Parents who are raising children are aware of what to anticipate in terms of toilet training, helping them to crawl, and eventually stand and walk. They encourage them to speak and caution them not to touch certain objects. They expose their children to a variety of tastes and smells, all of which are simple enough to name, discuss, explain, and comprehend. However, according to renowned Australian behavioural optometrist Gary Rodney, fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC), whose Smart Vision Optometry has a special interest  in this area, many parents are at a loss when it comes to assisting their children with their eyesight or vision, and just as many are overlooking the symptoms of potential vision disorders.

Being a step or two behind while starting school 

Because some children do not perceive the world or anything in it the same way that their classmates do, Rodney believes that many youngsters arrive to school a few steps behind their peers. Instead, everything has a blurry appearance or is not able to be visually processed properly. Also, it can make children feel uneasy in various situations. This can result in a variety of learning issues.

“When students first start school, they are exposed to a whole new environment, and they sometimes feel inferior to their new classmates when it comes to academic performance. They don’t understand why their reading skills may deteriorate and other learning abilities may lag. So many of them can start to display behavioural issues or refrain from participating in a procedure that looks too challenging. Many people don’t want to start doing sports, and some don’t want to read,” explains Rodney.

The issue of distance 

Myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) are two of the most well-known eye conditions, which coupled with other conditions afflict at least 22% of Australians under the age of 14. Both cause children’s vision to become hazy, whether they are trying to see anything at a distance, as is the situation with myopia or up close, as is the case with hyperopia. Both are refraction mistakes brought on by light rays that concentrate in front of or behind the retina rather than on it as they ought to.

However, Rodney has discovered that optical blur only makes up 11% of all other visual issues on school screenings. Both perceptual vision and functional vision abilities can create a lot more problems. Therefore, focusing just on refractive defects will not reveal the great majority of visual obstacles to reading and learning.

How to Recognise the Symptoms 

Parents can be alert for certain warning signs that indicate their children may have issues with visual function or the processing of objects at various distances. Some can be seen clearly in their bodily acts.

These include the habit of moving very close to what they are attempting to view, such as while watching television, or bringing books very close to their eyes when attempting to read. Children with eye issues may also become lost in a book when reading, let their eyes follow the text while using a finger as a guide, or begin to avoid tasks that are too challenging for them. According to Rodney, this may apply to literature or even sports since the blur makes it too tough because the required attention is uncomfortable for them.

In order to have the stronger eye perform the work and prevent the weaker eye from becoming “lazy” and further deteriorating, they may also squint or tilt their heads to one side.

“Frequent headaches, light sensitivity, and complaints of “sore eyes” may result from difficulties focusing. Additionally, it may cause children to refuse to do the recommended tasks when they read a book or use a computer or need to have great motivation to attend While this is frequently seen as poor behaviour, it may actually be the very genuine outcome of an eye condition,” says Rodney.

What parents can do

With this information in hand, parents are encouraged to set an appointment with a Smart Vision optometrist like those at Eyes InDesign Mosman to book a Smart Vision Skills Assessment to evaluate their children and get them the help they need.  

Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign Mosman, provides professional expertise to best evaluate and treat eye-related queries and visual problems and supports patients to optimise their visual health.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

During World Sight Day this past October, it was important to shed light on the categories of blindness and visual impairment and the possible causes and treatments, and it’s still as important as ever.

Gary Rodney, a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Mosman, believes it is important for people to understand blindness and visual impairment. “There is a large population of blind or visually impaired people in the world. The severity of their blindness or impairment varies, depending on the causes,” says Rodney.

People who are blind or are visually impaired sometimes struggle to live an independent life as there is often a lack of opportunities and resources available to them, especially in less developed countries. “There needs to be a shift in the understanding of the causes of blindness and visual impairment and ways to treat symptoms and support the visually impaired,” adds Rodney.

Common types of visual impairment include; a loss of Central Vision, Blurred Vision, Generalised Haze, Extreme Light Sensitivity, and Night Blindness. A loss of central vision creates a blind spot in the middle of the eye and only peripheral (side) vision remains intact. This makes it difficult to read, recognise faces and to distinguish most details in the distance. Blurred vision causes both near and far objects to be out of focus. Generalised haze causes a constant sensation of a film or glare that can cover the entire vision field. Extreme light sensitivity occurs when normal levels of light become overwhelming for the visual system, leading to washed out images, and in some cases a certain level of pain or discomfort. Night blindness results in the inability to see in the moonlight or dimly lit spaces.

Causes of blindness and visual impairment include; uncorrected refractive errors, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, corneal opacity, and trachoma. “It is important to ensure that you have regular eye checks, including a comprehensive dilated eye examination, to avoid issues becoming worse,” says Rodney. There are ways to protect eyes and prevent or manage vision loss. Try and keep blood sugars at a healthy level, maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well and regularly exercising, and wear protective eyewear, whether at work or in the sun. Also, keep abreast of family eye health history. This will help to determine if there are any eye diseases that could be hereditary.

With any eye condition, it is important to seek out a premium eye care solution with a Smart Vision Optometrist. The earlier a condition can be addressed, the better the outcome. A Smart Vision Optometrist can address symptoms with a tailored wellness treatment program.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. For any concerns about your visual health, book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News. 

Eye twitching or myokymia is an uncontrolled, repetitive squeezing or twitching of the eyelids. An eye twitch is sometimes referred to as an eye spasm. A twitch normally happens on the upper lid but it can occur in both the upper and the lower lids.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, sheds light on the different kinds of eye twitches. “Eye twitches can be classified into three types. The first is a general eye spasm, the second is a Benign Essential Blepharospasm and the third is a Hemifacial Spasm,” explains Jacqueline.

A general eyelid spasm is the most common type of eye twitch and usually has no cause for concern. This type of twitching can be caused by environmental factors and generally disappears with rest.  However, if these twitches persist, it is advised to speak to an eye care professional.

A benign essential blepharospasm is a long-term or chronic type of eye twitching. This type of eye twitching causes blurry vision, facial spasms and increased sensitivity to light.

A hemifacial spasm normally only affects one eye. It is usually caused by a blood vessel adding extra pressure to one of the facial nerves. This disorder is more common in women and also more common in people from Asia. If left untreated it can cause consistent and uncontrollable eye twitching, inability to open eye and twitching of all muscles on one side of the face.

“There are many different factors that can cause eyelid twitching,” suggests Jacqueline. Generally, eyelid spasms are caused or made worse by eye strain, environmental irritants, fatigue, stress, dry eyes, medication side effects, light sensitivity, conjunctivitis or migraine episodes. Normally eye twitches are no cause for concern. However, chronic eyelid twitches could be a sign of a more serious brain or nervous system disorder. If this is the case, twitches are almost always accompanied by other symptoms. It is important to know when eyelid twitches require medical attention. A doctor may need to be contacted if the eye is red, swollen or has an unusual discharge, the upper lid is drooping, the eye completely shuts when the eyelid twitches, twitching continues for several weeks, and if the twitching affects other parts of the face.

Most eyelid twitches go away within a couple of days or weeks without treatment. If it does not go away, try to eliminate or minimise possible causes. “Some ways to relieve eye twitching are to drink less caffeine, get enough sleep, keep eyes moist with over-the-counter eye drops and to apply a warm compress over the eyes when the spasms begin,” says Jacqueline. If a doctor advises that intervention is needed, antibiotics or surgery might be suggested.

If eye twitching persists, it is crucial to book a session with a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist to undertake a Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment in order to detect any problems with the eyes. At  Eyes InDesign Bondi, a unique vision wellness treatment for the issue can be developed.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Eye allergies, also known as ‘Allergic Conjunctivitis’ are a common eye problem seen every year by eye care professionals. This issue surges during the springtime due to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites and pet dander. Dirt, smoke, chemicals, chlorine and perfume can also cause irritation and infection. The tissue around the eyeball, called the conjunctiva, which keeps the eyeball and the eyelid moist, becomes inflamed and can then become infected. This can become uncomfortable and sometimes even painful.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, provides information that can help people cope with, or avoid the problem of eye allergies this spring.

Some of the main symptoms related to Allergic Conjunctivitis include, redness in the eyes, itchiness, burning, watery eyes, swollen eyelids, or feeling like there is dirt or grit in the eyes. These are often accompanied by a runny or itchy nose as well as coughing, sneezing and other normal allergy symptoms. “Some people have also experienced blurry vision for a brief period. If not treated immediately, there is a risk that the allergens could spread from one eye to the other and then both eyes will be affected,” says Jacqueline. Symptoms can vary depending on the person. One may have a combination of these symptoms or perhaps only one of the symptoms.

Treatments for Allergic Conjunctivitis include, saline drops that help to wash away the allergens, over-the-counter medications, prescription treatments, or allergy shots from a doctor. If treated correctly, the symptoms may disappear completely. “Although there are ways to treat eye allergies, the best option is to try to avoid coming into contact with the allergens,” suggests Jacqueline.

Other methods to avoid eye allergies include, not touching or rubbing eyes, washing hands often with soap and water, making sure the environment is free of dust, regularly washing bedding and vacuuming pet hair, wearing sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat, and keeping windows closed to avoid pollen from blowing into the house.

Wearing heavy eye makeup can also irritate eye allergies.  Allergic Conjunctivitis symptoms can last 4-8 weeks and commonly remain through the pollen season. If the symptoms do not go away after the pollen season then it may be time to seek help.

“Allergic Conjunctivitis is sometimes confused with Conjunctivitis or pink eye but they are definitely different,” says Jacqueline. If any of the symptoms or eye allergies arise, it is important to book an assessment with a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist so that an assessment can be made and a unique wellness treatment can be developed to help manage eye allergies.

Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign Bondi, provides professional expertise to best evaluate and treat eye-related queries and visual problems and supports patients to optimise their visual health.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Sunglasses are a way of expressing your style but are also a functional way to protect your eyes from the sun. Eyes InDesign Mosman, makes it easy to stay up to date with the latest sunglasses trends because they stock designer sunglasses from leading Australian and European fashion brands.

Some trending styles and colours for 2022 include:

NEON SUNGLASSES

Whether its neon frames or neon lenses, this trend is very popular at the moment. The neon trend is inspired by the nineties and is evident across the fashion industry now. Make a statement this summer by wearing a pair of fashionable neon sunglasses!

