Why Sunglasses are Important

by Darin - April 14, 2023

The Importance of sunglasses: Protecting Your Eyes and Skin from Harmful UV Light

As an optometrist, it is crucial to not only diagnose and treat current eye diseases but also to promote healthy lifestyle modifications that can prevent the occurrence of such conditions. Wearing sunglasses is a simple yet effective measure individuals can take to safeguard their eyes and the surrounding skin. The numerous health advantages of sunglasses may be unknown to many individuals. When it comes to wearing sunglasses, most of the health benefits really stem from their UV light protecting ability. UV light is short for ultraviolet light, and if you can remember the visual spectrum being ROYGBIV, the V part is indigo and then violet. So, UV light is right below violet and is ultraviolet. In fact, it’s not part of the visual spectrum, so you can’t see ultraviolet light, but it is still present even on cloudy days. That is exactly why, if you’re out on the beach and it’s a cloudy day but the sun is out, you can still get sunburned from that ultraviolet light.

Protect Your Eyes: The Importance of Wearing sunglasses to Prevent Age-Related Cataracts.

Again, you can’t see it, but it’s there. If you’re somebody who’s not wearing sunglasses on a regular basis, this UV light does cause damage not just to the skin and the eyelid around the eye, but the eyes themselves. One of the easiest and most frequent eye diseases that eye doctors will mention that is good for wearing sunglasses to protect from is that of age-related cataracts. UV light is known to penetrate deep into the eye and, in a way, almost cook the lens, the crystalline lens inside the eye, and this makes the lens turn kind of a cloudy appearance, a particular type of cataract called a cortical cataract. It kind of looks like bicycle spokes coming in from the sides. That is a type of cataract that is known to be caused more by exposure to UV light. In fact, studies have shown that people who are exposed to more UV light over the course of their lifetime and don’t wear sunglasses are more likely to develop these types of cataracts.

The Importance of sunglasses in Protecting Eyelid Skin and Preventing Premature Aging

But really, preventing cataracts is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sunglasses protecting the eyes. What I consider to be a lesser talked about benefit of sunglasses is that of UV light aging and thinning of the eyelid skin. The eyelids are some of the thinnest tissue on the entire body, and UV light causes thinning of that skin and basically premature aging around the eyelids. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors and you’re not protecting your eyelids from UV rays, then your eyelid skin can thin out, and that’ll make the appearance of dark circles and eye bags more prominent, basically making your eyelids and face look older. Not to mention, UV light exposure can cause sunburn to the eyelids, and in fact, about 5 to 10 percent of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids, most notably the lower eyelid, as the eyebrow can cause a little bit of shading and protect the upper eyelid from that sunlight exposure.

Protect Your Eyes from Sunburn and Growth with sunglasses

In fact, it’s not just the eyelids that can get sunburned, but the cornea, the clear window surface to the eye, can also get sunburned because the cornea absorbs about 99 percent of UV rays that penetrate through our clouds’ atmosphere. In the eye care world, we call this sunburn photokeratitis, and a lot of people more commonly will know this as snow blindness as skiers, snowboarders, people are hitting the slopes, that sunlight, the UV light will hit and bounce off of the snow. About 80 percent of UV light is reflected off of the top of water, and so this can end up hitting you in the eye, giving you almost a double dose, and that can give you severe sunburn to the surface of the eye. Hence why skiing and snowboarding goggles are such a popular thing. Furthermore, UV light exposure can contribute to growth on the surface of the eye. Some people develop these nasty, red, irritating growths that are growing onto the eye. We call those pterygiums.

The Importance of sunglasses in Preventing UV-Related Eye Diseases and Promoting Healing After Refractive Surgery

Some people may commonly know them as surfer’s eye, but that is largely caused by excessive UV light exposure, and wearing sunglasses is probably the cheapest, most cost-effective way of preventing or really slowing down the growth of that disease. Now, one of the other cool things about UV light and how it affects the cornea, again, how I said that the cornea absorbs about 99 percent of the UV rays that get into your eyes, well, if you’re someone who’s ever had LASIK or some other form of refractive surgery, you may remember your surgeon telling you to start wearing sunglasses whenever you’re outside. That’s because UV light exposure has been found in studies to affect the healing rate of the cornea, especially after having any sort of refractive surgery, such as LASIK.

The Importance of sunglasses for Eye Protection and Comfort

So, if you’re somebody who’s really hard on your eyes, whether you’ve had surgery or you wear contact lenses excessively, having some sort of UV light protection may slow down any sort of issues with healing and may help your eye heal faster. Not to mention, just wearing sunglasses is basically like putting on a protective shield over your eyes, which is going to help prevent any sort of dust, wind, or sand from blowing and hitting you in the eyes, making them feel uncomfortable. On a personal note, one of the reasons why you will frequently see me wear sunglasses, is because I myself struggle a lot with migraine headaches, and wearing sunglasses can really improve the comfort of my eyesight and vision when I’m around bright lights. It’s well known that bright lights can be a common trigger for people with chronic headaches and migraines, especially after any sort of head injury or TBI, traumatic brain injury.

Protect Your Eyes and Enhance Your Vision with sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses really helps me prevent from getting headaches. Probably one other really cool reason I love wearing sunglasses and I’m always wearing sunglasses is because it enhances my vision and eyesight, particularly with sunglasses that have polarized filters in them.I am kind of a snob when it comes to polarized lenses. Not all the time, you don’t always need polarized lenses, but it’s something that really adds an extra reduction glare in your eyesight. You can even see different parts of the world around you because of polarized filters. All of these reasons for protecting your eyes are pretty amazing, mainly because your eyes are arguably, at least in my opinion, the most precious sensory organ in your entire body. I mean, could you imagine what life would be like if you lost your vision? But when it really comes down to it, sunglasses are just one of the best and easiest ways to prevent eye diseases and prevent vision problems, people going blind in the future.

