The Eye Place https://theeyeplace.com.au/ See your best. Look your best. Tue, 29 Nov 2022 01:01:31 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://theeyeplace.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-TEP_Circle_Icon_Black-32x32.png The Eye Place https://theeyeplace.com.au/ 32 32 Elderly eye health – encouraging your parents to get their eyes checked https://theeyeplace.com.au/elderly-eye-health/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/elderly-eye-health/#respond Tue, 11 Jan 2022 03:25:10 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=8010 Just like physiotherapy and regular doctor appointments, elderly eye health is an important aspect to growing older. We know it can be difficult to encourage your elderly parents to get their eyes regularly checked. However, we also know it’s of the utmost importance for older people to stay on top of their eye tests. Below…

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Elderly eye health – encouraging your parents to get their eyes checked

Just like physiotherapy and regular doctor appointments, elderly eye health is an important aspect to growing older.

We know it can be difficult to encourage your elderly parents to get their eyes regularly checked.

However, we also know it’s of the utmost importance for older people to stay on top of their eye tests.

Below our team has discussed why it can be difficult to get elderly parents to the optometrist, and why it’s vital to their eye health.

Why it can be hard to encourage the elderly to get their eyes tested

While growing old is inevitable, many people don’t expect – or want – to be reliant on others, particularly their adult children.

Helping to take care of your parent’s health can be quite overwhelming for both of you.

And often the elderly neglect their eye health because they don’t realise how quickly things can change.

Whether their eyes have deteriorated when they were younger, or they’re ignoring signs of poor eye health, the optometrist is often the specialist who is forgotten!

While it can be difficult to encourage your parents to book an optometrist appointment, it’s vital you explain the importance of eye health.

Common eye conditions in the elderly

It is inevitable as we age, our overall eyesight will generally deteriorate. Often those 60 and over will require prescription reading glasses in addition to other prescription lenses.

Unfortunately, difficulty reading isn’t the only potential issue that may arise in the eyes of our elderly loved ones.

Common problems also include:

Why it's important to have regular eye tests

Regular eye tests are important at all ages, but it becomes more important with increased age. Like any health condition we see a significant increase in issues relating to eye health in the elderly.

A simple eye test can pick up many of the eye diseases listed as well as general health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

For the elderly in particular it is important that we don’t allow them to dismiss lessoning or irregular vision as just “old age”. An eye test can ensure we are able undertake prevention and early intervention measures should the need arise.

Of course, eye testing will also establish the need for new or changes to prescription glasses or contact lenses.

It is essential that if one of your parents has prescription lenses that they are correct and regularly checked.

Ultimately, this will improve their quality of life by reducing their risk of falls and minimizing the impact of any eye conditions detected.

 

If you have an elderly parent who is nervous or hesitant to get their eyes tested, we encourage you to book an appointment with our team.

Our optometrist, Adam will conduct a gentle but thorough eye examination which can offer you, and your parent peace of mind.

Book an appointment or speak to a member of our team to learn more.

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What is Astigmatism? https://theeyeplace.com.au/what-is-astigmatism/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/what-is-astigmatism/#respond Mon, 22 Nov 2021 04:59:15 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7986 Astigmatism is caused by the cornea or lens of the eye not being perfectly curved, resulting in blurred vision. How this affects you is varied – for some people this can cause mildly blurry vision or severely blurred for others. There are two different types of astigmatism: Regular: this is when the cornea is curved…

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What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is caused by the cornea or lens of the eye not being perfectly curved, resulting in blurred vision. How this affects you is varied – for some people this can cause mildly blurry vision or severely blurred for others.

There are two different types of astigmatism:

  • Regular: this is when the cornea is curved in more than one direction. For example, the cornea can be curved both vertically and horizontally.
  • Irregular: this occurs when the curvature of the cornea is uneven across the eye.

Diagnosing Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be diagnosed through a series of eye tests performed by your optometrist. These eye tests involve determining the clarity of your vision which is done by reading letters from a chart.

The next test involves looking through a series of lenses to determine how well your eyes can focus. Your optometrist may also measure the curvature of the surface of your cornea.