BOLD WHITE SUNGLASSES

If the neon trend is too colourful, try the fashionable bold white sunglasses. Just because they’re white doesn’t mean they are boring. When combined with a thick, retro frame, this style is perfect for every occasion this summer. This look has been seen on the likes of famous YouTuber Emma Chaimberlain!

METAL FRAMES

Classic metal framed sunglasses do not have to be left in the past. They are still trendy and are sure to make a statement this season. Metal frames come in different shapes to suit any face.

SHIELD SUNGLASSES

Mono lenses that made people like JLo, a fashion icon, are back! This is because of the increased popularity in Y2K or the year two thousand fashion. These large shades can be a great way to protect your eyes from the sun while looking super cool and remaining on trend!

All the brands stocked at Eyes InDesign Mosman are of a high quality. They are a perfect investment to protect your eyes. Ensure your sunglasses have a good percentage of UV protection. Some over-the-counter sunglasses have a poor light filter with no or limited UV protection and can damage your eyes. An increased exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and ocular melanoma.

Besides 100% UV protection, there are a few other reasons to wear high quality sunglasses. Many good quality sunglasses offer polarised lenses which help to eliminate glare or intense light. Glare bounces off different surfaces (cars, the road and the ocean). Polarised sunglasses can eliminate the risk of accidents due to distractions caused by glare.

For your next pair of high-quality sunglasses that are on trend this summer, come into Eyes InDesign Mosman and have a look at the designer brands available. Our in-house stylist can give you the best advice on what frame will suit your face and make it easy for you to look fashionable this season.

Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign Mosman, provides professional expertise to best evaluate and treat eye-related queries and visual problems and supports patients to optimise their visual health.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Drinking water and being properly hydrated has an effect on more than just the skin, it also affects the eyes. Dehydration is when more liquid leaves the body than enters it. This could be due to not drinking enough water or when a large amount of water has been lost.

The body’s initial response to dehydration is to conserve water. Symptoms of dehydration include a dry mouth, light-headedness as well as a lack of tear production.  When the eyes are not properly lubricated, this can lead to dry eye disease, eye strain and vision problems.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi expresses the importance of staying hydrated and how integral it is for the whole body including the eyes!

Dry eye disease occurs when there are not enough tears to nourish and lubricate the eyes. Tears are also needed for clear vision. Tears help to cleanse the eyes and wash away any impurities that could cause infection. Symptoms of dry eyes include blurry vision, irritation and the feeling of having something stuck in the eyes. Having dry eyes is a symptom of being dehydrated. One of the best treatments for dry eyes is to drink enough water as well as use eye drops to rehydrate and lubricate the eyes. Eye drops can also wash away any impurities from the eyes.

If eyes are constantly dehydrated it can also increase the risk of developing cataracts. As cataracts increase in size, they affect vision and could eventually lead to blindness.

Dehydrated eyes can also lead to eye strain. The symptoms of eye strain include tired and blurry eyes, headaches and double vision. Eye strain can also be caused by concentration on a screen or digital device for an extended period. “If eye strain is caused by dehydration, drink plenty of water and try to rest your eyes more to avoid straining them,” suggests Jacqueline. The best way to know if dehydrated or dry eyes is the problem is to see an optometrist regularly to ensure that correct eye care is being practised.

“The best way to avoid dehydrated eyes is to adjust your lifestyle choices and opt for healthier habits. By seeing a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist you will be able to get the advice you need from professionals,” says Jacqueline. Some healthy lifestyle changes that can be made include switching to a low sodium diet because a diet high in sodium can dehydrate the body. Reduce the amount of alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, drink at least eight glasses of water ever day and try and reduce the amount of time spent in front of a screen (laptops, cellphones and tablets).

The most important thing to do if symptoms of eye strain or dry eyes appear is to book an appointment with a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist so that an assessment can be done and a unique wellness treatment can be developed.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047. Alternatively, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

The importance of children’s eye health and safety often gets over-looked. It is, however, of major importance and should not be forgotten. As this month is children’s eye health and safety month, it is important to speak about issues on this topic. According to Optometry Australia, one in five children has an undetected vision problem which could be detrimental for their education as well as their self-esteem. The difference between adults and children is that adults will easily identify a problem where children rarely complain.

Gary Rodney, an Australian Smart Vision Optometrist and fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control at Eyes InDesign Mosman, is passionate about helping children pinpoint their eye issues and ultimately resolve their problems.

There are some symptoms to look out for to know if the child has any vision-related issues. There are a few symptoms that can indicate an issue with your child’s vision. These symptoms include; difficulties learning, lack of concentration, coordination problems, red or sore eyes, nausea, unusual body posture while reading or writing, fatigue, as well as headaches. “Many people are not aware that some learning disabilities in children can be heavily contributed by an undetected or untreated vision problem,” says Rodney.

The reason children with vision issues have problems with learning is because vision plays a big role in the process of learning. “Often it is not until children begin to read that we first notice they might have a vision problem. It is also important for parents to understand that even if a child has excellent eyesight they could still have significant vision skills related learning disabilities,” says Rodney.

Some of the main vision skills needed for early readers include; tracking, which is looking from word to word (scanning); focusing, keeping clear focus on a particular point and the ability to move to another point rapidly; sequencing, recognising the correct order of letters or numbers; short term visual memory, recalling information quickly; and visual discrimination, recognising subtle differences between different letters and words. Even though dyslexia is not mainly caused by vision problems, recent research has shown that there could be a connection between vision issues and dyslexia.

There are many ways to treat or solve these vision issues affecting children. The first step is to have the child undertake a Smart Vision Optometry comprehensive vision skills assessment with a Smart Vision Optometrist who will be able to determine what the issue is. A unique and personalised vision therapy program can then be planned for your child. The purpose of vision therapy is to correct visual motor and visual perceptual-cognitive deficiencies. Vision therapy can help with sequencing skills; using two eyes in tandem; visual skills essential for reading; eye-hand reaction time; and many other issues. Vision therapy normally runs over a period of 16 weeks. During the final stages of vision therapy, the patient’s newly learned visual skills are made stronger and become automatic, due to repetition as well as the integration of motor and cognitive skills.

It is important to make sure that children are not suffering from vision skills problems as it can affect their lives in many ways. Be vigilant, and if you think that they might have a vision-related issue, then book an appointment with a Smart Vision Optometrist today.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

This month is cataract awareness month. A cataract is a cloudy lens that is positioned behind the iris. This lens is what focuses the light that passes into the eye creating sharp, clear images on the retina. It is a light sensitive membrane that works similar to a film camera. There are four different types of cataracts: Nuclear Cataracts (affects the centre of the lens); Cortical Cataracts (affects the edges of the lens); Posterior Sub-capsular Cataracts (affects the back of the lens); and Congenital Cataracts (cataracts you are born with).

Gary Rodney, a SmartVision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Mosman, aims to raise awareness on cataracts as well as to let people know how to prevent or manage the problem.

There are a few different factors that cause the development of cataracts in the eye. The different types of cataracts have different causes and different speeds of progress. The main risk factors include: age, diabetes, continuous exposure to the sun, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, a previous eye injury, previous eye surgery, continuous use of steroid medications, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

“Myopia can also have a hand in the development or progress of cataracts in the eye,” says Gary. Myopia (near-sightedness), seems to have a connection with the development and progression of cataracts. However, the exact amount the two affect one another needs to be determined. Nevertheless, there is definitely a connection between the two. “Statistically, having high myopia can double the risk of having fuzzy invaders blurring the lenses of your eyes, which can also lead to you developing cataracts earlier in life,” says Gary.

While no studies have shown any proven prevention methods, there are helpful ways to try and prevent cataracts from developing. Firstly, it is important to have regular eye examinations or to have a Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment done. This will help to detect any signs of cataracts early on. It is important to quit smoking and to reduce alcohol intake. Choose a healthy diet that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables. Although not proven, a large population study has been conducted where people who had enough vitamins and minerals had a lesser chance of developing cataracts. It is also important to wear sunglasses whenever you are exposed to sunlight.

There are treatment methods available. There is promising research being done on eye-drops that contain a natural compound called lanosterol that researchers suggest may dissolve cataracts. This compound already exists in the eye lens and that is what keeps the eye lens transparent. Currently, surgery is the most common procedure used to remove cataracts, however it is not without its complications, especially if you have myopia. The myopia can affect the surgery by causing retinal detachment, possibly causing a variable post-operative refractive error which removes the ability to see a few inches away. It is also important to remember that once a surgery is done it makes any holistic approach redundant.

Although there are no definite or problem free ways of preventing cataracts, the most important thing is early detection. It is important to  book a session with a SmartVision Behavioural Optometrist or directly book a Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment now.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Contact lenses are a common alternative to glasses. Although contact lenses have been a great innovation there are certain risks involved.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a SmartVision Behavioural Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi wants to educate people on the risks of contact lenses, how to avoid those risks, and how to practise good contact lens health.

As mentioned, contact lenses are a great innovation and an alternative to glasses. However, there are a few issues that can occur if healthy measures are not practised. If burning or itchiness occurs after a short period of wearing contact lenses, it could mean that there is an allergic reaction to the contact lenses. There can also be a feeling of grittiness, as if there is sand stuck in the eye.

Blurred vision is another common problem. If the cornea has a lack of oxygen it can cause blurred vision or something known as corneal hypoxia. This can happen if contacts are over worn. Dryness in the eye can be due to dry eye syndrome, which can be caused by several factors. “It is normal to experience some sort of discomfort when you first start wearing contacts, however if the discomfort becomes unbearable or there is a discharge that is not normal, you should speak to your Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist,” says Jacqueline.

There are ways to try and minimise issues associated with wearing contact lenses. It is important to have good hand hygiene when inserting contact lenses. “Always wash your hands and dry them with a lint free towel or tissue, there should be no traces of perfumes, creams or hairsprays anywhere near your eyes,” suggests Jacqueline. These kinds of practises are crucial in ensuring that the correct contact lens hygiene is taking place. While burning or itchiness can indicate an allergy to the contact lenses, it might be that there is an allergy to the lens solution. Before visiting your optometrist, try and use other brands or solutions. However, if the burning or itchiness continues, make an appointment with a Smart Vision optometrist. If it feels as though there is a grain of sand in the eye, remove the contacts and rinse both sides with solution then flush the eye with cool sterile water to get rid of anything that might be in there. If there is redness or dryness, the best way to combat this is to practise the highest level of contact lens hygiene. If blurred vision happens, it is likely because contacts are being worn for an extended period and this should be avoided.

