expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. John Steven Jarstad, M.D.

Ophthalmologist

Dr. John Steven Jarstad M.D. is a top Ophthalmologist in Federal Way, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. John Steven Jarstad M.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. John Steven Jarstad M.D. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. John Steven Jarstad M.D. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Federal Way, WA, Dr. John Steven Jarstad M.D. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
40 years Experience
Dr. John Jarstad, M.D.
  • Federal Way, WA
  • Univ of Wa Sch of Med, Seattle Wa
  • Accepting new patients

How long does it take to adjust to contact lenses?

1 week for soft contacts 3 weeks for gas permeable or hard contacts

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 READ MORE
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.

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 READ MORE
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.

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.

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 READ MORE
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.”

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.

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 READ MORE
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

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 READ MORE
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

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 READ MORE
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.

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 READ MORE
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

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 READ MORE
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.

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 READ MORE
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.