During your lifetime, most people will experience some degree of astigmatism – however, minor irregularities in the curvature of your cornea may not cause noticeable vision problems.

How is astigmatism corrected?

Prescription glasses are the main choice of vision correction for astigmatism. If your optometrist tells you that you need to wear glasses, this may be full time, or part time when reading, driving or performing tasks where you need to see fine detail clearly.

Contact lenses are a great option for adults and older children who may have an active lifestyle. Contrary to belief, wearing contact lenses regularly will not weaken your eyes.

Contact lenses come in a large range of options – including reusable lenses and disposable options. You can learn more about contact lenses on our website.

Can laser eye surgery correct astigmatism?

Laser eye surgery is another option that can help improve or correct astigmatism. As no two eyes are the same, ensure you are carefully assessed by a qualified optometrist for a referral to an eye surgeon.

In severe cases, intraocular lenses can be used to replace the eye’s natural lens. These lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, which can remove the need for wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses.

This procedure is usually reserved for people over the age of 50, as a young person’s natural lens is far better than artificial lenses. 

Do you believe you have you been experiencing any of the symptoms of astigmatism? 

Book in an appointment with our optometrist, Adam, to find out more about what may be causing your blurry vision!

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Eye strain – What causes it and how to avoid it https://theeyeplace.com.au/eye-strain-what-causes-it-and-how-to-avoid-it/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/eye-strain-what-causes-it-and-how-to-avoid-it/#respond Tue, 28 Sep 2021 07:57:08 +0000 https://theeyeplace.wpengine.com/?p=4550 When you use your eyes to concentrate on something for a long period of time the common result is eye strain. Tired, sore, and itchy eyes, blurred vision, headaches, sensitivity to light, sore neck, shoulders or back due to muscle tension, difficulty concentrating – these are all symptoms of eye strain. It’s easy to identify…

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Eye strain – What causes it and how to avoid it

When you use your eyes to concentrate on something for a long period of time the common result is eye strain.

Tired, sore, and itchy eyes, blurred vision, headaches, sensitivity to light, sore neck, shoulders or back due to muscle tension, difficulty concentrating – these are all symptoms of eye strain.

It’s easy to identify what has caused eye strain if you start to feel the symptoms. Have you been:

One, or a combination of the influences above could be causing your eye strain.

But it’s the extended use of digital technology – computers and hand-held digital devices – that are the most common cause of eye strain.

Known as computer vision syndrome, people who look at screens for two or more hours in a row every day are at the greatest risk of this condition.

 

Why Technology Use Causes Eye Strain

Computer use strains eyes more than reading print material because people tend to:

In some cases, an underlying eye problem, such as eye muscle imbalance or uncorrected vision, can cause or worsen computer eyestrain.

Some other factors that can make the condition worse include:

Eye strain is more of an annoyance than a significant medical condition, and the easiest way to manage the symptoms is to take regular breaks when using digital technology.

If you can rule out computer vision syndrome as the cause of your eye strain, it’s a good idea to see your optometrist for a check-up.

 

Can’t Easily Avoid Tech Time? Techshield Blue May Be For You

Most Australians spend an average of six or more hours in front of screens every day. But the reality is many people depend on technology as part of their job and can’t give up their screen time.

Techshield Blue AB is an anti-reflective coating that can be applied to glasses to combat against digital eye strain.

The Techshield Blue lens coating can be added to any prescription lens. And the best thing about Techshield Blue? The lens coating doesn’t come with the strange blue hue you get with other lens protections. Read all about it here.

Reduce eye strain without reducing screen time by investing in Techshield Blue lenses.

Visit us in store to learn more!

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We were so proud to take home two awards at the 2021 Singleton Business Chamber Awards https://theeyeplace.com.au/our-wins-at-the-singleton-business-chamber-awards/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/our-wins-at-the-singleton-business-chamber-awards/#respond Wed, 14 Jul 2021 01:36:14 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7814 The 2021 Singleton Business Chamber Awards, held at Club Singleton, featured 16 categories, 73 formal entries and 4,100 votes for the three popular public categories. We were delighted to win Excellence in Retail and Excellence in Micro Business. Our team is extremely grateful for the recognition, especially after the challenges 2020 threw at us and…

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We were so proud to take home two awards at the 2021 Singleton Business Chamber Awards

The 2021 Singleton Business Chamber Awards, held at Club Singleton, featured 16 categories, 73 formal entries and 4,100 votes for the three popular public categories.

