Decoding Glaucoma With OCT

Nigel Robinson on March 5, 2024

Glaucoma is a condition that can have serious consequences on your vision. It unfortunately affects a large proportion of the population, with studies showing around 480,000 people in the UK suffer from the most common form of this condition – open-angle glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a chronic condition that occurs when excess fluid builds up in the eye due to poor drainage. This increases the internal eye pressure, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve, which, if undetected and untreated, can lead to vision loss and blindness.

What are the risk factors?

There are several risk factors associated with the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma is usually found among people who are:

In upper age brackets, particularly over 60s
Of Asian, African or Caribbean origin
From a family with a history of glaucoma
Are suffering from diabetes, short or long-sightedness or high blood pressure.

The different types of glaucoma

There are several different types of glaucoma. The most common type is primary open-angle glaucoma. Onset is slow but progressive due to the drainage channels in the eyes becoming gradually blocked.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is less common and is caused by a sudden blockage, raising the pressure in the eye very quickly, causing symptoms and damage to occur rapidly.

Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying eye condition such as uveitis, and childhood glaucoma is a rare development caused by a genetic abnormality.

Glaucoma symptoms

Due to the slow, creeping nature of open-angle glaucoma, you might not be aware of any damage until it has significantly progressed, resulting in reduced peripheral vision.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, will have symptoms that you must not ignore. It is considered a medical emergency if you are experiencing:

intense eye pain and tenderness
nausea/vomiting
red eyes and headaches
seeing rings around lights
blurred vision.

Test for glaucoma

Regular eye exams (at least every 2 years) are vital, especially for those over 60 – or annually if there’s a family history of glaucoma. While damage is irreversible, early detection can slow down the progression of symptoms and can help manage the condition.

A glaucoma eye test may include an OCT (optical coherence tomography), which is a non-intrusive 3D scan of the eye. The OCT takes multiple images, layering them together to provide optometrists with an instant image of the back of the eye, including the retina. An OCT can detect glaucoma in its earliest stages, up to 5 years before a standard eye test can.

Your local opticians, Whitley Bay

At Robinson Optometrists, we want our patients’ eyes to be in the best shape possible. If you haven’t had an eye test recently or have any concerns, please get in touch for advice or to book an appointment.

Discover The Eyewear Styles We Adore

Nigel Robinson on February 1, 2024

With love in the air this month, we thought we’d introduce you to some of our favourite eyewear styles we’ve fallen head over heels for this season. Could they be inspiration for a gift to give to a cherished loved one, perhaps?

Just Cavalli

Just Cavalli glasses are the perfect choice for anyone wild at heart. Designs are bold, young, and unbelievably flattering, with an urban vibe. Think rock styles and experimental graphics. They’re definitely not for the wallflowers amongst us!

We love this wine-coloured, butterfly-shaped frame. It is wonderfully versatile and perfectly complements oval face shapes or softens a square shape.

Etnia Barcelona

Another frame manufacturer known for its stand-out styles is Etnia Barcelona. An independent brand that favours bright colours and unique designs. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular brands we stock.

Etnia Barcelona glasses emphasise fashion, art and culture inspired by the streets of Barcelona. Expect daring colours, innovative patterns, and a playful vibe. Perfect for anyone who likes to express their artistic side.

These round-eye frames will suit a variety of face shapes, and the range includes on-trend transparent frames. We’re not ashamed to admit that we’re in love with this vibrant and fun red option!

Tom Davies

Handmade in the UK using only the finest materials – it doesn’t get more sophisticated than Tom Davies bespoke eyewear. The brand is known for its commitment to high-quality materials such as natural horn and precious stones and metals, intricate attention to detail, and a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with a sleek, modern design.

This cat eye frame embodies a softened, retro style that perfectly sets off a feminine, vintage look. The red crystal acetate with rose gold accents is sure to get hearts racing.

Visit us

We have many more eyewear brands and a wide range of shapes, colours, and materials to suit any face shape at our opticians in Whitley Bay. Come and visit us, and you’ll be sure to find a pair of glasses to fall in love with.

