Eye care advice

Eyes are said to be the windows to the soul, but in fact they could be the windows to less ethereal parts of the body like the heart. An eye examination is recommended at least every two years to check the health of your eyes and to examine how well you can see. However, did you know several other health conditions can be identified through a routine eye examination? What we have in the eye is a view into the body that can let you look at lots of different types of tissue such as collagen, blood vessels and nerves, allowing optometrists to see signs of certain diseases which commonly affect these tissues in the eye. For some, they may be oblivious to the fact that they have a condition until their optometrist reports their findings. Conditions which could be identified through a comprehensive eye examination include: Diabetes UK estimates that up to three quarters of a million people in the UK have undiagnosed diabetes. The impact that high blood sugar has on the small blood vessels can be apparent in an eye examination. High blood pressure. Again this can be identified by the appearance of the blood vessels in the eye, in this case, the walls around the vessels thicken leading to the narrowing of the vessels meaning less blood reaching the retina. Changes in the vessels can also indicate signs of stroke, high cholesterol and other cardiovascular diseases. Inflammatory eye conditions that can be associated with autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and spondylitis can also be identified through an eye examination. Tumours, we are always looking for signs of cancers such as neuroblastoma, which is most commonly identified through the eyes, but we can also see signs of other tumours. Swelling of the optic nerve can be a sign that there is a tumour putting pressure on the area causing the pressure.Thankfully these are uncommon conditions. In addition, the OCT scanning equipment that we use as part of our eye examinations to assess the back of your eyes, is being used in clinical trials as a non-invasive way of detecting a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. We are following these current clinical trials with great interest.   If it was just vision we checked, we wouldn’t need all the pre-screening tests which we perform at every examination. These tests allow us investigate the health of your eyes, as well as your wider health, so you can leave your eye examination with a degree of peace of mind. Last year we made the decision to invest in the latest, hospital-grade scanner, which is only available in a handful of optometrists in the UK, ensuring our examinations are as comprehensive possible. We hope this gives our patients additional reassurance when they come for an eye examination. So if you feel your vision hasn’t changed since your last eye examination, this doesn’t negate the need for you to visit your optometrist. You can book an eye examination by calling 0131 225 2235, emailing vision@cameronoptom.com or through our online booking system.

An Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) medal has been awarded to Donald Cameron in the Queen’s New Year Honours List 2019. The award recognises the practice's former managing director's remarkable contribution to eye care in Scotland over the past forty years. A notable honour and richly deserved, Donald has played a pioneering role in the industry, making lasting change and ensuring Scotland is seen as a benchmark for the rest of the UK, providing the highest standards in eye care.   One of three founders of Optometry Scotland, alongside Hal Rollason and Frank Munro, this influential group has tirelessly lobbied the Scottish Government on essential issues relating to eye care provisions, negotiating the new Scottish General Ophthalmic Services Contract (GOS) in 2006. This allowed optometrists to perform a complete examination to find a sight threatening disease at the earliest opportunity as part of the free NHS eye examinations. The ‘Three Amigos’ also secured £1m per annum to fund the development of an optometry education programme through NHS Education for Scotland, to which Donald was appointed programme director. In this position, Donald drove the introduction of the fully funded Independent Therapeutic Prescribing Course at Glasgow Caledonian University, which in turn has led to hundreds of optometrists now being able to prescribe medication. This gave additional responsibility to optometrists, alleviating pressure on GPs. In this role, he introduced unique educational opportunities for optometrists, including the establishment of the first UK Teach and Treat clinic in Edinburgh, to further the expertise of numerous optometrists. The training this provided encouraged ophthalmologists to recognise the contribution optometrists could play and the two professions developed an integrated eye care referral system, which won the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Innovation award in 2011 and helped cement Scotland’s position as a leading eye care providers worldwide. Subsequent negotiations by Donald and his colleagues, also gave grants to Scottish optometrists so that their examination equipment was comparable to equipment found in hospitals. This has been truly groundbreaking, and has still not been replicated anywhere else in the world. The latest referral statistics demonstrate how practices can effectively handle cases in the community rather than in hospitals or GP surgeries, reducing the burden on the secondary NHS care. Donald’s most significant educational achievement has been the foundation of the masters in Primary Care Ophthalmology for Optometrists through the University of Edinburgh Medical School (2014). A second course was created the following year and the courses now have over 80 global students. Such is its success that it won the Queen’s Award for Education in 2015. The first Scot to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Optometrists, Donald also has an Honorary Life Fellowship of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and Life Fellowship of the College of Optometrists.   Through his practice, Cameron Optometry, he and his team, developed a specialism in fitting therapeutic contact lenses, taking referrals from the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh, as the practice continues to do. Now retired, he still continues to work through the University of Edinburgh to raise the standards of eye care.   The impact that Donald has made on the optometry profession in Scotland is remarkable. He said, “It is a great honour to receive this award. I have always felt strongly about the importance of education as the route to professional advancement. I believe this approach has helped change the way optometry professionals practise in Scotland to the benefit of both the general public and the NHS. “Probably the professional highlight was receiving my own NHS prescribing pad which enabled me, as an independent prescribing optometrist, to issue prescriptions for patients for the first time, alleviating pressure on GPs and hospitals. That could never have happened without the involvement of a team people committed to seeing the profession develop in this way. “Scotland continues to be a world-leader in eye care provision and the future looks very bright for the industry.”

