As parents, we are often vigilant about our children’s health, but when it comes to their vision, some concerns might go unnoticed until they become more pronounced. One such concern is amblyopia, colloquially known as a “lazy eye.” In the world of eye health, amblyopia is the clinical term for this condition. Amblyopia occurs when one or both eyes fail to develop clear vision, even with prescription glasses or contact lenses1. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision impairment in the affected eye(s).
Amblyopia typically takes root before a child reaches the age of six2. This condition is more common than you might think, with an estimated 3% of children under six years old experiencing some form of amblyopia3. To prevent long-term consequences, early detection and intervention are crucial.
Amblyopia can have various underlying causes, each affecting a child’s visual development differently. The most common ones include:
Strabismus (Eye Misalignment): When a child’s eyes are misaligned, meaning they do not work together as a team, it can lead to amblyopia. One eye may deviate from the straight-ahead position when focusing on an object, causing confusion in the brain4.
Uncorrected Large Refractive Errors: Highly nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism in one eye can result in amblyopia, especially when the other eye has normal vision5.
Asymmetrical Refractive Errors: A significant difference in vision between the two eyes can cause amblyopia in the eye with poorer vision6.
Eye Conditions: Congenital cataracts, droopy eyelids, and other structural issues in the eye can also contribute to amblyopia7.
Identifying amblyopia in your child can be challenging, as the condition can develop without obvious outward signs. However, there are some subtle cues that parents can look out for, including:
Eye Deviation: Does your child’s eye appear to wander or turn away from the straight-ahead position when focusing on an object?
Head Tilt: Does your child frequently tilt their head when looking at an object, perhaps as an attempt to see it more clearly?
Depth Perception Issues: Does your child struggle to gauge the distance of objects correctly?
Eye Covering: Does your child frequently cover one eye while looking at things?
Bumping into Objects: Does your child tend to bump into objects or have difficulty with activities that require a sense of space?
The good news is that amblyopia can often be corrected with the right interventions, especially when it is detected early. Typical treatment includes:
Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: Correcting significant refractive errors is the first step toward improving vision in the affected eye8.
Eye Patching: To encourage the use and development of the amblyopic eye, eye patching of the good eye may be prescribed. This helps the brain recognise and process visual information from the amblyopic eye9.
To safeguard your child’s visual health, it is essential to schedule regular eye examinations. Experts recommend that children visit their eye care practitioner every six months for a comprehensive eye check-up. Early detection of amblyopia can make all the difference in preserving and enhancing your child’s vision.
Our eye care professionals at Spectacle Hut are well qualified to conduct a comprehensive eye exam for your child. Book an appointment here at your nearest store.
In our digital age where technology plays a pivotal role in work, education and leisure, many of us have experienced discomfort in our eyes after spending prolonged hours in front of screens, particularly as the day wears on. This article aims to explore the reasons behind having difficulty focusing on objects as the day goes by, provide insights into reducing digital eye strain and offer practical tips for maintaining better visual and overall well-being in our tech-driven world.
The mechanics of our eyes require the contraction of our eye muscles to focus on objects at close range1. With the extended use of screens or consistent focus on nearby objects, these eye muscles can become fatigued, leading to spasms that affect our ability to focus properly2.
Additionally, during tasks that demand our full attention, like staring at a computer screen, we tend to blink less frequently. This reduced blinking can result in dry eyes because they aren’t being lubricated as often as they should be3.
The blue light emitted by digital screens has been linked to eye fatigue4. Collectively, these factors contribute to what’s known as Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome, a condition characterised by ocular and physical discomfort following prolonged periods of screen use5.
These symptoms are often exacerbated by poor lighting, screen glare, improper viewing distances, poor sitting posture, and uncorrected vision issues7.
To mitigate the effects of Digital Eye Strain, consider the following tips:
Take Regular Breaks: Implement the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to gaze at an object at least 20 feet away. This brief pause helps relax your eye muscles8.
Blue Light Filtering Glasses: Invest in lenses that reduce the transmission of blue light to your eyes. These glasses can significantly decrease the strain caused by prolonged screen exposure9.
Artificial Tears: Use lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist, especially during extended periods of close work. This simple step can alleviate dryness and discomfort.
