Your prescription glasses are not just a fashion accessory. They play a crucial role in maintaining your vision health. Despite having likely been informed of this by their optometrist, some choose to not wear their prescription glasses or contact lenses regularly. In this blog, we will explore what happens if you don’t wear your prescription lenses for both long-term and short-term discomfort.
Short-term effects of not wearing glasses
One of the immediate consequences of not wearing your prescribed eyewear is eye strain. This can lead to persistent headaches or migraines. Refractive errors are the reason why people suffer from conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). These refractive errors cause the eyes to work harder to focus, causing discomfort that can impact your day-to-day life.
If these refractive errors are neglected, then the major result will be an inability to see things clearly. This can hinder your performance at work or school, leading to decreased productivity and engagement. This can also impact the way you interact with the world around you. Compromised vision increases the likelihood of accidents, whether you are driving or simply carrying out daily activities. Clear vision is essential in ensuring your personal safety as well as those around you.
Whether driving, operating machinery, or navigating everyday surroundings, compromised vision increases the likelihood of accidents. Clear vision is paramount for ensuring personal safety and also, just as importantly – the safety of those around you.
Long-term effects of not wearing glasses
The long-term effects of not wearing your glasses are unsurprisingly worse than the effects of wearing them! Your eyes adjust to incorrect focus, potentially leading to irreversible damage that regular use of prescriptions could have prevented.
Individuals who consistently disregard their prescriptions may be more susceptible to developing eye conditions such as astigmatism, myopia, or even more severe issues like glaucoma. Regular use of prescribed eyewear not only makes life more comfortable but also serves as a preventive measure against such conditions.
Alternatives to traditional eyewear
For those opposed to the look or feel of traditional eyewear, contact lenses provide a discreet and convenient alternative. They offer clear vision without the appearance of glasses. If you want a more permanent solution, laser eye surgery and other corrective procedures are viable. If you’re interested in any of these options then a consultation with an eye care professional can provide insights into the best options for your individual needs.
Adopting a healthier lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can positively impact vision health. While not a substitute for prescriptions, these practices can complement eye care.
Looking to book a consultation?
Neglecting to wear your prescription glasses can have both short-term and long-term consequences on your vision health. Our professional opinion is to always wear your prescription glasses unless you suspect your vision has changed over time, which is normal.
Many people wear glasses to correct their vision and improve their day-to-day life. However, there is a common misconception that actually wearing your glasses can make your vision worse over time. In this blog, we will explore both sides of the argument and provide insight into how glasses impact your vision.
How Glasses Work
Before delving into whether or not glasses make your vision worse over time, it is crucial to have a reasonable understanding of how they work. Glasses are ingeniously designed to correct refractive errors in the eye. The first-ever glasses came about in Italy sometime between 1268 and 1300, though the exact date is disputed. Basically, they were two magnifying glasses hooked up with a hinge, resting on the bridge of the nose.
Refractive Errors
Refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia) occur when the eye fails to bend the light directly onto the retina. This distortion leads to a blurred image. Glasses work by redirecting the light so it accurately hits the retina, helping the eye ‘see’ how it should.
These refractive errors are often hereditary and can change annually, which requires updates to your prescriptions.
The Myth of Dependency
One of the common false impressions we hear when people come in for an eye test is that you become dependent on your glasses. Wearing your prescriptions does not make you dependent on glasses. Many believe it causes your eyes to become lazy but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Glasses do not weaken your eyes, instead, they provide the necessary correction for proper vision.
Changes in Prescription
Changes in prescription are common across a span of 1-3 years. This doesn’t mean that your glasses are making your vision worse. There is a multitude of factors that impact your eye health and people suffering from eye conditions may experience more frequent changes. There is no evidence that suggests wearing your glasses causes your vision to worsen.
Regular eye tests ensure that your glasses fit your current, while also screening you for a multitude of other health conditions.
Eye Strain and Glasses
Wearing glasses will almost always reduce eye strain and discomfort while promoting overall eye health. If you have just received a new prescription is it important you understand there is a transitional period. During this time your eyes need to acclimate to the improved vision. This can be both exciting but also nauseating for some. If you experience dizziness when wearing your glasses you are likely dealing with a depth perception issue. A good way to think of this issue is motion sickness.