What are flashes and floaters? Floaters look like small, dark spots or flecks that appear to move around the eye. They are more common if you are myopic (short-sighted) or if you have had eye surgery such as cataract surgery. Flashes look like random flashes of light in the eye, often in an arc shape in your peripheral vision, and more obvious at night or in low light levels. They are usually as a result of the movement of the vitreous jelly which fills the eyeball and is attached to the retina at the back of the eye. Should you worry about flashes and floaters? Both are very common, especially in older people, and more often than not they are nothing to worry about. If they are bothersome, dark glasses have been found to minimise the presence of floaters and you can discuss options with your optometrist. When floaters are new they are at their most obvious but, with time, they become smaller and we learn to ignore them. However occasionally flashes and floaters can be a sign of retinal detachment, a condition which requires urgent attention. You should contact your optometrist for advice if you experience the following: a sudden increase in floaters, especially if combined with flashing lights a large floater that you haven’t noticed before. If you experience either of the following: a shadow, often called a curtain effect, spreading across your vision in one eye flashes and floaters which appear after you have had a blow to the eye, then you should seek advice immediately from an optometrist and if one isn’t available you must visit another medical professional, such as your A & E department urgently. See our page on Emergency Eye Care for further information on what to do if you notice experience any of these symptoms. For more information on flashes and floaters the College of Optometrists has produced this informative video.

Your child's sight is precious. Good vision helps them to learn, play and communicate with the world around them. The number one piece of advice any eye care professional will offer is to ensure they have regular eye examinations. The sooner any issues are identified, the better the outcome. In addition, eating a rainbow diet, full of colourful fruit and veg, as well as fish, eggs and grains will give them lots of eye-friendly nutrients. And always ensure their eyes are protected in the sun. Read this helpful guide, produced as part of National Eye Health Week. View Kids Eye Health Leaflet

Did you know macular degeneration is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK? Every seven minutes of every single day someone in the UK will be diagnosed with this sight-threatening eye condition. As part of National Eye Health Week, the Macular Society has produced this guide to macular disease. Do you know someone with macular disease? According to a recent Macular Society survey one in three people do – yet awareness of the condition is still low. Macular disease is the biggest cause of blindness in the UK, one million people are affected by the condition and this is set to double in the next 25 years. Macular disease affects people of all ages. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common type of macular disease, generally affecting people over 50. A group of rare inherited conditions called juvenile macular dystrophies can affect much younger people, including children. Every day in the UK around 200 people are diagnosed with advanced AMD. Early diagnosis is key, which is why during National Health Eye Week the Macular Society is encouraging everyone to protect their eyes with a Sight Matters kit. What is AMD? AMD occurs as a result of damage to the delicate cells of the macula – the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, central vision required for doing everyday tasks such as reading or driving. What causes AMD? We do not know what the exact causes of AMD are however, scientific research has identified a number of factors that can increase your risk of suffering from the condition. The Macular Society’s Sight Matters kit provides further information on how to minimise these risks. They include: AGE – AMD is an age-related condition that usually develops in people over the age of 50. By the time you reach the age of 75 you have 30% chance of suffering from the condition. GENDER – Women appear to be at greater risk than men. FAMILY HISTORY – Studies have found that there are specific genes that can be passed through families which can increase your risk of developing AMD. SMOKING – Tobacco chemicals can damage the blood vessels behind your eyes, thus increasing your risk of developing AMD. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE – research from the Netherlands suggests that hypertension may trigger the development of AMD. OBESITY – Scientists believe there is a link between obesity and an accelerated progression of AMD to a more advanced stage of the condition. People with high body mass indexes (BMI) tend to have low macula pigment density and are therefore at greater risk of AMD. ETHNICITY – Caucasians are at greater risk than other ethnic groups. EYE COLOUR – AMD is more common in people with blue eyes. This may be related to damage associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Blue-eyed people may have less protective pigment in their eyes. There are two types of AMD: DRY (atrophic) – the most common form affecting approximately 90% of AMD sufferers it develops gradually over time as small yellow deposits, known as ‘drusen' build-up under the macula. Loss of vision in patients suffering from dry macular degeneration is directly related to the location and amount of retinal thinning caused by the drusen. WET (exudative) – affects just 10% of patients, however, it is a much more aggressive form of the condition. It can have a rapid and devastating effect on eyesight, sometimes resulting in complete loss of central vision in a matter of days. Wet AMD is caused by the growth of new blood vessels under the retina. These vessels can bleed and leak fluid which destroys and distorts the patient's central vision. What are the symptoms? AMD affects people in different ways. Symptoms may develop slowly if you have dry AMD, especially if it’s only in one eye. However, as the condition progresses, your ability to see clearly will change. Gaps or dark spots (like a smudge on glasses) may appear in your vision, especially first thing in the morning. Objects in front of you might change shape, size or colour or seem to move or disappear. Colours can fade. You may find bright light glaring and uncomfortable or find it difficult to adapt when moving from dark to light environments. Words might disappear when you are reading. Straight lines such as door frames and lampposts may appear distorted or bent. The good news though is that patients normally retain peripheral vision. Minimising the risks The Macular Society’s Sight Matters kit gives you the tools you need to protect your sight, including a free eye test voucher. www.macularsociety.org/sightmatters The kit also gives you information on  making changes to your lifestyle to help improve your eye health and reduce your risk of developing AMD. Studies have shown that repeated exposure to UV light can damage the central part of the retina and contribute to the development of AMD. Protect your eyes from damaging UV by wearing sunglasses or UV protective lenses. Always check for a CE, British Standard or UV 400 mark on your sunglasses to ensure they provide adequate UV protection. Nutrition plays a vital role in preserving your overall eye health. A well-balanced diet containing eye friendly vitamins and nutrients can slow the progression of AMD and even, as some researchers has shown, prevent or delay the onset of the condition. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy BMI (between 18.5 and 24.9) and having a regular eye tests (once every two years, unless advised otherwise by your optometrist) can all help minimise the risk of developing AMD. Diagnosis You can test for tell-tale signs of macular degeneration at home using an Amsler grid. Early diagnosis is vital and could save your sight. The Macular Society’s Sight Matters kit includes an Amsler grid so you can monitor your sight, order yours today www.macularsociety.org/sightmatters If you experience a rapid change in vision, or you have AMD in one eye and suddenly start getting symptoms in the other, you should visit your local A&E department immediately. Treating macular degeneration There is currently no treatment for dry AMD, however, wet AMD can be treated, if caught early, using ‘Anti-VEGF’ drugs. VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) is the chemical in the body responsible for the development of healthy blood vessels. In wet AMD too much VEGF is produced in the eye, causing the growth of unwanted, unhealthy blood vessels. The drugs used, most commonly Lucentis (ranibizumab) and Eylea (aflibercept), block the production of VEGF. Both treatments are given by an injection into the eye, which is much less frightening than it sounds. Other macular diseases There are a range of conditions that affect the macular these include diabetic macular oedema, Central serious retinopathy, macular hole, myopic macular degeneration, punctate choroidopathy and retinal vein occlusion. If you or a loved one is affected by macular disease, the Macular Society is an invaluable resource for information about the condition and its valuable support services. And as always, we are here to answer your questions.  The Macular Society, PO Box 1870, Andover SP10 9AD Helpline: 0300 3030 111 help@macularsociety.org General enquiries: 01264 350 551 info@macularsociety.org Find out more about macular disease here. https://www.visionmatters.org.uk/looki…/about-macular-disease

