01:59:15 am, by Geraldine , 341 words, 526 views  
Categories: Eye Care, Our Practice

At Stuart Macfarlane Optometrist we provide comprehensive eye examinations, assessing your vision as well as examining the health of your eyes. Using up-to-date specialised equipment, we look for evidence of eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts, and can also detect ocular signs of general disease such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Our optometrists have the ability to prescribe eye drops and ointments when necessary. Conditions such as conjunctivitis and dry eye can be assessed and treated as required.

We stock an extensive range of quality frames meaning you can choose from the latest in fashion, or a frame that best suits your budget.

Our frames come with an exclusive 12-month warranty, giving you an added level of confidence and peace of mind. You can also be assured that our frames and lenses are competitively priced. We also offer savings on additional pairs of spectacles purchased (conditions apply).

At Stuart Macfarlane Optometrist, we can assist you to become a successful and regular contact lens wearer. Whether you want to change your look or just appreciate the convenience of not having to wear spectacles, contact lenses could be the answer for you. As specialists in contract lenses, we will assess your eyes to find the best lenses to suit your individual needs.

Our team of dedicated and knowledgeable staff, with a combined industry experience of over 50 years, will ensure that all your eye care needs are met. Each time you visit Stuart Macfarlane Optometrist the same friendly and familiar faces will greet you.

Stuart Macfarlane Optometrist has been providing professional optometric care to the Logan community for over 25 years. The practice has always been independently owned and operated, allowing for much greater scope in providing personalised care.

Our goal at Stuart Macfarlane Optometrist is to provide the highest quality service and value in a professional and friendly atmosphere. We achieve this by building trust through friendship and respect for the individual, recognising the importance of optimal vision to quality of life, and a commitment to continuing education, advanced technology and teamwork.

01:37:55 am, by Geraldine , 1392 words, 659 views  
Categories: Common Eye Conditions, Dry Eye

What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome (or dry eyes) is a chronic reduction in the normal amount or quality of tears, causing insufficient lubrication of the eye. It can cause mild to severe discomfort and damage to the tissues of the surface of the eye - the cornea and conjunctiva.

What are the symptoms of dry eye syndrome?

Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:

• Eye irritation and redness
• A gritty or burning sensation to the eyes
• A foreign body sensation - the feeling that something is in your eye
• Blurred vision (that may clear with repeated blinking)
• Sensitivity to light
• Contact lens discomfort or intolerance

What causes dry eye syndrome?

The normal tear film of the eye has three components:

Water
Most of our tear film is composed of a watery substance, secreted by the lacrimal glands, located above and behind our upper eyelids. This watery (or aqueous) component of our tears nourishes and cleans the cornea and other tissues on the front of the eye.

Oils
Oils secreted from Meibomian glands (located at the margins of our eyelids) help keep our tears from evaporating too quickly.

Mucin
Mucin is a mucous-like substance that is produced by cells in the conjunctiva and outer surface of the eye. It helps tears spread more easily across the cornea.

A deficiency in the quantity or quality of any of these three components of the tear film can cause dry eye syndrome.

The most common cause of dry eye is a deficiency in the watery component of tears - also called aqueous tear deficiency (ATD). Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is the medical term used to describe dry eye syndrome resulting from ATD.

Who is at risk of dry eye syndrome?

Risk factors for dry eye syndrome include:

• Age. Our tear glands produce fewer tears as we get older. Many people begin to notice dry eye symptoms after age 40.
• Gender. Women are more likely to have dry eyes than men due to hormonal changes that accompany menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Contact lens wear. Soft contact lenses in particular can cause tears to evaporate more quickly.
• Computer use. We blink our eyes less frequently when using a computer. This increases tear evaporation.
• Dehydration. Failure to drink enough fluids can lead to general dehydration and dry eye symptoms.
• Alcohol and caffeine consumption. Both can lead to dehydration and dry eyes.
• Environmental conditions. Exposure to smoke, wind, air pollution, air conditioning, and dry climates can cause eye irritation and dryness. The partially-recirculated air in airplane cabins is especially dry and irritating.
• Medications. Many medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, oral contraceptives, blood pressure and ulcer medications, and antidepressants can cause dry eye symptoms.
• Health conditions. Health problems that affect the body's ability to produce tears include arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disease, asthma, and lupus.
• Sleeping with eyes partially open. Some people sleep with their eyes partially open, causing the eyes to be chronically dry.

How common is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye is a very common disorder that affects a significant percentage of the population - especially people over age 40. Studies vary in their estimations of this percentage, but at least one survey suggests that approximately 20 percent of people suffer from dry eye syndrome. Some researchers believe 75 percent of the population over age 65 experiences dry eye symptoms.

How is dry eye syndrome diagnosed?

If you suspect you have dry eyes, you should make an appointment to see your optometrist. He or she will ask you a number of questions about your symptoms and health history and perform one or more diagnostic tests to determine if you have dry eye syndrome.