Adjust Your Workspace: Reduce screen glare by adjusting the position of your screen or your seating arrangement. Adequate lighting and proper ergonomics can make a world of difference10.
Screen Customisation: Tailor your screen settings to suit your comfort. Adjust font size, screen brightness, and contrast settings to ensure your eyes are not subjected to unnecessary strain.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with prolonged screen use and make your digital activities more enjoyable and eye-friendly. Your eyes will thank you for it in the long run.
Experience relief from visual fatigue with Crizal® Eyezen lenses. Whether you’re in front of large or small screens, at any distance, Eyezen™ Focus offers you extra support for clearer, more comfortable vision.
Thanks to Light Scan® and W.A.V.E Technology™, harmful blue violet light is filtered out while providing your eyes with ultimate clarity even in the digital age11. As a result, you enjoy sharp vision while your eyes stay relaxed and focused.
For more information on Crizal® Eyezen, click here or approach our staff at your nearest Spectacle Hut store.
For many of us, driving and commuting consume a significant portion of our daily routines, whether it is heading to work or simply meeting up with friends. However, despite the familiarity of these journeys, there are times when we find ourselves struggling to see clearly while driving at night. This article aims to shed light on this common issue by providing insights into why it happens and how to address it.
When it comes to safe driving, two crucial factors stand out: visual acuity and visual field. Visual acuity measures our ability to see fine details1, such as road signs and distant objects, ensuring we can recognise obstacles and pedestrians well in advance. On the other hand, visual field consists of how wide our field of vision is when focused on a single point, allowing us to perceive neighboring vehicles and objects in our peripheral vision2.
Driving exposes us to a spectrum of lighting conditions. While a bright, sunny day can be a visual delight, it can also present challenges in the form of blinding glare that compromise our vision and safety3. Driving poses various vision-related risks4, including:
Uncorrected refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, can significantly affect our vision, especially while driving. Myopia may lead to the failure to recognise warning signals or pedestrians at slightly greater distances. Conversely, uncorrected astigmatism can result in blurred vision at all distances and increase susceptibility to glare, particularly during night driving5. This condition scatters light, causing halos or streaks around light sources, especially in low-light conditions6.
Glare, whether from bright or dim lights, is a common adversary on the road. Attempting to discern objects under excessively bright lights can cause squinting and watery eyes, while dim lighting, prevalent during nighttime driving, diminishes image contrast, further impairing our vision7.
One effective way to combat glare and enhance night driving safety is by wearing specialised driving glasses. Equipped with an anti-reflective coating, these glasses reduce light reflections8 from sources like headlights and streetlamps. By mitigating glare, they prevent temporary blindness, enhancing both your safety and that of other road users.
To enhance your visibility while driving at night, consider these practical tips:
By understanding the underlying factors contributing to poor night vision and implementing these strategies, you can enjoy safer and more comfortable night drives, both for yourself and other road users.
Experience the difference with Crizal® Drive lenses, designed to enhance your safety and clarity during night driving. Regardless of whether you drive occasionally or regularly, the distracting halos that accompany night drives can affect your vision.
With up to 90% less reflection compared to ordinary lenses, Crizal® Drive minimises hazardous glare from surrounding lights, allowing you to drive confidently and securely in low light conditions9. These lenses are not limited to just the night; they also maintain sharp vision during the day, ensuring a comfortable and clear driving experience around the clock.
For more information on Crizal® Drive, click here or approach our staff at your nearest Spectacle Hut store.
Red eyes can be a common concern for contact lens wearers. While they can be attributed to various factors, it is essential to identify the cause accurately to ensure proper treatment and avoid potential complications. In this article, we will explore the common causes of red eyes in contact lens wearers and what you should and should not do.
CLARE is an inflammatory reaction of the cornea and conjunctiva associated with overnight contact lens wear9. It is caused by a combination of factors, including hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), inflammation, and mechanical irritation10. Symptoms of CLARE include red eyes, pain, light sensitivity, and contact lens intolerance11. CLARE commonly occurs in those who wear lenses to sleep overnight and may occur in one or both eyes. While CLARE usually resolves on after temporary cessation of contact lens wear and therapeutic treatment12, it may recur if non-compliant with proper lens care regime.