If you continuously experience this for any longer than a week, we suggest you get in touch with your optometrist for further guidance.
Common Misconceptions
Let’s address some common misconceptions:
Myth: Glasses weaken your eyes. Reality: They provide necessary corrections.
Myth: You become dependent on glasses. Reality: They enhance your vision without causing dependency.
Myth: Not wearing glasses strengthens your eyes. Reality: This can lead to eye strain and discomfort.
Take The Professionals Advice
So do glasses make your vision worse? No, of course wearing glasses does not make your vision worse. They are a helpful tool to correct refractive errors and reduce eye strain. However, in saying that, it’s essential to maintain regular eye check-ups and update your prescription as needed for optimal eye health.
Smoking is a harmful habit that has been long associated with numerous health risks. Infamous for causing cancer almost everywhere in the body, many people may not be aware of the detrimental impact smoking can have on eye health. In the blog, we discuss the connection between smoking and eye health as well as explore various eye conditions that can be developed by smoking.
Before we begin, we want to emphasise how crucial it is to prioritise your eyes and take steps to quit if you are a smoker. Your vision is a precious gift and your lifestyle choices have a huge effect on your health. You should protect it.
Smoking and Its Effects on Eye Health
Cataracts
Cataracts is a common eye condition which causes clouding on the eye’s natural lens, leading to interrupted vision. Normally, the lens is clear and transparent. This allows for light to pass through and focus on the retina at the back of the eye. Smoking has been strongly associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts and can also accelerate the progression of existing cataracts. Inflammation of the lens is often apparent in smokers. This can contribute to the formation and progression of cataracts.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration or AMD is a progressive disease that affects the sharpness of your vision. The macula is the central part of the retina, located at the back of the eye, and is responsible for the detail in your vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults, particularly those 50+. Smoking has been identified as a significant risk factor in the development of AMD. Due to blood vessel damage, there is a limited flow of blood to the macula. This results in damage and cell death.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition whereby discomfort is caused due to insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. Many describe it as the sensation of a foreign object in the eye. Smoking can alter the composition of the tear film. This can make tears less stable and more likely to evaporate quickly. This can result in dry and uncomfortable eyes.
Harmful Chemicals in Cigarettes
Nicotine
Nicotine is the addictive compound found in cigarettes. When someone smokes, nicotine can constrict the blood vessels in the eyes. This constriction reduces the amount of blood flow, containing nutrients and oxygen to the eye tissue. Adequate oxygenation and nutrient supply are essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Reduced blood flow means that the eyes may become more susceptible to various conditions and diseases.
Tar
The tar produced by smoking is a harmful byproduct that can negatively impact eye health. Containing various toxins, tar can lead to chronic eye irritation and a multitude of other issues. Exposure to tar can increase the likelihood of developing infections because it disrupts the body’s natural defences. Eye infections can range from mild conjunctivitis to more severe conditions that may require medical treatment.
Quitting Smoking for Better Eye Health
Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your overall eye health. By quitting smoking and adopting a healthier lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing the condition mentioned in this blog. Protect your vision.
There are plenty of resources online that can help you kick the bad habit of smoking. Please take a look at the NHS website if you want to see almost immediate improvements to your health!
Driving at night can be a challenging task on its own due to reduced visibility, but it becomes even more difficult when one wears glasses.
Those who rely on corrective eyewear often face several issues during nighttime driving.
Firstly, glare from headlights and streetlights can be intensified when they hit the lenses of glasses, causing discomfort and temporarily blinding the driver. Additionally, glasses may accumulate smudges, reflections, or streaks over time, further obstructing one’s vision in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the constant adjustment between looking through the glasses for clear vision and above them to see distant road signs or objects can be distracting and potentially hazardous. Nighttime driving demands increased attention and concentration, and the added challenges posed by glasses can make it an even more daunting experience. Fortunately, we have a range of lenses that can help with these issues, keeping you safer on the road as the days begin to get darker earlier.