There have been a few reports in the news this week about a rare eye infection affecting contact lens wearers. Whilst we haven't seen any cases of this infection, we thought we'd take the opportunity to remind people about best practice for cleaning and storing contact lenses. If you have any concerns about your eyes, please book in with your optometrist. Cleaning and storing After removing your lenses, clean them immediately to remove mucus, protein and debris that build up on the surface during the day. • Place the lens in your palm and apply a few drops of cleaning solution as recommended by your optometrist. Gently rub the lens in a circular motion with your nger, not rubbing the lens too hard. • Rinse the cleaner off with an approved lens rinsing solution. • Fill the case with fresh cleaning solution to protect your lenses overnight. Always use fresh solution each time you clean and store your lenses. • After use, rub the inside of your case with clean ngers, rinse with fresh disinfecting solution and allow to air-dry naturally. See image below. • Replace your storage case whenever you open a fresh bottle of solution. Remember • Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. Avoid using soaps that are strongly perfumed or contain moisturisers. • Do not sleep in your lenses unless advise to by your optometrist. • Do not use tap water or saliva to rinse your lenses or case. • Use fresh solution each time you clean and store your soft lenses. • Do not swim or shower in your lenses without seeking the advice of your optometrist. • Avoid lens mix-ups. Always start with the same contact lens when you apply, remove and clean your lenses. • If your eyes become red and/or painful at any time, please remove your lenses and seek the advice of your optometrist. All our handling leaflets, for soft, gas permeable (hard), scleral and hybrid contact lenses are available to download here.

As part of the Association of Optometrist's ABSee campaign, they have produced a helpful guide covering advice on when to spot your child may need to see an optometrist, tips on looking after their vision and the options available if they do require vision correction. Download children's eye health leaflet here.

We hope the start of the new term is going well for all who went back this week. Did you manage to get your child's eyes examined over the holidays? Children should have their eyes examined by an optometrist every two years from pre-school. Signs there is an issue Most children assume that the way they see is normal so you cannot rely on them to tell you if there is a problem.  Here are some signs you can look out for that may suggest they have an issue with their vision: headaches and sore eyes difficulty concentrating using fingers to track text or losing their place when reading having issues with coordination for example when playing ball games squinting or closing one eye when reading or watching television showing sensitivity to light or the glare from a screen. Contact lenses for children If your child already wears glasses, they may be interested in looking at options wearing contact lenses. We have a huge range of options for children as young as seven. From our Myopia Management lenses are actually proven to slow the progression of short-sightedness in children, to our Ortho-K lenses which are worn overnight, leaving them free from lenses by day. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss your child's suitability for contact lenses.  At Cameron Optometry we offer the most comprehensive (and fun!) eye examination available and it’s all free-of-charge. Book in with an award-winning optometrist today. You can book online, call 0131 225 2235 or fill in this form and we'll get back to you to arrange an appointment. Error: Contact form not found.

We are thrilled to announce that we have won the Practice Growth Award at the national UK Optician Awards. The highly regarded awards, recognise excellence in the optical industry.  This award is acknowledgement of how we have grown the business in 2017. Our impressive figures can be largely attributed to the increase in number of children joining the practice, as well as a significant growth in our eyewear boutique, the Frame Room, which launched in 2016. It has always been our mission to ensure that all children have their eyes examined at least every two years and we are delighted to have welcomed many new faces over the past year. We offer the most comprehensive eye examination available in Edinburgh at no cost and we’re pleased to see that more parents are now aware of the difference between this examination and a basic eye test.  We’ve also seen a real increase in children wearing contact lenses. Many children are now preferring contact lenses to glasses for lifestyle reasons, in particular sporty youngsters. We’ve also run a campaign to educate parents of myopic children regarding the benefits of Myopia Management lenses, which slow the progression of short-sightedness in children. Interest in these revolutionary contact lenses is set to increase as awareness of their impact grows. We have a team of optometrists and dispensing specialists who are hugely passionate, working tirelessly to help children transition to contact lens wear, ensuring it is a positive experience for the child and their carers.  Patients will have also noticed that we’ve overhauled our dispensing room and this is another area where we saw real growth in 2017. We moved from a standard opticians displaying hundreds of mass-produced frames, to a high-end fashion boutique, the Frame Room, stocking a range of handcrafted, independent designers. Our personalised consultation has meant we have seen patients experiment with their frames, often moving away from ‘safe’ styles and well-known brands, being a little more adventurous with styles and designers. Previously the high standard of eye care was in contrast with the eyewear offering. Now they share the same core values of the highest quality, attention to detail and with a strong focus on the patient.   Thank you to all those who have supported us as we continue to grow and build our independent optometry practice. And to our new patients who have joined our practice in the last year, we hope you’ve been happy with your decision for you and your family.  Awards  Practice Growth Award 2018 Children’s Contact Lens Practice of the Year Finalist 2018 UK Practice of the Year Finalist 2017 Technology Practice of the Year Finalist 2016 Contact Lens Practitioner of the Year 2015 UK Practice of the Year 2014 For further information: Myopia Management Frame Room