Discover Taylor Morris’ Iconic British Eyewear

Nigel Robinson on November 2, 2023

Taylor Morris feature image @taylormorrisoffical Instagram

In the vast sea of eyewear brands, a rare gem of British elegance and timeless design stands out – Taylor Morris. Born from a fusion of a love for British design, Hollywood glamour, and rock and roll bohemianism, their frames have become iconic in the fashion world. In this blog celebrating British eyewear, we explore why Taylor Morris eyewear is a lifestyle and a fashion must-have for eyewear aficionados worldwide.

About Taylor Morris

In the heart of Britain, Taylor Morris began its odyssey to reimagine eyewear, promising to steer clear of the mundane and the ordinary. Founded by three friends, Taylor Morris took its cues from British heritage, Hollywood glamour, and the renegade spirit of rock and roll. The inspiration behind the brand was simple; they wanted to bring to life eyewear that they’d love to wear themselves, designs that were timeless yet contemporary.

Not content with just being aesthetically pleasing, Taylor Morris sets itself apart with its commitment to sustainability. With an emphasis on ethical sourcing, Taylor Morris frames use premium Mazzuchelli acetate sourced from Italy, among other European materials.

Rock these staff picks

Our expert team at Robinson Optometrists, enthusiastic about eyewear that combines style with substance, has curated a list of Taylor Morris staff favourites.

The TM018, a contemporary take on the nostalgic wayfarer style, reminisces London of the 50s and 60s with vintage hexagon rivets adorning its face. It is a piece that every wider-face man and woman aspires to wear.

The TM036, on the other hand, modernises the classic round-eye frame with a dash of silver and khaki, presenting a perfect option for rectangular, oblong, or oval face structures with its timeless appeal.

An A-list affair

With a coveted A-list following including Cara Delevigne, Pippa Middleton, and Harry Styles, each frame becomes a story, a connection to the celestial whirl of fashion luminaries. What draws these influential names is Taylor Morris’ uncanny ability to elevate individual style while maintaining a collective air of effortless sophistication.

Visit us

Join the ranks of those who appreciate the finer things in eyewear by trying on a pair of Taylor Morris frames at Robinson Optometrists. Our team of eyewear experts is excited to guide you through the collection of these iconic British eyewear pieces. Take a step towards a clearer vision –literally and stylishly – and visit our Whitley Bay opticians to find your next signature look.

The Spooky Truth Behind Halloween Cosmetic Contact Lenses

Nigel Robinson on October 2, 2023

With Halloween around the corner, the frenzy for the perfect costume and accessories is in full swing. Among the myriad of ghastly get-ups, add-ons, and frightful face paints, one item has gained significant traction in recent years – Halloween cosmetic contact lenses. Cosmetic contact lenses might seem like a harmless way to create incredible effects, but the reality is as chilling as a Halloween fright.

What are cosmetic contact lenses?

Designed to alter the natural appearance of your eyes, cosmetic contact lenses come in various forms. Whether you want to change the colour to a mesmerising azure, add a starburst around your iris, or fully embody an alien from Mars, the possibilities are endless. But these contacts are not the same as your standard corrective lenses. They are often bought over-the-counter from novelty shops or online without the consultation of an eye care professional.

Why are these lenses harmful?

The issue with these off-the-shelf spooky lenses is multi-faceted, much like the eyes they cover. The lenses can be made from materials that may not conform to safety standards, leading to an increased risk of scratching the cornea or infection. Some are so thick and opaque that they suffocate the eye, reducing the flow of oxygen — a crucial element for maintaining eye health. Ill-fitting lenses can lead to discomfort and even dislodging, while improper handling during insertion and removal can cause corneal abrasions and infections.

Where to get contact lenses

The witching hour does not overrule the need for proper eye care. Contact lenses, whether cosmetic or not, should only be sourced through a registered optician or a certified stockist. Optometrists will ensure the lenses are not just theatrically pleasing but safe for your eyes. They will fit the lenses to your unique specifications and provide essential training in lens hygiene and wear.

