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.

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.

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.