There are a number of things you can do to prevent red eyes while wearing contact lenses:
While red eyes in contact lens wearers can be due to various factors, understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective management. If you experience sudden redness or discomfort, it is crucial to discontinue lens wear and consult your eye care professional promptly.
Our eye care professionals are able to advise you on maintaining your eye health. Book your comprehensive eye exam here and enjoy clearer and healthier vision.
1. “Contact Lens Overwear” Asia Retina. https://asiaretina.com/contact-lens-overwear/
2. “Eye Infections From Contact Lenses” American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/contact-lens-related-eye-infections
3. Barba Gallardo LF, Muñoz Ortega MH, Ventura Juarez J, Aldaba Muruato LR, Sánchez Alemán E, Valdez Morales EE, Blancas Zugarazo SS, Villafan Bernal JR. Extended low oxygen transmissibility contact lens use induces alterations in the concentration of proinflammatory cytokines, enzymes and electrolytes in tear fluid. Exp Ther Med. 2018 May;15(5):4291-4297. doi: 10.3892/etm.2018.5989. Epub 2018 Mar 22. PMID: 29849773; PMCID: PMC5962872.
4. “Contact Lenses: When a Solution Is the Problem” American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/contact-lenses-when-solution-is-problem
5. “Dry Eye” National Eye Institute. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye
6. Cope JR, Collier SA, Nethercut H, Jones JM, Yates K, Yoder JS. Risk Behaviors for Contact Lens-Related Eye Infections Among Adults and Adolescents – United States, 2016. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2017 Aug 18;66(32):841-845. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6632a2. PMID: 28817556; PMCID: PMC5657667.
7. “Eye Infections From Contact Lenses” American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/contact-lens-related-eye-infections
8. “What Is a Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)?” American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/corneal-ulcer
9. “Bringing Clarity to CLARE” Review of Cornea and Contact Lenses.https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/bringing-clarity-to-clare
10. “Managing Contact Lens-associated Red Eye” Review of Cornea and Contact Lenses. https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/managing-contact-lensassociated-red-eye
11. “Bringing Clarity to CLARE” Review of Cornea and Contact Lenses.https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/bringing-clarity-to-clare
12. “Diagnosing and Managing Lens-Related Complications” Contact Lens Spectrum. https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2010/march-2010/diagnosing-and-managing-lens-related-complications
Have you ever found yourself adjusting your reading materials or digital screens to an arm’s length away to see them clearly? Perhaps you have even removed your eyewear to read a menu or enlarged the font size on your iPad to make the text more legible. If so, you are not alone.
Making these adjustments are often early signs of a common age-related vision change known as presbyopia, which usually affect individuals who are in their 40s1. In this article, we will delve into what presbyopia is, its symptoms, debunk common myths and explore the available solutions for presbyopia that maintain excellent vision as you age.
Presbyopia is a vision condition characterised by the gradual loss of the eye’s natural lens’ ability to change shape and focus on near objects or distances2.Unlike other common vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) which are often present from a young age, presbyopia typically becomes noticeable when one reaches their forties. It affects everyone as they age, and understanding its development is essential for effective management.
Presbyopia manifests through several symptoms, affecting daily life and tasks that demand clear near vision. These symptoms may include the following:
Myth 1: I can buy off-the-shelf reading glasses to read.
While over-the-counter reading glasses can temporarily alleviate the symptoms of presbyopia, they are not customised to your specific vision needs. Off-the-shelf reading glasses provide a fixed prescription for both lenses, which may not address all your visual requirements accurately3 as your prescription often differs between both eyes.
Myth 2: Wearing reading glasses or progressive lenses will increase my reliance on glasses and cause my presbyopia to worsen.
Wearing reading glasses or progressive lenses as prescribed by an eye care professional will not cause presbyopia to worsen4. Instead, it will help you to see clearly up close without straining your eyes. Properly prescribed eyewear can significantly improve your quality of life.
Myth 3: Myopia cancels out or prevents presbyopia.
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, involves difficulty focusing on distant objects. While myopic individuals may experience less trouble with close-up tasks, they are not exempt from presbyopia5. In fact, the two conditions can coexist, requiring appropriate correction for both near and far vision.
Fortunately, several effective solutions are available to manage presbyopia and restore clear near vision:
Prescription Reading Glasses: These customised glasses are tailored to your specific vision needs and provide clear near vision for reading and other close-up tasks6.
