EyeCare - GlassesComplete

Sight-saving drug approved on NHS

2008-09-07T16:23:00.001+01:00

"A sight-saving drug that could prevent thousands of people from going blind has been approved for use on the NHS across England and Wales.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) today (August 27) issued its final guidance on Lucentis, recommending the anti-VEGF drug for the treatment of wet-AMD.

The approval follows a collaboration between NICE, the Department of Health and, the drug’s manufacturer, Novartis. The agreement involves the implementation of a Ranibizumab Reimbursement Scheme (RSS) which will provide patients with universal access to the drug.

Under the scheme the first 14 injections will be funded by the NHS, with the cost of any additional treatment being met by the Swiss-based drug manufacturer.

Having already launched an interim version of the scheme in a bid to provide immediate access for patients to the drug on the NHS, the issuing of the final guidance means it can be rolled out nationwide."

Opticians in America have reported a surge in demand for the rimless rectangular specs worn Sarah Palin during her convention speech

2008-09-07T16:18:00.001+01:00

US elections: Opticians in America have reported a surge in demand for the rimless rectangular specs worn Sarah Palin during her convention speech | World news | The Observer: "Critics remain sceptical about whether she possesses the vision thing. But plenty of fashion-conscious voters who look into Sarah Palin's eyes like what they see - her glasses.

Opticians in America have reported a surge in demand for the rimless rectangular specs worn by John McCain's running mate during her convention speech. Retailers are racing to stock the $375 designer frames as 'hockey mom' Palin's fashion sense gains attention.

Joy Leedham, owner of Home Optics in Chugiak, Alaska, said she had been inundated with orders after it emerged she had fitted the governor's glasses. 'I got a call at 5.30am asking if I could make glasses exactly the same as Sarah Palin's,' she told The Observer. 'I'm getting emails saying, 'Sarah Palin glasses please'.' Some requests have been going directly to Palin's office, which has forwarded them to Leedham. It was last December when the two sat down in Palin's kitchen and went through nearly 300 possible frames, narrowing them down to five contenders before the family chose the one they liked best.

The frame is from Japanese designer Kazuo Kawasaki's 704 series, in the colour 34 grey, made from titanium and mounted via a screwless tension system. The price starts at $375 for the frame and can go up to $700, depending on the lens."

Protein could reverse eye diseases

2008-05-01T22:12:00.001+01:00

"Two of the leading causes of blindness could be reversed and even prevented by drugs that activate a protein found in blood vessel cells, researchers at the University of Utah have discovered.

The study found that the damage which occurs to the eye from age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy could be halted and turned back during experiments carried out on mice.

Published in Nature Medicine (March 16), the protein, Robo4, treated both diseases by inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth and stabilising blood vessels to prevent leakage – two primary factors in both eye diseases.

Kang Zhang, associate professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences at the University of Utah, said: “This discovery has significant implications for developing drugs that activate Robo4 to treat AMD and diabetic retinopathy.”

The findings are the result of Professor Zhang’s and Dean Li’s, professor of internal medicine and an investigator at the University’s programme in Human Molecular Biology and Genetics, laboratories working together in a collaboration that could shorten the time required to test the approach on humans by years. The study could also aid new ways of treating other diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARA)."

Uni duo's software helps colour-blind

2008-05-01T22:10:00.001+01:00

"Computer software that helps colour-blind people recognise colours they find hard to detect could be available by the end of the month.

Invented by Computer Science student Luke Jefferson, the software integrates models of colour vision deficiency, allowing the user to adjust colours for their own particular type of colour-blindness.

Named Huetility, it enables the user to place a transparent “window” over any part of their screen and improves the colours beneath it.

Mr Jefferson and his business partner Luke Walsh hope that opticians will promote the software to patients when they are first diagnosed with colour-blindness.

Mr Walsh, a 25-year-old Electronics student at the University of York, said: “Initially our software will be available online and through opticians. Currently opticians have nothing to offer someone who has been diagnosed as colour-blind and when we spoke to a number of high-street opticians about our software we received a really positive response.”

The duo, who met whilst on an entrepreneurship scholarship in America, set up a company called Scratchface last summer to develop and sell the product through and are now finalists in the first HSBC Unipreneurs Awards later this month.

The pair’s idea is one of five that have been selected from over 400 applications and will be vying to win the £20,000 prize when the awards ceremony takes place in London on April 23.

Expected to retail at around £25, to find out more about the software visit www.huetility.com when it goes ‘live’ on April 23."

Doctors develop 'blackberry-sized' sight testing kit

2008-05-01T22:07:00.001+01:00

"Two medical scientists at NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde’s Gartnavel General Hospital have developed what they claim is the UK’s most advanced eye screening system.