One common diagnostic test is called the Schirmer test. It is performed by placing a thin strip of filter paper under your lower eyelid. An anesthetic eye drop may or may not be used prior to positioning the paper strip. You will then be asked to keep your eyes closed for five minutes. The amount of wetting of the paper strip is then measured to determine how well your lacrimal glands can produce the aqueous component of your tears.

Another common diagnostic test for dry eye is called the Tear Break-Up Test (TBUT). It is performed by placing a small amount of a fluorescent dye in your tear film. Your optometrist will then examine your eyes with a blue light. The dye mixes with your tears and causes the tear film on your eyes to glow under the examination light. You will be asked to blink several times and then keep your eyes open as long as you can without blinking. Your optometrist will measure how long it takes for dark spots to appear on your cornea, indicating that the tear film has broken up and the surface of your eye has become dry at those spots. A tear break-up time of less than 10 seconds suggests an unstable tear film and dry eyes.

Your optometrist may perform other tests in place of (or in addition to) the Schirmer test and/or Tear Break-Up Time test to determine whether or not you have dry eye syndrome.

How is dry eye syndrome treated?

There are a number of ways to treat dry eyes. The treatment your optometrist chooses for you will depend on the type and severity of your condition.

Artificial Tears

Mild cases of dry eye syndrome can be treated with non-prescription artificial tears. There are many brands and formulations to choose from, including preservative-free products in single-dose packaging for people with sensitive eyes. Your optometrist will recommend one or more brands for you to try.

Lubricating Ointments

In some cases, your optometrist will recommend that you supplement daytime use of artificial tears with bedtime use of a lubricating ointment. If so, you will be instructed to put about a half-inch application of the ointment inside your lower lid. Your body heat will melt the ointment and your lids will spread it across your eye when you blink. Ointments stay on your eyes much longer than artificial tears, but they will blur your vision. For this reason, ointments should be used only at bedtime.

Punctal Occlusion

For more significant dry eye problems, your optometrist may recommend a procedure called punctal occlusion. This procedure keeps more tears on your eyes by blocking the ducts in your lids that drain tears away from your eyes. Punctal occlusion involves inserting small plugs in the openings (puncta) of the tear drainage ducts that are located on the inner surface of each eyelid, near the nose. The plugs may be temporary (made of collagen that dissolves in a week or two) or permanent (made of silicone). If necessary the permanent plugs can be removed later. The procedure is painless and takes only a few minutes. Punctal occlusion may eliminate or significantly reduce your need for artificial tears. Ask your optometrist for details.

Nutritional Therapy

There is growing evidence that supplements of omega-3 fatty acids may be effective in treating some cases of dry eyes. Omega-3s are essential fatty acids - meaning that because our body cannot produce them, they are a required part of a healthy diet.
Most people don't consume enough omega-3's. Some research shows that the risk for dry eye decreases with increased dietary intake of omega-3s. Other research shows that omega-3 supplements may have a positive effect on the Meibomian glands in your lids that secrete the oils that reduce tear evaporation.
Because of these and other studies, some optometrists recommend that their patients with symptoms of dry eye increase their daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids. The two best natural sources of omega-3s are dark, oily cold-water fish (e.g. salmon) and flaxseed. Omega-3s are also available in supplement form. Ask your optometrist for details.

How can I reduce my risk of dry eye syndrome?

To reduce your risk of dry eyes, take the following precautions:

• Keep your body well hydrated. Drink at least eight large glasses of water every day.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They have a dehydrating effect.
• Run a humidifier in your home for during winter or if you live in a dry climate.
• Moisten your contact lenses routinely with rewetting drops.
• Clean your contact lenses daily and replace them as directed.
• Wear close-fitting sunglasses when outdoors (particularly on windy days).
• Eat salmon once a week or consider taking a daily supplement of omega-3 fatty acids.

01:22:50 am, by Geraldine , 437 words, 2335 views  
Categories: Common Eye Conditions, Conjunctivitis

What is Conjunctivitis?

Irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva, typically accompanied by redness, watery discharge, and sensitivity to light. Conjunctivitis is an irritation of the thin, normally transparent lining (called the conjunctiva) that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and the outer surface of the white of the eye (the sclera). The symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, itchiness, irritation, and sensitivity to light. Conjunctivitis is commonly called "pink eye" because of the pale red appearance of the infected eye. Conjunctivitis is a common and highly contagious infection among young children.

What causes conjunctivitis?

Allergies, an infection by bacteria or viruses, or by exposure to chemicals or other irritants can cause conjunctivitis. In allergic conjunctivitis, the conjunctiva usually appears swollen and red. The eyes are usually very watery, and itchiness can be severe. If conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, a sticky, yellow discharge may be present. This discharge may accumulate between the eyelids during sleep, causing the lids to stick together. Viral conjunctivitis is usually characterized by redness, itchiness, and a clear, watery discharge.