Progressive Lenses: Unlike traditional bifocal lenses, progressive lenses offer a seamless transition from near to far vision, eliminating the visible line found in bifocals7. They provide a more natural visual experience.
Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses correct presbyopia, allowing wearers to see at various distances without the need for glasses8.
By working with an eye care professional and choosing the right corrective measures, you can maintain excellent vision and continue enjoying life’s many visual moments, regardless of your age.
All progressive lenses have some peripheral distortions caused by changes in curvature across the lens surface, which distort the way you see and reduce the clarity of your peripheral vision when looking through the lenses.
VARILUX® lenses provide sharp vision at every distance allowing you to see near, far and intermediate distances seamlessly with ease. Varilux progressive lenses feature W.A.V.E. 2 Technology9, which:
Wearing VARILUX® lenses allows you to multitask effortlessly, provides sharp vision in three crucial distances and enables you to adapt quickly. Also, with reduced distortions, these lenses enable you to instantly focus in any situation, ensuring you always have clear vision when you need it.
For more information on VARILUX® lenses, click here or approach our staff at your nearest Spectacle Hut store.
Have you ever noticed tiny, mosquito-like spots or wispy, translucent strands seemingly dancing around in your field of vision? Perhaps they become more conspicuous when you are gazing at a bright white screen or the clear expanse of a blue sky. These visual phenomena are often referred to as “floaters”1. Floaters can be a source of curiosity and, at times, concern. In this article, we will explore what floaters are, what causes them, and when they might warrant your attention.
Floaters are those peculiar shapes and specks that seem to drift aimlessly across your visual field. They can resemble tiny dots, squiggly lines, or even cobwebs and can often follow the movement of your eyeballs. While they may appear bothersome, these visual disturbances are usually harmless2.
Floaters primarily make their presence known as a result of the natural aging process. Within our eyes, there exists a gel-like substance called the vitreous, which, with time, undergoes changes. As the vitreous degenerates and its components clump together, it casts shadows on the retina, leading to the perception of floaters3. In most cases, floaters are benign and do not necessitate intervention. They are a common occurrence, and many individuals experience them at some point in their lives. However, floaters may signal underlying eye conditions that demand prompt attention, for instance in the event of a retinal tear or detachment.
One notable condition related to floaters is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)7. In PVD, the vitreous separates from the retina. Usually, this detachment does not require any treatment; however, it can sometimes lead to more serious issues if it tugs on the retina and leads to a retinal tear, which may trigger a retinal detachment. In such a situation, it necessitates immediate medical attention, as it can be sight threatening.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment is more commonly observed in individuals aged 50 and above, due to age-related degenerative changes within the eye8 . However, several risk factors can predispose someone to experience it at a younger age. These factors include myopia9, cataracts10, diabetes8, eye injury or surgery7.
Floaters are a frequent occurrence, often stemming from the natural aging of the eye. While they are typically harmless, it is essential to remain vigilant about any sudden changes in their appearance or if they are accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Regular eye check-ups can help detect and address potential issues, ensuring your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains clear.
Our eye care professionals at Spectacle Hut are well qualified to conduct a comprehensive eye exam for you. Book an appointment here at your nearest store.
1. Johnson, J. (2019, July 17). What to know about eye floaters. Medicalnewstoday.com;
Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325781
2. Health. (2021). Eye floaters. Vic.gov.au. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/eye-floaters
3. Are, W. (2022, November 29). What Are Floaters and Flashes? American Academy of
Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-floaters-flashes
4. Ask the ophthalmologist: What causes floaters in the eye? | Eyes and Vision | UT
Southwestern Medical Center. (2022). Utswmed.org. https://utswmed.org/medblog/eye-floaters-flashes/
5. Retinal Detachment | National Eye Institute. (2022). Nih.gov. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/retinal-detachment
6. Bernstein, S. (2016, October 31). Why It’s Important to Treat Your Uveitis. WebMD;
WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/uveitis-complications
7. “Posterior Vitreous Detachment – Patients – the American Society of Retina
Specialists.” Asrs.org, 2023, www.asrs.org/patients/retinal-diseases/9/posterior-vitreous-detachment
8. Bernstein, Susan. “Posterior Vitreous Detachment.” WebMD, WebMD, 27 Nov. 2016, www.webmd.com/eye-health/posterior-vitreous-detachment-facts
9. Hayashi K, Manabe SI, Hirata A, Yoshimura K. Posterior Vitreous Detachment in Highly
Myopic Patients. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2020 Apr 9;61(4):33. doi: 10.1167/iovs.61.4.33. PMID: 32334432; PMCID:
PMC7401972.