We were delighted to win Excellence in Retail and Excellence in Micro Business.

Our team is extremely grateful for the recognition, especially after the challenges 2020 threw at us and the many other amazing businesses that operate in the Singleton region.

Thanking our supporters

Being awarded two awards at the Singleton Business Chamber Awards has left us feeling humbled and delighted.

We could not have achieved these exciting milestones without the support of our wonderful clients and customers. Every day, dozens of people come through our doors who have chosen to support their local Optometrist and we thank them. Without you, none of this is possible.

We would especially like to thank those who nominated and voted for us. Your support means everything, and we love you!

Experience The Eye Place difference

It’s clear from the recognition of the Singleton Business Chamber and Singleton community, that The Eye Place delivers excellence in Optometry. Our small, dedicated team take the time to get to know all of our customers and understand their optometry needs.

If you want to experience this difference, book an appointment or drop in store today.

We would love to help you see your best and look your best.

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How to clean your sunglasses properly https://theeyeplace.com.au/how-to-clean-your-sunglasses-properly/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/how-to-clean-your-sunglasses-properly/#respond Mon, 05 Jul 2021 00:54:25 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7721 After a muddy day on the bike track, the last thing you want to think about is how you’re going to clean your sunglasses. Oakley sport sunglasses are designed with long lasting mirrored lenses and better polarisation for performance. However, it is important to give them the special care and attention they require to maintain…

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How to clean your sunglasses properly

After a muddy day on the bike track, the last thing you want to think about is how you’re going to clean your sunglasses.

Oakley sport sunglasses are designed with long lasting mirrored lenses and better polarisation for performance.

However, it is important to give them the special care and attention they require to maintain high performance levels.

In order to maintain this, check out our tips on how to clean your sunglasses with the right products so they can keep you protected.

Why is it important to clean your sunglasses properly?

Oakley sunglasses are designed for rugged durability, but they also require special care and attention to maintain optimal performance.

When taking your bike on the track, poor vision can affect your performance. Dirt, dust and debris can not only scratch your sunglasses, but also lead to permanent damage.

Most people will wipe these spots with a tissue however it can smear more dirt and scratch your lenses. It is important to correctly clean your sunglasses to maintain better clarity and glare reduction.

 

How to clean sunglasses properly with the right products

  1. Rinse with warm water

Mud and dirt from the bike tracks can easily scratch and wear down your sunglasses – even when your shades feel smooth and dry. A gentle rinse with warm water will remove any stubborn dust or debris before you rub and wipe them clean.

  1. Use a microfibre cloth to remove fingerprints or smudges.

It’s not uncommon for people to wipe their sunglasses clean with their breath and a wipe of their shirt..

However, high-performance apparel such as sportswear are made with anti-odor fabrics containing silver, which is like sandpaper on the lenses. It is important to use a microfibre cloth as your go-to cleaning tool to avoid scratches.

  1. Use a lens cleaner to remove tough smudges

Sometimes using lukewarm water and microfibre cleaning cloths may not be enough for your dirty rays.

Using a lens cleaner may be your new best friend, as it is safe for polycarbonate lenses and will minimise streaks and watermarks.

At The Eye Place, we can help you find the right Oakley sunglasses for your lifestyle, sport or performance fit.  Every pair comes with a complimentary microfibre cloth so you can keep your sunglasses clean and ready for days out on the track.

Contact us or visit the store to find out why we choose Oakley sunglasses as protective sportswear for dirty days.