Essilor Varilux Road Pilot
Essilor’s Varilux Road Pilot lenses are among the most advanced spectacle lenses you can get your hands on right now. Whether you prefer single vision or varifocal, these lenses are purpose-built to optimise your vision while you’re behind the wheel. These lenses allow for a wider peripheral vision that grants more natural eye movements when checking the rear-view and side mirrors. This means you’ll be better equipped to anticipate the movements and actions of other cars on the road. The Varilux Road Pilot lens not only enhances distance vision but also expands the intermediate vision zone, providing clearer vision to information like the speedometer. Additionally, these lenses feature Crizal Drive coating by Essilor, reducing reflections from oncoming and other sources of light by up to 90%. This addresses a common nighttime driving issue faced by many of our customers.
Essilor Crizal Drive
Crizal Drive coating is best known for optimising visual clarity, especially when driving at night. All crizal coated lenses minimise the levels of reflections, increase protection from scratches, smudges, dust and water, as well as protecting your eyes from UV and filtering out harmful Blue-Violet light. Daytime and nighttime eye sensitivity varies. At night, intense light sources cause glare, affecting rod cells and visual awareness. Crizal Drive reduces nighttime reflections by up to 90% at 507nm, where sensitivity is highest. This decreases glare, enhancing visual comfort for safer driving.
Interested in Night Time Lenses?
If you are interested in the Essilor Varilux Road Pilot lenses or Essilor Crizal Drive, then please get in touch and we can help you. You could then keep them in the car for all night time driving, giving your eyes the welcome comfort they need. They don’t just have to be used just when driving either, even if you are a passenger or out and about in the dark, these lenses will significantly improve your vision, keeping you safer.
With September fast approaching, making sure your kids eyesight is as good as it can be before the next school year starts is vital.
Have they been struggling over the summer months to watch the TV?
Have you noticed them squinting at all to try and focus on what they are watching?
Have they been at all clumsy for no reason?
Were they having difficulties at school last term, either focussing or looking at the white board in class?
Have they been displaying unusual signs of behaviour?
Now is the best time to talk to your children and ask them some of these questions. An annual eye check for every child is the best idea and a change in eyesight can be the reason for any of the above points. Even before they can read and write, as long as they are old enough to answer questions and look at pictures, then we can see them at Focus Medical Eye Centre.
If your child is displaying signs of being short sighted, then we are at the cutting edge of technology at Focus Medical Eye Centre, by having a quick and easy screening test for any child at risk of developing Myopia. Using a special scanner called the Myah we can plot the risk and treat accordingly.
If you have any concerns at all with your child’s eyesight, then please get in touch as soon as possible and we will do our best to fit them in before they start back at school. The summer has flown by and parents are busy out buying new shoes, uniforms, school bags and other kit. But what about the eye health for your child?
Your eyesight is one of your most valuable tools in life. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could reduce your child’s risk of becoming short sighted? Well now you can if you come in to Focus Medical Eye Centre!
Myopia (short-sightedness) is a result of an excessive elongation of the eye where light focuses in front of, instead of on, the retina. This causes distant objects to be blurry while close objects appear normal. As a parent, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable about the common risk factors for myopia and what you can do to prevent its progression. In this article, we will discuss myopia management in children and how you can help to possibly reduce short sightedness for your child, as this is when treatment is most effective.
Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of myopia is on the increase (by over 70% in Asia & by up to 50% in the US & Europe).
What can we do to try to prevent Myopia and it’s progression
Near activity
The association between near work and myopic progression has been evaluated in numerous studies and the outcomes were beyond doubt. It is recommended to limit the time children are spent undertaking near-visual tasks ie viewing mobile phones and tablets. Special spectacles incorporating a reading prescription can be prescribed if excessive near accommodation is found during an eye examination.
Time outdoors
Strong evidence exists that spending time outdoors (more than 2 hours per day) can protect against the onset of myopia (short sightedness) and possibly reduce the final level of adult myopia. The total time spent outdoors appears to be an important factor, rather than the nature of the activity undertaken.
Spectacles and contact lenses
Recent theories & studies are now suggesting that one of the reasons for myopic progression is that conventional spectacles and contact lenses are such that, whilst the central image formed on the retina is in focus, the peripheral image formed by these lens designs is behind the peripheral retina. It is thought this may promote elongation of the eye as it attempts to form an image on the peripheral retina. By prescribing optical corrections such as peripheral de-focus spectacles (MiYOSMART or Stellest lens) and special contact lenses (soft dailies & orthokeratology) we now have options to help slow myopic progression and improve outcomes for younger patients. Studies have looked at pharmacological intervention (such as the Atropine for treatment of Myopia Study) to reduce myopic progression, but this option is not currently available in the UK. Single vision under correction was a popular option for myopia management. However randomised clinical trials unequivocally have shown not only does this strategy not work, but actually can cause progression of myopia, therefore is not recommended as a myopia control strategy.