10. Hilford, D., Hilford, M., Mathew, A. et al. Posterior vitreous detachment following
cataract surgery. Eye 23, 1388–1392 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/eye.2008.273
As we age, it is natural for our vision to undergo changes. You might find yourself reaching for reading glasses when browsing your iPad or taking a little more time to adjust to different lighting conditions. These shifts in vision are common as we grow older, but what should we do about changes that are almost unnoticeable but might signal a deeper, more pressing issue?
Many eye conditions can develop gradually and may not present symptoms in their early stages. By the time noticeable signs emerge, the damage to your vision can be severe and irreversible. A prime example is glaucoma. Glaucoma arises when fluid accumulates within the eye, increasing eye pressure which damages the optic nerves at the back of the eyes. This damage leads to a loss of peripheral vision1. What makes glaucoma particularly insidious is its tendency to be hereditary, with an elevated risk among individuals who are myopic (nearsighted)2. Unfortunately, glaucoma remains asymptomatic in its initial stages, leaving many unaware of their condition until it reaches an advanced state.1 Regular, comprehensive eye examinations is the key to detecting glaucoma early3.
Systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension can affect eye health and lead to vision loss4. These conditions damage the blood vessels in the eyes, resulting in blood and fluid leakage that can cause blurred vision or dark patches at a severe stage4. Your eye health can reveal information about your systemic health. During a comprehensive eye examination, our skilled optometrists may detect early signs or symptoms that could point to broader systemic health concerns. Since various eye conditions can manifest without obvious symptoms in their initial stages, regular eye check-ups are particularly important, especially for individuals over the age of 405. In this age group, eye exams can serve as early warning systems, allowing for prompt interventions that might mitigate more significant health issues.
Here are some proactive steps to safeguard your vision and maintain healthy eyes as you age:
Shield Your Eyes from UV Damage: Whenever you are outdoors, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses.
Kick the Habit: Avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking, which can cause early eye degeneration.
Prioritise Overall Health: Managing chronic systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension is essential for preserving your vision.4
Nourish Your Body: Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can positively impact your eye health6.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Annual eye exams detect any eye changes early on5, so that any suspicious signs can be investigated and addressed promptly.
Regular eye exams play a critical role in catching eye conditions before they progress to a more advanced stage, potentially preserving your vision and quality of life. Detecting eye conditions early allows for more effective management and treatment7. Don’t wait until you notice significant changes in your vision or experience discomfort to schedule an eye exam. Take proactive steps to safeguard your eye health by booking a comprehensive eye exam today. Book an appointment here at your nearest store.
1. What Is Glaucoma? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment. “What Is Glaucoma? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment.” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 6 Dec. 2022, www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-glaucoma
2. Iglesias AI, Ong JS, Khawaja AP, Gharahkhani P, Tedja MS, Verhoeven VJM, Bonnemaijer PWM, Wolfs RCW, Young TL, Jansonius NM, Craig JE, Stambolian D, van Duijn CM, MacGregor S, Klaver CCW; International Glaucoma Genetics Consortium (IGGC) and Consortium for Refractive Error and Myopia (CREAM). Determining Possible Shared Genetic Architecture Between Myopia and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2019 Jul 1;60(8):3142-3149. doi: 10.1167/iovs.18-26231. PMID: 31323684; PMCID: PMC6645704.