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What is blue light and how does it affect you? https://theeyeplace.com.au/what-is-blue-light-and-how-does-it-affect-us/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/what-is-blue-light-and-how-does-it-affect-us/#respond Wed, 23 Jun 2021 03:00:32 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7785 Do you ever wonder why optometrists (like us!) go on and on about blue light? Well, it is more complicated than you may think. Light is not just defined by brightness and darkness. There are also different types of light that are not good for us in large doses, like blue light. Most of us…

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What is blue light and how does it affect you?

Do you ever wonder why optometrists (like us!) go on and on about blue light?

Well, it is more complicated than you may think.

Light is not just defined by brightness and darkness. There are also different types of light that are not good for us in large doses, like blue light.

Most of us are aware that looking straight into the sun isn’t good for you, but your eyes are still constantly exposed to invisible ultraviolet rays.

Did you know blue light carries the most amount of energy in the spectrum? This means our eyes need to focus extra hard when exposed to it. 

Read on to find out why we talk about protecting your eyes from blue light so often!

What is blue light?

Sunlight is made up of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet light – just like the rainbow! When these lights combine, they turn into the white light we see.

Rays that are on the red end have longer wavelengths, whereas blue rays have shorter wavelengths and more energy. Although the sun is the largest source of blue light, there are many other sources, including:

How does blue light affect you?

When our eyes are exposed to blue light, the light scatters in every direction before it reaches the retina. This means it is more difficult for our eyes to focus on it.

It doesn’t matter how hard your eyes try; they can’t focus as well when exposed to blue light.

This can lead to blurred eyesight, double vision, headaches and sensitivity to light.

Learn more about eye strain here.

Our solution

Although we would all like to cut down on our screen time, realistically we spend much of our leisure and work time looking at computers or our smartphone devices.

We understand the importance of your daily scroll through social media (especially if you’re following our Facebook or Instagram!). This is why we recommend the Techshield Blue lenses to help support your lifestyle, and look after your eyes.

Techshield Blue AB is a coating that can be applied to glasses to help fight digital strain and those nasty migraines. The coating is anti-reflective, designed to assist in enhancing visual performance.

The benefits of using Techshield Blue lenses include:

If you find yourself struggling with eye strain after a long day in front of a screen, contact us!

We can add Techshield Blue lenses to any prescription to help combat additional blue light exposure leading to eye strain.

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Eye health and make-up: how to best protect your eyes from harm https://theeyeplace.com.au/eye-health-and-make-up-how-to-best-protect-your-eyes-from-harm/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/eye-health-and-make-up-how-to-best-protect-your-eyes-from-harm/#respond Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:45:29 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7431 Whether your wear it daily or it’s a special occasion thing, protecting your eye health when using make-up should be a priority. People have been wearing cosmetics for thousands of years and, while eye health and make-up don’t always go hand-in-hand, the ingredients used today are more sophisticated than they once were. Your everyday eyeliner…

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Eye health and make-up: how to best protect your eyes from harm

Whether your wear it daily or it’s a special occasion thing, protecting your eye health when using make-up should be a priority.

People have been wearing cosmetics for thousands of years and, while eye health and make-up don’t always go hand-in-hand, the ingredients used today are more sophisticated than they once were. Your everyday eyeliner is much safer than kohl (a combination of burnt almonds, oxidized copper, copper ores, lead, ash, and ochre), which Ancient Egyptians used to adorn their eyes in an almond shape.

Our eyes are sensitive organs, and bad make-up hygiene habits puts them at risk from a range of serious problems, including:

  • Irritation and allergic reactions caused by the chemicals in make-up, which can lead to dry, itchy, watery, and puffy eyes
  • Infections as make-up provides a breeding ground for bacteria which can lead to conjunctivitis or keratitis
  • Clogged pores, follicles and glands which can cause problems such as styes or blepharitis

Good habits: making eye health and make-up a priority

Every time you wear eye make-up, its important to follow some key steps to help minimise the potential for bacteria to infect your eyes.

Remove make-up before sleep.

This is important as it removes a potential irritant and prevents bacteria from building up. Your eyes need sleep to rest, recover, and clean themselves. Make-up can interrupt this process.

Choose your make-up remover carefully.

Choose one that is made specifically for the eyes, and for sensitive skin if you can. Avoid removers that contain alcohol or sodium lauryl sulphate, as these will irritate your eyes. Make sure you wash your face with clean water after using cleansers to remove any leftover irritants.