Wearing your contacts safely

A person holding a contact lens on their finger

To ensure your Halloween transformation doesn’t result in a real-life horror show for your eyes, follow these safety tips when wearing your contact lenses for Halloween:

Learn the correct way to insert and remove the lenses.
Apply makeup before inserting the lenses to minimise the risk of contamination.
Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the lenses.
Only use lenses for the recommended length of time.
If your eyes become sore or red, cease use and seek medical advice.
Never share your lenses with others, no matter how bewitching they appear.

Get ready for Halloween safely

This Halloween, remember your eyes are irreplaceable. Contact our friendly opticians in Whitley Bay so they can fit you with the safest pair of spooky lenses. When it comes to cosmetic contact lenses, the only genuinely spooky gaze is the one casting a blind eye to safety.

How Healthy Daily Habits Can Boost Your Eye Health

Nigel Robinson on September 11, 2023

Your vision is invaluable, and in today’s digital age, thanks to increased screen time and the resulting sensitivity to our vision, the overall health of your eyes is more critical to take care of than at any time in the past. With our eyes being the windows to the world, this National Eye Health Week is the perfect time to assess your daily habits and make tweaks that promote strong and vibrant eyes.

There are many ways you can support your eyes beyond regular trips to the opticians. In this blog, we discuss healthy daily habits that can be easily integrated into your routine, ensuring that you take optimum care of your visual health.

Eat well

A balanced diet is essential for all-round health, including your eyes. The right nutrients can significantly reduce the risk of developing age-related eye issues, making it crucial to select vision-friendly foods.

Omega-3 fatty acids – Found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, healthy fats protect against dry eyes, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Lutein and zeaxanthin– These antioxidants are essential to good eye health. They are found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale and are excellent for macular health.

Incorporate vitamins for eyes, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and zinc, into your diet to fight age-related vision issues—available in citrus fruits, nuts, and beans, these antioxidants are crucial for eye health.

Keep up with regular exercise

Staying active can impact eye health, particularly in conditions exacerbated by poor circulation. Aerobic exercise helps maintain healthy blood pressure, ensuring that your eyes get their share of nutrient-rich blood. Why not go for a walk on your lunch break, cycle to work, or relax in the evenings with some yoga?

Ditch the cigarettes

If you need another reason to quit, here it is – smoking can lead to the development of macular degeneration and cataracts. The chemicals in cigarettes can also cause irritation for contact lens wearers and double your chances of developing dry eye syndrome.

Shield your eyes from the sun

To avoid UV damage, wear sunglasses with UV protection every time you step outside. For the best protection, choose wraparound lenses that keep those sneaky UV rays. Keeping sunglasses in your bag, car, or by the door ensures you’re never caught off-guard without them.

Use safety eyewear for risky situations

Be it chopping wood in the garden or a day of DIY, protecting your eyes from potential injury is non-negotiable. Plain, clear safety goggles that you can pop on over your glasses can protect your eyes, helping prevent injury. Make sure the pair you choose meets the safety standards for the activity. If you’re a sports enthusiast, specialist sports eyewear is also available to help avoid eye injuries on the court or pitch.

Take regular screen breaks

Constant exposure to screens can lead to digital eye strain, causing blurred vision, sore eyes, and headaches. For every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. You can optimise your workspace by adjusting screen settings, taking longer breaks, and considering using protective covers that reduce glare.

Schedule eye examinations

This is a no-brainer but is often overlooked. Regular check-ups are vital for catching and managing eye issues early on. Unless advised otherwise by your optometrist, you should attend an eye examination at least every two years.

Don’t ignore symptoms

Implementing these habits can work wonders for your eye health and are simple adjustments to your lifestyle. Make a conscious effort this National Eye Health Week to protect your vision.Persistent dryness, changes in vision, or frequent headaches can be signs of an underlying problem – don’t wait for your next appointment. Book your next eye exam at our opticians in Whitley Bay today.

Step Out In Style With Just Cavalli Glasses

Nigel Robinson on August 1, 2023

Just Cavalli is a high-end eyewear brand that has mastered the art of producing statement-making eyewear. Their glasses are a perfect mix of classic and contemporary design, making them a must-have for fashion-forward individuals. We’re excited to showcase our top picks from our carefully curated Just Cavalli collection, from sleek cat-eye to oversized, bold frames. Get ready to glam up and upgrade your accessory game with Just Cavalli glasses!