What are the advantages of Progressive Lenses?

by Darin - April 12, 2023

Progressive lenses: Combining Convenience and Comfort for Clear Vision

Progressive lenses offer the same advantages as bi- or tri-focal lenses without the inconveniences and cosmetic drawbacks. The top of the lens, which is designed for distance vision, gradually diminishes in power towards the bottom of the lens which is designed for reading and up-close tasks.

If you’ve ever worn conventional bifocal or trifocal lenses, you probably know the struggle of constantly having to tilt your head or move your eyes to the correct part of the lens in order to see things clearly. Not to mention the unsightly line that bisects the lens, making it obvious to everyone that you wear glasses specifically for close-up work. But with progressive lenses, you can avoid all of these inconveniences and cosmetic drawbacks.

This means that one can comfortably and easily read or concentrate on nearby objects without requiring head or eye movement. Furthermore, the absence of a discernible line on the lens enables individuals to wear multi-focal glasses without drawing attention to it. This combination of advantages presents an ideal scenario.

What are the advantages of progressive lenses

Another Advantage of progressive lenses

Another advantage of progressives is that one pair will eliminate the need to switch between different pairs used for different activities such as reading or driving. Getting used to progressive lenses may take some time because the gradient power of the lens may cause aberrations in your peripheral vision. The left and right extremes of the lens are not as progressive as the central vertical corridor, so your vision may seem blurry when looking to the side, The latest progressive lenses are called freeform lenses, which are made with a computer manufacturing process to reduce these aberrations.

The most up-to-date progressive lenses referred to as freeform lenses utilize computer-based fabrication techniques to diminish any distortions.

To learn more about progressive lenses, and to discover the best, most comfortable progressive lenses, visit eyecuoptoemtrist.com.au, or call 07 5457 3333.

How to Get Used to PROGRESSIVE Lenses – 5 Tips and Tricks

by Darin - April 5, 2023

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5 Tips for Adjusting to Progressive Lenses for First-Time Wearers

If you’re wearing progressive lenses for the first time, you probably put them on and thought “ Whoa, these things make me feel weird .” In this video I’m going to share with you five tips, all about progressive lenses and how to get used to them faster. Let’S roll that intro, If this is your first time here, this channel is all about helping people learn about the eyes and figure out cool things about their glasses, so that you can see your best not only today, but also tomorrow. If you like, learning about cool things with the eyes tips and tricks, then make sure to subscribe to the channel, so you don’t miss any of our future videos. Now, if you just got progressive, eyeglasses and you’re having problems or you’re about to get progressive lenses and you’re thinking about getting some, then these tips are going to help. You out Believe me if you’re a first-time wearer in progressives, it’s going to feel weird and different, at least at first.

Expert Tips for Optimal Comfort and Clarity with Progressive Lenses

So, let’s see what we can do Tip number one is to have your glasses, professionally fit and adjusted for you. This is a big deal, especially with progressive lenses, because they have a very specific spot. You need to be looking through If they’re, just not sitting on your face right, they’re kind of crooked, then you’re likely going to be experiencing not just blurred vision but more distortions everywhere. You look. We recently had a patient just the other day, whose lenses were too tilted like this on his face, which we call a pantoscopic tilt, and once we had them adjusted here in the optical boom, he was just like “, Oh wow, that feels so much better .”. So if you want to have a better experience right away, get them adjusted All right, tip number two and this may sound funny to hear. But you need to wear the glasses. And yes, I can almost guarantee you the first time that you put on a pair of progressive lenses. It’S going to feel weird You’re going to see these distortions.

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Adjusting to multifocal glasses: Tips and Expectations

Your field of view is going to feel like you’re swimming or something, and it’s probably going to feel like this for at least a few days, And if you just happen to be somebody with a high prescription or you’ve, just never worn glasses ever before in your Life, it might even take up to two weeks – Hopefully not, but that’s a consistent amount of time.I hear experienced. Opticians say it can take up to about two weeks to fully get used to it, But I’ve had some of my patients even say that yeah they first wore them. It felt really strange for a few days and all of a sudden boom, their brain snapped into it and it felt much more comfortable, But this transition period of getting used to these lenses is going to go faster. If you try to wear your glasses all day. Long, If you wear them longer, you’re going to make it easier for your brain to adapt And if you happen to have an older pair of glasses that don’t make you sick.

Top Tips for Using Progressive Lenses in multifocal glasses

Try not to switch back and forth between them because switching to your older glasses! That don’t give you that distortion feeling again it’s going to make it harder for you to get used to using your progressive lenses. Now tip number three has to do with how to use progressive lenses, and this should help you out a lot, because I think that’s one of the biggest issues with progressives is that you have to use your eyes differently than you’ve ever used them when wearing glasses. Before And the important tip is to try to point your nose at whatever it is that you are trying to focus on and look at, You see progressive lenses, have these distortion zones off to the sides and kind of in between and if you happen to shift Your eyes to look at something and you look through that distortion zone things are going to feel even more just weird off and blurry, So all of the usable magnification in progressive lenses is really right in the middle.

Mastering the Use of multifocal glasses: Proper Positioning and Lens Adjustment Techniques

So if you’re looking at a computer screen point your nose at the computer screen If you’re going to be reading a note, a medication or your phone, you want again face directly at the object that you’re looking at And then from there. It’S all about what distance you are looking at that object and knowing which part of the lens you need to adjust and look through Now, assuming your glasses are put on and you’re looking straight ahead into the distance right, where your eyes are set and to the Top of the lens everything should look good for the distance, But when reading up close all the reading, magnification is at the bottom of the lens. So if you tilt your head down like you, normally would you’re still looking through the top portion of the lens, which is your distance, So things will seem out of focus.