Check use-by dates.

Just like it’s not safe to drink expired milk, eye health and make-up also operate according to use-by dates. After this date, your make-up is not safe to use – and the same goes with expired prescriptions that may offer outdated lenses. So be sure to check these dates!

Don’t share your eye make-up.

Sharing make-up is an easy way to transfer infection from one person to another. If you share make-up with someone suffering from infective conjunctivitis, even if they don’t know they have it, then it is highly likely you will develop it too.

Don’t use make-up while you have an infection.

Firstly, it will slow down the healing process by irritating the eye or introducing new infections into an already vulnerable eye. And any make-up you do use will become infected and you will have to throw it away anyway – unless you want the infection to come back!

Avoid glitter.

Tiny glitter particles can easily get into your eyes and cause damage to the delicate skin that protects them. Keep your eye health and make-up priorities in mind by opting for softer pigments that don’t feature hard glitter particles.

Regularly wash make-up brushes and applicators.

This will remove any bacteria that has started growing there. Plus, they’re easier to use when they aren’t all clogged up with old make-up!

Use eye drops to keep eyes healthy.

After a long day of wearing make-up your eyes may be dry and irritated. After cleaning off your make-up, add a few eye drops to soothe your dry, tired and irritated eyes.

Go easy on your eyes

If you’re a daily eye make-up wearer, it’s a good idea to give your eyes a break every now and then, regardless of how good your make-up hygiene regime is.

We only have one pair of eyes, so it’s important to look after them! Maintain balance when it comes to your eye health and make-up routine by following the steps outlined here. And, if you think there is something wrong with your eyes, drop in to The Eye Place and let Adam take a look.

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Which glasses will prevent sore eyes? https://theeyeplace.com.au/which-glasses-will-prevent-sore-eyes/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/which-glasses-will-prevent-sore-eyes/#respond Mon, 02 Nov 2020 04:33:24 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7422 One of the most common questions we receive from our customers is: which glasses will prevent sore eyes? Tired, itchy or uncomfortable eyes can be a common occurrence for a lot of us, but it doesn’t have to be this way. The answer is MOST glasses will help prevent sore eyes by reducing the strain…

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Which glasses will prevent sore eyes?

One of the most common questions we receive from our customers is: which glasses will prevent sore eyes?

Tired, itchy or uncomfortable eyes can be a common occurrence for a lot of us, but it doesn’t have to be this way. The answer is MOST glasses will help prevent sore eyes by reducing the strain on your eyes.

However, there are glasses that will protect your eyes better than others. The best option for you will really depend on your needs.

Blue light glasses

One of the most common causes of sore eyes comes from the blue light emitted by computers, tablets and phone screens. Blue light can also come from LED and fluorescent lights.

As we become more accustomed to spending our time looking at our devices, the eyes become increasingly exposed to this harmful blue light, which can result in digital eye strain. This may leave you struggling to concentrate on a screen, making work and study very difficult.

Luckily, we offer blue light lenses which can prevent sore eyes. 

Our blue light lenses help retract some of the excess projection coming from your screens. You can learn more about how blue light might be affecting your eyes in our blog here.

It’s also important to understand reading glasses are NOT the same as computer glasses.

A reading prescription is set at a closer focal length. This is usually 40cm away from you. Meanwhile, a computer prescription may be set just for your screen distance away, which is approximately an arm’s length.

Anti-fatigue glasses

Do the lenses in your glasses make you feel tired, distracted or uncomfortable? You might need anti-fatigue lenses.These glasses work to prevent sore eyes from digital devices if you are finding that eliminating blue light still isn’t helping.

Anti-fatigue glasses are perfect for the busy office worker, teacher or university student who may be spending extended periods of time in front of different screens.

The correct glasses

Have you ever wondered if your sore eyes are being caused by your current glasses? This may be a sign your lenses need to be changed.

You should always get an eye test every two years. Any longer, and your lenses may no longer suit your eye needs.