It is essential to practise the correct contact lens hygiene to avoid any issues. If severe reactions happen during the use of contact lenses such as discharge or constant burning or blurry vision, contact a Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrist and book a Comprehensive Vision Skills assessment. This way, a clear and unique wellness plan can be designed.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600, alternatively book an appointment online.

Syndicated by: YDMA News

Computer Vision Syndrome or CVS is a name given to eye problems that are caused by prolonged computer use. When people use computers, tablets or mobile phones their eyes are required to converge closely and keep focus for long periods of time. Eye problems are becoming more and more common due to the increase in digital usage in our world.

Jacquie Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, discusses the symptoms of CVS and how to manage problems occurring from digital eye strain as well as how to reduce their effects.

There are signs and symptoms to look out for to know if it’s CVS or not. The symptoms of CVS or digital eye strain include; tired eyes, dry eyes, headaches, glare sensitivity, blurred vision, double vision, eye twitching or excessive tiredness towards the end of the day. If a person suffers from any of these symptoms, it is possible that they could potentially have Computer Vision Syndrome.

“CVS or Computer Vision Syndrome has become one of the most common workplace complaints but it is not exclusive to adults,” says Jacquie. There are millions of children and teens who spend hours in front of a computer everyday. This puts stress on their eyes and can affect normal vision development. If these problems are not corrected in younger people, it has been shown to cause shortsightedness or myopia.

There are ways to treat or control Computer Vision Syndrome. Firstly, a Smart Vision Optometry comprehensive vision skills assessment needs to be performed so that a personal wellness treatment program can be designed for them. Depending on the results of their examination, their Smart Vision Optometrist may prescribe them specific computer glasses customised for where their visual system is at and which will help their eyes focus on the screen more comfortably. “Studies have shown that having the correct computer glasses increases productivity and accuracy,” says Jacquie. It is also recommended to have an anti-reflective coating on their computer glasses as it reduces reflections on the front and the back of their glasses, which causes glare and can make it difficult for their eyes to focus.

Besides wearing the correct computer glasses, there are a few more recommendations they can adopt to reduce the effects of CVS. Follow the ’20-20-20 rule’ which states that every 20 minutes they should spend 20 seconds looking at something that is 20 feet (6 metres) away. It is also important to keep blinking as this helps to wash their eyes with tears naturally. The physical position of their computer as well as their own physical position is also important. The computer or laptop should be at least 40-50 centimetres away from the eyes, this is about an arms length away. The person should adjust their screen so that they look slightly downwards at it. It is also important to adjust the brightness levels to a level that is comfortable. The lighting in the surroundings should be correct, direct lighting overhead should be kept to a minimum. Make sure the desk lamp is shining on the desk and not onto the screen. Try and keep the window light off to the side instead of in front or behind as this will help reduce the reflective glare on the screen. It is also important to make sure that posture is correct while sitting by your computer. It is said that for every two centimetres forward a person leans, there are 14 kilograms weighing on their neck!

Finally and perhaps the most important step is for the person to book a session with a Smart Vision Optometrist to have a comprehensive vision skills assessment as this will enable a unique vision wellness treatment to be planned for them.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

One of the positive outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic is that many companies realise how effective and efficient working from home can be. Employees agree! Many people love the flexibility of rolling out of bed in their pj’s and firing up the computer for a serious day of work, while juggling household chores during regular breaks without the grind of the daily commute!

Sadly, this new-found freedom comes at a serious price to eye health. People from all walks of life now spend more time in front of screens than ever before. At work, boardroom meetings become Zoom meetings and emails replace water-cooler conversations.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, stresses the importance of proper eye protection and treatment from the effects of digital eye-strain. “Digital eye-strain occurs from the increased use of computers, iPads, mobile phones and computer gaming. It’s a major issue which is not exclusive to adults. Eye-strain in children and teenagers may affect normal vision development and the side effects can be debilitating if left untreated,” says Jacquie.

Eye-strain occurs when tasks are performed which force the eyes to converge closely, and maintain focus for long periods, often leading to problems with focusing. Other activities that require intense focus, such as long hours reading or driving, can result in people blinking less often, causing eye-strain.

Jacquie says, “there are primary symptoms associated with severe eye-strain to be aware of, which include sore, tired, dry or burning eyes, glare sensitivity, blurred vision, double vision, eye twitching and excessive tiredness towards the end of the day.”

“However, there are some more subtle effects that aren’t necessarily attributed to eye conditions, such as headaches, sore neck and back and even difficulty concentrating,” Jacquie says. Failure to treat the problem properly, particularly in younger people, has been shown to cause shortsightedness (myopia). “It’s a serious concern, and it is forecast that more than half the world’s population will be myopic by 2050,” says Jacquie.

Eye-strain can make being productive at work or learning at school an uphill battle, and when it starts to affect the ability to get work done, it’s time to start taking steps to tackle eye-strain head-on.

“Probably the easiest fix is to ensure frequent breaks from the screens to rest the eyes. The ‘20-20-20 rule’ is an effective and productive exercise that doesn’t significantly encroach on one’s work schedule. Simply, every 20 minutes, spend 20 seconds looking at something at least 20 feet (6 metres) away,” says Jacquie. “Another simple exercise is to keep blinking. Blinking, washes the eyes in naturally therapeutic tears,” Jacquie says.

For those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen, it’s important to ensure the workstation is set up properly.  Jacquie says, “set the screen about an arm’s length away and adjust the screen so the top of the screen is at eye level. Ensure brightness and contrast are set to comfortable levels.”

Smart Vision Optometrists recommend a comprehensive vision skills assessment every 12-months. Jacquie says, “this one-hour consultation performs a detailed assessment of focusing and eye coordination abilities so preventative measures can be implemented. Depending on the outcome of the exam, the optometrist may prescribe computer eyeglasses, potentially with a blue light filter, to help the eyes focus on the screen more comfortably.” Clinical studies have shown that having the correct prescription in computer eyeglasses increases productivity and accuracy.

For more information about Smart Vision Optometry’s digital eye-strain wellness treatment programmes, contact Smart Vision Optometry today.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

We all know that a child’s development can vary immensely from child to child. It is perhaps not as well known that a child’s vision also develops over time and can also vary from child to child.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains the relationship between vision and learning; and why it is so important for parents to understand the difference between sight and vision.

Often it is not until children begin to read that we first notice they have a vision problem. This is the time when they start using their visual system more intensively to tune in to small details. The level of demand on visual skills required for reading increases throughout a child’s learning years.

Jacquie says, “it is important for parents to understand that children with excellent eyesight can still have significant vision-related learning difficulties. A child presenting vision skills concerns is more likely to have difficulty reading and understanding what they have read. The extra effort required can cause blurriness and discomfort, as well as preventing them from performing to their potential.”

“It is important that we understand the difference between sight and vision,” says Jacquie. “Eyesight essentially refers to the physical attributes and performance of the many organic components involved in the visual system. 20/20 vision is a commonly quoted measure of normal vision, yet it simply describes the sensitivity of the eye to see fine detail in the distance,” Jacquie says.

“Unlike eyesight, vision is a thought process, which emerges as an understanding of what is seen, where it is and how to react to it. It combines information from many sensory systems to create a perception of reality,” says Jacquie. “Vision describes a more dynamic and interactive process, essentially a whole information processing system developed through experience to gain understanding of the external visual space world.”

For example, for a person driving a car, vision is much more than reading license plates clearly at a distance. Vision is the total process whereby the spatial relationships between the cars are taken in and processed by the driver in order to guide the car safely to its destination, without an accident and with minimum stress. Vision judges the relative speeds of the other cars, and alerts the driver to a pedestrian stepping onto the road or another car at an intersection, or the door of a parked car opening.

Jacquie says, “therefore, some of the primary visual skills required for early readers include; Tracking: scanning from letter to letter, word to word, looking ahead and predicting text, moving from one line to the next. Focusing: maintaining clear focus at a particular point (e.g. a word on a page) and the ability to rapidly change focus from one point to another (e.g. from copying from the board to the book). Sequencing: recognising the order of numbers or letters in words, as well as left to right progression when reading and writing. Short Term Visual Memory: recalling information presented quickly; and Visual Discrimination: recognising subtle visual differences between letters (e.g. m/n) and words (e.g. was/saw or big/dig), reducing reversals and improving overall recognition.”

Some children complain about headaches. These can be caused by vision problems, which can signal a broader issue as well as distract them from their learning, and it can also cause them to strain to see the board at the front of the classroom.

“A comprehensive vision skills assessment takes about one hour and is crucial for detecting various eye conditions. This includes, Strabismus (misaligned eyes), Amblyopia (lazy eye), Myopia (near-sightedness), Hyperopia (far-sightedness), and Astigmatism,” says Jacquie.

Many children and teens have near-sighted or far-sighted vision problems. “These conditions can be treated with special glasses or contact lenses,” says Jacquie. Some children and teens may benefit from having contact lenses instead of eyeglasses. Contact lenses are a good choice for those who often play sports and feel uncomfortable wearing glasses. Children often wear glasses to help improve their vision and provide protection against vision loss.

“Having a vision problem can affect a child’s academic performance and quality of life,” says Jacquie, “being able to identify these symptoms can help prevent this from happening.

A few signs or symptoms that indicate your child may be experiencing vision problems and needs glasses include squinting, also known as a refractive error. A child might tilt his or her head to one side and depend on one eye to improve their vision. It could also be a sign that the eyes are not aligned properly or that there is a lazy eye. Sitting too closely to a television or holding a hand-held device too closely to the eyes can be signs of poor vision. Excessive rubbing of the eyes is also a common symptom of poor vision and can also be a sign of other conditions that cause vision problems. Complaining of eye pain or headaches are other common symptoms to take note of.

Due to the nature of our environment and the variety of technology devices that children use, children with visual disorders may have difficulty concentrating on their schoolwork. “Many parents don’t know that their child has a problem with their vision, which is why it’s important that they have a comprehensive vision skills assessment, annually,” says Jacquie. She concludes that whenever children show signs of lack of concentration or symptoms such as mentioned above, a visit to the optometrist is a must.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Apart from being a fashion statement, sunglasses provide a wide range of health benefits to the eyes, particularly protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays in the same way that sunscreen protects our skin. UV light is harmful to the eyes, and can dangerously affect the cornea, lens, retina and the eyelids.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains the importance of sunglasses, with a specific focus on the importance of using them from a young age. “Regardless of whether it is winter or summer, cloudy or sunny, the naked eyes are always being exposed to Ultra Violet (UV) rays,” says Jacquie.