3. “Five Common Glaucoma Tests | Glaucoma.org.” Glaucoma.org, 9 Feb. 2022, glaucoma.org/five-common-glaucoma-tests/
4. CDC. “Diabetes and Vision Loss .” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19 Dec. 2022, www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/diabetes-vision-loss.html
5. “Eye Exams.” Singapore National Eye Centre, 2019, www.snec.com.sg/eye-exams
6. “Diet and Nutrition.” Aoa.org, 2023, www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/diet-and-nutrition
7. “Blindness and Vision Impairment.” World Health Organization: WHO, 10 Aug. 2023, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment
As a parent, you are likely to be keenly attuned to any changes or signs of discomfort in your child. If you have noticed your child squinting their eyes to see, moving closer to view distant objects like the TV, tilting their head to focus, rubbing their eyes, or complaining of headaches and eye strain, it is important to pay close attention. These symptoms could be indicative of myopia, a common eye condition also known as short-sightedness.
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a vision condition where near objects appear clear while distant objects become blurry. It is a condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, and children are not exempt1. What exactly causes myopia, and why do some children develop it?
Genetics plays a significant role in myopia development. If you are wondering why some children are more prone to myopia than others, family history might hold the answer. Research shows that if both parents are myopic, the risk of their child developing myopia increases significantly. In cases where one parent is myopic, the risk is 1.5 times2. Having two parents who both have myopia increases the risk to their child by six times3.
While genetics is a key factor, environmental influences are equally crucial. The lifestyle and activities of a child can contribute significantly to the development and progression of myopia. In today’s digital age, many children spend extended periods engaged in near work, such as reading, using digital devices, or doing homework. This excessive near work can increase the likelihood of myopia development4.
Early onset myopia can have long-term consequences. Children who develop myopia at a young age are at a higher risk of its progression5. This means that their myopia may worsen over time, potentially leading to high myopia (greater than -5.00D). High myopia is associated with an increased risk of sight-threatening eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, myopic maculopathy, and retinal detachments6. These conditions can significantly impact a child’s quality of life and overall eye health.
Singapore has gained the unfortunate title of ‘The Myopia Capital of the World.’ The prevalence of myopia in Singapore is alarmingly high, with 65% of children becoming myopic by the age of 12, and 83% of young adults experiencing myopia. The projections for the future are even more concerning, with an estimated 80 to 90% of Singaporean adults above 18 years old expected to be myopic by 2050. Additionally, 15 to 25% of these individuals may have high myopia7. In light of these statistics, it is clear that myopia is a growing concern that should not be ignored. Detecting and managing myopia early in childhood is crucial to prevent its progression and the potential development of high myopia and sight-threatening eye diseases. Regular eye check-ups and discussions with eye care professionals are essential to ensuring the visual health and well-being of your child. By addressing myopia promptly, we can help our children maintain clear vision and a brighter future.
With Essilor® Stellest™ lenses, you can reduce your child’s risk of developing high myopia and avoid future vision complications. Essilor® Stellest™ lenses are spectacle lenses that can help slow the progression of myopia in children. The results of a clinical trial conducted in 2021 showed that two out of three children who wore Essilor Stellest™ lenses did not need a prescription change after the first year, and after the first year, the eye growth of nine out of ten children wearing Essilor Stellest™ lenses was similar or slower than non-myopic children8. It works by using a technology called Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target (H.A.L.T.), which creates a volume of signal in the eye to slow down eyeball elongation9. For more information on Essilor® Stellest™ lenses, click here or approach our staff at your nearest Spectacle Hut store.
When it comes to safeguarding our children’s well-being, we are well-versed in the importance of sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to shield them from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, there is one crucial aspect of sun protection that often goes overlooked – shielding their young eyes from UV radiation. Just as excessive sun exposure can harm the skin, it can also pose significant risks to the delicate structures of the eyes.
In this article, we explore why it is never too early to prioritise UV protection for your child’s eyes and provide practical tips to ensure their visual health is preserved for a lifetime.
Ultraviolet radiation is an invisible component of sunlight that carries the potential for harm. While it is widely recognised for its role in causing skin cancers and sunburns, its effects on the eyes are equally concerning. UV radiation is particularly insidious because its detrimental impact is cumulative1, meaning that the effects of UV exposure during childhood can manifest as serious eye diseases later in life.
The repercussions of UV exposure on the eyes are numerous and extend far beyond the discomfort of photokeratitis, a condition akin to sunburn of the cornea. While photokeratitis is reversible and typically short-lived, prolonged UV exposure can result in more severe eye conditions2, including:
Children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of UV radiation for several reasons. First, they tend to spend more time outdoors than the average adult7, increasing their overall UV exposure. Second, the crystalline lens in a child’s eye is more transparent and has a reduced ability to filter UV compared to an adult’s lens8, making them more susceptible to UV damage.