Tips for Properly Using multifocal glasses for Near and Intermediate Distances

So what you want to try to do is that for near objects, you want to look down through the lens. So right now I’m trying to keep my head up straight and I’m looking down through the bottom of the lens. That’S where all that reading magnification is and things look pretty good Now early on in this process, feel free to even tilt your neck up a little bit to try to find where that magnification zone is, I personally don’t like it when people use their neck a Whole bunch to kind of go up and down, because that can lead to neck and shoulder issues, But early on just trying to get used to them. Trying to find where that power is. Where things look good, I think that’s fine, especially just again trying to figure it out. But again, the important thing to understand is that the power’s at the bottom, so you need to look through the bottom of the lens And same thing. Kind of goes for the intermediate distance, such as a computer.

Tips for Adjusting to Progressive Lenses During Dynamic Movements

It’S not far away, it’s not way up close, but it’s kind of in the middle of the lens and it’ll just take a little bit of time to figure out that sweet spot. Now, an extra pro tip that I just thought about has to do with going up and down stairs and, if you’re, getting in and out of a car, for example, in these sort of situations, you’re going to be making kind of quick and dynamic movements where you Need to have secure footing If you’re a first-time progressive, wearer, the magnification at the bottom of the lens, may kind of jump out at you and kind of throw off your footing in a way.

Tips for Safely Navigating multifocal glasses: Keeping Your Vision Clear and Steady

So in these situations I think it’s best to take it slow and try to point your nose toward the ground and look through the top portion of the lens so that you’re not thrown off by that distortion And again just take it easy because nobody wants you To trip and fall and hurt yourself, But again, hopefully by looking down kind of figuring out where your footing is you’ll, be able to avoid any mistakes Now tip number four is to make sure that your glasses are clean.

Tips for Adjusting to Progressive Lenses and Using Them for the Computer

I know this sounds like kind of a no-brainer, but if you are already having difficulties getting used to progressive lenses, then if your lenses are all smudged up, it’s going to be difficult for you to see at any distance. If you haven’t seen our tip video all about how to clean your glasses, the best ways I’ll put that in the video description below The one about using dish, soap is honestly, I think, probably the best one Now tip number five is all about progressive lenses and Using them for the computer Now progressive lenses should work for viewing the computer screen and anything intermediate. But if you’re somebody who’s having a hard time finding the sweet spot in your glasses and you sit in front of a computer screen for long hours, it may lead to neck and shoulder pain.

Tips for Adjusting to Progressive Lenses and Choosing Computer Glasses

If that sounds like you, then you may want to consider getting a dedicated pair of computer glasses or maybe an office-based progressive lens And, if you’re not sure which type of computer glasses would be best for you or the different options out there. I did a video about that recently and you can check that out by clicking or tapping the screen right over here. Otherwise, I hope this helps you out and you’re able to adjust and get used to your progressive lenses faster, See you in the next one

Visual Field Test

by Darin - April 5, 2023

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Detecting Visual Dysfunction with a Visual Field Test

A visual field test is an eye examination that can detect dysfunction in central and peripheral vision, which may be caused by various medical conditions such as glaucoma, stroke, brain tumors, or other neurological deficits. visual field testing can be performed clinically by keeping the subject’s gaze fixed while presenting objects at various places within their visual field. Simple manual equipment such as the tangent screen test or the Amsler grid can be used. When dedicated machinery is used, it is called a perimeter. The exam may be performed by a technician in one of several ways. The test may be performed by a technician directly, with the assistance of a machine, or completely by an automated machine. Machine-based tests aid diagnostics by allowing a detailed printout of the patient’s visual field. Other names for this test may include perimetry, Tangent screen exam, Automated perimetry exam, Goldmann visual field exam, or the Humphrey field exam.

Techniques for Testing Visual Field: Confrontation and Perimetry Explained

Here is a list of techniques used to perform this test: – Confrontation visual field exam: The examiner will ask the patient to cover one eye and stare at the examiner. Ideally, when the patient covers their right eye, the examiner covers their left eye, and vice versa. The examiner will then move his hand out of the patient’s visual field and then bring it back in. Commonly, the examiner will use a slowly wagging finger or a hat pin for this. The patient signals the examiner when his hand comes back into view. This is frequently done by an examiner as a simple and preliminary test. – Perimetry: Perimetry or campimetry is one way to systematically test the visual field. It is the systematic measurement of differential light sensitivity in the visual field by the detection of the presence of test targets on a defined background. Perimetry more carefully maps and quantifies the visual field, especially at the extreme periphery of the visual field.

Various Types of Perimetry for Visual Field Testing

The name comes from the method of testing the perimeter of the visual field. Automated perimeters are used widely, and applications include diagnosing disease, job selection, visual competence assessment, school or community screenings, military selection, and disability classifications. Types of perimetry include the tangent screen, the Goldmann perimeter, and automated perimetry. The simplest form of perimetry uses a white tangent screen. Vision is tested by presenting different sized pins attached to a black wand, which may be moved against a black background. This test stimulus may be white or colored. The Goldmann perimeter is a hollow white spherical bowl positioned a set distance in front of the patient. An examiner presents a test light of variable size and intensity. The light may move towards the center from the perimeter, or it may remain in one location.