It is estimated that more than 50% of a person’s lifetime exposure to UV is received before the age of 18. Children are more susceptible to UV damage because they spend more time outdoors. As the effects of UV exposure are cumulative, it is crucial that good eye-wear protection habits start early in life.

People should prioritise the use of sunglasses, especially in Australia and when travelling in areas with bright light and excessive sun exposure. Additionally, eye protection is important when in or on the water as reflective light from the water can be dangerous to the eyes. “Other weather conditions like snow also reflect sunlight and wearing sunglasses in these conditions is important,” says Jacquie. “Neglecting to wear sunglasses in visually harsh conditions can make the eyes susceptible to corneal burns as a result of excessive UV exposure,” Jacquie adds.

The importance of protecting the outer aspects of the eye is equally as important as the inner parts. “Eyelid skin is the thinnest skin on the human body, posing more of a risk of sunlight damage. Wearing sunglasses helps to protect delicate skin from both UV exposure, as well as from unwanted ageing,” says Jacquie.

Severe eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts have a much lower chance of impacting eye health with the use of both polarised and tinted sunglasses. As an additional measure, individuals are encouraged to visit their nearest Smart Vision Optometrist for their annual comprehensive vision skills assessment to check up on their current eye and vision health.

When selecting a pair of sunglasses, there are some considerations to make. “Today’s advanced technologies offer superior protection, including polarised sunglasses to reduce glare and visual discomfort. The convenience of prescription sunglasses and sports eye-wear is completely practical,” says Jacquie. All eye-wear is subjective to the wearers’ own preferences, but that’s where Smart Vision Optometry’s optical dispensers help. “Selecting the right frame for your face in terms of size, colour and weight is important. Eye-wear is a fashion item and selecting the right eye-wear for your lifestyle is as important as any other fashion accessory, and the optical dispensers will help find and fit a pair that’s just right,” says Jacquie.

“These days people buy eye-wear to suit the occasion, and we regularly help customers and patients choose and fit eye-wear for weddings, boating, car and horse racing events,” adds Jacquie.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics stock a range of boutique quality eye -wear designed with style and lifestyle in mind. Properly fitted to suit all face shapes and sizes, while offering maximised protection for both adults and children.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

A poor diet consisting of highly processed foods with large amounts of salt and sugar can increase the risks of developing diabetes and many other health problems that can lead to blindness.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains the importance of healthy food to maintain eye health. “Try adding some eye-friendly food to your diet, it can help improve vision and ward off diseases. While it’s important to nourish the body, adding certain nutrients can improve vision, especially in children. A well-balanced diet can help children develop vital learning skills and prevent vision loss,” Jacquie suggests.

We all know that a child’s development can vary immensely from child to child. It is perhaps not as well known that a child’s vision also develops over time and can also vary from child to child.

“Having a vision problem can affect a child’s academic performance and quality of life,” says Jacquie,” She explains the relationship between vision and learning; and why it is so important for parents to understand the difference between sight and vision. “Often it is not until children begin to read that we first notice they have a vision problem. This is the time when they start using their visual system more intensively to tune into small details. The level of demand on visual skills required for reading increases throughout a child’s learning years.”

 A healthy lunch box is a great start to help boost the nutrients children need to protect them from eye health issues such as the formation of cataracts, and macular degeneration. A good diet can also reduce the effects of dry eyes and other eye problems.

It is often a struggle to get children to eat more fruit and vegetables, but it is these that provide essential nutrients that children need for healthy vision. Including sliced fruit or vegetables in children’s lunch boxes can be a great way to tempt them with easy to eat bite-sized snacks. Some great options include apples, blueberries or strawberries. Citrus fruits deliver powerful antioxidant levels that can help prevent cataracts later in life, so the inclusion of oranges and mandarins can be beneficial. Citrus fruit can also help lower the risk of diabetes and blindness.

Studies have shown that vegetables, such as kale and spinach, can also support healthy eyesight as they contain the carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein necessary for the development and maintenance of healthy retinas. “Beta carotene can be found in capsicum, carrots, and tomatoes and helps protect eyes from night blindness. These foods can also be used as tasty snack options and are simple enough to prepare each morning. Beta carotene is also beneficial for protecting children from diabetes-related ocular diseases,” Jacquie says.

Eggs, oily or fatty fish, and nuts are great sources of omega 3, which supports healthy eye function and brain development in early childhood. Essential fatty acids protect the retina from weakening and can reduce the effects of dry eyes and other eye problems. “Excellent options for quick and easy lunches are tuna and crackers or salmon fishcakes,” says Jacquie.

A deficiency in zinc can lead to deterioration in the macula, which is the centre of the retina responsible for central vision. Eating fresh meats and green vegetables can help protect the macula from disease, including macular degeneration. As well as being used in a variety of metabolic processes throughout the entire body, zinc also helps transport other nutrients to the eye. “An easy way to get extra zinc into children’s diets is through zinc-fortified cereals or pumpkin seeds, which have added vitamins and minerals,” says Jacquie.

For more great ideas about how to support children’s healthy vision, talk to a Smart Vision Optometrist soon.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

It’s time to shed some light on eye health this month, even though one should focus on maintaining their visual health everyday. Paying close attention to one’s visual health has long term benefits. Regular visits to the optometrist can forewarn individuals of potential health risks, as well as identify notable visual concerns.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, expands on the importance of healthy vision. “There are approximately 2.2 billion people globally with near or distance-related vision impairment. In approximately half of these cases, vision impairment could have been prevented, or identified early with a regular visit to a Smart Vision Optometrist,” says Jacquie.

Sadly, however, not all vision-related issues can be detected from a standard eye test from your local optometrist, and that’s because there is a difference between sight and vision. “As a Smart Vision Optometrist, we conduct a Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment with each patient on their very first appointment. This thorough examination takes about an hour, and because of the techniques and equipment used, this type of examination is not available from your local optometrist,” says Jacquie.

“It is important that we understand the difference between sight and vision,” says Jacquie. “Eyesight essentially refers to the physical attributes and performance of the many organic components involved in the visual system. 20/20 vision is a commonly quoted measure of normal vision, yet it simply describes the sensitivity of the eye to see fine detail in the distance,” Jacquie says.

“Unlike eyesight, vision is a thought process, which emerges as an understanding of what is seen, where it is and how to react to it. It combines information from many sensory systems to create a perception of reality,” says Jacquie. “Vision describes a more dynamic and interactive process, essentially a whole information processing system developed through experience to understand the external visual space world.”

For example, “vision is what directs the cricket player to swing the bat at the exact right moment and place in space to make contact and hit a six, right over the fence,” Jacquie explains.

The primary causes of vision impairment and blindness are, uncorrected refractive, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, corneal opacity, trachoma and age-related macular degeneration. The majority of individuals with vision impairment tend to be over the age of 50, however vision loss is possible in all age groups. “Children’s vision should be tested continually throughout their school years to ensure vision-related issues do not affect their ability to learn,” Jacquie said.

Uncorrected myopia and presbyopia alone were estimated to be $352 billion and $36.8 billion respectively, in terms of productivity losses within the working world. “The gravity of not addressing visual problems creates a domino effect of unwanted health issues, as well as financial burdens,” says Jacquie.

Vision impairment impacts the quality of life, especially as one ages. “Should vision impairment progressively deteriorate, the significant detriments include, higher risks of falls and fractures, difficulty walking, and social isolation, among many,” says Jacquie.

While many eye diseases can be prevented, not all visual problems are as easily treated. Thus, every single eye condition requires a specific and timely response. “Prevention, treatment and rehabilitation are effective interventions to both address and facilitate the needs of individuals with vision impairment or eye conditions,” says Jacquie.

“Treatments are available for various eye conditions that do not cause severe vision impairment like: conjunctivitis, dry eye, and blepharitis, commonly known as inflammation of the eyelids. While pain and discomfort can be incurred with these eye conditions, the treatments aim to alleviate the symptoms and prevent more severe conditions or diseases,” says Jacquie.

It has been proven that the rehabilitation of one’s visual health has a high effective rate in improving irreversible vision impairment from severe eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

With any eye condition, it is important to make an appointment with an optometrist or preferably a Smart Vision Optometrist. The earlier a condition can be addressed, the better the outcome. A Smart Vision Optometrist can address symptoms with a tailored wellness treatment program.

Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign Bondi, provides professional expertise to best evaluate and treat eye-related queries and visual problems and supports patients to optimise their visual health.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. It is estimated that over 300,000 Australians have glaucoma, but 50% are undiagnosed. There’s no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can often stop the damage and protect one’s vision.

Glaucoma is a condition of the eye where the optic nerve is damaged due to inadequate blood supply. The most common cause is raised pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) of the aqueous humour.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains the fundamental signs of glaucoma to look out for.

“There are two main types of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma. With open-angle glaucoma, eye pressure builds gradually over time, but with closed-angle glaucoma, it’s far more sudden, requiring urgent treatment in most cases,” Jacquie says.

Peripheral vision loss is a common symptom of glaucoma. It does not affect the central vision, which is often caused by a condition known as macula degeneration, and is usually only experienced during the later stages of the disease.

The earlier the damage is detected, the better the prognosis. The damage to the optic nerve can lead to progressive and irreversible vision loss. “Most early changes cannot easily be noticed in normal life, simply because people are used to how they see out of their eyes, and, unless they can compare their vision to a healthy vision range, they would be none the wiser. That is why regular eye examinations are important in order to detect then treat glaucoma,” Jacquie says.

Some people are more susceptible to glaucoma than others. “A family history of high myopia and high blood pressure levels are known to increase a person’s chance of developing glaucoma,” says Jacquie. “Ageing and certain medication usage can also increase the risk profile of glaucoma,” she adds.

Annual eye examinations should be a priority for everyone, as it is the best way to detect glaucoma quickly. “Smart Vision Optometry uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and monitor eye conditions such as glaucoma,” says Jacquie. “Fortunately, early treatment for this condition can help stop its progress,” she adds.

Glaucoma can happen at any age. When glaucoma occurs in babies, children, and teenagers, it is called paediatric glaucoma. There are different classifications of the condition, and each type has a different age when it appears.

Congenital glaucoma occurs when a baby is born. It can also be caused by the development of an infantile eye. Congenital glaucoma occurs in babies at birth. Infantile glaucoma is usually diagnosed in babies who are less than one month old. Juvenile glaucoma normally refers to the condition in children under the age of three.