It is important to note that no one treatment can promise to stop myopia progression in children, only to slow it down.
Why you need to act now
The earlier the onset of myopia in an individual generally leads to a higher level of myopia in later life which increases risk factors for several ocular pathologies including glaucoma, cataract, retinal detachment, & myopic maculopathy brought about by the accompanying elongation of the eye. The highest risk is typically found in high myopia & -5.00DS. So, if we can reduce how myopic an individual ends up as an adult this will reduce their risk of developing certain pathologies in later life.
A reduction in the final level of myopia by only 1 dioptre reduces the lifetime risk of macula degeneration by 40% and the risk of vision impairment by 20%. Myopia progresses fastest in younger children, especially those under 10. This means that the most important opportunity to slow eye growth is when children are younger. Myopia management aims to apply scientific treatments to slow excessive growth to a lesser rate. Experts agree that myopia management should be commenced as soon as a child becomes myopic and continue into their late teens.
Recommended available interventions
Multifocal or bifocal spectacle lenses
This is a lens correction with a reading zone in the lower part of the lens that reduces accommodative effort which helps reduce myopic progression. Various studies show this type of correction can reduce the final level of adult myopia by approximately 11-46%, especially for individuals with additional near vision focussing issues(1).
Peripheral de-focus spectacles
This is a lens which has special ringed zones in the periphery which create a peripheral de-focus which reduces the stimulus for the eye to continue to elongate slowing myopic progression. Studies have shown this type of intervention can reduce myopic progression by up to 67% when worn 12 hours a day(2). The MiYOSMART lens from Hoya and the Stellest lens from Essilor are game-changing innovations in the field of myopia control and are now available at the practice.
Multifocal contact lenses
This works by allowing a clear central image to be formed on the retina whilst reducing the peripheral hyperopic defocus that is typically found in myopic eyes. This reduces the elongation of the eye. Various studies show this type of correction can reduce the final level of adult myopia by approximately 30-50% (3). We are accredited to fit the MiSight Soft Daily myopia control lens at the practice.
Orthokeratology
Orthokeratology lenses ( Ortho-K ) are rigid contact lenses that you sleep in which gently alter the shape of the cornea ( like braces on teeth) so on awakening you can see clearly for the day without the need for contact lenses or spectacles. With regard to myopia control, this works by flattening the corneal curvature in such a way that creates peripheral hyperopic defocus which reduces the stimulus for the eye to elongate similar to the other methods of myopia control. Various studies have shown this type of correction can reduce the final level of adult myopia by approximately 32-63%(4).
Please note: Wearing contact lenses increases the risk of eye infections compared to spectacles with the risk being, 1 in 1000 wearers per year for reusable soft contact lenses or overnight ortho K lenses and 1 in 5000 wearers per year for daily disposable soft contact lenses. With proper hygiene and maintenance, this risk can be well managed.
How do I arrange for my child to be screened?
We will be able to discuss myopia management screening during your child’s eye examination and make recommendations. A child’s eye examination is £45.00 with one of our specialists at Focus Medical Eye Centre or covered for one child under a parent’s care plan. This will not include the special eye length scan and growth percentiles report but this is available for an extra charge of just £25.00.
Alternatively, the easiest way to manage your child’s care is to join our Myopia Monthly Plan which will include all measurements, a tailored treatment plan and regular followups for just £7.95 per month*
Please note: the basic NHS child’s eye examination will not include any myopia management treatment plans, scans or follow ups.
*This is separate to the parent’s care plan which only covers a basic eye examination for one child. The Myopia plan covers the clinical time needed to manage this service but any spectacle or contact lenses needed are at an additional cost.
References
1. Brien Holden Vision Institute ( bhvi.org ) – Myopia Management
2. Bao, J., Huang, Y., Li, X., Yang, A., Zhou, F., Wu, J., Wang, C., Li, Y., Lim, E.W., Spiegel, D.P.,
Drobe, B., Chen, H., 2022. Spectacle Lenses With Aspherical Lenslets for Myopia Control vs
Single-Vision Spectacle Lenses: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Ophthalmol. 140(5),
472–478. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.0401.