Just Cavalli‘s Iconic Fashion Evolution

Just Cavalli stands out from the crowd when it comes to women’s designer glasses. Founded in 1998 by Roberto Cavalli, the brand has become famous for its unique and edgy style, blending rock, street cool and urban-inspired elements. Their frames offer a more accessible version of the designer’s luxury style, making it perfect for those who love contemporary fashion.

Its bold and unconventional designs feature oversized frames with animal prints and architectural shapes with bold accents, making it a favourite of many fashion-forward women looking to experiment with a new look. With its fearless and innovative designs, it’s easy to see why Just Cavalli has become such a standout designer glasses brand.

Our Must-Have Just Cavalli Glasses

At our opticians in Whitley Bay, we offer a diverse range of Just Cavalli frames that are sure to make a statement. Our in-house style experts are showcasing their top 3 picks from the collection just for you!

There’s just something about an oversized frame that exudes a sense of confidence and style. And when you combine that with the beautiful tortoiseshell colouring of this pair, it’s no wonder they’re one of our favourites. The warm brown and amber tones give a classic, timeless vibe that’s hard to resist. This doubles up as a great everyday pair or one you bring out just for special occasions as the showstopping centrepiece of your outfit!

If you’re in search of a chic and modern eyewear option, look no further than this chunky square acetate frame. This screams bold and ready for business, with the perfect balance of sophistication. Definitely a versatile design that can easily transition from day to night and a frame shape suited to people with rounder faces in particular to give them a more chiselled look.

The sleek look of this frame has caught our eye with its beautiful use of contrasting grey leopard print tones to complement the cat-eye shape. The addition of a pop of vibrant pink on the sides has truly taken this frame to the next level, adding a playful touch to this beautifully understated frame.

The Ultimate Style Statement

Just Cavalli is a name that has become synonymous with bold and daring fashion choices. From statement prints to edgy designs, this brand never fails to impress. It’s about being confident, taking risks, breaking free from the conventional and expressing individuality through style. That’s why we love Just Cavalli glasses so much!

If you’re in need of a new pair of glasses, look no further than Just Cavalli and our other top brands. Our opticians in Whitley Bay offer a wide range of stylish and practical frames to suit any style preferences and vision needs. Visit us to browse our latest collections now!

Celebrating John Anderson

Nigel Robinson on July 29, 2023

Our optometrist John Anderson has been with us for 20 years, and here’s a video of a sand art tribute to John and his contribution to the practice.

Thank you John!

Get Ready For The School Year With A Back to School Eye Exam

Nigel Robinson on July 1, 2023

How A Back to School Eye Exam Can Make A Difference

Parents, as you gear up for another school year, ensuring your kids return to school with optimal vision is often an overlooked step. To give your kids the best chance at success this academic year, it’s essential to ensure their eyecare is up to date.

We’re going to take a look at the significance of eye examinations and how they can affect your child’s learning. From the most common eye condition in children today to expert preventative tips on how to take care of your children’s eyes, we’ve covered it all. Let’s dive in!

Why Are Back-To-School Eye Exams Important?

Regular eye examinations for children are more important than most parents might think. Children are not always aware that they have an issue with their vision, and without a routine eye exam, these problems may not be detected and could worsen. In fact, it is estimated that 1.6 million school aged children are living with an undetected vision problem.

These experiences can have a profound impact on children’s intellectual development and educational abilities, as 80% of what the brain receives comes through the visual track. It may not be well-known, but a child’s eye does not finish developing until they are around eight years old.

This information makes it all the more vital to ensure that children receive their eye exams regularly, especially before heading back to school. So, if you’re searching for a ‘children’s eye exam near me’, our highly skilled team are on hand to provide your child with a thorough exam.