How common is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is very common, especially among people with allergies.

How is conjunctivitis treated?

Most types of conjunctivitis are treated with medicated eye drops or ointments. Your optometrist will be able to prescribe the drops required. In some cases, oral medicines may also be used. Most types of conjunctivitis are not damaging to the eye or sight threatening. However, conjunctivitis caused by exposure to chemicals is a medical emergency, requiring immediate action to prevent eye damage. If a chemical has gotten in your eye, flush the eye with a gentle stream of cool water for at least 10 minutes. Then cover the eye and go to a hospital emergency room immediately. Though flushing the eye with water alone may prevent eye damage from some chemical exposures, it is important to have your eye examined as soon as possible by an optometrist or a doctor.

To avoid contracting or spreading conjunctivitis, take the following precautions:

• Wash your hands frequently during the day, especially before and after touching your eyes.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Do not share washcloths, pillows, towels, and make-up items with others.
• Wash your bedding and towels frequently.
• If you have a case of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, discard and replace your current make-up, mascara, and eyeliner.
• If you wear contact lenses, clean and disinfect your lenses as directed.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before applying and removing your lenses.
• Replace your contact lenses frequently.
• Don't share your contact lenses with others.
• Wear protective goggles when working with or near chemicals.
• Avoid swimming in non-chlorinated pools or stagnant lakes or ponds.

02:15:53 am, by Geraldine , 295 words, 494 views  
Categories: Eye Care, Care Tips for your Glasses

Take a few minutes each day to follow these simple care tips - they'll prolong the life of your glasses.

Inspect
Check your glasses frequently for signs of wear. If a hinge screw is loose, visit your Optometrist.

Carefully check the alignment of your glasses while standing in front of a mirror. If they seem misaligned, return to your optometrist for a frame adjustment.

Inspect the lenses frequently for scratches. Scratches can impede vision.

Clean
Clean your glasses frequently as follows:

• Spray each side of your lenses with a lens cleaner spray.
• Wipe with a tissue.
• Never use a tissue when the lenses are dry as this can scratch the lenses.
• For touch-up lens cleaning when lens cleaner is not available, use a microfibre lens cleaning cloth.
• Don’t use clothing to wipe your glasses.

Protect
Keep your glasses in a protective case when you're not wearing them. If you've lost your case, purchase a replacement.

Always use both hands to remove your glasses. If your case isn't around, leave the temples open and place your glasses upside down (resting on the top of the Eyewire) on a flat surface in a safe place.

Other Care Tips

• Rinse and clean perspiration from your glasses as soon as possible.
• Sweat and skin oils can damage frame finishes and lens coatings.
• If you use hair spray, apply it before putting on your glasses. If this isn't possible, shield the lenses with your hand to avoid spraying them. Hair spray can damage expensive lens coatings.

Following these care tips will keep your eyewear in great shape for years. But don't rely on just one pair of glasses. Having more than one pair of glasses will guarantee that you have a back-up in case your favourite glasses get damaged.

04:02:00 pm, by Geraldine , 409 words, 265 views  
Categories: Common Eye Conditions

Different people need glasses for different tasks. Some people require them to read a paper and thread a needle. Others require glasses for driving or watching television and some people require glasses for everything they want to see and do.

Hyperopia

Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, is a condition where close objects are blurry. In a relaxed hyperopic eye, the image is focused behind the retina, the back of the eye. To focus the image on the retina, a plus spectacle lens is required to be placed in front of the eye. This will allow the spectacle wearer to see all distances clearly. Hyperopia may be hereditary and often the size of the eyeball itself is slightly smaller than average.

Myopia

Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a condition where faraway objects are blurry. In a myopic eye, the image is focused in front of the retina. To focus the image on to the retina, a minus spectacle lens is required to be placed in front of the eye. This will allow the spectacle wearer to see all distances clearly. Myopia may be hereditary and often the size of the eyeball itself is slightly longer than average.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a common condition where the eye loses its ability to see close objects clearly. In a presbyopic eye, the lens, which would normally alter shape to adjust focus for close objects, slowly loses its flexability. This usually starts happening between the ages of 40 and 45 and can continue up to the age of 65. To focus a close image on the retina, a plus spectacle lens is required to be placed infront of the eye. This will allow the spectacle wearer to see close objects clearly, but it will make distant objects blurry. Presbyopia is experienced by everyone as it is part of the aging process and it cannot be prevented.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is a condition where there is asymmetric blur of an object. In an astigmatic eye, one direction of the image may be focused on the retina and part in front or behind the retina. Astigmatism is usually due to the shape of the front of the eye, the cornea, not being completely spherical. This results in light which would normally be focused as a point on the retina, being focused as a line. To focus the image on the retina, a cylindrical spectacle lens is required to be placed in front of the eye. This will make objects at any distance clear.