We’re delighted to share the news that Claire Keith recently completed her professional certificate in Medical Retina. The course has allowed Claire to further her knowledge of common medical retina conditions, including screening, referral and treatment. This is especially informative for optometrists to allow them to make appropriate referral decisions for patients with medical retina conditions such as retinal detachment and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). With an estimated one in 10 people over 65 having some degree of AMD, many patients will benefit from Claire’s additional knowledge. Well done Claire. In addition, our clinical lead optometrist, Gillian Bruce is coming to the end of her final year of her MSc in Primary Care Ophthalmology. After completing her second year as the top performing student, she has been focusing her attentions on her research paper which focuses on the barriers optometrists face when managing glaucoma in the community. Over the next 10 years, the prevalence of glaucoma in the UK is predicted to rise by 22% (Ophthalmologists, 2017), posing a considerable challenge to, already overstretched, ophthalmology services. Gillian has been working closely with Scottish optometrists to determine how this care could be delivered and to uncover the barriers they perceive in doing this. She hopes to highlight where future resources could be targeted to overcome these potential barriers. Her research could be hugely valuable to the ophthalmology services as they become further stretched. The team at Cameron Optometry is always aiming to further its learning and keep on top of latest research, to ensure the whole team provides the highest level of care to patients. We have a real thirst for knowledge and have a genuine passion for eyes. If you would like further information on any of these conditions or to make an appointment, please email vision@cameronoptom.com.

This week, we welcome the Optos California scanner to the practice, continuing our commitment to ensure we always have the latest technology available. We are the first optometry practice in Scotland to purchase this model, considered to be the most detailed scanner available globally. We are only the second practice in the UK where patients can enjoy this hospital-grade scanner, providing the most comprehensive image of the eye. We hope this continues to provide great reassurance to our patients, knowing that we are using the highest quality technology, in the hands of experienced eye care professionals.    Ultra-high resolution retinal imaging is captured in seconds, showing up to 97% of the retina in one image (compared to 80% our previous ‘Daytona’ model), including the outer edges of the eye. This allows issues such retinal diseases, diabetes and retinal detachment or tears, to be confidently ruled out. The improved software enables easy access to the images, which are displayed in a higher resolution than ever before, allowing the optometrist to zoom in even further to examine the eye in the greatest of detail. Our optometrists are very enthusiastic about this new model. Perhaps even more so, because Optos is based in Scotland. Used globally, there is something even more exciting about the fact it was designed just over the Forth. And for any fellow eye enthusiasts out there, if you’re ever visiting the National Museum of Scotland, you’ll find an area featuring the earlier Optos scanners, an interesting display showing just how eye care technology has evolved over the centuries. Are you due an eye examination? If so book in today and you can experience the clarity of our new scanner first hand. You can book online, call 0131 225 2235 or email vision@cameronoptom.com.

Heather Muir has completed further training to ensure Cameron Optometry continues to provide highest level of care to young patients, in particular those transitioning to contact lens wear. Last year optical assistant, Heather Muir completed various qualifications in Child Anxiety and Confidence. Designed to help understand the importance of overcoming negative emotions in children and boosting esteem, this has already been invaluable as Heather helps children grow their confidence in handling their new contact lenses. In a bid to build on her strong foundations in this area, Heather has now added a qualification from Play Therapy UK, the Certificate in Therapeutic Play Skills. This course focused on non-directive play techniques, learning new and varied techniques in play therapy. It is designed to help participants provide emotional support to children. In 2017 Cameron Optometry saw a significant increase in the number of young people wearing contact lenses, in particular Myopia Management lenses, which effectively slow the progression of short-sightedness in children. Heather uses her experience and training to support these children as they adapt to contact lens wear, which for many, is totally foreign so they naturally have reservations when making the transition. Heather has worked with children as young as seven who have adapted very well to contact lens wear. She takes a very gentle approach and they can come in as many times as they like, until they, along with their parents, feel totally comfortable taking their contact lenses home. Already this year we have had many parents enquire about Myopia Management contact lenses as awareness of the benefits of these lenses grows, so Heather will continue to put her training to good use. If you would like information on contact lenses for children, please get in touch or book your child in for a free comprehensive eye examination.

As part of Road Safety Week (20-16 November), the AOP (Association of Optometrists) has undertaken further research into vision standards and driving. Sadly since this story hit the news we have heard accounts of people being seriously injured or even killed by a driver with poor vision. Please don't sit behind a wheel of a car without perfect vision. The message is don't swerve a sight test. If you notice any change to the way you see, visit your optometrist as soon as possible. The study found that: 30% of road users have doubted whether their vision is good enough, yet continued to drive 26% say they’ve delayed getting their eyes checked by an optometrist despite suspecting their vision was getting worse Less than half (40%) would stop driving if they were told their vision, even with glasses or contact lenses, was below the legal standard for driving. With 10% saying that they would continue to drive as normal 16% admit to knowing a driver whose sight they believe to be below the legal vision standard. The AOP has provided the following information to help drivers understand how to check that their vision is roadworthy. How to check your vision You can test yourself by reading (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate made after 1 September 2001 from 20 metres. You should check this yourself regularly. Your optometrist will check your vision on a Snellen chart during a sight test. Driving with eyesight below the required standard is illegal and may also mean your motor insurance is not valid. Medical conditions You must tell the DVLA about certain eye or general medical conditions. For a full list of conditions you must declare, see www.gov.uk/health-conditions-and-driving. The most common conditions (but not the only ones) affecting vision are age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. If you are a group 1 driver, you must tell the DVLA if you have a medical condition affecting both eyes, including different conditions in each eye. You can either report your condition online or ll in form V1 and send it to the DVLA. The DVLA may send you for a field-of-vision test in which lights are flashed in the edge of your vision to make sure you can see them. People are generally very poor at judging their own field of vision, and blind spots in your vision create a risk of accidents, especially involving pedestrians. What should I do if I feel my vision is getting worse for driving? You should see your optometrist who will be able to tell you if you need a new prescription, whether you need to be referred to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor), or if you have a condition that should be declared to the DVLA. If you think that your eyesight has deteriorated or you haven’t had your eyes examined in the last two years, you can book in for a comprehensive eye examination by calling 0131 225 2235. Don’t swerve an eye test!