Signs Of Vision Problems To Look Out For

As parents and educators, it is essential to be on the lookout for signs that may indicate a child has visual impairments. These indicators can range from:

trouble concentrating on schoolwork,
headaches
sitting close to the TV
regularly rubbing their eyes

With the excessive use of digital devices, it’s also important to notice if a child is holding screens too close to their face or squinting to see. These factors can lead to the progression of myopia (short-sightedness), which is why identifying these signs can make a significant difference in a child’s overall vision health.

Myopia And Myopia Management Explained

Image source: Supplied by Hoya

Myopia, commonly known as short-sightedness, is a growing concern for parents around the world. This condition occurs when the eye focuses light rays in front of the retina instead of on it, causing blurry distance vision. This is because the eye has become more elongated than it should be. Myopia is predicted to affect half of the world’s population by 2050.

This can be particularly problematic for children as it can affect their ability to learn and develop. However, thanks to innovative technology, myopia management is now possible with MiYOSMART lenses for glasses, which work by using a unique two-layered design that reduces the amount of stress on the eye whilst correcting vision. These glasses lenses have been clinically proven to slow myopia progression by up to 60%. They are worn just like regular glasses making them suitable for children of all ages.

If you’re worried about your child’s eye health due to short-sightedness, consider investing in the revolutionary MiYOSMART lenses for an effective and reliable solution to safeguard their future vision.

Contact Us Today

Clear vision plays a pivotal role in learning, and any vision impairments can lead to a myriad of issues that can negatively impact academic performance. So, why not take the necessary steps towards ensuring your child’s success by booking a back-to-school eye examination today?

A Beginners Guide to Contact Lenses

Nigel Robinson on June 1, 2023

Switching to Contact Lenses: An Essential Guide for Beginners

Are you considering making the switch from glasses to contact lenses? It’s a big decision that can make a huge difference in your everyday life, allowing you to get back to enjoying activities and feeling more confident in your appearance. But it can be an intimidating process to consider for some.

The good news is that understanding what’s involved with contact lens wear – from taking care of them and keeping them clean to choosing the right type for your eyes – doesn’t have to be complicated!

We’ll break down everything you need to know about switching from glasses to contact lenses so that you feel prepared and confident when you decide to try them.

Why Choose Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses offer clear vision and a panoramic field of view compared to glasses, providing a more natural visual experience. They’re perfect for active lifestyles, whether you’re an athlete, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply want the freedom to move without the hassle of glasses.

Contact lenses stay securely in place directly on your eye, allowing you to comfortably engage in sports or other physical activities. They are virtually unnoticeable and ensure maximum comfort throughout the day. Unlike glasses, contact lenses don’t fog up, making them ideal for those in humid or cold climates.

Contact lenses also allow you to have a more natural appearance.

Types of Contact Lenses

Contact Lenses & Opticians in Monkseaton

Photo credit: Acuvue UK

When it comes to finding the perfect contact lenses in Whitley Bay, there are several options available to suit your needs. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Daily disposable contact lenses: These are designed for single use, making them incredibly convenient. Say goodbye to cleaning and storing – simply discard them at the end of the day and insert a fresh pair the next morning. From a hygiene perspective, this also means you’ll be less prone to developing irritation and potential eye infections. These are great for people who want to alternate between glasses and contact lenses and may only opt to wear them for special occasions, or activities like sports.

2. Two-weekly and monthly contact lenses: These are worn for 2 weeks or a month at a time, and then replace with a new pair to last for the same period. They’re available in a wide range of materials and designs, compared to daily disposables, which means some, for example, might be slightly thicker and retain more moisture, making them more suitable for dry eye sufferers. While they require regular cleaning and disinfection, they offer cost-effectiveness and are perfect for environmentally conscious individuals looking to minimise waste.

3. Specialised lenses: These are designed for special vision correction needs, such as presbyopia or astigmatism. Whether you need multifocal contact lenses or lenses to correct astigmatism, there are plenty of options to provide clear and comfortable vision, whatever your prescription.

As an independent practice, we have access to a wide variety of contact lenses from major brands, giving us the freedom to find the most suitable type for your individual lifestyle and vision needs.