Doctors Stuart Parks and David Keating unveiled their pioneering development, the equivalent of a cardiogram for the eye, at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) general meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, last weekend, where they said their system can potentially save peoples’ eyesight because of its early detection technology.

The software developed by the two medical physicists provides diagnosis and monitoring of retinal problems at an early stage, including tunnel vision problems, vein occlusions or blockages.

It is achieved by plugging a machine little bigger than a blackberry into a PC, and in future they hope a simplified version may be available at High Street opticians, with representatives from Scottish Health Innovations Ltd (SHIL) marketing its commercial potential.
Dr Parks and Dr Keating, based at the Tennent Institute of Ophthalmology within the hospital, have spent 14 years refining their system, known as multifocal electrophysiology.

Key is the computer software which interprets many electronic signals sent from different areas of the retina."

First Aid For Your Eyes

2008-03-12T19:16:00.001Z

"When eye injuries occur, knowing how to deal with them can mean the difference between minor eye damage and permanent injury, or even blindness. Here are some first aid suggestions for eye injuries. But, please remember, these suggestions are only first aid. It is important for you to contact your optometrist or doctor as soon as possible for any eye injuries.

If you have a foreign object in your eye, don't rub it. Lift your upper eyelid outward and gently pull in down over the lower lash. This causes tears to flow and often wash the object out of your eye. You may have to repeat this several times. If the object does not wash out, contact your optometrist or doctor. Do not try to remove a particle that is embedded. You can cause more damage. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove the lens and clean it thoroughly before putting it back in your eye. If discomfort persists, remove, clean again and reapply. If discomfort continues, remove the lens and call your optometrist.

For chemicals splashed in your eyes, immediately flush your eyes with cool water for at least 15 minutes. If possible, hold your head under a slowly running faucet, or pour water slowly from a glass or clear container. Seek professional attention immediately. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately. Then flush your eyes and seek professional help as described. A blow to your face resulting in a black eye can be treated with cold compresses for about 15 minutes every hour. Your eye should be checked by your optometrist for internal damage. If the blow breaks your contact lenses, try to remove pieces of the lens immediately. Rinsing with water will help. Then call your optometrist.

Do not try to treat a cut, laceration or penetrating eye injury. Do not flush the eye with water or put any medicine in the eye. If you are wearing a contact lens, don't try to remove it. Gently cover the eye with a bandage or gauze pad and go directly to your doctor or a nearby hospital.

Remember, the best way to treat eye injuries is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Don't forget to be aware of potential eye hazards and wear appropriate eye protection."

Keratoconus

2008-03-12T18:59:00.001Z

"Keratoconus is a vision disorder that occurs when the normally round cornea becomes thin and irregularly cone shaped. This abnormal shape prevents the light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina and causes distortion/blurring of vision.

In its earliest stages, keratoconus causes slight blurring and distortion of vision and increased sensitivity to glare and light. These symptoms usually appear in the late teens or late twenties. Keratoconus may progress for 10-20 years and then slow in its progression. Each eye may be affected differently. As keratoconus progresses, the cornea bulges more and vision may become more distorted. In a small number of cases, the cornea will swell and cause a sudden and significant decrease in vision. The swelling occurs when the strain of the cornea's protruding cone-like shape causes a tiny crack to develop. The swelling may last for weeks or months as the crack heals and is gradually replaced by scar tissue. If this sudden swelling does occur, your doctor can prescribe eyedrops for temporary relief, but there are no medicines that can prevent the disorder from progressing.

Eyeglasses or soft contact lenses may be used to correct the mild near sightedness and astigmatism that is caused by the early stages for keratoconus. As the disorder progresses and cornea continues to thin and change shape, rigid gas permeable contact lenses can be prescribed to correct vision adequately. In most cases, this is adequate. The contact lenses must be carefully fitted, and frequent check-ups and lens changes may be needed to achieve and maintain good vision.

In a few cases, a corneal transplant is necessary. However, even after a corneal transplant, eyeglasses or contact lenses are often still needed to correct vision."

Thyroid Eye Disease - Treatment

2008-03-01T21:16:00.001Z

"Your Ophthalmologist will want to check a few points. A special x-ray called a CT scan may be done to confirm the diagnosis and make sure there is no other cause for your eye problem. An Ophthalmologist may use a special chart to record how your eyes move and will ensure that the pressure in the eye is not high (glaucoma). He will also want to make sure that the optic nerve is not affected. In mild cases, your doctor may not wish to do more than give you lubricating eye drops (artificial tears). Sometimes taping down the lid overnight with a mild adhesive strip like micropore helps to reduce the discomfort next morning. It avoids the eye drying out. You could try propping yourself up on more pillows or tilting the head end of the bed up on one or two bricks (about 6 inches: 15 cm). Some doctors will prescribe a diuretic to offload water to help reduce the swelling. Double vision is annoying, and special spectacles with prisms can be made to help correct this problem. If the eyes are getting worse, your doctor may suggest steroids (anti-inflammation tablets). These may need to be taken for some months, but often in reducing dosage. They are usually very effective. Some doctors will also suggest radiotherapy to the eyes. This is not because you have any sort of cancer cells, but because radiotherapy can dampen down this type of inflammation. The treatment is given daily over a couple of weeks. Other so-called immune-blocking drugs may also help sometimes.