Today is World Diabetes Day and unless you have the condition you may not realise the correlation between diabetes and vision. Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that can affect people with diabetes including diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema.   An optometrist may actually be able to spot the signs that you have diabetes before you realise you have the condition. Blood vessels in the eyes may leak which would be spotted in a routine eye examination. One of the many health conditions that can be uncovered in a trip to your optometrist (or optician).   Blurred vision is one of the first signs of diabetes. Vision may become blurred for a few days or weeks while your diabetes is first being controlled. High blood sugar causes the lens to swell but it will clear soon after the diabetes is controlled. Cataract and glaucoma are also conditions that can occur more commonly in diabetics. In cataract, the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy and whilst anyone can get the condition, people with diabetes are more prone, often getting them earlier and more severely than others.   Glaucoma is caused by fluid building in the eye and pressing on the nerve. Like cataract it can affect anyone, however people with diabetes and particularly those with diabetic eye disease have an increased risk of glaucoma due to abnormal blood vessel growth which can block the natural drainage channels of the eye. If you have diabetes you should be tested for glaucoma every year as there are very few noticeable symptoms.    The message is the same as many of our other blogs – please ensure you always have your eyes examined every two years (yearly if you already have diabetes) and immediately if you notice any changes to your vision. A loss in vision, blurred vision, floaters and shadows are the most common signs but really any change in vision or how your eyes feel should be investigated. When it comes to the eyes, quick identification of issues makes a huge difference. There are so many very effective treatments out there that can slow the progression of eye disease, some treatments can actually reverse the damage if caught soon enough.   To book an appointment please call 0131 225 2235.

According to a recent report by Which? two out of five eye tests in their research sample were not up to scratch. Although independent optometry practices did very well in the research, the overall results were disappointing, and concerns have been raised that the findings may put the general public off having eye examinations. This is particularly worrying as we already know that there are high numbers of people who do not have their eyes examined regularly. In this investigation the sample size was disappointingly small, with only 30 optometrists from across the UK being involved. The article suggested that opticians had issued inaccurate prescriptions, missed important tests or failed to warn about health risks. Before we go on, it is quite possible for prescriptions to be subtly different, or be written in different ways without being wrong, something that the article does not address. However rather than focus on the flaws of the research, we will take the opportunity to highlight what you should consider when selecting an optometrist to ensure your eye test is of the high standard. It is true that not all eye examinations are created equal. However, how are you expected to know what is a thorough exam and what you have been tested for? We won’t go into detail about all the tests we perform but here is a quick guide to what to consider when selecting your eye care provider. Expertise, time and technology are three elements we would encourage people to consider when they are selecting an optometrist. Expertise: How qualified and experienced is your optometrist? Don’t be afraid to ask. Scotland boasts some of the most highly experienced optometrists in the UK, and beyond. Optometrists with specialist expertise in numerous eye conditions. So, for example if you’ve struggled with contact lenses or have a specialist condition like keratoconus, you will find someone to support you and provide options. Don’t always settle with a first opinion. Time: An optometry appointment should consist of the appropriate tests, but also an equal amount of two-way discussion, to form a full picture. You should never feel rushed and should have the time and be encouraged, to raise your questions and concerns, share family history, general medical history, as well as information on lifestyle, to ensure your optometrist can provide informed advice, and alleviate any anxieties you may have. Generally, you will find independent optometrists allow more time for routine eye examinations. Technology: Does the optometrist have the most advanced technology available? This might include the Optos Daytona and OCT scanners to generate the highest standard of picture of the eyes, which can be used to diagnose eye conditions that may not have otherwise been seen, and to take important baseline information that can be used in the future to look for changes in the eyes. So seek out an optometrist who invests in the latest technology and uses it effectively. At Cameron Optometry we are strong supporters of independent optometry, and were delighted to see that none of the small number of independent optometrists in the study were found to be less than satisfactory. We invest time in our highly trained and qualified staff, in the technology we use and most importantly in our patients. Find out more about eye examinations at Cameron Optometry here.

As part of National Eye Health Week, we are highlighting key eye care advice for various groups. Today we're sharing Vision Matters' advice on the ageing eye, sight after sixty. Our visual acuity steadily declines and our risk of developing a sight threatening eye condition increases as we age. This is due to a number of factors including: The natural ageing process – the lens inside our eye actually begins to stiffen from about the age of ten but it isn’t until we reach our mid- to late-forties that we start noticing problems trying to focus when reading or doing close work. Environmental factors – the cumulative effect of exposure to UV light can impact on the quality of our vision. Lifestyle factors – over time a poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise can all have a negative impact on our vision. Genetic factors – the quality of our parents’ vision can be a good indicator of how well, or not, our eyes and vision will age. And regular sight tests are vital ensure we maintain healthy vision. By the time we reach our 60s over 96 per cent of us will require some form of vision correction. In addition to conditions such as long- and short-sightedness there are a number of eye conditions that are age-related. These include: Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). This impairs your central field of vision and is Britain’s leading cause of blindness affecting an estimated 600,000 people across the UK. Glaucoma is a condition that a ects the optic nerve and disturbs your peripheral vision. If left untreated it can lead to total loss of sight. Twenty six per cent of all cases of sight loss in people aged 75 and over is due to untreated cataracts. This is despite the fact that vision can usually be restored with a routine surgical procedure. Dry Eye (Keraconjunctivitis Sicca) a condition where the tear glands are not creating enough, or creating poor quality, liquid to keep the eyes lubricated and comfortable. Dry eye is the most common cause of eye irritation in people aged 65 plus. Presbyopia is a natural part of the ageing process. It occurs when the crystalline lens in the eye loses its exibility and makes it more and more difficult to focus on close objects. Floaters re little dots or tadpole-like shapes which appear in our vision. These are caused by age and the general wear and tear of our eyes. Occasionally this can be an early warning of a detached retina so be sure to visit your optometrist straight away if you notice a sudden onset or rapid increase in the number of flashes or floaters in your vision. Poor uncorrected vision can have a significant impact on our social and physical well-being however, more than four million OAPs miss out on vital eye tests every year*. A simple eye test could help improve the quality of life for millions of pensioners. It’s ecommended that over 60s have their eyes checked every two years and over 70s should have theirs checked annually, unless recommended otherwise by their optometrist. For more advice about looking after your eyes visit www.visionmatters.org.uk *Figure calculated using ONS population data, Sight Test Volume and Workforce Survey and GOS:Ophthalmic Statistics