A regular eye test allows us to reassess your situation and fit you with the correct lenses to prevent sore eyes. If any pain continues, it’s important you let us know so we can investigate further.

 

Tips to prevent sore eyes

Aside from being fitted with the correct pair of glasses, there are a range of things you can do to try and prevent sore eyes:

  • Take regular screen breaks.
  • 20-20-20: look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes.
  • Blink often and keep hydrated.
  • Choose night mode on your devices – it lowers the brightness level and exposure (and some phones even decrease the amount of blue light used).

Find more tips here.

If you’re experiencing sore eyes or want to prevent eye strain, book an appointment or contact our friendly team today.

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Looking after your eyes while working from home https://theeyeplace.com.au/looking-after-your-eyes-while-working-from-home/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/looking-after-your-eyes-while-working-from-home/#respond Wed, 07 Oct 2020 02:41:16 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7400 There’s a lot of great things about living in a digital age – one being our ability to work from home if we need! In uncertain times like those we’ve faced in 2020, and when we’re being advised to practice social distancing and self-isolation, your digital devices are vital. Computers and phones allow us to…

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Looking after your eyes while working from home

There’s a lot of great things about living in a digital age – one being our ability to work from home if we need! In uncertain times like those we’ve faced in 2020, and when we’re being advised to practice social distancing and self-isolation, your digital devices are vital. Computers and phones allow us to keep up with your loved ones and get things done while not physically in the office/workplace. However, all that screen time and blue light could be having a negative impact on your eyes. Do you know how to look after your eyes while working from home?

Blue light and your eyes

Blue light rays have the shortest wavelength of any part of the light spectrum. Sunlight is the main source of blue light. But, while we’re spending so much time indoors, it’s likely we’re coming into contact with a lot of man-made sources of blue light. These include fluorescent and LED lights. The display screens of computers, electronic notebooks, smartphones and other digital devices have significant amounts of blue light.

Interestingly, blue light scatters more easily than other visible light and is not as easily focused. But this isn’t anything to be worried about!

Some blue light exposure is essential for good health. This is because high-energy visible light boosts our alertness, helps memory and cognitive function, and even elevates mood. However, problems arise when we get too much blue light. The amount of time people spend using their digital devices, and how close you hold these screens to your face, may be putting your eyes at risk.

People who have their screens too close to their eyes, or spend too much time looking at them (without breaks) may experience issues. Problems relating to digital strain, macular degeneration and more are common side effects of too much blue light. That’s why being ergonomic while working from home is so important.

Adjusting your body

Ergonomics relates to efficiency and comfort while in a working environment. One way to ensure your home office is ergonomic is to adjust your body so that you feel natural. Here’s a few key tips to do that:

  • Adjust your chair so that your elbows are bent to 90 degress when resting on your desk. The placement should reflect where they would be if you were typing on your computer. This first step will impact the follow ones, so ensure you’re comfortable.
  • While sitting straight at your desk, ensure your computer is about arm’s length away from you. The monitor should be raised so that the top of the screen is about eye level. If you use a double monitor or laptop, use a stand to adjust the height.
  • Don’t forget to stretch. We often work for long hours without breaks, but it’s important to make time for small exercises to avoid strain. Whether it’s going for a short walk or just stretching your neck with your eyes closed at your desk.

Ensuring your eyes can focus effectively is important. By making sure your device is at the right height, you can do this. Stretching and taking breaks from the screen will also help, as it gives your eyes a little rest from all that blue light.

Glasses and computers

But what if you have glasses?

Firstly, it’s important to note that a pair of reading glasses are not the same as a pair of computer glasses.

A reading prescription is set at a closer focal length (approx. 40cm away from you). Meanwhile, a computer prescription may be set just for your screen distance away (generally at an arm’s length) or incorporate changes in the power across the lens to provide more flexibility.

The lens designs typically used for deskwork and screens are known as extended reading lenses.