Comparison of Goldmann and Automated Perimetry for Visual Field Testing

The Goldmann method is able to test the entire range of peripheral vision and has been used for years to follow vision changes in glaucoma patients. However, now automated perimetry is more commonly used. Automated perimetry uses a mobile stimulus moved by a perimetry machine. The patient indicates whether they see the light by pushing a button. The use of a white background and lights of incremental brightness is called “white-on-white” perimetry.

This type of perimetry is the most commonly used in clinical practice and in research trials where loss of visual field must be measured. However, the sensitivity of white-on-white perimetry is low, and the variability is relatively high. As many as 25-50 percent of the photoreceptor cells may be lost before changes in visual field acuity are detected. This method is commonly used for early detection of blind spots. The patient sits in front of a small concave dome in a small machine with a target in the center.

MP-1 Microperimeter: A Computerized Assessment of Visual Field and Macular Function

The chin rests on the machine, and the eye that is not being tested is covered.A button is given to the patient to be used during the exam. The patient is set in front of the dome and asked to focus on the target at the center.A computer then shines lights on the inside of the dome, and the patient clicks the button whenever a light is seen. The computer then automatically maps and calculates the patient’s visual field using a microperimeter.

The microperimeter assesses macular function in a computerized way.A 2012 observational study by Pacella et al. found a significant improvement in both visual acuity and fixation when treating age-related macular degeneration or macular myopic degeneration with biofeedback treatment through MP-1 microperimeter. Methods of stimulus presentation: Static perimetry tests different locations throughout the field one at a time. First, a dim light is presented at a particular location.

Threshold Static Perimetry: Importance and Procedure in Visual Field Testing

If the patient does not see the light, it is made gradually brighter until it is seen. The minimum brightness required for the detection of a light stimulus is called the “threshold” sensitivity level of that location. This procedure is then repeated at several other locations until the entire visual field is tested. Threshold static perimetry is generally done using automated equipment. It is used for rapid screening and follow-up of diseases involving deficits such as scotomas, loss of peripheral vision, and more subtle vision loss. Perimetry testing is important in the screening, diagnosing, and monitoring of various eye, retinal, optic nerve, and brain disorders. Kinetic perimetry uses a mobile stimulus moved by an examiner, such as in Goldmann kinetic perimetry.

Kinetic Perimetry: Mapping Visual Field Sensitivity Boundaries with Test Lights

First, a single test light of constant size and brightness is used. The text should be corrected as follows:The test light is moved towards the center of vision from the periphery until it is first detected by the patient. This is repeated by approaching the center of vision from different directions. Repeating this process enough times will establish a boundary of vision for that target. The procedure is then repeated using different test lights that are larger or brighter than the original test light. In this way, kinetic perimetry is useful for mapping visual field sensitivity boundaries. It may be a good alternative for patients who have difficulty with automated perimetry, either due to difficulty maintaining a constant gaze or cognitive impairment.

Dry Eye Treatments in Australia

by Darin - April 4, 2023

Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition that affects a significant number of Australians. The condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dry, irritated, and uncomfortable eyes. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dry eye syndrome in Australia.

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome:

Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including age, hormonal changes, certain medications, environmental factors, and medical conditions. In Australia, the most common causes of dry eye syndrome include:

Aging: As we age, the production of tears decreases, making us more prone to dry eye syndrome.
Hormonal Changes: Women are more likely to experience dry eye syndrome during menopause due to hormonal changes.
Medications: Certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can cause dry eye syndrome.
Environmental Factors: Dry, dusty, or windy conditions, air conditioning, and prolonged use of digital devices can lead to dry eye syndrome.
Medical Conditions: Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and thyroid disorders can also cause dry eye syndrome.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome:

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary in severity and can include:

Dryness, grittiness, or a burning sensation in the eyes.
Redness, swelling, and irritation of the eyes.
Blurred vision, particularly when reading or using digital devices.
Excessive tearing, as the eyes try to compensate for the lack of natural tears.
Sensitivity to light.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome:

There are several treatment options available for it in Australia. The most common treatments include:

Artificial Tears: Artificial tears are a common treatment for dry eye syndrome. These eye drops help to lubricate the eyes and relieve dryness and discomfort.
Punctal Plugs: Punctal plugs are small, biocompatible devices that are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining away too quickly. This helps to keep the eyes moist and reduces dryness and discomfort.
Lifestyle Changes: Simple lifestyle changes, such as taking breaks from digital devices, staying hydrated, and avoiding dry or dusty environments, can help to reduce the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
Medications: Prescription medications, such as cyclosporine, can help to reduce inflammation and increase tear production in people with chronic dry eye syndrome.
Surgery: In severe cases of dry eye syndrome, surgery may be required to block the tear ducts or reduce eyelid inflammation.

Conclusion to Dry Eye in Australia:

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can be uncomfortable and irritating. However, there are several treatment options available in Australia to help relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome, it is essential to speak with an eye specialist or optometrist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. By following the appropriate treatment plan, you can help to reduce the discomfort and improve the health of your eyes.

Three Things You Need to Know a

by Darin - March 29, 2023

Early Detection of ADHD-Related Vision Obstacles: Vital Role of Behavioral Optometrists in Supporting Academic Success

Early Detection of ADHD-Related Vision Obstacles: The Critical Role of Behavioral OptometristsEarly discovery and support for ADHD-related vision obstacles are critical functions for behavioural optometrists. ADHD is an important subject. Personally, I have met friends who have adolescent children with vision challenges related to their focus. They did not recognize it until high school age. The reality is that it can be supported much earlier to ensure that kids can experience more academic success and confidence. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that affects approximately 10% of school-aged children in the USA. Children with ADHD have problems with impulse control, attention span, and hyperactivity. For caregivers and parents, recognizing the symptoms and signs of ADHD in children is essential for them to receive the proper assistance needed to succeed academically and socially.