Although rare, congenital, infantile, or juvenile glaucoma are still considered uncommon. The Glaucoma Foundation states that about one in 10,000 births results in congenital glaucoma. Most babies with congenital or infantile glaucoma have vision that’s good enough to see clearly. However, if they are not treated correctly, their vision maybe lost over time.

Symptoms of paediatric glaucoma include, cloudy eye, dull appearing iris (coloured part of the eye), sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing. Although these symptoms may not be noticed at first, they can be detected through an eye examination. In most cases, they can be triggered by factors that are not yet apparent.

“Intraocular pressure reduction is one of the goals of treatment for glaucoma. By lowering the pressure gradually, it can help preserve vision,” says Jacquie.

A comprehensive vision skills assessment takes about one hour and is a key examination for the detection of glaucoma.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Eye drops, like many health products, provide users with application instructions. However, people are not always accurately informed on the correct methods of eye drop application and overall hygiene standards.

Gary Rodney, Founder of Smart Vision Optometry and a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign, Mosman, aims to inform users of the precautionary measures when using eye drops, as well as the detrimental consequences of not adhering to the correct usage.

When applying eye drops, ensure that hands are washed thoroughly with soap and water. “Dirty hands are the biggest risk when applying particular products to the eyes, and can easily transfer dirt and other particles that can irritate the eyes and lead to eye infections,” says Rodney. He goes on to say that, “only about 5% of people wash their hands properly and this concerning figure should be emphasised to spur an urgent change in hand hygiene. With soap and water, hands should be washed for at least 20 seconds, covering the overall surface of both hands.”

Ensure that the eye drop tip, or the dropper tip is not chipped or damaged, and is also clean. Should the dropper tip have cracks or damages, do not proceed to use the product and purchase a new one from the nearest pharmacist.

“To ensure that the dropper tip is bacteria-free, and the solution is not contaminated, do not let the dropper tip make contact with the bare eye, eyelashes or eyelids when applying the eye drops,” says Rodney.

To correctly apply the eye drops, one should practice the following hygienic steps: Tilt the head back and proceed to look up. With clean hands, pull the lower eyelid down with either one or two fingers, creating a small pouch for the drops to enter. Then, with the other hand, position the eye drop bottle upside down with dropper tip above the pocket. Gently squeeze the prescribed amount of eye drops in to the pocket of both eyes. Lastly close both eyes for about a minute, with the head tilted down and do not squeeze or blink the eyes during this process to enable the eye drop solution to attain full surface coverage and absorption. In addition, one should not rub the eyes after applying the eye drops. Interfering with the application will disrupt the solution’s purpose.

“Following the hygienic steps as outlined above, can help avoid serious eye infections such as Keratitis, Conjunctivitis, Styes and other eye-related infections,” says Rodney. Holistically, healthy vision and sight are important in connecting with the environment. Proper hygiene stands as the foundational platform in healthy vision as well as eye health maintenance, and must be practiced religiously.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

July is Eye-Injury Prevention Month, an important time to shine a light on the rather serious aspects of eye injuries. Daily, there are an estimated 2000 workers experiencing eye-related injuries on the job, costing businesses and insurance companies millions of dollars annually; let alone the pain and costs to the injured. Of course, the major cost is one’s eyesight. Luckily 90% of eye injuries can be prevented through utilising safety eye wear. A simple precaution, yet one that goes unacknowledged by many.

Gary Rodney, Founder of Smart Vision Optometry and a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign, Mosman, emphasises the key importance of Eye Injury Prevention Month, and what individuals need to prioritise, when it comes to eyesight safety.

Many eye-related injuries can become serious should they go untreated or if the injury deteriorates, which can lead to life-changing effects such as blindness. “It is of the utmost importance that individuals, both at home and in the workplace, equip themselves with preventative measures to avoid eye-related injuries,” says Rodney.

“In workplaces such as laboratories, workshops, timber yards, hardware stores etc, or when undertaking particular work-related activities, it is highly advised that employees utilise safety eye wear. Safety goggles should be on employees, or at least always within their proximity for easy access,” says Rodney.

It is also important to wear protective eye wear during sporting or recreational activities where there can be the possibility of injury to the eyes. “Also, wearing sunglasses that give 97-100% UV protection and preferably wrap well around one’s temples should be prioritised,” says Rodney.

Some recreational activities where fire or fireworks are used can have disastrous consequences should events get out of hand. It is always important to be alert when around open fires, gas barbecues, etc or at festivals where fireworks are being used.

“The early detection and treatment of eye conditions and diseases is pivotal to both visual maintenance and health,” says Rodney. Where there is a family history of childhood eye conditions or diseases, it is imperative that children are screened for eye problems, ideally before the age of five.

“If a child experiences excessive tearing or dryness, visual changes, or flashes of light, they should visit their nearest optometrist,” adds Rodney. Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign, Mosman, specialises in attending to these symptoms, providing  expert diagnosis and solution by experienced behavioural optometrists.

“Adults between the ages of 40 and 65 should book and attend an eye exam every two to four years to monitor eye health,” says Rodney. He goes on to say that, “adults over the age of 65 should attend an eye exam at least once every two years.” Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign, Mosman, can also evaluate and treat numerous eye conditions like Refractive Errors, Pink Eye, Cataracts, Glaucoma, etc, while helping patients to promote optimum eye-health.

“At Smart Vision Optometry Eyes InDesign, Mosman, we promote Eye-Injury awareness and prevention 365 days a year, but July is the month where we encourage everyone to think about the health of their eyes,” says Rodney.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047. Alternatively, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Eyesight is often taken for granted, and eye health should be prioritised in a daily routine. While people tend to think of vision as an unchangeable constant in their lives, it’s important to note that people can do things to influence their eye health on an everyday basis.

Diet plays an integral role in a healthy body but, more specifically, has a lot of impact on ocular health as well. Many biological processes rely on the vitamins and minerals we obtain through food to function properly, including maintaining excellent vision. For instance, Omega 3 fatty acids are involved in the healthy growth of a child’s brain and eyes during early development, with deficiencies linked to neurological conditions in children. Omega 3’s are usually obtained through fatty fish such as salmon. However, they can also be obtained through nutritional supplements. When buying an Omega 3 supplement, look for adequate dosages of EPA and DHA. These are the specific fatty acids that make Omega 3s the nutritional powerhouses that they are.

Another essential aspect of nutrition for eye health is ensuring sufficient vegetable intake, specifically green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach. These provide the body with zinc, iron and vitamin C. Zinc is involved in the formation of pigments in your retina as well as staving off macular degeneration. Studies have shown that people with cataracts tend to have low levels of antioxidants in their systems, and Vitamin C is a well-known and easy to obtain antioxidant.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi says that proper hygiene plays a crucial role in eye health. “Regularly washing hands can also reduce the risk of infections such as microbial keratitis and corneal inflammation”. In addition, researchers have linked hand washing to decreased rates of reported eye infections. “We touch our eyes more than we realise and can bring in a lot of dirt and bacteria”, says Gattegno.

Another simple daily habit that can help maintain eye health is drinking enough water. The eye primarily consists of fluid and requires water to maintain ocular pressure and lubrication. If there is not enough liquid to produce tears, this can lead to dry eyes and can open the door to infections and irritation of the eye. All of which can ultimately lead to visual degradation.

A good habit to get into is using sunglasses outdoors to protect the eyes from bright sunlight and harmful UV rays. UV radiation damage builds up over time and can lead to the development of cataracts or macular degeneration, even in small amounts. A decent set of sunglasses can minimise the risk of these diseases. Be on the lookout for sunglasses that expressly say that they block UVA and UVB rays. Moreover, polarised shades can further help by reducing the glare from reflective surfaces helping further protect the eyes.

Adding these small daily habits can help protect the eyes from everyday harm and increase their longevity.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

The gift of sight is something all people cherish and should not take for granted. It’s essential to be aware of any changes in visual acuity as this could indicate future complications with eyesight. There are many diseases that can present with fairly innocuous symptoms early on but can later lead to more severe conditions, potentially resulting in blindness.

Some of the symptoms discussed here can be pretty innocent and are not inherently cause for alarm. However, if multiple symptoms present without explanation, it is probably best to contact an optometrist or health care professional.

Red eyes have many explanations and can be reasonably common. Redness of the eye is usually a result of irritation leading to inflammation of the tiny capillaries within the eye leading to the red look. This can happen due to lack of sleep, dehydration or allergies but can also result from more serious conditions such as corneal ulcers, infectious conjunctivitis (more commonly known as pink eye) or a subconjunctival haemorrhage. A bleed in the back of the eye can lead to complications and affect vision, potentially leading to complete blindness.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, warns that taking action too late can have dire consequences. “Most times, these symptoms are not very serious and can be easily explained and rectified, but if symptoms continue and vision deteriorates, it’s time to consult a professional,” says Gattegno.

Another typical indication of vision problems is an increased sensitivity to light, otherwise known as photophobia. Light sensitivity can present as merely squinting to see in a brightly lit room but can also cause a significant amount of pain in more severe cases. Migraines are frequently associated with photophobia and may require medical treatment in some cases as the condition can become debilitating. Another common condition linked to light sensitivity is cataracts, where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy. While cataracts can be treated, they can only be completely removed with surgery.

Blurred or distorted vision is a more prominent and concerning symptom of certain eye conditions. The manifestation of sudden alterations to your vision should immediately be reported to your optometrist. In some cases, this is caused by a possible torn or detached retina, a severe condition requiring medical attention to prevent permanent damage. Another potential explanation for sudden blurred vision is macular edema. Macular edema is when there is a fluid build-up within the macula of your eye, causing swelling and increased pressure. Once again, this condition can potentially lead to permanent vision loss.

Tears are commonly thought to be an emotional function of the eye, but the primary role is to lubricate the eye and keep it hydrated. In certain situations, excessive tearing can indicate an underlying problem such as bacterial keratitis or a blocked tear duct. With bacterial keratitis, the cornea has become infected and can progress rapidly. An infection of the cornea could be a result of an eye injury or possibly the use of a poorly sterilised contact lens or even a contact lens that has had tap water touch it prior to insertion. Therefore, it’s vital to ensure that contact lenses are cleaned and properly stored as instructed by us.