Operations are necessary in certain cases, either because of severe protrusion of the eyes or because of affected vision. Sometimes they are done just for cosmetic reasons. One operation is done through the nose or gums. Bone is nibbled away from around the orbit of the eye to make more space for it. Another type of operation is done on the tendons of the eye muscles. One benefit of this is to allow the upper lid to "hang" lower and close more easily: other types of operation are done to reset the muscles into the eyes and improve double vision. Sometimes even "simple" plastic surgery to the lids can be done, since they tend to get rather baggy when the inflammation has settled."

Thyroid Eye Disease

2008-03-01T21:09:00.001Z

"This is a disorder where the fat and muscles behind and around the eyes become swollen. There is still much that we do not know about it. However it seems to occur only in people who have a certain type of thyroid problem called an auto-immune disorder. Most commonly, it happens in people with an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroid); a condition called Graves' disease . To begin with either one eye or both have only a 'stary' appearance. They may water and be sensitive to light and especially wind. They may feel sticky in the mornings and gritty during the day. In more severe cases the lids may not close properly. If the muscles which make the eyes move also get inflamed and swollen, the eyes are pushed forward and you may get double vision. This may only be on looking in one direction, but it can worsen so that double vision is there all the time. If the eyes protrude a lot, the white of the eye becomes red (like conjunctivitis). If they protrude even further, vision can be affected. This happens either because the front of the eye (the cornea) becomes more exposed and therefore drier, or because the optic nerve which carries the images back to the brain is stretched."

Treatment Of Iritis

2008-02-18T11:21:00.001Z

"Treatment of iritis is often directed at finding and removing the cause of the inflammation. In addition, eye drops and ointments are used to relieve pain, quiet the inflammation, dilate the pupil, and reduce any scarring which may occur. Both steroids and antibiotics may be used. The application of hot packs may also provide relief from the symptoms of iritis. In severe cases, oral medications and injections may be necessary to treat the condition. A case of iritis usually lasts 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, the patient must be observed carefully to monitor potential side effects from medications and any complications which may occur. Cataracts, glaucoma, corneal changes, and secondary inflammation of the retina may occur as a result of iritis and the medications used to treat the disorder."

Iritis, Uveitis

2008-02-18T11:19:00.001Z

"Iritis is the inflammation of the iris, the coloured portion of the eye. It has been known cause extreme pain, light sensitivity and sight loss, which is often the result of a disease in another part of the body. Most cases of iritis are recurring, in what are small attacks. Once treated the attack will usually respond to various medications. However, the condition may become sight threatening when left untreated. Medication for iritis varies, treatment that works for one will not always work with another.

Since iritis is an inflammation inside the eye, the condition is potentially sight threatening. Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment of iritis are essential. To minimise any loss of vision, the patient should have a complete eye examination as soon as symptoms occur. If diagnosed in the early stages, iritis can usually be controlled with the use of eye drops before vision loss occurs. If you are experiencing the symptoms of iritis or have other vision problems, you should obtain a complete eye examination.

In many cases, iritis is related to a disease or infection in another part of the body. Diseases such as arthritis, tuberculosis, or syphilis can contribute to the development of iritis. Infection of some parts of the body (tonsils, sinus, kidney, gallbladder and teeth) can also cause inflammation of the iris. In other cases, iritis may follow injury to the eye or accompany an ulcer or foreign body on the cornea. Often, the exact cause of the disorder remains unknown."

Adie's Pupil

2008-02-18T11:15:00.001Z

"Adie's pupil, sometimes called the Holmes-Adie syndrome, is an unusual neurologic disorder in which the ability of the pupil to constrict is impaired, usually in one eye (although the second eye has a tendency to become involved eventually, usually at a later time, in about 20-30% of cases).

It is generally associated with loss of some reflexes, such as the knee-jerk. It occurs mainly in middle age, and more commonly in women than in men. The cause is unknown, but it is thought to be a form of neuropathy, in which the nerves that control the pupils and the reflexes selectively degenerate.

Some people think this is due to an attack by a virus, other think it is 'auto-immune', meaning that the immune system makes antibodies that attack these specific nerves.

There is a feeling that light is too bright in the affected eye (because the pupil helps to reduce light intensity by constricting in bright light).