Behavioral Optometry: Empowering Early Intervention Approaches for ADHD in Children

In my personal experience, I have seen the extensive impact of ADHD in the lives of adolescent children who have not been diagnosed until high school age. Behavioral Optometry Supports Early Intervention Approaches for ADHD in ChildrenEarly intervention approaches for ADHD empower children to reach their potential with behavioural optometry support. Many of these children struggle with poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and difficulty building positive relationships with peers. There are strategies and treatments that can be implemented at an earlier age to help children with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve academic outcomes. These may include behavioural interventions, such as positive reinforcement and organizational strategies, as well as medication management with the guidance of a physician.

Behavioral Optometrist Emphasizes Importance of Early Identification and Addressing Vision-Related Challenges in Children with ADHD

In addition, increasing awareness regarding ADHD and its early identification is important in providing children with the support they require to overcome the obstacles related to the condition. Behavioral Optometrist Highlights the Connection Between Vision and ADHD EffectsAs a society, it is our duty to equip families and educators to recognize early signs of ADHD, as well as to provide resources that can help in the effective management of the condition. Only then can we ensure that children with ADHD can reach their full potential both academically and personally.A behavioral optometrist highlights the connection between vision and ADHD effects. Here are the top three things she wants people to know about how vision relates to ADHD: 1. It is important to raise awareness for difficulties that may bring up challenges to attention and learning that can be addressed but are often ignored. 2.

Behavioral Optometry: Addressing Vision and Focus Problems in Children for Improved Learning

Often, people with attention problems have obstacles that include vision problems that can be treated to bring attention issues to a more manageable level. 3. Usually, children push back from a lot of close-to-point work because they are physically uncomfortable. Understanding the Importance of Behavioral Optometry for Children with Vision and Focus Problems. To know the signs of these vision issues and focus problems, it is important to understand that they often look the same in a population of children who are in school and spending a lot of time trying to learn within their arm’s reach, usually to be able to attend or read on a computer. It is very beneficial to have an assessment that can rule out the underlying vision problem.I want to add the caution that, regarding having that evaluation, a primary care eye doctor may do a certain amount of testing, particularly tailored towards convergence deficiency, if they have a family practice where they spend a lot of time with pediatrics.

Why Pediatricians Recommend Behavioral Optometrists for Children’s Eye Health and Learning Issues

Having an optometrist who specializes in pediatric-oriented work is definitely recommended for school-aged children.A behavioral optometrist understands the significance of managing near-point vision and learning issues for children with attention deficit and vision problems. An eye doctor is a medical professional who specializes in the health of the eye. Behavioral Optometrists: A Different Approach to Addressing Vision and Attention Issues in ChildrenThey may evaluate and examine the eye’s health, but they may not address near-point vision and learning issues. Therefore, they may not treat a patient who could benefit from glasses.A behavioral optometrist may have a different perspective and training, and they may recommend glasses that reduce the need for them. This is an important distinction.

Behavioral Optometrists Address Vision Problems Misdiagnosed as ADHD in Children

Children with both attention deficit and vision problems can benefit from glasses that support near-point work and attention. Behavioral eye doctors can identify binocular vision problems in children with attention deficit disorder. These problems can be mistaken for attention deficit disorder, but addressing them can help children manage for a longer time span. The third thing, which I believe is the most valuable takeaway, is that there is a common complaint among children with vision issues or parents of children who have trouble with their vision and attention in class. Behavioral Optometrists Highlight the Link Between Vision Problems and ADHD in Children. These parents tell me that their child is intelligent in everything except school.

Behavioral Optometrists Highlight Link Between Vision Problems and ADHD in Children.

This is the main difference that indicates it may be a vision problem, and that attention may be affected as a result. When a child can sit for hours playing with Legos and creating entire cities, but then struggles to read a book, it suggests there may be a different difficulty that is making it hard to work with their eyes as a team on flat paper. Behavioral optometrists highlight the link between vision problems and ADHD in children. Additionally, the focus required to do building and creative tasks is one of the things that alerts other behavioral optometrists that there may be vision issues. If your child has ADHD, it’s worth ruling out vision problems.

Behavioral Optometry: Addressing Vision Problems That Hinder Learning and Attention in Children

Independent studies show a significant correlation between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and vision problems that are not correctable with contacts or glasses. Visual Challenges Can Hinder learning: The Importance of Behavioral Optometry for ChildrenWhether it’s a tracking issue or an eye teaming problem, it’s not just a lack of convergence, but any of those visual challenges that can create a blockade for children who are otherwise eager to learn, interested, want to understand their world, want to be successful, want to do well, and feel good about themselves in the classroom. They would be better off receiving attention for being good and excelling than for being a distraction in the classroom. Children with attention deficiency problems usually have 20/20 vision.

Importance of Behavioral Eye Doctors in Early Detection of Vision Issues for Children

One of the factors that may cause a youngster’s eyes to bias away is redirecting their interest towards seeing more intently at the close point and working hard. Pediatric Vision Screenings: Recognizing Limitations and Importance of Behavioral Eye Doctors for Early DetectionThe 20/20 vision scale is normal.”Recognizing the Limitations of Pediatric Vision Screenings: Insights from a Behavioral Eye Doctor” suggests that 20/20 vision indicates a healthy eye. However, it has little to do with the skills required in school, such as shifting between the board and notes or tracking while reading with inward-turned eyes. These skills are often not screened at a doctor’s office. Early detection of vision issues is crucial, and behavioral eye doctors play a vital role in infant eye evaluations. Comprehensive eye tests are necessary to ensure that both eyes are working correctly. Eye CU offers infant evaluations to dismiss vision problems.