3. Optometry Today Volume 58:02 February 2018 – Myopia
4. Review of Optometry July 2012 – Consider ortho K for myopia control
Bifocal and varifocal lenses are a popular choice for individuals suffering from blurry vision. At certain ages (ahem!!) this will certainly happen to most of us! These types of lens provide clear vision at different distances, allowing users to see both objects near and far without having to switch between multiple glasses. However, adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses can take time. In this article, we will provide you with some useful tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses.
Bifocal and varifocal lenses are designed with multiple optical powers to correct both near and distant vision. Bifocal lenses have two distinct powers divided into two parts. One power is near and one far. The top part of the lens is for distance and the bottom is for near vision. Varifocals, also known as progressive lenses, have a more complex design than bifocals. They have three optical powers arranged in a gradient. Similarly to bifocal, the top of the lens is for viewing objects at a distance and the bottom is for near. The difference is the intermediate power positioned between them allowing for comfortable viewing at a variety of positions.
Expectations and patience
Before we get into any tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses, it is important we set some realistic expectations. It is incredibly common for people to experience some discomfort or difficulty when initially transitioning. Patience is essential during the adjustment period, as it can take a few days or even a couple of weeks to fully adapt.
Stick with it
The first tip we have to offer is to stick with it! As with any change, adjusting to bifocal and varifocal lenses takes time for your brain to become accustomed to the new visual experience. It is common for people to feel slightly disorientated or have difficulty finding the right focus at the start. You must not let that discourage you. Thankfully, our brains are incredibly plastic, meaning it is excellent at adapting to change. Remember, you are learning a new way of seeing and this could take time.
During the adjustment period, it is essential you don’t give up! It is always a tempting option to switch back to your old glasses or avoid your new lenses altogether. However, doing so will only extend the time it takes. We guarantee that over time things will become clearer and more comfortable.
Wear them as much as possible
Another tip for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses would be to wear them as much as possible. The more you wear your lenses, the faster your eyes will adapt to them. By wearing your new glasses consistently you can learn the correct head and eye positioning to see clearly at different distances. Your eyes will quickly become familiar with the lens and will allow your brain to learn. So, embrace the process and wear your lenses as much as possible to experience the full benefits of improved vision at different distances.
Head positioning
To utilise the different zone of your bifocal or varifocal lenses, it’s important you adjust your head position as opposed to your eyes. For objects in the distance, keep your head level and eyes straight forward. However, for close-up tasks such as reading or writing, lower your chin slightly and look through the dedicated reading zone of eyeglass lenses. Correcting your head position will optimise your vision and minimise distortion.
Maintaining regular eye exams
Just because your blurred vision has been fixed by your new glasses, doesn’t mean you can stop visiting your opticians. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining good eye health and ensuring optimal vision. Scheduled regular appointments with your optometrists to monitor any changes in your prescription and address any concerns you might have.
Want to arrange a regular eye exam?
If you have any questions about these tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses feel free to get in touch. Give the practice a call on 01323 442 062, email or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you are suffering from any eye conditions don’t hesitate to book an eye exam. We are more than happy to take care of you and your vision, feel free to book an examination today.,
We would all like to know who is actually looking after our vision. An optometrist and an ophthalmologist are both eye care professionals, but they have different levels of training and expertise. This article aims to shed light on the differences between optometrists and ophthalmologists, and the services they provide.
What is an Optometrist?
Optometrists are a key part of the healthcare system, specialising in the field of eye care. Their expertise includes performing examinations and addressing common conditions affecting vision. When it comes to getting routine check-ups or acquiring corrective lenses, they are the professional who typically serves you. Acting as an initial point of contact if you will.
The General Optic Council is responsible for overseeing professional standards and regulations within the area of optometry. From examining and diagnosing eye health issues to prescribing corrective eyewear or medical treatments, optometrists offer comprehensive eye care services. Some Optometrists choose to specialise and undertake further training and qualifications. A prescribing Optometrist can prescribe medications for the treatment of various eye conditions and has become an ‘eye GP’ in effect. Other specialities can include Paediatrics including School Vision, Glaucoma and Medical Retina including Age Related Macula Degeneration.