Pre-school vision screening should not negate the need for a comprehensive pre-school eye examination. In Scotland, we are fortunate that all children receive a Pre-School Orthoptic Vision Screening (POVS) the year before starting school. These are helpful tests promoting early detection of vision problems in children, including a sight test (a test of how well your child can see), as well as identifying issues like a squint or a lazy eye. However, they do not replace the need for a full eye examination with an optometrist. Here is what you can expect from a comprehensive eye examination (which is entirely free-of-charge): Medical history – a review of medical history, including a full family history as many eye conditions are genetic e.g. short-sightedness (myopia). Pre-screening – involving a series of tests using the highest standard of equipment, most importantly generating an image of the inside of the eye using advanced technology such as the Optos Daytona scanner. Visual acuity – testing vision at distance and close up, using letters or pictures depending on the age of the child. Refraction – measurement of prescription including specific tests for long and short sightedness as well as measuring any astigmatism. Binocular vision assessment – various tests and measures to see how eyes are working together and to check the prescription is balanced. Includes a range of fun tests. Slit lamp – microscopic exam of lids/lashes/cornea and front surface and chamber of the eye. Colour vision – to check for any colour deficiency (colour blindness) by looking at pictures in a book. Summary of findings – discussing all findings with both the child and their parents/carer. Explaining points and summarising at the end the main findings and recommendations. Allowing plenty of time to ask questions. A thorough eye examination checks for vision, eye health and can also pick up several indicators where there might be a wider health issue apparent through these in-depth tests, making it all the more worthwhile. So, if your child had their eye test at pre-school, firstly we hope all was fine, but please also ensure that they have a comprehensive eye examination at least every two years from around age four. It is free and at Cameron Optometry we provide the most thorough assessment available by an award-winning team of optometrists all of whom have extensive expertise in dealing with the most complex eye conditions, so your child will be in safe hands. Book an appointment online or by calling 0131 225 2235, or email vision@cameronoptom.com with any questions.

A recent survey found that around 10 million Brits are at risk of losing their sight because they “can’t be bothered” going for an eye examination. Testament to the importance of having regular eye examinations, 15% of those who eventually went for an eye examination, had a condition that had been diagnosed too late. Of the 2000 adults surveyed by private eye hospital company Optegra, one in ten required glasses or contact lenses even though, prior to the examination, they believed their vision was “fine”. Bizarrely, one in four thought wearing glasses would make their vision worse. With 60% of respondents regarding their vision as their most valued sense, we really struggle to understand why people are still foregoing an eye examination. An hour every couple of years is all that is required. An hour that could be the difference between treatment and permanent eye damage and even sight loss. An hour that could ensure all drivers have the level of vision required to see well enough to prevent an avoidable accident. In addition, if you notice any change in your vision or how your eyes feel, you should book an appointment at your earliest convenience, regardless of whether you are due your eye examination. When you are selecting an optometrist, ensure they offer advanced screening as part of their eye examination. In addition to all the tests of vision and eye pressure, we use market-leading technology to ensure we have the best possible image of the inside of your eye and surrounding area. Here are some of the tests we perform: Optos Daytona scanner: Provides ultra-high resolution retinal imaging. Rules out numerous issues including retinal diseases, diabetes and retinal detachment or tears. FDT Frequency Doubling Technology: Fast and effective test of visual field (peripheral vision), a key indicator to rule out glaucoma. Humphrey Field Analyser: World’s gold standard in visual field equipment, used for detailed glaucoma investigation and monitoring, as used in hospitals. OCT (Optical Coherence Tomographer): Produces a wide-angle high-resolution fundus image in a split second allowing us to rule out macular degeneration and glaucoma. Corneal topographer: Provides exceptional accuracy for the mapping of a patient’s cornea, essential for contact lens fitting. Also identifies conditions affecting the surface of the eye. Slit Lamp: Used in conjunction with a biomicroscope, it provides a microscopic exam of eyelids, sclera, conjunctiva, iris and cornea, using a high intensity light source. To book an eye examination, please call 0131 225 2235 or email vision@cameronoptom.com.