Breaking Barriers: Addressing Vision Problems in Children with Attention Deficiency through Behavioral Optometry

Annual evaluations are not necessary, but it is essential to check that one eye is not doing all the work.”That’s a vital point to start early. Find out more: Can House Vision Treatment Improve learning Disabilities? Breaking Barriers: The Connection Between Vision Problems and Attention Deficiency in ChildrenOften, individuals with attention problems have barriers that include vision problems that can be resolved to bring attention troubles to a more manageable level. The second thing I’ll state is that children who have both attention deficiency and vision problems can reduce obstacles to their learning and decrease attention span with appropriate glasses, supporting near-point tasks and focus. There are binocular vision problems that resemble attention deficiency disorder, and children who have both of those issues, attention deficiency and binocular vision issues, can usually manage for a longer time span when the vision issues are addressed.

Behavioral Optometrist Highlights Common Complaint Among Children with Vision and Attention Issues: 20/20 Vision

The third thing, which I believe is the most valuable point to take home, is that there is a single most common complaint among children who have vision problems or parents of children who have vision problems and also have attention issues in the classroom. Behavioral Optometrist Explains Why 20/20 Vision is Common in Children with Attention Deficiency ProblemsChildren with attention deficiency problems typically have 20/20 vision because one of the reasons a child’s eyes may begin to bias away from that is that they may redirect their attention towards seeing more intently at the near point and sitting and working really hard.”

What is Glaucoma – What Causes Glaucoma (Simple Answer)

by Darin - March 28, 2023

Understanding Glaucoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

So what exactly is glaucoma and what causes it What is Glaucoma ?” Glaucoma is a condition or disease where the optic nerve dies over time, leading to vision, loss and blindness. Now, let’s stop and break that down into pieces to make more sense out of it. The optic nerve is the chord that connects the eye to the brain Light enters the eye, hits the retina and that information gets sent down the optic nerve to the visual processing centers of your brain, which gives you your eyesight. If something causes damage to the nerve or the nerve dies, blindness can occur. However, most cases of glaucoma are detected very early with comprehensive eye exams and treatment is excellent. Most people who get regular eye exams get glaucoma detected early on so with treatments. Most people never go blind from glaucoma anymore. However, there are some types of glaucoma that are very complicated and severe, so even with the best treatments, some people can lose vision and go blind from this condition.

Understanding Glaucoma: Eye Pressure and Beyond

Now what most people think about when they see their eye doctor and they think about glaucoma – is EYE PRESSURE, because there is this pressure test at any eye exam you will have where we check the pressure to make sure it isn’t too high. It’S true that HIGH EYE PRESSURE is associated with most types of Glaucoma. However, not all of them, You can actually develop glaucoma even with NORMAL EYE PRESSURES, and we call that NORMAL TENSION, GLAUCOMA And just a fun fact for today’s video, a normal eye. Pressure for most people is between 10 and 21 millimeters of mercury. Whether someone develops high eye pressures or normal tension glaucoma, the treatment is really the same. We either prescribe medicated eye drops or surgery to lower that pressure down and for most people the treatment is really good. However, there are people where, even if we bring that pressure really low, they still advance and they lose vision. So early detection is really key when it comes to glaucoma.

Understanding the Role of Eye Pressure in Glaucoma Development

If you haven’t had an eye exam in the last year, I really hope you can call your eye doctor and get seen just to make sure you are not developing this common disease So now “ What Causes Glaucoma ?” Honestly, I don’t know In fact it’s still A medical mystery, We don’t know the exact cause of glaucoma. However, there are many different theories out there and we do know that most types of glaucoma are associated with that elevated eye pressure. So, let’s at least go over what eye pressure is inside the eye and how it damages the nerve and causes glaucoma Within the eye. There is actually a clear fluid that acts like the blood of the eye. It supplies energy and nutrients to the eye to keep it healthy, and we call that fluid the AQUEOUS HUMOUR. This aqueous humour is generated inside the eye by a structure called the ciliary body, and the ciliary body is constantly generating this fluid all the time.

Understanding the Role of Aqueous Humour and Eye Pressure in Glaucoma.

Every day, This fluid actually flows from the ciliary body behind the iris. It goes through the pupil and it drains through a structure called the ANGLE. That’S the junction created by the iris, the colored part of the eye and the cornea the clear window to the eye. If, for some reason, this drain gets plugged up, the ciliary body keeps producing aqueous humour and the pressure starts to get higher and higher The problem with high eye pressure is that you can think of it, like a bike, tire filled with a lot of air. If you keep pumping the air pressure higher and higher the weakest part of the tire will eventually thin and bulge outward, and if you keep pumping the air that bulge will eventually pop The same concept happens with the eye.

Understanding Glaucoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Vision Loss

If the pressure keeps getting higher and higher the weakest part of the eye, will bulge outward and the weakest part is the optic nerve. In fact, we call that optic nerve head cupping, because when the doctor looks at the eye it looks like a cup When that happens, the individual nerves that make up the optic nerve about a million different fibers, actually get pinched off and they eventually die. That’S what causes vision loss, In fact, the vision loss that starts with glaucoma usually develops so slowly that people don’t even realize it’s happening until it’s too late until it’s already in the moderate stages of the disease, The type of vision loss, if you ever experience, glaucoma And you experience the vision, loss happens in your side vision, Your peripheral vision will slowly fade to dark and it usually starts in one quadrant, sometimes forming an arc over the top of your vision. It can then include the lower part of your vision and progress to complete tunnel vision.