What is an Ophthalmologist?
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialise in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye diseases and disorders. They have comprehensive knowledge of the entire visual system and are trained to provide both medical and surgical eye care.
They typically have spent 5 years of study at medical school and 2 years as a newly qualified doctor. A further 7 years of specialist ophthalmic training is then taken before passing very stringent examinations set by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. An Ophthalmologist generally works within a hospital setting although some will also undertake private work.
A Consultant Ophthalmologist is a very experienced doctor who is an expert in clinical care, assessment and treatment of patients and is competent in a range of practical and surgical skills.
Choosing between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist
To summarise, Optometrists primarily focus on routine eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing common eye conditions. However, Ophthalmologists have a broader scope of practice, providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, handling complex eye diseases, and perhaps performing surgeries.
If you require a routine eye examination or need your prescription lenses corrected, an optometrist is generally sufficient. They can provide a comprehensive service and prescribe appropriate lenses based on your individual needs.
If you are suffering from a more complex eye condition, one that may require surgery, you will likely consult with an ophthalmologist. Typically, ophthalmologists have a greater level of expertise and can handle more advanced treatments.
Get in touch
Focus Medical Eye Centre can help give you great knowledge, a full range of spectacles and contact lenses as well as easy payment plans. We see customers for standard optician and optometrist appointments from all around the area of East Sussex, and will always welcome new customers.
We also offer the services of Mr Shahram Kashani; an associate of Focus Medical Eye Centre and a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Eastbourne NHS Trust. He is able to offer services in his speciality of complex cataract surgery and retinal vascular disorders as well as general ophthalmic conditions including Glaucoma and Cataracts. Mr Kashani offers private appointments at Focus Medical Eye Centre at weekends subject to request.
If you struggle to focus at a distance or up close, then you will probably need some glasses to correct your vision. Bifocal and varifocal are two of the most popular options for correcting both near and farsightedness at the same time. These lenses have evolved a lot over the last couple of decades and are pretty sophisticated now. In this blog, we are going to discuss the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses and help you figure out which may be the better option for you. Obviously, if you don’t know, then please come in and chat with us.
Both options have two distinct optical powers allowing the user to see objects clearly at different distances. The main difference between bifocal and varifocal is the way in which the optical powers are arranged on the lens.
What are Bifocal Lenses
Bifocal lenses have two distinct powers divided into two parts. One power is near and one far. The top part of the lens is for distance and the bottom is for near vision.
The largest benefit of bifocal lenses is their ability to correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness in a single pair of glasses. They are also typically the more affordable option out of the two. On the flip side, the biggest disadvantage of bifocal lenses is the lack of intermediate power. For some people, this may not be an issue if they do not struggle at multiple distances. However, if you do, you will want to look at varifocal lenses. There is also a little bit of an adjustment period as you need to learn to look through the correct part of the lens depending on how the distance an object is from your eyes.
Bifocal lenses are usually prescribed to people suffering from presbyopia, a condition in which their eyes lose their ability to focus on nearby objects.
What are Varifocal Lenses
Varifocals, also known as progressive lenses, have a more complex design than bifocal. They have three optical powers arranged in a gradient. Similarly to bifocal, the top of the lens is for viewing objects at a distance and the bottom is for near. The difference is the intermediate power positioned between them allowing for comfortable viewing at a variety of positions.
The biggest benefit of varifocal lenses is their ability to provide a more natural transition between different optical powers, making it easier to adjust to wearing them. The ability to see clearly at a range of distances makes for a more natural and complete viewing experience. What’s more, your optician can adjust the lens to precisely position the powers in the correct position for your eyes. However, like with bifocals, they can take some time to get used to and the more gradual transition of power can be quite disorientating for some.
Which is better: Bifocal or Varifocal
The answer to this question depends wholeheartedly on your personal preferences and your vision needs. Bifocal lenses are a great choice and are often recommended to those whose vision is deteriorating from a single-distance sight. If you find that you’re struggling to read things close up like your phone or a book, bifocals are again a great choice which will allow you to wear the same pair throughout the day.
If you find that you struggle with more than one distance of vision, the varifocals are going to be the far better option. By combining all of your prescription lenses you won’t need more than one pair of glasses for your day-to-day life.