We’ve seen many posts on social media recently where parents are asking what they can expect in their child’s first eye examination, so we thought we’d take the opportunity to let you know what happens here at Cameron Optometry. Making an appointment We recommend your child has their first eye examination in their pre-school year, around four-years-old, however if you have any concerns about their vision or if you notice a squint (turn) in their eye, then we see little ones from birth, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your child will have a very basic eye screening at school, usually when they are in primary one, however this is a test of vision only and does not test for their eye health, so even if they ‘pass’ they should still visit an optometrist and thereafter visit every two years, even if they have no obvious issues. A comprehensive eye examination will check for so much more than solely whether a patient can see well. An eye examination can indicate the early stages of eye disease, as well as giving insights into the health of the brain and other areas of the body. The appointment When you are preparing your child, let them know it will be fun! We have adapted all our tests to make it a relaxed and enjoyable experience for children, whilst ensuring we still get an in depth picture of their eye health and vision. We are able to hone a huge amount of information during the appointment, issues with their vision, whether they have any colour-deficiency, examining the health of their eyes and various other checks. We have a box of tricks for children to explore. Monster shaped torches that your little one will help switch on by giving them a good bash on the head, cuddly frogs to focus on, books filled with various pictures, matching games, flower-shaped glasses to wear and more. For the majority, if not all, of the appointment, they can sit on the floor or in the examination chair, wherever they feel most comfortable. Further exploration Whilst we provide a comprehensive eye examination for all children, we also never perform unnecessary tests. If we feel additional scans are required, we will do them, but we want to ensure it is always a positive experience for children so will not perform any tests that aren’t required. Likewise, you may have heard of children having eye drops in their examination. These are used to dilate the eye, and relax their focussing to allow for a better examination of how they are seeing. Again, we would get an indication from the initial tests and only use the drops if there was cause for further investigation. What if my child needs glasses? We fit glasses and contact lenses to children on a daily basis. We have a bespoke range of frames from various independent designers to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. There is no hurry. Children can take their time looking at themselves in the mirror before deciding on a pair that they love. With specialist expertise in contact lenses, we also regularly fit lenses to children as young as five-years-old and will chat you through all the options available. And remember, eye examinations for children in full-time education are free, so please ensure your children visit an optometrist on a regular basis.

It’s officially ‘Blue Monday’, so for all our blog followers we thought a little humour was required. I recently watched this sketch from Michael McIntyre about visiting the optician. If you need a break from your work, it is worth a watch. I always love his sketches. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBfoimbR7Dc It is of course, created for laughs, but is a reminder of how so many people think a trip to the optometrist or optician is just about testing your vision. Leaving those who can see well, feeling an appointment with their optometrist is unnecessary. Or, like Michael, if you have your contact lenses on order and you feel you have no changes to your vision, you just keep receiving the same ones month after month. So what’s wrong with this…? It’s not just about what you can see but what we can see in your eyes. Yes, when you think of an eye examination you think of the letters. Can you read an array of letters on a screen? Tick. Off you go. No, it’s not that simple. The comprehensive eye examination we perform gives us the chance to take a thorough look at your eye health. Our state-of-the-art Optos Daytona scanner will show up issues which may indicate a problem. If identified early, often before you notice anything yourself, treatment can often halt any progression but if left, could result in serious issues such as loss of vision. What about peripheral vision? It’s not just about seeing how far behind you can you see. A loss in peripheral vision is in indication of glaucoma amongst other potential problems. A visual field test will quickly identify any concerns often before you are aware of the condition. And it isn’t just eye health that we can examine. Through our scans and tests we have also picked up signs of heart disease, diabetes, childhood eye cancer, brain tumours, high cholesterol, the list goes on. We don’t want to scaremonger. We just want to educate people that getting your eyes examined is so much more than a test of vision.   If you are a contact lens wearer, it is also a good opportunity to see if the products you are using are the best available on the market. New lenses are being developed on a regular basis with new materials which may provide more comfort, better vision and improved eye health, than the lenses you have, so it is always worth discussing options with your optometrist. So, when you think about booking your annual trip to the dentist, think about booking in with your optometrist as well. You only get one set of eyes, so look after them. Now back to some more Michael McIntyre to get me through this dreary day.

Opening hours Please note our festive opening hours below. Should you have an eye care emergency, you can call our main line 0131 225 2235 and listen to the answering machine where you will be provided with emergency, out-of-hours contact details. Contact lens re-ordering Please ensure you have plenty contact lenses to last you until the middle of January. Whilst we are open some of our supplier are not and disruption to postage is expected due to the Post Office strike. So please order all the contact lenses you expect you will need over the festive period. You can do so by calling 0131 225 2235 or by filling out our contact lens re-order form here.

As we enter the winter months, many will be stocking up on tissues, vitamins and cold remedies. Unfortunately with these nasty bugs comes the increased chance of picking up an eye infection. Infectious conjunctivitis is the most common and usually results in red, itchy eyes with sticky discharge. It is particularly prevalent amongst young children but spreads quickly to other family members. Treatment is usually very simple, however sometimes these same symptoms can be the sign of a more serious condition. That’s why we’re encouraging people to visit their optometrist when they experience the signs of an eye infection. Unlike GPs, we have all the technology to give your eyes a thorough MOT to ensure that you get the right diagnosis. We can then prescribe whatever treatment is required as we have three prescribing optometrists. It is also worth noting that most over the counter eye drops require insertion up to six times a day, however there is now a new treatment available on prescription that only requires use twice a day and don't need kept in the fridge. A lot less hassle, especially for parents with children who aren’t keen on drops. If you have the signs of an eye infection this winter, give your eyes the best care possibly by making an appointment with your optometrist. With this in mind, it is also worth reminding contact lens wearers to check their glasses prescription is the same as their lens prescription. If you do have an eye infection, more often than not, you'll be required to avoid wearing lenses for up to a week, so make sure you have a suitable back up. Remember all emergency appointments are free-of-charge for all Cameron Optometry patients on our exclusive Vision+ membership scheme. And all Vision+ members receive 25% off glasses, should you need to update yours.