The pupil also helps to focus light in the eye, and sometimes the nerves that control the lens in the eye may also be involved, so that the vision from the affected eye is often blurry. However, the other eye is usually normal. Usually over time, the patient adapts to the large pupil (which generally is permanent but non-progressive) and does not notice it anymore.

Headache is not a common part of the syndrome, but could be due to problems with your vision. Wearing sunglasses, or even patching the affected eye, may reduce the strain, and perhaps relieve the headache.

Other causes of a tonic pupil include neurosyphillis, diabetes, herpes zoster, giant cell arteritis and alcoholism."

Why wear Photochromic Lenses ?

2008-02-14T16:34:00.001Z

"Photochromic lenses offer great flexibility to anyone needing prescription eye wear, protecting the eyes indoors and out at all times. They are made in your normal prescription so your spectacles will correct your vision and give UV protection. Photochromic lenses meet all your various needs by combining the benefits of prescription spectacles / and sunglasses."

Photochromic Lenses

2008-02-14T16:12:00.001Z

"Photchromic lenses are sometimes referred to as transition lenses, reactalite lenses or sunsensor lenses.
Photochromic lenses darken on exposure to sunlight and protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation. Excessive exposure can cause permanent damage to the cornea and conjunctiva. Good photochromic lenses block out 100% of the most harmful rays of the sun, 100% of the time, adapting to changes in light and darkening in seconds.

Whilst sunglasses give comfort in very bright conditions by reducing the total amount of light and glare reaching the eye, they are not always convenient in changing light conditions and care must be taken that they meet Standard BS 2724 otherwise they won’t protect the eye from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. In fact, non-UV absorbing lenses can do more harm than not wearing any protection at all because, behind a dark tint, the pupil increases in size allowing the harmful rays through."

How To Use Ointments

2008-02-14T16:09:00.001Z

Here is some general advice about correctly putting ointments in your eyes.

• Always wash your hands before handling medications

• Begin by expressing and discarding a ¼ inch of ointment from the tube at each use.

• If applying to your eye's surface, form a pocket by gently pulling the skin of your lower eye-lid between your thumb and index finger to create a pocket for the ointment. Then express a ¼' to ½' strip of ointment into the pocket (unless your doctor prescribes a different amount).

• Twist your wrist to break the strip of ointment from the tube.

• After placing the ointment in your eye, blink or close your eyes briefly. Your body heat will melt the ointment so it can spread across the surface of your eyes.

• If you are applying the ointment to the edges of your eyelids, express about a ½-inch stripof ointment onto your finger and glide it across the length of your closed lids near the base of your lashes.

• Use a soft, clean tissue to remove any excess ointment from the skin around your eyes. Be sure not to disturb the ointment placed in your eyes or on the edges of your eyes.

Be sure to follow all the directions that your optometrist or doctor gives and complete the course of medication that he or she prescribes. If you experience any side effects, (such as burning, inflammation, puffiness or itching) call your optometrist immediately."

How To Instil Eyedrops.

2008-02-14T16:07:00.001Z

"Your optometrist or doctor may prescribe eyedrops for you to use to treat certain eye conditions, infections or diseases. Before you use any eyedrops, be sure to tell your optometrist about any other prescription or non prescription medications that you are taking or any allergies that you have.

Here are some general tips about correctly putting eyedrops in your eyes:

• Look at the ceiling by standing or sitting and tilting your head backwards. Some people like to lie down on a flat surface.

• The best way to ensure the drop remains in your eye is to gently pull the skin of your lower eyelid between your thumb and index finger to create a 'pocket' for the drop. If you are unable to master this, gently pull your lower lid down with your index finger.

• Look up (so you are not looking directly at the bottle) and gently release a drop into the pocket of your eye. Keep the bottle's nozzle or the eyedropper clean by not touching it to any part of your eyes.

If you are unable to get the drop into your eye because of blinking, try this: Close your eye and pull the lower lid down. Aim the drop into the inside corner of your eye. Open your eye and let the drop run into your lower lid. (Be sure to try the open-eye method at your next scheduled dose as it is a more reliable way to ensure the drop remains in your eye).

To help keep the medication in your eye and prevent it from escaping through the tear duct, your optometrist may instruct you to "occlude" this duct by gently pressing on the inside corner of your closed eye with your index finger for about three minutes. If drops have been placed in both eyes, you can perform occlusion by placing your thumb and index finger (or the index fingers of both hands) on either side of your nose and gently pressing down on the inside corners of both closed eyes. This step is very important with some medications, so do not skip it if your doctor specifies it.

Gently blot your closed eyes with a tissue to wipe away any excess drops.

If you use more than one kind of drop, wait at least five minutes between drops.

Be sure to follow all of the instructions that your doctor or optometrist gives you and to complete the course of medication he or she prescribes. If you experience any side-effects, (such as burning, inflammation, puffiness, itching, etc.) call your optometrist immediately."

