacts. Ophthalmologists can also specialize even further in a specific area of eye care.
Education and Training
Univ of Wa Sch of Med, Seattle Wa 1984
Board Certification
OphthalmologyAmerican Board of OphthalmologyABO
Provider Details
Dr. John Steven Jarstad, MD's Expert Contributions
How long does it take to adjust to contact lenses?
1 week for soft contacts 3 weeks for gas permeable or hard contacts READ MORE
Does high blood pressure cause blurry vision?
It certainly can. With high BP there can be retina swelling or edema and mini strokes of the her circulation called cotton wool spots, minute hemorrhages or exudates (leaky blood vessels). Best to see an ophthalmologist right away. READ MORE
What is causing eye watering in my son?
Usually, this represents an allergic eye condition. You may try Zaditor allergy drops twice a day for 2 weeks. They usually kick in after day 3 and are very good at prevention and safe for year round use. They are now over the counter, but were prescription only up until just a few years ago. They are that safe and effective. If no better after two weeks, you should see an ophthalmologist for possible tear duct probing. John S. Jarstad, M.D., F.A.A.O. READ MORE
How often should I replace my contact lenses?
Every two weeks, they should be cleaned or disposed of. John S. Jarstad, M.D., F.A.A.O. READ MORE
What do you recommend for an allergic reaction with the eyes?
Visine is fine initially (1 drop twice a day, both eyes), but should not be used for more than 14 days. A long-term preventative eye drop such as Zaditor should be used. 1 drop twice a day should prevent allergic reactions as Zaditor is a mast cell stabilizer and prevents histamine from ever getting outside the cell wall, thus the very best type of “anti-histamine.” READ MORE
There's an intense pain in my eyes and my vision is blurry. What could this be from?
It could be Glaucoma or dry eye syndrome. You need to get right in and have your eye pressure tested. Don’t wait. READ MORE
My eyes are red and itching badly. Why is this happening?
Possibly, but more likely represents blepharitis or “dandruff of the eyelids.” A good remedy is to use a few drops of Johnson’s no tears baby shampoo and with your eyes closed tight scrub your eyelashes and eyelids while you shower once daily. There is also a foam product called “Sterilid” which works the same way. If no better in a week, see an eye doctor. John Jarstad, M.D. Associate Professor, University of Missouri-Dept of Ophthalmology READ MORE
What is the difference between optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
In 2018 there are many similarities in that most states now allow optometric physicians (optometrists) to diagnose and treat many Eye disorders with prescription Eye drops and medications. The biggest difference is that nearly all states do not allow optometrists to perform Eye surgery (like cataract, LASIK, or retina or glaucoma surgery. Optometrists have become more and more the primary care Eye specialists with our current shortage of EyeMD’s. There are also many osteopathic physicians (D.O.’s) who train to be surgical ophthalmologists and are included as EyeMD’s READ MORE
Why does my vision feel hazy in the morning?
It sounds like you could have an early form of Fuchs’ Cornea dystrophy. An ophthalmologist or cornea specialist should be consulted. An over the counter eyedrop Muro 128 5% is often helpful with one drop twice a day has been useful in your condition. READ MORE
My cylindrical number is changing every six months. What could be the cause for this?
Yes. This could be the first sign of keratoconus. We are conducting a trial at University of Missouri looking at high dose (400mg) daily riboflavin capsule and 15 min of briskly walking outside facing the sunlight to treat early keratoconus and stabilize the cylinder. So far treatments have been very successful in our 6 month study READ MORE
Can contact lenses be worn by an 8-year-old?
Yes. That was the reason I became an eye surgeon. I tell parents when a child remembers to clean their room and make their bed every day without missing then they are mature enough for contacts. Otherwise, parents can place them before games or full contact practices until the child is mature enough to care for them alone. READ MORE
Can diabetes cause reading difficulties?
Yes. This could be a sign of early cataract, or diabetic retinopathy. She should have a refraction, hemoglobin A1c test and a dliated eye exam by an ophthalmologist. Most diabetic eye conditions can be resolved if diagnosed and treated early by an ophthalmologist. READ MORE
Fellowships
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (Nuclear Medicine)
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