Alternating between contact lenses and glasses

Although contact lenses can be worn throughout the day, there are a few occasions where changing between contact lenses and glasses may be necessary. Unless you’re wearing specialist overnight contact lenses, sleeping with your lenses in is a no-go. Keep a pair of glasses handy for those late nights and early mornings when you don’t have your lenses in and may need to get up to go to the bathroom or get a glass of water.

Contact lenses and water do not mix. It’s important to remember to remove your contact lenses before showering and partaking in activities such as swimming and hot tubs. Water contains bacteria that can enter through scratches or minor cuts in the eye and cause nasty infections. If you wear reusable lenses you should also never clean them or your contact lens case with water either for the same reason – always use the recommended saline solution.

You may also need to swap back to your glasses if you suffer from allergies such as hay fever. Pollen can become trapped underneath the contact lenses, making your eyes even more itchy and swollen. If this persists and eye drops don’t help, taking a break by wearing glasses may be the best solution until it dies down.

Making The Switch To Contact Lenses

Contact Lenses in Monkseaton & Whitley Bay

If you’re considering switching to contact lenses, it’s important to consult a qualified optometrist. At Robinson Optometrists, your trusted opticians in Monkseaton, we offer a free tolerance contact lens trial following an eye examination and contact lens fitting consultation and teaching session. This allows you to experience wearing contact lenses for a week once you’re confident with inserting and removing them, helping you decide whether they are right for you. We don’t charge a fitting or annual fee, as all future contact lens aftercare appointments are covered by a monthly fee, ensuring your ongoing eye health is taken care of.

Ready to make the switch? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and enquire about our contact lens services and get ready to experience the freedom, comfort, and clear vision that contact lenses can provide!

Photochromic Lenses And Polarised Sunglasses – Are They Worth It?

Nigel Robinson on May 1, 2023

Summer is just around the corner, so it’s time to make sure your eyes are well protected. We often get asked about the differences and benefits of photochromic lenses for glasses and polarised sunglasses, so we’re here to answer your questions about whether these specialist lenses are worth it and are right for you.

Polarised Sunglasses

When it comes to buying new sunglasses, an important decision to make is whether to opt for polarised lenses or not. First, let’s answer the question, what are polarised lenses? In simple terms, they are equipped with a special coating that helps block horizontally polarised light, significantly reducing glare and providing better clarity of vision and contrast, particularly on bright days.

Glare caused by the sun’s reflection off flat surfaces like metal, water, glass, or anything bright can lead to squinting, compromised vision and even headaches and eye strain. Polarised sunglasses prove to be especially beneficial for activities such as driving or if you spend time on or near water. However, their advantages go beyond that. You’ll also notice that colours become more vivid and vibrant, offering an improved view of your surroundings.

There are a couple of factors to keep in mind. Polarised sunglasses are not suitable for night driving, and they may distort LCD screens such as phones and sat navs.

Photochromic Lenses

Light-reactive lenses, also known as photochromic lenses for glasses, automatically darken when exposed to sunlight. They contain special molecules that react to UV rays, absorbing light and darkening into sunglasses. When you step back indoors, the reaction to the molecules adjusts back swiftly changing the lenses back to clear.

At our practice, you can experience the advanced Sensity photochromic lenses from one of the leading glasses lens suppliers worldwide, Hoya. These offer not only full UV protection but also exceptional visual clarity in any light conditions. Say goodbye to the need for separate sunglasses if you wear prescription glasses. Sensity lenses adapt swiftly, darkening when spending time outdoors and reverting to clear indoors. Keep in mind not all light-reactive lenses are effective in cars due to the windscreen’s UV filtration.

Image source: Supplied by Hoya

What’s the Verdict?

Are polarised lenses worth it? Are light-reactive lenses right for you? The answer depends on your lifestyle and needs. Photochromic lenses may be the way to go if you spend a lot of time outdoors and want glasses that adjust to different light conditions. Polarised lenses are great for reducing glare from reflective surfaces, making them ideal for water sports or driving. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and lifestyle needs.

We think both these lens types are highly beneficial and encourage you to book an appointment with our optometrist in Whitley Bay to discuss which type of lenses are best for you.