Conjunctivitis

2008-02-12T19:45:00.000Z

"Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer that lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.

The three main types of conjunctivitis are infectious, allergic and chemical. The infectious type, commonly called 'pink eye' is caused by a contagious virus or bacteria. Your body's allergies to pollen, cosmetics, animals or fabrics often bring on allergic conjunctivitis. And, irritants like air pollution, noxious fumes and chlorine in swimming pools may produce the chemical form.

Common symptoms of conjunctivitis are red watery eyes, inflamed inner eyelids, blurred vision, a scratchy feeling in the eyes and, sometimes, a pus-like or watery discharge. Conjunctivitis can sometimes develop into something that can harm vision so you should see your optometrist promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

A good way to treat allergic or chemical conjunctivitis is to avoid the cause. If that does not work, prescription or over-the-counter eye drops may relieve discomfort. Infectious conjunctivitis, caused by bacteria, can be treated with antibiotic eye drops. Other forms, caused by viruses, cannot be treated with antibiotics. They must be fought off by your body's immune system.

To control the spread of infectious conjunctivitis, you should keep your hands away from your eyes, thoroughly wash your hands before applying eye medications and do not share towels, washcloths, cosmetics or eye drops with others."

Coloboma

2008-02-12T19:39:00.000Z

"Coloboma describes a situation where the patient has a portion of the structure of the eye lacking. This gap can occur in a range of areas and be large or small.

The most common form of gap is caused by an imperfect closure of a cleft, present in the womb but usually closed by birth date. This gap can occur in the eyelid, iris, lens, choroid or optic disc. In some cases other developmental flaws accompany it.

The effects of the condition can be mild or severe and this will depend upon the extent and location of the gap, or incomplete closure. The gap is usually at the bottom of the eye. Coloboma may occur in the iris/lens, choroid, macula or optic nerve.

A lens coloboma, if large, may also include flaws in the iris and choroid and slightly increase risk of retinal tearing. In severe cases, the eye may be reduced in size. This condition is called Microphthalmous, a condition that may arise without coloboma.

Coloboma of the iris may sometimes give the appearance of a keyhole in the pupil. Central vision may be affected and may reflect the extent, location and shape of the gap.

In some cases the problem may be accompanied by other problems which may be neurological or chromosomal. A few syndromes also include coloboma among the potential problems.

There is a specific combination of flaws identified by the acronym "CHARGE" which stands for:

C - Coloboma;
H - Heart defects;
A - Atresia of the choanae (blockage of the nasal passages);
R - Retarded growth and development;
G - Genital hypoplasia (undescended testes);
E - Ear anomalies.

CHARGE is a very rare problem and will receive specialist attention and treatment from an early age."

New study finds resistant organisms at core of soft contact lens corneal infections

2008-02-11T20:56:00.000Z

"In 2006, Bausch & Lomb withdrew its ReNu with MoistureLoc contact lens solution because a high proportion of corneal infections were associated with it. Now in a new study from a US university researchers show that these infections were fueled and made resistant to treatment by the formation of a highly resistant structure of microbial cells held together with a glue-like matrix material, what scientists call ‘biofilms’.

“Once they live in that type of state, the cells become resistant to lens solutions and immune to the body’s own defense system,” said Mahmoud Ghannoum, director of the Center for Medical Mycology at University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland and senior investigator of the study which appears in the January 2008 issue of the journal Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy.

“This study should alert contact lens wearers to the importance of proper care for contact lenses to protect against potentially virulent eye infections,” he said.
“Biofilms are a constellation of resistant organisms.”

They were suspected with the spate of infections in 2005-2006, but until this study, there were no data to prove this.
This is the first in-vitro model for cornea keratitis infections caused by the fungus Fusarium, which was one of the main culprits in the ReNu with Moisture Loc cases, and another fungus called Candida albicans.

The researchers also discovered that the strain of fungus (ATCC 36031) used for testing the effectiveness of lens care solutions is a strain that does not produce biofilms as the clinical fungal strains do. Lens care solutions currently are tested against an old and rare genotype fungal strain obtained in the 1970s from a patient from Nigeria. The contact lens solutions, therefore, are effective in the laboratory, but fail when faced with strains in real-world situations. “The multipurpose contact lens solutions cannot kill these germs, to put it simply,” said Dr. Ghannoum.

“We recommend that solutions be tested for biofilms produced by more recent clinical isolates,” said Dr. Ghannoum. “One of the underlying reasons for ReNu with MoistureLoc not being effective against the outbreak of keratitis is that the solution is not effective against biofilms and the organisms contained in biofilms.”

The researchers tested six kinds of contact lenses made by three different manufacturers and two lens care solutions (Bausch & Lomb’s MoistureLoc and MultiPlus) against three fungal strains (two recent clinical strains and the one from the 1970s) of Fusarium and one strain of C. albicans.