Gattegno explains that there are certain habits and steps that can be taught to prevent the most common visual ailments.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Eyesight is arguably the most important of the five senses, and a loss of visual acuity can be alarming. While there are many ways to prevent damage to the eyes, such as wearing proper eyewear to protect your eyes from UVA, UVB and blue light, what can be done to reverse it once there is actual damage?

Gary Rodney, leading Smart Vision optometrist with Smart Vision Optometry, says that while protecting your eyes to mitigate damage in the first place should be a priority, there are steps you can take after the fact to either slow or reverse damage to the eye.

“This all depends on the initial cause of visual deterioration,” tells Rodney. “Not all injuries can be reversed, however; there is new research coming out each day finding new ways to tackle old problems.”

Physical injury to the eye generally requires surgery depending on the severity, while some less serious injuries merely require proper rest and recovery. In these cases, it is best to keep the eye covered to protect it from sunlight as well as infection. A wounded eye is very susceptible to inflammation or infection. This could potentially slow the healing process of scratches or cuts, and it is best to let the eye rest completely hence the eyepatch.

Some age-related issues can be reversed with surgery as well. For example, the eye’s ability to focus either at a distance or on near objects can deteriorate over time, making a person either nearsighted or farsighted. Some are born with these conditions, while some develop them later on in life. LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgical process using a tiny laser beam to lift a flap of the cornea’s surface and remove a small layer of tissue in the lens to alter its shape. This surgery has also proved helpful in cases where the patient has presented with astigmatism, where the lens or surface of the eye is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision.

However, Smart Vision Optometrists only support LASIK treatment as a last resort after exhausting all holistic wellness treatment methods, as the LASIK is permanent and most often removes the ability to provide holistic treatment.

Certain diseases stem from nutritional deficiencies. In some cases, it is possible to fix the damage caused by these diseases by simply correcting the fault. For instance, a lack of Vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining the photoreceptors in your retina, can lead to dry eyes and separately, retinal damage eventually leading to total blindness . One of the first signs of Vitamin A deficiency is dry eyes or night vision problems. There are many nutritional sources of Vitamin A such as dairy, carrots and spinach, but to be safe, consume a wide variety of fruit and vegetables as part of a healthy diet.

New research is constantly being published, giving doctors and optometrists hope to correct irreversible eye damage. For example, a study performed by researchers at Harvard Medical school showed that it is possible to reverse glaucoma-like damage in mice by inserting three specific genes into the retina. While this study was not done in humans, it does give hope for the possibility of reversing the effects of glaucoma but does require further research before it can be safely used in practice.

While there are ways to reverse ocular damage, prevention is better than a cure, so take proper steps to protect your eyes and have regular eye health checkups to have intervention before it becomes serious.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

With advances in technology changing and shaping peoples lives in so many aspects, it’s not surprising to see that technology also has a role to play in improving eyesight. New processes and technologies are being developed every day to find ways to help patients see better. Smart Vision Optometrists pride themselves on being at the forefront of cutting edge technology to provide patients with the best possible care and service.

Gary Rodney, leading Smart Vision optometrist with Smart Vision Optometry, says that patients looking for a non-invasive alternative to surgery to correct myopia need look no further than Smart Vision Optometry’s Ortho-K process. Orthokeratology or Corneal Refractive Therapy is a unique therapy that uses custom-fitted, oxygen permeable contact lenses that reshape your corneas while you sleep. This method allows patients to see clearly without any daytime interventions as the process occurs overnight. This is great for those unable to wear spectacles or contact lenses during the day, such as surfers and sportspeople with the added benefit of helping to protect the elongation of the eyeballs which causes the long term damage to the health of the eyes and the progression of the myopia (shortsightedness).

Another great use of technology to improve visual acuity is through the use of Vivid Vision Virtual Reality Vision Training. This system utilises virtual reality technology to create a fun and interactive way for children and adults to improve their vision skills and correct visual dysfunctions such as strabismus and convergence insufficiency. There are only 92 practices worldwide that can boast of having this technology available to help patients improve optical efficiency in all areas of life.

Those who suffer from chronic dry eyes and eyelid inflammation (better known as blepharitis) can benefit significantly by using two technological tools available to Smart Vision Optometry patients, namely the BlephEx and Blephasteam systems. BlephEx gently exfoliates the eyelids and eyelashes, removing the exotoxin-laden biofilm that accumulates on the eyelid, providing rapid relief from eyelid inflammation symptoms. This painless procedure effectively removes the scurf and bacterial debris that build up along the lid margin. This debris is responsible for most low-grade inflammatory blepharitis, the primary cause of chronic dry eye disease. Blephasteam is a safe and convenient treatment used as part of our patients’ dry eye treatment plan to relieve Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) symptoms. Blephasteam creates the perfect temperature and environment to increase blood flow, melting the thick secretions within the glands. After each session, the secretions are manually expressed, improving oil flow into the tear surface and thus tear quality.

Smart Vision behavioural optometrists also use some of the most current eye testing technology, such as the Zeiss i.Profiler. This technology measures each eye independently, thus recording irregularities and differences much more effectively. This innovative technique allows Smart Vision optometrists to prescribe bespoke lenses for each eye and help to significantly improve poor-light vision, colour perception and night vision problems.

The Visagraph is a recording system that accurately measures eye movements during reading by using infrared sensors in a pair of goggles that is connected to and analysed by a computer. The results from the assessment give optometrists a considerable amount of information about the movement of the eyes, which otherwise would never have been revealed. For example, they provide many valuable statistics on ocular function and show an illustration of the left and the right eye movements, the number of fixations and the number of regressions. From the assessment, our Smart Vision Behavioural Optometrists can give recommendations on how the child’s reading ability can be improved and prescribe a tailored Vision Therapy program to tackle deficiencies in visual functioning, perception and cognition.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

When it comes to taking care of your eyes, you may think it’s enough to wear your sunglasses now and again, not sit too close to the TV and occasionally throw in some eye drops during the dry season. But proper eye care goes far beyond that, and nutrition can be the key to keeping your eyes healthy and happy.

Gary Rodney, leading smart vision optometrist with Smart Vision Optometry, says that “Eyes need a wide range of vitamins and minerals to function well, with some of these being crucial for staving off age-related macular degeneration.”

These vitamins and minerals can be obtained through the addition of some nutritional supplements, but the most effective method is through food. This is because when vitamins are obtained through food, they come in combination with cofactors which can boost bioavailability, making them much easier for your body to absorb and use. So whole food sources are always preferred over supplements.

According to the World Health Organisation, Vitamin A deficiency is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Vitamin A has an integral role in maintaining the photoreceptor cells in your retina, which allow us to convert light into neurological signals which our brain can then interpret. Symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency can include night blindness and dry eyes. Vitamin A is only found in animal-derived products such as egg yolks and dairy products. However, vegans and vegetarians can get their Vitamin A fix in a slightly different way with plants such as kale, spinach and carrots. These provide a provitamin A carotenoid called beta-carotene, which the body can convert into Vitamin A. While not the most efficient method, it can give some of your daily vitamin requirements.

In general, we hear a lot about a class of vitamins known as antioxidants when it comes to health. Along with protecting our cells from free radicals, they also have a few more specific roles in our bodies, especially when it comes to the eyes. There are two exceptional antioxidants called Lutein and Zeaxanthin, which form part of the retina. They are thought to help protect your vision from sun damage as well as harmful blue light. Studies have shown that the levels of these carotenoids within your eye are proportional to your daily intake. Researchers found that supplementing these daily slowed the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While these can be found in high amounts in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, the most bioavailable source is egg yolk. This is due to Lutein and Zeaxanthin being fat-soluble vitamins. If you would rather go the spinach route, try pairing it with oils such as salad dressing or avocado.

“Omega 3 fatty acids can also be great vision protectors,” says Gary Rodney. Omega 3’s are long-chain fatty acids that, besides having a host of health benefits elsewhere in the body, are extremely important for early childhood development of the eye and brain. The fatty acids EPA and DHA, classified as Omega 3’s, need to be taken in adequate amounts as deficiencies have been linked to impaired vision in children. Omega 3’s are most commonly found in fatty fish such as salmon. However, they are very commonly found in health supplements and should be a staple in your daily vitamin regime.

While adding nutritional supplements to diets, the best way to get all these protective vitamins is through your food. So make sure you’re eating in a wide variety of fruits and veg, as they all have a role to play in healthy eyesight. To get information on even more ways to protect your eyes, book an appointment at your nearest Smart Vision Optometry practice.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Many conditions that cause vision loss have various causes, requiring differing interventions to prevent or cure. Some of these conditions include diabetes, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration.

Gary Rodney, the Founder of Smart Vision Optometry and a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Mosman, says there are many ways that we can improve our eyesight through behavioural modification.

“For example, Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients found in certain foods can help lower your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration,” said Gary. “A healthy diet also helps reduce your risk of diabetes and heart disease and help prevent age-related ocular degeneration.”

Researchers estimate that around 2.5 million eye injuries occur in the U.S. each year. These have a wide range of causes, but wearing the proper glasses can help prevent some more common vision problems.

Even everyday activities can be dangerous. For example, some of the most common injuries occur while playing sports and performing household chores.

Proper protective eyewear can help prevent injuries and minimise the effects of chemicals and impacts on the eyes during activities. However, wearing glasses in some circumstances is not recommended for safety reasons. If they break, you run the risk of broken glass getting into your eye.

The sun is another potential hazard. UV protection sunglasses are also worn to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. Wearing them can help prevent vision loss and ward off cancer.

People who are more commonly prone to suffering from UV light exposure include outdoor sports persons, farmers, and surfers, but anyone who spends a large majority of their day exposed to sunlight can be affected.

Gary Rodney stresses that choosing a pair of sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection is essential. In a pinch, wearing a hat and keeping an eye on the clouds is also a great way to protect the eyes from the harmful rays of UV light.

If you’re concerned about your ocular health, having a comprehensive dilated eye exam is a way to ensure that your eyes are in good condition. This simple test involves using special drops to widen your pupils.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in multiple suburbs in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

College students spend too much time studying in front of computer screens, and not enough time caring for their eyes. This is resulting in an explosion of progressive eye deterioration globally.

Gary Rodney, the Founder of Smart Vision Optometry and a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Mosman, explains ways students can minimise eye strain and headaches.

Since students spend a substantial amount of time on technological devices, it is important to monitor the brightness and darkness of device to prevent eye strain.

It is also important to have a full functional vision skills assessment rather than a traditional eye sight test to determine exact levels of eyestrain at the computer viewing distance. Appropriate visual stress relieving prescription computer glasses can then be prescribed to minimise the damage from staring the screen for long periods of time.