Given the heightened susceptibility of children’s eyes to UV damage, it is crucial to implement effective vision care measures from an early age. Here are some practical tips to protect your child’s eyes against UV harm:
Prioritising UV protection from an early age can significantly reduce your child’s risk of developing vision-threatening conditions later in life. Remember, it is never too early to start preserving your child’s visual health.
Crizal® UV lenses give your eyes the best available protection, on a clear lens, against damaging UV light. Essilor’s exclusive anti-reflective technology is applied to both sides of the lens so that it also blocks reflected UV rays, which can account for up to 50% of exposure. For more information on Crizal® UV lenses, click here or approach our staff at your nearest Spectacle Hut store.
1. “UV Radiation & Your Skin” Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation
2. Chawda D, Shinde P. Effects of Solar Radiation on the Eyes. Cureus. 2022 Oct 29;14(10):e30857. doi: 10.7759/cureus.30857. PMID: 36465785; PMCID: PMC9709587.
3. “UV Light’s role in Cataract Formation” Centre for Sight. https://www.centreforsight.net/blog/uv-lights-role-in-cataract-formation
4. “Pterygium” MedPark Hospital. https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/disease-and-treatment/pterygium
5. Zhou, H., Zhang, H., Yu, A. et al. Association between sunlight exposure and risk of age-related macular degeneration: a meta-analysis. BMC Ophthalmol 18, 331 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12886-018-1004-y
6. “Risk Factors for Eyelid Cancer” Stanford Medicine. https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/eyes-and-vision/eyelid-cancer/risk-factors.html
7. Pustisek N, Sikanić-Dugić N, Hirsl-Hećej V, Domljan ML. Acute skin sun damage in children and its consequences in adults. Coll Antropol. 2010 Apr;34 Suppl 2:233-7. PMID: 21302727.
8. “Protect Your Child’s Eyes” Lighthouse Guild. https://lighthouseguild.org/protect-your-childs-eyes/
Our eyes encounter many sources of light and varying light changes daily, and we are exposed to more blue-violet light since we are living in a digital era. Light sensitivity and glare have become a common problem. According to the white paper “Sensitivity to Light”, 9 in 10 people experience light sensitivity. Fortunately, there are ophthalmic lens solutions that can tackle this issue – Photochromic lenses.
Photochromic lenses are lenses that are equipped with photochromic dyes that enable the lenses to activate and darken when they are exposed to the ultraviolet light (UV) from the Sun. The greater the intensity of UV rays, the darker the lenses become. Because UV rays penetrate clouds, photochromic lenses will darken on overcast days as well as sunny days.
In instances where UV light is absent such as indoors or at night, the lenses fade back to their original clear state. The darkening and fading processes are automatic, thus allowing seamless adaptation to changing light situations, providing the wearer with visual comfort even on a bright Sunny day.
Transitions® lenses are the #1 eyecare professional recommended photochromic lenses worldwide. Transitions® lenses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and filter blue-violet light indoors and outdoors. With the newest Transitions® Signature GEN 8, the lenses are more responsive to varying light intensities – it darkens up to 30% faster, and the fade back time from dark to clear is up to 3 minutes faster than previous generations of Transitions.
As Transitions® are activated by UV rays, the lenses remain clear within the car, as the car windshields block out most UV light. However, to meet the diverse visual needs of consumers and with new cutting-edge technology, the invention of Transitions XTRActive® lenses allow the lenses to darken even within the car, as the special photochromic molecules within the lenses respond to both UV as well as visible light. Transitions XTRActive® lenses is recommended for those who spend long time behind the wheel or those who are extremely light-sensitive, as they are extra dark outdoors.
For those who spend a lot of time outdoors especially where glare is present such as water activities or on snow surfaces, Transitions XTRActive® Polarized lenses are ideal. These lenses polarize as they darken, providing maximum visual clarity and comfort even in bright, reflective conditions.
Book an appointment here or visit our store and speak to our Eyecare Pro to find out which Transitions® lenses best suit your visual needs.
https://www.transitions.com/en-us/why-transitions/the-technology/photochromic-tech/