Since biofilm contamination of contact lens cases is a common finding, and ReNu with MoistureLoc is ineffective against fungal biofilm, the industry must ensure that their multipurpose solutions are effective against biofilms, said Dr. Ghannoum. In the meantime, extreme caution must be taken to ensure the contact lens care case is not contaminated with biofilm.

Dr Ghannoum recommends that soft contact lens wearers use only fresh lens care solution, not add fresh solution to old solution, a phenomenon known as topping off, and use solution by expiration dates written on the package. He also recommends a rub and rinse method, regardless of which cleaning or disinfecting solution used (which also is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

An additional preventative measure to prohibit the development of biofilms is to ensure that the bottle caps and tips of multipurpose solutions are clean."

Bio-films make eye infection hard to treat

2008-02-07T20:26:00.000Z

"Soft contact lens wearers need to be aware of how to fight the formation of a constellation of resistant organisms called bio-films, a U.S. study said.

Researchers at the University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland said bio-films -- microbial structures held together by a glue-like matrix -- make corneal infections hard to treat.

'Once they live in that type of state, the cells become resistant to lens solutions and immune to the body's own defense system,' study senior investigator Mahmoud Ghannoum said in a statement. 'This study should alert contact lens wearers to the importance of proper care for contact lenses to protect against potentially virulent eye infections.'

The study also found contact lens solutions need to be made effective on new micro-organism strains and in particular on bio-films. Ghannoum recommends soft contact lens wearers use :

Fresh lens care solutions only and never add fresh solution to old solution.
Solution that has not passed the expiration date on the package.
Soap and water to wash hands and drying them before handling lenses.
The rub and rinse method instead of the no-rub method
Caution to ensure bottle caps and tips of multipurpose solutions are always clean."

Routine eye test saved Young Boy's Life

2008-02-07T20:14:00.000Z

"IT SHOULD have been a routine eye test – but it turned out to be an appointment which saved 14-year-old Andy McNulty's life.

During the examination, optometrist Alister Blockley found serious haemorrhaging and swelling at the back of Andy's eyes and sent him straight to casualty.

Within days he was undergoing emergency surgery to drain fluid from his brain, and weeks later he had to have a second, six-hour operation in Leeds.

Doctors removed a tumour which, although was not big, was attached to his short-term memory nervous system, made the whole procedure fraught with danger.

His mum Sandra, of Scarborough Crescent, Bridlington, said: 'This has completely turned our world upside down – never did we expect to be sent to Scarborough's A&E department following a trip to the opticians.

'To be told your son's life is a ticking time bomb is the most distressing news any mother has to hear. I wouldn't wish that on any family.

'Andrew is a club swimmer so he is a fit and healthy youngster which has really helped him with his recovery as he amazingly spent just over a week in hospital following his operation.

'Doctors were stunned with the speed in which he has recovered and he's back at school already.'

Remarkably, Andy, who is a pupil at Headlands School, only went for an eye test after he had been to see his doctor to get his athlete's foot cured!

He mentioned in passing that he had been having headaches and his eyes were puffy, so the GP advised him to go for an eye exam."

Retinopathy of Prematurity Management

2008-02-07T20:07:00.000Z

"Currently, treatment relies on the destruction of the areas of the retina that are without blood vessels. This becomes necessary only if the disease has reached a certain, well defined stage, as the milder forms often regress spontaneously. By destroying the retina, the stimulus for the growth of the abnormal blood vessels is removed. The destruction is achieved by cryotherapy (literally freezing the retina, using a small pulse) or photocoagulation with laser energy. Rarely, surgery is undertaken in an attempt to remove the scar tissue. To prevent ROP, Paediatricians attempt to minimise the amount of supplemental oxygen the infant is receiving."

Effects Of Retinopathy of Prematurity

2008-02-07T20:06:00.000Z

"The milder forms of ROP may resolve spontaneously just as the more severe forms may lead to irretrievable blindness, despite treatment. Unless the ROP resolves, it exerts its effect mainly through the formation of scar tissue which then pulls the retina out of place. This may result only in a minor displacement of the area of the central vision or in a total retinal detachment. In the former case, the corrected visual acuity may be good, whereas in the latter case, even the ability to perceive light may be lost."

Retinopathy of Prematurity

2008-02-07T20:03:00.000Z

"The normal development of this blood supply for the retina starts at 16 weeks into a pregnancy and is completed by 36 weeks.

If an infant is born prematurely, with the retinal blood vessel development incomplete, problems occur. Abnormal blood vessels may develop which can subsequently lead to bleeding and scar tissue formation. This may then stretch the retina pulling it out of position. Visual loss may result.