If technology is constantly used for an extended period of time, it’s also important students take regular breaks. “It can help reinvigorate your eyes and reduce stress,” says Rodney. “Every 5 minutes we should look out the window briefly to view a distant object and every 30 minutes we should have a complete 10 minute break. Hard to do but important for the long term health of your eyes.”

Additionally, a study found that prolonged exposure to blue light can cause long-term damage to the cells in your eyes. The good news is that there are ways to filter out blue light.

Visible light can be divided into three categories: blue light, green light, and ultraviolet light. “The high energy of blue light makes it more dangerous to the eyes than other visible light,” says Rodney. The visible light spectrum has a variety of wavelengths and energy. The blue light, also known as the blue spectrum, has the highest energy level.

Computer eyeglasses can reduce blue light exposure from electronic devices. Computer glasses can help improve your vision for both phone and computer use.

Computer glasses help relieve stress and improve focusing by protecting the eyes from blue light and stopping the eyes from over focussing. They also provide protection from the effects of computer use on the eyes. “A screen brightness filter is a simple and effective way to reduce blue light exposure on your devices,” says Rodney. It works by adding a blue light filter to the screen.

Computer glasses are designed to see objects that are within arm’s length, and should not be worn for driving or other distances-vision needs. “If a person have near-sightedness or far-sightedness, prescription computer glasses can help improve the vision for phone and computer use,” says Rodney.

“Some anti-reflective coating products are used for computer glasses and eyeglasses that protect against blue light,” says Rodney. Persons can also benefit from all-purpose prescription glasses that feature photochromic lenses. These lenses protect the eyes from blue light and reduce glare.

As the use of electronic devices grows, many people are suffering from Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). The condition causes blurred vision and other symptoms.

The angle at which you look is a crucial component of CVS. Ideally, the centre of the monitor should be positioned between your eyes and the objects in front of it.

Take breaks when using a computer or device for long periods of time to prevent eye strain. Also, look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on a distant object. People tend to blink about 18 times a minute, while computer users only blink once a fourth of the time. This causes the risk of developing dry eyes.

Tear film is a vital component of keeping you comfortable while using a computer. Its high-resolution camera makes it possible to see the finest of structures in the tear film. Technology can be used as a non-invasive procedure that can evaluate the quality and functioning of tear film. It can help diagnose Computer Vision Syndrome.

A Smart Vision Optometrist can help find the best computer glasses to protect the eyes. Even with the best eye care, it’s still a good idea to get a bi-annual check-up. “Regular eye examinations can help to improve and maintain good eye health, and prevent age-related diseases such as macular degeneration (AMD),” says Rodney. “It’s also a good idea to schedule an exam if you notice any of the following symptoms: red, puffy, and uncomfortable eyes, or fatigueing or headaches or losing your place when reading” says Rodney.

“Getting your eyes checked can help prevent vision problems that can affect both vision and overall health. Myopia control is a massively concerning area of global eye problems and latent hyperopia can cause a great amount of unnecesary symptoms. Astigmatism also seems to increase with unaddressed eye strain”.

Even if you do not need glasses or contacts for regular activities, “a person may still need them if they use a computer or device,” says Rodney.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Diabetic Disease Awareness Month aims to increase the awareness of diabetes, and diabetic eye disease.

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults, therefore it is important to seek treatment for vision impairment that are related to diabetes.

As the number of people living with diabetes grows, so does the number of people with impaired vision.

High blood sugar levels damages the blood vessels of the retina, and can cause permanent vision loss.  Vision impairment caused by Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) may be prevented by regulating blood sugar and blood pressure levels as well as regular eye examinations at your local Smart Vision Optometry.

Jacquie Gattengo, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains the four stages of DR and what preventable measures can be taken to reduce the disease from advancing, and causing permanent vision loss.

There are two types of DR; Non proliferative retinopathy – which refers to the bleeding of the retina or leakage of blood – and proliferative retinopathy whereby abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina. The blood may bleed in the centre of the eye, causing vision problems.

Micro aneurysms (MA) occurs in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) when the capillary walls leak fluid due to the haemorrhage of blood vessels.

Stage one: Mild NPDR

The first stage consists of mild non-proliferative retinopathy, which is an early stage of DR. In this stage, “small areas of swelling or bulges occurs in the blood vessels of the retina,” says Jacquie.

Vision may not be affected yet during this stage.

Mild NPDR has at least one MA. Such findings are elusive, therefore close monitoring and inspection are crucial.  Patients should have an extensive eye examination once a year.

It is also essential that “patients diagnosed with diabetes monitor their blood sugar level and diet,” says Jacquie.

Stage 2: Moderate NPDR

As the disease progresses, it results in moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, where some of “the blood vessels that nourish the retina becomes blocked and damage the retina,” says Jacquie.

Blood and other fluids build up in the small central part of the retina causing diabetic macular edema. Vision may be affected in this stage.

Patients with moderate NPDR should have an eye examination at least twice a year.

Stage 3: Severe NPDR

The third stage consists of an additional blockage of the blood vessels, “this disrupts the blood supply to the retina,” says Jacquie. The damaged retina signals the body to produce new blood vessels. The development of new blood vessels grows in the retina and fills the interior of the eye. “The obstructed blood vessels may lead to blurred vision with dark spots visible,” says Jacquie.

Multiple haemorrhages occur in the retinal quadrants. During this stage, retinal detachment may occur.

“Patients with severe NPDR should have a dilated fungus examination three or four times a year,” advises Jacquie. These patients are at high risk of disease progression and permanent vision loss

Stage 4: Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

During this stage, “the new blood vessels are abnormal and rupture causing a flow of blood to the retina,” says Jacquie.

The growth of abnormal and fragile new blood vessels advance during this stage. “These blood vessels have fragile walls and can leak blood in the retina, causing severe vision loss and blindness,” says Jacquie.

Patients exhibit either neovascularisation of the eye or pre-retinal haemorrhage. Until the disease stabilises, it is required that they visit a retinal speciality once a month.

Eye examinations

There are usually no warning signs of Diabetic retinopathy (DR), however early signs of DR can be detected up regular eye examinations. The procedure of such examination includes near and distant eye tests, a dilated eye exam (which allows the examiner to see through the pupil to the retina), and a tonometry test to measure the fluid pressure in the eye.

Patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, are at risk of developing neurovascular complications that can lead to Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). It is advised that “patients with diagnosed type 1 and type 2 diabetes should have a comprehensive dilated eye examination,” says Jacquie.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News, YDMA Group

Chronic conditions can cause eye symptoms, such as dry eye, damaged blood vessels and blindness. Many eye problems are preventable and treatable.

Jacqueline Gattengo, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, explains common illnesses that cause many eye problems.

Diabetes

People with diabetes often have problems with the blood vessels in their body, and the eye is no exception. Diabetes causes many complications, including Diabetic Retinopathy (DR).

DR is caused by the onset of diabetes. “High blood sugar and high blood pressure levels can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye, that supply blood to the retina,” says Jacquie. A lack of blood supply can affect vision and cause permanent blindness. DR can be prevented by regulating blood sugar and blood pressure levels.

High blood sugar levels increase the risk of dry eyes. “Dry eye causes significant eye discomfort and impaired vision,” says Jacquie. The symptoms include redness, a scratchy sensation of the eye, and blurry vision. The cause of dry eye is typically a lack of tears to keep the eye moist and healthy.

People with diabetes are also at higher risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma.

Nutritional deficiency

Vitamin A deficiency can cause severe dry eye and lead to ulcers of the cornea. A lack of vitamins can increase the risk of developing cataracts.  

“Cataracts are caused by the build-up of protein which clouds the lens of the eye, causing blurry vision and blindness,” says Jacquie. If left untreated, this condition will worsen and lead to blindness.

Jacquie says, “cataracts can also be caused by diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure and a history of cataracts in blood relatives.” 

“Many people are not aware of the effects of smoking on their vision,” says Jacquie. Smoking is associated with many health problems, including eye health. Smoking contributes to cataracts by “altering the cell of the lens through oxidation,” says Jacquie, and the “heavy metal like cadmium accumulates in the lens.”

Regular eye examinations are important to “test, diagnose and treat eye deficiency before they become progressively worse,” says Jacquie. Cataracts are more prominent in people who are diabetic. Therefore, it is important to “maintain high and low blood sugar levels,” says Jacquie.

Corneal Ulcer

A cornea ulcer is a common eye condition that is often caused by bacterial infections. This causes an ulcer to form in the front part of the eye.  People with “vitamin A deficiency and those who wear contact lenses are at a higher risk of cornea ulcers,” says Jacquie, as infectious agents are trapped behind the lens.

Jacquie identifies symptoms of cornea ulcer that include, “pain, intense redness, a scratchy sensation of the eye, light sensitivity and blurred vision.”

If you suspect you have a cornea ulcer, visit your local Smart Vision Optometry for an eye examination.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure can cause a change in the retina as it damages the blood vessels that supply the eye.

Controlling high blood pressure levels is fundamental for the vision of the eyes. “The longer the blood pressure levels remain high, the more an individual is at risk of having permanent eye damage,” says Jacquie.

High blood pressure may be diagnosed during a regular eye examination.

Autoimmune disease

Autoimmune disease is a condition whereby the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells of the body. The autoimmune attack causes inflammation of the optic nerve that damages the eye and affects vision.

People with autoimmune disease experience common symptoms such as “dry, red and itchy eyes, light sensitivity, eye pain, and change in vision,” says Jacquie. Treating the autoimmune disease will help control eye problems caused by the condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, a collagen vascular disease, increases the risk of dry eye, as infections with bacteria or viruses affect the eye.

This condition can be treated with eye drops

Infectious diseases

Infections can affect the condition of the eye as well as one’s eyesight. Pink eye or conjunctivitis is a common form of eye infection. Common symptoms include redness and swelling of the eyelids and eye pain.

Trachoma

Trachoma begins with a bacterial infection, similarly to conjunctivitis (pink-eye), and can be easily treated.

However, if the condition is left untreated, “the condition will worsen as it causes scarring to the eyelid that pulls the eyelashes inwards,” says Jacquie. This causes tremendous pain as every blink scrapes the eye.

Advanced trachoma is called trichiasis, which occurs when the eye is inflamed. “Scar tissue builds up inside the eyelid, making the eyelid tight, pulling the eyelashes inward,” explains Jacquie.