Understanding the Risk Factors for Glaucoma: Age, Genetics, and More

If it continues to progress without treatment, it can even affect the central part of your vision until you have none left. Although eye pressure plays a significant role, it is not the only cause of glaucoma. In fact, the disease is associated with many risk factors such as genetics, age, history of trauma and other diseases like high blood pressure and even diabetes. So, who is at the greatest risk for glaucoma Well, the reality is that anybody can get glaucoma, but people with a family history are more likely to get it. So if you have a grandma, grandpa, parent or sibling, who had glaucoma make sure you let your doctor know because they are going to want to know, People of older age are also more likely. So if you are over the age of 60, you are at a higher risk. If you have any African or Hispanic heritage, you are also at a higher risk. Now again, age and risk go hand in hand for glaucoma, but you can actually get the disease at any time.

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Early Detection and Treatment are Key to Preventing Vision Loss from Glaucoma, Even in Children.

Even children can be born with glaucoma and we call that congenital glaucoma, The big takeaway I want from this video is that glaucoma can be detected early on and treated to prevent vision, loss or at least delay it. So it’s really important that you have an eye exam If you haven’t had an eye exam this last year.I hope that you can call your eye doctor and get seen Remember that you only get two eyes so please take care of them. Have you ever been diagnosed with glaucoma? How long Did you find this video helpful Make sure to connect with us in the comment section below? Thank you, everybody. If you would like to do me, a favor hit that, LIKE button down below SUBSCRIBE, if you’re new and SHARE this video with friends and family, Don’t miss other cool videos from Doctor Eye Health, Just click or tap. The screen over here Keep an eye on it and we will talk soon. This is Zelda, Isn’t she cute? What do you think of Zelda

The Hidden Danger of Homeschooling 1

by Darin - June 2, 2020

Homeschooling is great! It provides a safe and familiar environment for a child to learn, and a wonderful opportunity for a parent to connect with their child in a special and unique way.

However, homeschooling is not without its dangers!

The Obvious Dangers of Homeschooling

The idea that kids can stay home and learn is not a new one. Parents have been keeping children home for their schooling if they are on a remote property, or if the child struggles with social anxiety or bullying. And to be honest, homeschool can be a tremendous asset in the life of a child, and in their education.

So when we talk about dangers, what are we referring to?

The first big danger is that the child lacks social interaction with their peers. In fairness, most homeschooling mums or dads are onto this, providing social connection between their child and other homeschooling kids. If they are involved in organised sport, or church, this danger is greatly lessened, and as I mentioned, most parents of homeschoolers are onto this already.

Other dangers also exist, particularly if the parents are less than organised. I have seen some children thrive in the homeschool environment, while others have been disorganised, and floundered into academic problems because the parents were unable to direct and discipline their child adequately.

The Hidden Danger of Homeschooling Revealed!

From a Behavioural Optometry point of view, there are some clear and present dangers with homeschooling. As I said before, I see many very positive aspects to children learning at home, but from a visual perspective, you can cause some big issues in your child’s development.

According to the WHO, myopia (shortsighted) is one of the fastest-growing conditions in the world. It has reached epidemic proportions, especially in Asian countries, but all over the world, the number of myopic or shortsighted people has jumped dramatically in the last 10 years.

Some so-called experts attribute this rise in shortsightedness to children not going outside enough. In my opinion, this misses the point. What has been introduced in the last 10 years that has dramatically increased the amount of time kids focus on near objects without a break? That’s right, technology, including Ipads, tablets, and, of course, smartphones.

I believe that the increase in shortsightedness among our young people is due to the massive increase in the time they spend looking at near objects, especially screens. And herein lies the hidden danger for homeschooling.

Homeschoolers focus on books, computers, tablets, and phones often without breaks for long, extended periods of time. Unlike in a regular classroom, where children look down at the books then up at the teacher, homeschool by its very nature involves just looking down, mainly at screens.

My concern is that homeschoolers are more prone towards going shortsighted than their face-to-face school peers. I have certainly seen this phenomenon in my practice, but this does not mean we should abandon homeschool at all!

Protection for Homeschoolers

With the right protection and support, which is the correct lenses that relax the focusing muscles, prolonged exposure to near activities can safely be done during homeschool. We often design lenses that allow children to concentrate and focus for hours during homeschooling without driving them into myopia. We can even incorporate blue light protection to minimise eyestrain, maximise concentration and reduce sleep disruption.

So the adverse effects of prolonged concentration on books and screens can be mitigated to a large degree by the right advice, the right reading and technology glasses and by taking appropriate breaks, of around 5 minutes every half hour.

If you are homeschooling, don’t stop and don’t get discouraged. Just get the right advice from your Optometrist and make sure that while your children are studying, you are protecting them from the risks associated with shortsightedness.

If you want to know more, come and talk to Darin today. Call us for a Bulk Billed consultation, which costs zero out of your pocket, on 5457 3333.

What’s in an Eye Test for Children?

by Darin - May 27, 2020

An eye test for children is considered a necessary part of the preparation for going to school. Most experts agree that, if there is a significant vision problem, this will adversely affect their learning. But every Optometrist will say they test kids, as much as they say they test adults.

I guess the big question is, is One Eye Test for Children the same as the next?

Well, the content of an eye test depends entirely on the optometrist, and that’s why we believe that the best kid’s eye test comes from a Behavioural Optometrist. Darin Browne is one such Optometrist. If your child is struggling at school in their learning, especially reading, writing or spelling, the quality of an eye test for children becomes even more critical. So, with this in mind, I want to reveal to you the types of things that are done in a kid’s eye test, and why not all eye tests are the same…

If I Want an Eye Test for my Kids, Why Should I see You?

There are many aspects to eye tests, so not all eye tests target the same things.? It stands to reason that eye tests for children target the aspects of vision that are important for a child, especially when it comes to their learning.?