The lack of oxygen in areas of retina which have not developed blood vessels, results in the release of chemicals that promote the growth of new blood vessels. These blood vessels often grow in an irregular manner, for reasons that are not completely understood. The presence of large amounts of oxygen (often needed for the baby's survival) is thought to be possibly toxic to the developing blood vessels. As premature babies have underdeveloped lungs they usually require additional oxygen therapy. There are other undetermined factors also contributing."

A Mobile operating theatre has been brought to Tewkesbury

2008-02-05T13:15:00.000Z

"A Mobile operating theatre has been brought to Tewkesbury.In a UK first the NHS has teamed up with the independent sector in Gloucestershire while the town's main hospital theatre is refurbished throughout January.

The mobile unit is the result of a partnership deal between Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Vanguard Healthcare.

Knee surgery, cataracts, hand surgery, urology and pain management procedures will all be carried out at the unit in the grounds of the hospital.

Up to 20 patients will be treated each day in the unit, which expands hydraulically to 40ft by 30ft to house an admissions suite, anaesthetic room, full operating theatre and recovery unit.

The unit will contain all the equipment found in Tewkesbury's day surgery unit and additional x-ray machinery.

All operations will be carried out by Gloucestershire Hospitals Trust medical staff.

Patient's appointments will be managed as though they were being seen in the hospital.

The mobile unit will be on the hospital site in Barton Road for six weeks while the permanent operating theatre has air conditioning equipment upgraded.

Health bosses say the mobile unit will ensure patients in Tewkesbury receive surgery close to home instead of travelling to Cheltenham and Gloucester during the refurbishment.

Managers are also keen not to fall behind with surgery waiting times as they continue to clear a backlog left over from cancellations during last summer's floods."

12 lose eyesight

2008-02-05T13:11:00.000Z

"Several persons, most of them senior citizens, who were operated upon on January 11 at a cataract surgery camp in Barabanki district here have lost their vision a few days after operation.

An FIR has been lodged by the health department of Barabanki district against Kanpur-based NGO Maa Vashnavi Charitable Chikitsa Sewa Sansthan, that had conducted the camp. The organisation has even been blacklisted.

Nearly two-dozen patients have been admitted at the Balrampur hospital here with swelling in the eyes and loss of vision. “The vision loss seems to have happened due to infection. A team of three eye surgeons has been deputed to look after these patients,” said Dr MK Saxena, chief medical superintendent of the hospital.

The NGO was reportedly only given permission for conducting screening of patients at the camp and the operations were to be performed at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Trivediganj.

However, the operations were conducted at the camp site, a college, without informing the Medical Officer (In Charge) of the Trivediganj PHC or the concerned health officials."

Smoking linked to age-related eye disease

2008-01-31T21:45:00.000Z

"Smoking may speed up the progression of age-related macular degeneration, an eye disease common among seniors, U.S. researchers say.

The study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, determined smokers had a 47 percent increase in their odds of developing early age-related macular degeneration, known as AMD. Smokers also develop AMD at a younger age -- 69.2 years -- than former smokers -- 72.3 years -- and those who had never smoked --74.4 years.

Dr. Ronald Klein and colleagues at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison studied 4,926 residents of Beaver Dam, Wis., who were between ages 43 to 84 when initially examined in 1988 to 1990. Their eyes were re-examined every five years for the next 15 years. The presence and status of AMD was measured with photographs of the retina.

'While controlling for other factors, smoking appears to be related to the incidence and progression of AMD in our population,' the study authors said in a statement. 'This has important health care implications, because early AMD is associated with an increase in the risk of developing late AMD and smoking behavior is modifiable.'"

Payout hope for people with eye disease

2008-01-31T21:41:00.000Z

"More than a hundred people across Norfolk could be in line for a refunded for medical treatment they should have received for free.

Some people who suffer with the degenerative eye disease wet, age related macular degeneration (AMD) were forced to pay for their treatment which can cost more than £1,000 per session.

Now, anyone who fits the criteria and paid for treatment of Avastin or Lucentis after May last year will get their money back and will not have to pay for treatment in the future, after the Norfolk Primary Care Trust (PCT) board held a review.

Health bosses said it was impossible to tell how much they would have to pay out because it would depend on how many people had been using the drugs, how many treatments they were given and whether one or both their eyes were affected.

But, if 150 people do turn out to be eligible, depending on the treatment they have had the cost could range from £450,000 to £1.3m......."

Keep an eye on drivers’ sight - India

2008-01-31T21:37:00.000Z

"An eye test carried out on 1,000 drivers in the city of THIRUVANANTHAPURAM in INDIA gave a less than encouraging result – 560 had defective eyesight.

Drivers’ defective eyesight and their rampant misuse of headlights are fast becoming a hazard for road users and a matter of grave concern for law enforcing agencies.