Symptoms of trachoma include discharge from the eye, irritated eyes and redness. This causes immense pain as the eyelashes scrape against the cornea. This can lead to blindness.

Trachoma can be treated with cleanliness and hygiene, regularly wash your bedding, clothes and face to prevent infection.

It is important to be aware of other diseases that affect the eye, as if left untreated and undiagnosed, it can result in permanent blindness and vision impairment.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600, alternatively book an appointment online.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News, YDMA Group

Glaucoma is a name given to a group of eye diseases where vision loss is due to the damage of the optic nerve. This can be linked to the build-up of intraocular pressure in the eye. The increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve and can gradually worsen.

In this Blindness Awareness Month, Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, offers insight into the detection of glaucoma.

Glaucoma is often called “the sneak thief of sight” because the loss of vision may occur before an individual is aware of it. Signs of glaucoma often go unnoticed because there may be no visible or noticeable symptoms. For instance, the loss of vision in the periphery is a common sign of glaucoma, but it often goes unnoticed.

It is important to detect signs of glaucoma as soon as possible as this condition is a common cause of blindness. Regular eye examinations are advised to “diagnose and treat early signs of glaucoma,” says Jacquie.

Jacquie stipulates common signs of glaucoma to look out for which include, “seeing halos around lights, vision loss, redness around the eye, hazy eyes or eye pain”. If individuals are aware of these signs, it may help eye doctors treat the eye before getting worse and prevent rapid vision loss.

While anyone is at risk of developing glaucoma, some people are at a higher risk. Numerous cases of glaucoma are over the age of 40, however, signs of glaucoma can be visible at any age.

People are more likely to have glaucoma if they have “a history of glaucoma in the family, poor vision/myopia, diabetic, high eye pressure or have an injury to the eye,” says Jacquie.

Glaucoma is hereditary, therefore individuals are more susceptible to developing glaucoma if this condition is prevalent among blood relatives.

Individuals with high myopia (nearsighted or shortsighted) are at a higher risk of primary open-angle glaucoma,” says Jacquie.

Traumatic eye injury or operation can lead to glaucoma. “Eye pressure may rise immediately or gradually upon injury,” says Jacquie, and requires constant regulation and monitoring from eye specialists.

Symptoms unrelated to vision should also be adhered to. Studies have shown that people with diabetes have an increased risk and development of glaucoma. “High blood sugar can cause the lens to swell and can cause blurry vision,” says Jacquie. High or low blood pressure, can also increase the risk of glaucoma as it “affects the blood flow to the optic nerve,” says Jacquie.

Glaucoma treatment

Smart Vision Optometrists have a holistic approach to eye care and therefore invasive surgery, which is a permanent disfigurement, is not considered a viable option and would only be suggested in extreme cases as an absolute last resort,” Jacquie said.

Although glaucoma is a permanent condition, there are other ways to keep your eyes healthy. “Regular exercise may lower the pressure of the eye and keep the blood flowing to the nerve,” says Jacquie, “eating foods that are high in antioxidants also help to keep your eye condition healthy”.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600, alternatively book an appointment online.

October brings the month of World Sight Day and World Teacher’s day, in commemoration of both annual events, this article aims to bring awareness to blindness and vision impairment in children.

Vision impairment or loss can affect people of all ages, but it can be detected at an early age. Reduced eyesight can have minor or long-lasting effects on all aspects of life including personal daily activities and participation in school and work.

Jacqueline Gattegno, a Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Bondi, provides insight in identifying signs of vision problems in children.

The role of educators in detecting early signs in learner

Millions of children around the world experience signs of significant visual impairment, many of which are preventable and treatable.

Educators spend a significant amount of time with learners, therefore, they “play an important role in identifying early signs of eye problems in children,” Jacquie says. This detection reduces the risk of blindness.

There is an increase in the rate of vision-related issues in children, such as diabetic retinopathy, untreated glaucoma, un-operated cataract and myopia. These are preventable causes of blindness that can easily be attended to.

Teaching methods to accommodate such issues

Much of information and education that we receive is through vision, therefore it is important to adopt this knowledge in teaching children who are visually impaired.

Educators can play a crucial role in assisting the comfortably of a child’s learning, regardless of a child’s diagnoses of vision impairment; acute or severe. An adjustment in teaching methods and techniques can help reduce the severity of vision impairment in children.

Much of the strain of the eyes is caused by reading and focusing, particularly in the classroom and on digital screens. However there are other causes to consider that are hereditary.

Here are a few examples teachers can assist with children who experience the following conditions and diagnosis:

Retinopathy of Pre-maturity (ROP)

Retinopathy refers to the disease of the retina that is caused by an abnormal growth of the blood vessel. ROP usually affects children who are born prematurely with a low body mass.

Adaptation in teaching methods can be made by discouraging physical activity as a compulsory requirement as it may result in retinal detachment.

Albinism

Albinism is a lack of pigmentation in skin, hair and eyes. Pigment is necessary for retinal development, therefore, albinism impacts vision.

In learning environments, a high contrast of colours may be beneficial for children with albinism. For example, bright colours against dark backgrounds.

Coloboma of the eye

This is a physical defect of the eyes in children that occurs from birth. To treat this in classrooms, it is important to reduce the glare in learning environments, which can be decreased with dark curtains.

How to identify signs of myopia

The more myopic the higher the risk of screening issues that cause blindness. “It is important to know the difference between high and mild myopia as the level of severity increases the chances of blindness,” Jacquie says.

Mild myopia does not immediately increase a person’s risk of developing serious eye problems but left untreated it can.

High myopia, on the other hand, happens when a child’s eyeball grows longer than it should. If left untreated, high myopia complications can lead to blindness, so regular comprehensive visual eye examinations are critical. These are not the common sight tests offered by regular optometrists.

High myopia may raise the risk of a child developing serious conditions such as cataracts, detached retinas and glaucoma.  

Educators can identify signs of myopia in classrooms in the child has:

1. Poor school grades

2. Short attention span

3. Holding objects close to the face

4. Squinting

This month brings awareness to vision impairment and blindness. The awareness of the role teachers play in a child’s sight to reduce preventable blindness is crucial.

Vision problems such as myopia can be treated with highly successful, non-invasive, smart vision eye health treatment programmes, yet some optometrists and ophthalmologists recommend invasive laser eye surgery as the only option or quick fix. “Smart Vision Optometrists have a holistic approach to eyecare and therefore invasive surgery, which is a permanent disfigurement, is not considered a viable option and would only be suggested in extreme cases as an absolute last resort,” Jacquie said.

“If a child has any of the above symptoms then a comprehensive vision skills assessment is recommended immediately,” Jacquie concludes.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600, alternatively book an appointment online.

Although laser eye surgery has become a low risk and easy-to-execute procedure, it is still invasive.

Gary Rodney, the Founder of Smart Vision Optometry and a leading Smart Vision Optometrist at Eyes InDesign Mosman, discusses an alternative non-invasive surgery to correct and improve vision.

Smart Vision Optometrists resource to non-invasive surgeries in their practice.

Many patients do not qualify for eye laser surgery, as they may have irregular corneas, or other conditions, such as inflammation, and bacterial infections often caused by poor hygiene. Additionally many patients are worried about eye surgery given the burning of the inner layers of myopia correction surgery can have permanent negative effects. Many “laser surgeries involve the burning of the matrix of the inner layers of the corneal tissue to flatten and reshape the cornea to correct vision, however this is not always a once-off fix, because the underlying issues of what caused them to become short-sighted in the first place has not been addressed and so the process may need to be repeated and burnt again,” says Rodney.

Laser surgery, such as LASIK, is invasive to the eye and can cause damage or injury to the eye, such as cornea damage, and may cause other complications such as eye infections and permanent dry eyes.

Invasive surgeries are no longer the only option for vision correction, as smart vision optometrists offer non-invasive methods and procedures.

Smart vision optometrists use vision therapy, therapeutic spectacle and contact lenses to improve comfort, enhance performance and optimise visual development.  Visual therapy is a “non-invasive method used to improve and manage different eye conditions,” says Rodney. This technique involves exercises that help improve the visual system.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Orthokeratology, also referred to as corneal reshaping treatment, is “a non-surgical vision correction alternative,” says Rodney. Corneal reshaping (CR) is a therapeutic process which reshapes the cornea using reverse geometry contact lenses. This flattens the cornea to reduce nearsightedness.

There is “no age barrier to this procedure as it is safe for both children and adults,” says Rodney. The non-surgical vision correction procedure can correct refractive errors such as mild to moderate and even large (in some cases) myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Ortho-K is safe and effective for children as it has been proven to treat myopia effectively. Evidence based practice has made the process very safe provided a minimum standard of care is followed. Thus includes regular checks with your orthokeratologist, tap water never used on the lenses or case at any time, hydrogen peroxide disinfection, 12 monthly lens replacement, and a perfectly fitted lens from an experienced orthokeratologist. The procedure is not effective on certain shaped corneas. “Ortho-K is also suitable for sportsmen and women, swimmers, and simply those who do not wish to wear glasses or contact lenses,” says Rodney.

Like refractive surgeries, Ortho-K gives clear unaided vision, however it has no surgical risks and is reversible. The most important part for children though is the proven effectiveness against minimising myopia progression. So it has a large preventative effect.

The Ortho-K gradually reshapes the front surface of the cornea to reduce myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. The vision retainer is similar to contact lenses, but are worn at night while sleeping.

While asleep, “the lens uses the force of the eyelid and tear fluid beneath the lens to reshape the top of the cornea,” says Rodney. Upon awakening the patient’s vision remains clear throughout the day, without using contact lenses or glasses.

“This procedure is non-surgical vision correction is painless and reversible,” says Rodney. Ortho-K does not permanently change the shape of the eye. “The eye shape will revert to its original state within one to two weeks if the lenses are no longer worn,” says Rodney. However, improvements are visible the day after, and the procedure stabilises after a week. The process for high myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia, can take up to two to four weeks to achieve full correction.

The Ortho-K lens “offers relief from problems associated with contact lenses, such as dry eyes, and dust that may get trapped in and under the contact lens,” says Rodney.

Smart Vision Optometry clinics are located in Sydney. Book a Smart Vision Comprehensive Vision Skills Assessment or Advanced Eye Health Test for any child or adult by calling the Mosman clinic (02) 9969 1600 or the Bondi clinic (02) 9365 5047, alternatively book an appointment online.