What is it and why is it important? The visible light that our eyes can see is composed of a spectrum of colours, just like a rainbow. Sunlight consists of the entire spectrum of light so we are exposed to the blue light part of the spectrum every time we are outside. Increasingly our eyes are exposed to additional sources of blue light when we are indoors as well. These sources include the backlit displays of our handheld digital devices and TV screens, as well as LED and compact fluorescent light bulbs. By 2020, 90% of all of our light sources are estimated to be LED lighting. Is this a bad thing? We can think of good and bad blue light. The shorter the wavelength of light the more energy it contains, the more discomfort it can cause us. We need exposure to the good, longer wavelength, blue light as it helps to regulate our moods and our sleep patterns as well as aiding our memory. However, the high energy of the short wavelength blue light creates flicker that reduces our contrast vision and causes glare. This can be tiring for the eyes, more so over prolonged periods, causing symptoms such as tiredness, dryness, blur and headache. Blue light exposure in the evenings may also interfere with how well we sleep. It is understood that repeated exposure to blue light can cause degeneration of some important cells for vision on the retina at the back of the eye. What can I do to address the problem? Outdoors, sunglasses with the correct tints or coatings are perfect for protection from blue light. Indoors, there are now spectacle lenses designed specifically for this purpose. Blue light filtering lenses block out the harmful wavelength blue light and let the good blue light through. Results have shown that for people experiencing symptoms that the lenses help their eyes to feel less gritty and dry and that other symptoms of eyestrain were reduced by half. Wearing them in the evenings when at the computer or watching television, makes a notable difference, with the eyes feeling less tired. While blue light filtering lenses look clear, lenses with yellow tints can also block the blue light and help with symptoms experienced when looking at blue light sources through the day. If you are concerned about the effects of blue light on your vision, please discuss them with optometrists.

How often are any of us really away from our technology these days? Probably a lot less than we think we are but I wish I could have captured a picture of the chap texting furiously next to me in the departure lounge in Frankfurt wearing a t-shirt that says “I'm away from my computer right now”. It seemed particularly apt as I've just left a round table meeting where we talked about exactly that. Digital eyestrain and what we, as eye care professionals, can do to help. We were brought together as a group who have been fitting Bioinfinity Energys, a contact lens that will be launched in the UK next week. The lens is designed to tackle some of the issues that our digital life poses us. To reduce the focusing strain we put on our eyes by spending so much of each day looking at things up close and to provide all day comfort by using a tried and tested lens material that performs well with drier eyes. The demands of digital life are ever present but there several options that optometrists can offer to ease the strain on your eyes. How significant is the issue? The Vision Council statistics from the US show that around 90% of people now use a digital device for more than two hours a day. With 70% of people using more than one digital device at a time. I’m that person, writing this on my VDU, with the news coming through on my iPad and my phone pinging me messages. Of those people, around 65% experience some digital eyestrain. You may not be aware that you are experiencing it but symptoms include frontal headache and tired eyes, irritated, burning or watery eyes or visual sensations such as text or images blurring. Often we notice these symptoms after a long day of digital use. Why do we get these symptoms? With digital devices we turn anywhere into an office, the kitchen table, the train and even our beds. Often that means we are not thinking about our posture or the correct lighting and that can lead to physical discomfort. We use phones and tablets as computers and hold them very close, often looking at small text both of which cause the muscles of the eyes to fatigue more easily. Digital devices, and modern LED and fluorescent room lighting, emit blue light that causes subtle light flickering and more obvious glare which is again tiring for the eyes after hours of use. When we concentrate on a task we blink less frequently leading to the surface of our eye drying. This is not good for the long-term health of our eyes as well as making our eyes feel irritated and our vision may blur. So what can we do? Make font bigger and the screen contrast comfortable. Match the background room light to your task so you are not working in the dark or with too much glare from your screen. Hold tasks further away, and keep your laptop or VDU screen at arms length. Take breaks remembering the “20-20-20 rule”. Look away from the screen every 20 minutes for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away. Consider blue light filtering spectacle lenses that can block the tiring harmful blue light while letting the useful blue light through. There are now contact lenses that are created for digital eyestrain which would be worth trialing. A good quality, non-preserved artificial teardrop can also make a significant difference to your comfort. We embrace technology at Cameron Optometry, and we know our patients do too. If you would like to discuss any of these options further or would like more information on the effects of blue light or the impact of digital device use on children speak to one of our optometrists. In addition, if you would like to trial the new Biofinity Energys contact lenses then please get in touch.

Today we welcome David Cartwright, Chair National Eye Health Week, as a guest on our blog to mark the start of the week, raising awareness of the importance of taking care of your eyes and the worrying consequences if we fail to act now. Our ageing population and unhealthy lifestyles are fuelling a steep decline in our vision. Right now almost two million people in the UK are living with sight loss and forecasters predict a further half a million could lose their sight by the year 2020. Focus on eye health Poor eye health places a huge economic and social burden on the UK. In 2013 sight loss cost the economy almost £8 Billion. Yet, according to research conducted by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) half of all sight loss is avoidable. By far the biggest risk to eye health is poor uptake of sight tests. Twenty million of us fail to have our eyes checked once every two years, as recommended, and one in 10 of us have never had an eye examination. Essential health check Sight tests are an essential health check. Not only can they assess your visual acuity and detect eye conditions, such as glaucoma, before they cause irreversible vision loss, they can also uncover signs of general health problems including diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. Regular sight tests are particularly important for children, the over 60s, people with a family history of eye disease, those with underlying systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and people of certain ethnic origins who have an increased risk of eye disease. Lifestyle matters Poor lifestyle choices pose another big threat to the UK’s eye health. Sight loss linked to obesity and smoking is a growing trend amongst younger generations. A poor diet, a high Body Mass Index (BMI), failing to protect your eyes from UV and a sedentary lifestyle can all have damaging affect your eye health. As can smoking – smokers have a substantially increased risk of suffering common sight threatening eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. For those whose sight loss is unavoidable there are some important medical developments on the horizon. Eye research charities like Fight for Sight and the National Eye Research Centre are funding pioneering research into some of the most common causes of sight loss whilst advances in stem cell therapies, laser treatments, ophthalmic drugs and lens technologies are all helping make sight loss a thing of the past. Whatever you do this Week (21 – 27 September) make sure do something to ensure your eyes and vision stay healthy now and in the future. For more advice on looking after your eyes take a look at the National Eye Health Week Top Tips leaflet. on www.visionmatters.org.uk.