If you have a conversation with your optometrist they can properly advise you on what options will be better for your eyes.
Get in Touch
If you have any more questions about the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses or feel as though you need a pair of prescription glasses then don’t hesitate to get in touch. Give the practice a call on 01323 442 062, email or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you are suffering from any eye conditions don’t hesitate to book an eye exam. We are more than happy to take care of you and your vision, feel free to book an examination today.
With our eyes being one of the most vital organs in our body, it is natural to want to take good care of them. While many people are aware that factors like age, genetics and lifestyle can all impact the overall health of your eye, very few consider the role of diet. Your diet has such a huge impact on so many aspects of your life, from health to mood! In this blog, we are going to discuss different types of foods and answer the question, does diet affect your vision?
Foods that are high in nutrients
Yes, of course, the diet you choose to consume will have an effect on your vision. Like all organs, the eyes require a variety of nutrients to function correctly. A lack of these nutrients can result in significant damage to your eyes over time. Here are some of the nutrients that are essential in order to maintain your vision.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a critical factor in maintaining good vision. It is a key component of the protein rhodopsin, a protein in the retina that assists with vision in low-light conditions. Vitamin A is readily found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and kale.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids are essential for the health of the retina and can help prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration. Age-related macular degeneration or AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. It is one of the many reasons why we recommend you continue regular vision tests every two years. However, as you get older you are at a higher risk of experiencing at least some degree of macular degeneration, or a range of other issues related to the eyes. So we are happy to see you sooner to remain on top of these issues and get the necessary help, early in the development of any possible issue.
Omega 3 fatty acids are commonly found in foods like salmon, sardines, flaxseeds and many others. Be sure to include some more of these in your daily diet if you’re looking to maintain your vision.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two antioxidants that are found in high concentrations in the retina. These antioxidants can prevent damage to the eyes from harmful blue light and similarly to omega-3 fatty acids, may help prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration. Include foods such as spinach, kale, and broccoli in your diet to increase your intake of these antioxidants.
Foods to avoid
It’s crucial to be mindful of the types of food you consume. Certain foods are going to have a negative impact on your overall health and the well-being of your eyes. Here are some foods you should consider avoiding, or at least limiting, in your diet.
Processed food
A small amount as a treat from time to time will have very little effect on your overall health. However, regular consumption of processed foods will have a negative effect on your entire body, including your eyes. Processed foods tend to have high levels of saturated fats, salts and sugar. Alongside an increased risk of heart disease and a much higher blood pressure, this can increase your risk of developing AMD and cataracts.
Alcohol
While being a drink, we thought it would be appropriate to include it in this blog. Like processed foods, drinking in moderation is not extremely harmful to the body, some may even argue the benefits. However, excess alcohol consumption can cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to lifelong vision problems.
High Glycemic Index Foods
Foods such as white bread, pasta and rice are classified as foods with a high glycemic index. The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly the body can break down and convert carbohydrates into glucose. Foods that can be broken down quickly have a high glycemic index and food that cannot have a low. This high increase in glucose can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels and potentially damage your eyes.
Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
A diet that is rich in these nutrients can help keep your eyes healthy and prevent vision problems. It’s key you maintain a healthy, balanced diet if you want to extend the longevity of your eyes and avoid potential conditions down the line. Be aware that a diet high in saturated fats can increase the likelihood that a person develop AMD. Similarly, a diet that involves consuming too much sugar can lead to diabetes, a leading cause of blindness in adults.
Any burning questions?
It’s important you understand the effect your diet can have on your vision. Eating a diet that is rich in nutrients like vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, and zinc can help keep your eyes healthy and help to prevent vision problems. At the same time, it is good to try and avoid foods that can harm your eyes, such as those that are high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sugar. By making healthy food choices, you can help protect your eyes and maintain good vision for years to come.
Obviously diet, whether good or bad, won’t make a difference if you have a hereditary condition, but by following the above rules as much as and where you can, it will help with all health aspects within your body.
If you have any questions about the topics discussed in the blog or think you may be experiencing any of the conditions mentioned above, please get in touch with Focus Medical Eye Centre. Call us today on 0800 980 34 64 or email us at info@focusmedicaleyecentre.co.uk to arrange a thorough eye examination. A member of the team will be in touch as soon as possible.