As the name suggests, the areas for reading and intermediate vision are maximised with these designs. The extended reading lenses provide wider intermediate and reading zones when compared to a multifocal lens design. A multifocal lens design will tend to provide a narrow intermediate zone and a small reading zone. This suffice for everyday activities but likely won’t work for everyone while reading. An extended lens design is recommended for multifocal wearers who have to scan a lot with the intermediate portion of the lens at their screen, and struggle to get comfortable reading vision. You can learn more about eyeglasses and lens types here.

Do I need blue light glasses?

With most of us spending over two-thirds of our waking hours looking at;

  • one or more computer screens at work,
  • our smartphones before and after work,
  • our smartphones or tablets during lunch,

and then;

  • watching TV,
  • using your home computer/laptop,
  • smartphones or tablets when reading in bed after work,

we’re exposed to many blue-light emitting sources every day.

Thankfully, a lot of devices (especially today’s smartphones) offer a less-straining backlight option. This is often called “night shield” or “night mode”. This option gives the device a lower brightness and often has a yellow tint, which is much easier on the eyes. However, some people will still suffer from digital eye strain.

Another lens coating, that is beneficial for use on digital devices, is a blue light reducing anti-reflective coating. Perhaps users suffering from eye strain should consider this option. These eyeglasses simply filter out the blue light, making it easier for you to read from your screen.

To discuss your options get in touch with The Eye Place today.

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Do you suffer headaches from eye strain? We can help https://theeyeplace.com.au/do-you-suffer-headaches-from-eye-strain-we-can-help/ https://theeyeplace.com.au/do-you-suffer-headaches-from-eye-strain-we-can-help/#respond Thu, 01 Oct 2020 06:42:25 +0000 https://theeyeplace1.wpengine.com/?p=7386 Headaches from eye strain can be debilitating. You have sore eyes, they get tired and itchy, they dry out or are really watery, and your head is pounding. The heaviness in your head feels like it won’t go away, you’re sensitive to light, you can’t concentrate, and you have a sore neck and shoulders from…

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Do you suffer headaches from eye strain? We can help

Headaches from eye strain can be debilitating. You have sore eyes, they get tired and itchy, they dry out or are really watery, and your head is pounding.

The heaviness in your head feels like it won’t go away, you’re sensitive to light, you can’t concentrate, and you have a sore neck and shoulders from pent-up muscle tension.

Asthenopia, as it is medically known, is common in children and adults alike. But it is easily preventable if you know what the triggers can be.

The causes of headaches from eye strain

Healthdirect reports a range of things can cause eye strain that can lead to headaches, including:

        using computers, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles for a long time

        driving for a long time

        reading for a long time

        straining to see things when the light is bad

        being tired or stressed

        bright or dazzling lights

        not wearing your glasses or contact lenses, or wearing unsuitable glasses or contact lenses.

Eyestrain doesn’t have serious or long-term consequences, but it can be aggravating and unpleasant. Anyone can get eye strain, but vision deficits (farsightedness, near-sightedness, etc.) can increase the risk of eye strain. Some eye conditions can make the effects of eye strain more of a problem.

How to minimise the potential for headaches from eye strain

No medication or procedure can relieve eye strain, but you can learn useful strategies for managing it. These include:

Resting your eyes: When you feel eye strain coming on, or even if it is at its worst, just close your eyes for a few seconds. You can also give your eyes a break by looking at something that isn’t so small or detailed.

Lighting changes: Make sure you have proper lighting when you are reading or working. Even if you feel comfortable in dim light, you are at risk of suffering from eye strain.

Computer and phone screens: Check your settings and adjust your screens so they are just bright enough to provide a comfortable level of contrast for reading.

Sit back: You should be an arm’s length away from your computer screen.

Font sizes: Adjust the font size on your phone or computer. A font that is too small can be hard to see, while large font fills up too much space on the screen, making it hard to read large documents. Use a clear font whenever possible.

Take breaks: If you do long stints reading or looking at tiny objects, look away every 20 minutes or so. Close your eyes or look at something far away to give your eye muscles a rest.

Still suffering?

If you take all the steps to minimise the chance of straining your eyes and you’re still suffering from headaches and sore eyes, you may have an underlying vision problem.

Headaches from eye strain don’t have to be part of your life. Get in touch with Adam to discuss solutions for you.

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