So a standard adult eye test, as good as it is for detecting eye disease and the need for corrective spectacle lenses, does not necessarily apply when it comes to children.

Being a Behavioural Optometrist starts with being able to relate to the child. Kids tend to be frightened or apprehensive when it comes to a an eye test for children, so relating to them is an essential part of testing. Given the fact that many people, including my wife, think I have never really grown up, this enables me to relate to and communicate with children.

It also helps to set their fears aside and to establish rapport with them. I do not know what most Optometrists do differently when they see a child, but I can reveal what I do and the tests that I perform on a child, especially a child with learning problems, ADHD, ASD or dyslexia.?

Here’s what I test for…

1. Clear distance (Visual Acuity)

Every Optometrist should test for a child’s seeing ability.? A child should be able to see distant objects clearly and sharply. This clarity is called visual acuity and is usually measured using the familiar Snellen eye?chart which has letters of steadily decreasing size. Children who cannot read yet are usually tested using shapes, so here at Eye CU, we can test children of almost any age, or children with any disability. ?Problems with eye teaming can cause things like a lazy eye, which will also affect visual acuity, so an kid eye exam is important even before school commences.

2. Change in Focus (Accommodation)

A kid’s eye test must include testing of their focus ability.? Kids focus differently to adults, and many times their ability to focus fatigues during the school day.? The child must be able to do two things efficiently with their focus:? They have to be able to change quickly and effectively from near to distance and back again (such as when they are copying off the board), and they also have to be able to sustain their focus on a near object like a book for a long period of time without tiring (such as when they are doing homework). ?We test both of these in children routinely, and a kid’s eye test mus include this type of testing. The most common symptoms of a focus or an accommodation vision problem include inconsistent distance or near blur, sore eyes, headaches, losing of place copying off the board and, most common of all, POOR CONCENTRATION FOR READING!

3. Aiming the Eyes (Eye Teaming)

Another important Kid’s eye?Test deals with Eye coordination, which is the ability to team two eyes together, having them fixate (look at) the same point in space with comfort and without double vision. If the eyes do not point precisely at the same object this can cause headaches, poor concentration, tiredness, confusion or, in severe cases, double vision. This is sometimes called convergence insufficiency, and if present it greatly affects children when they read, causing them to lose their place, misread words or skip lines.

4. Eye Movements (Saccades and Tracking)

Eye movement control is another essential part of a paediatric?eye exam, and it is essential for reading and ball sports, yet most Optometrists never perform this Kid’s Vision Test! There are two main types of eye movements we look at in an eye exam for children, and both require the eyes to work together as a team. The first type is the quick and accurate movements which are used, for example, when the eyes move from one word to another while reading. These are jumping movements which are called ?saccades?. The second type of eye movements are known as ?tracking? and these should be smooth and accurate. Tracking movements are used when the eyes follow a moving object such as a ball in flight or vehicles in traffic. Children who lose their place a lot while reading, mix up words, misread words, skip lines and often have difficulty watching the ball while playing sport. These kids may have poorly developed eye movement skills, and they can be easily helped by the right type of vision therapy.

5. Depth perception

Depth perception is another aspect of a kid’s eye test which is often overlooked. ?It involves?the ability to determine relative distance, recognised by many as the 3D we see in TVs and at the movies. Accurate depth perception is also needed to hit a ball while playing sports, or to park a car accurately (not that many kids are doing that!). Depth perception is easily tested in a kid eye exam at?Eye CU, and my experience is that many children compromise this important skill in an effort to concentrate when they face problems with their focus or eye teaming.

6. Eye-hand Coordination

Another critical part of a?Children’s Vision Test is eye-hand coordination, which involves the eyes directing and controlling the hands.? It is especially important in writing, and also in many sports, especially small ball sports like cricket and tennis.? In younger children it plays an important role in the formation of letters and words on a page, and difficulties with eye-hand coordination are often picked up in Prep or Kindy kids when they struggle to colour in the lines.

7. Visual Memory

The skill of visual memory is essential in reading, and especially in spelling.? Poor visual memory skills almost always result in poor spelling, but Darin?s special vision therapy program can help children to learn spelling words quicker and more effectively by training visual memory. And let’s face it, if a child cannot visualise and remember sight words, how can they read effectively?? This is an area I love to work with, because the results are so tangible yet easy to achieve!

8. Peripheral Vision??

Peripheral or side vision is the ability to see and interpret what is happening to the sides of our vision while looking straight ahead. It is especially important for adults when driving a car and is also is key to playing a lot of sports. However, you may not realise that it is also an important part of reading and writing for a child, helping them to maintain their place more easily and allowing them to flow as they read.? Try reading through a toilet roll so you can only see a word at a time and you will experience some of what children with learning problems go through.? That’s why a kid’s eye test is so important,. and should go beyond just the ability to see clearly on a page.

9. Spatial Awareness

Spatial awareness is another key developmental skill, and if this is not correctly developed, kids start to write letters and words backward. While many parents are terrified of this symptom thinking it equates absolutely with dyslexia, we have had tremendous success training spatial awareness for stopping kids reversing.

A Kid’s Vision Test is Special

I believe that a kid’s vision test should be a special experience.? Relating to children and drawing out the correct answers can give insight into their struggles with learning, and while vision is not the only consideration when it comes to learning problems, it is certainly one of the main areas parents should look at. One of the huge advantages that the visual system offers us in learning is that it is so easily and safely treated. We can use things like reading glasses and vision therapy which safe, easy to administer and very cheap compared to many of the other areas considered in treating children who struggle in school. So if your child is struggling to learn to read, write and spell effectively, then a kid’s eye test is a great place to start!