An eye test carried out by the National Transportation Planning and Research Centre (Natpac) in the city among 1,000 drivers revealed that 560 of them, mostly in the 40-50 age group, had defective eyesight.

According to Natpac scientist T. Elangovan, 10 per cent of the drivers had serious problems like tunnel vision, blurred vision and colour blindness.

According to a senior police official, increase in night time road accidents involving heavy vehicles is mainly due to poor eyesight of the drivers.

Other major culprits are the drivers’ reluctance to dim headlights, misuse of high-beams and use of halogen bulbs in headlights.

Two-wheeler and light motor vehicle drivers often complain that they get blinded by the high-beams used by luxury buses and heavy vehicles, especially those transporting cargo. High-beams are banned in the city. But, all four-wheelers and heavy vehicles prefer to move with the high-beam switched on.

There have also been several instances of two-wheelers and cars colliding with traffic dividers and lamp posts after the drivers are momentarily dazed by the high-beam from the approaching vehicles.

Many vehicles, especially luxury buses, install additional powerful headlights after getting the vehicle registered. The additional lights are removed when the vehicles are taken for CF (Certificate of Fitness) test, Motor Vehicle Department officials say."

Treatment For Squint

2008-01-29T12:16:00.000Z

"Treatment varies accordingly to the type of squint. An operation is not always needed. The main forms of treatment are:

Spectacles - to correct any sight problems, especially long sight.
Occlusion - patching the good eye to encourage the weaker eye to be used. This is usually done under the supervision of an orthoptist.
Eye drops - certain types of squint can be treated with the use of special eye drops.
Surgery - this is used with congenital squints, together with other forms of treatment in older children, if needed. Surgery can be performed as early as a few months of age."

What Causes A Squint

2008-01-29T12:13:00.000Z

"There are several types of squint. The cause is not always known, but some children are more likely to develop it than others. Among the possible causes are the following:

Congenital squint
Sometimes a baby is born with a squint, although it may not be obvious for a few weeks. In about half of such cases, there is a family history of squint or the need for spectacles. The eye muscles are usually at fault. If squint is suspected, it is important that the baby be referred for accurate assessment at the earliest opportunity. Sometimes a baby has what is known as ‘pseudo squint’ which is related to the shape of the face and this does not require any treatment, but a baby with a true squint will not grow out of it and requires careful assessment and due treatment.

Long sight (hypermetropia)
Long sightedness can sometimes lead to a squint developing as the eyes ‘over-focus’ in order to see clearly. In an attempt to avoid double vision, the brain may automatically respond by ‘switching off’ the image from one eye and turning the eye to avoid using it. If left untreated, a ‘lazy eye’ (amblyopia) may result. The most common age for this type of squint to start is between ten months and two years, but it can occur up to the age of five years. It is usually first noticed when a baby is looking at a toy, or at a later age when a child is is concentrating on close work, such as reading.

Childhood illnesses
Squint may develop following an illness such as measles or chickenpox. This may mean that a tendency to squint has been present but, prior to the illness, the child was able to keep his or her eye straight.

Nerve damage
In some cases a difficult delivery of a baby or illness damaging a nerve can lead to a squint."

Squint

2008-01-29T12:08:00.000Z

"A squint (also known as a strabismus) is a condition that arises because of an incorrect balance of the muscles that move the eyes, faulty nerve signals to the eye muscles and focusing faults (usually long sight). If these are out of balance, the eye may turn in (converge), turn out (diverge) or sometimes turn up or down, preventing the eyes from working properly together.
Squint can occur at any age. A baby can be born with a squint or develop one soon after birth. Around 5 - 8% of children are affected by a squint or a squint-related condition, which means one or two in every group of 30 children. If a child appears to have a squint at any age from six weeks onwards, it is important to seek professional advice quickly. Many children with squints have poor vision in the affected eye. If treatment is needed, the sooner it is started the better the results.
Squint can be a complex condition and not every situation is covered here. Your optometrist will be pleased to give further advice, if needed. Children will benefit from support and encouragement during treatment and you should not be afraid to ask questions which will help you understand the condition. The successful outcome of treatment depends upon everyone co-operating."

High-index and aspheric lenses

2008-01-29T12:01:00.000Z

"If you need high-powered lenses you can improve the weight or appearance of your glasses with special lens materials and designs. High-index lens materials and aspheric designs mean that lenses can now be made thinner, lighter and better looking than traditional lens types. High-index materials and aspheric lens design make lenses for short sight and long sight thinner and allows more optimal vision through the lens area away from the centre of the lens"

Prescription Sunglasses

2008-01-28T16:15:00.000Z

"Whatever your prescription, it is important to protect the eyes against excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Protection is needed to avoid reflected light from sand and snow or if you spend long periods outdoors, particularly in the summer. Prescription sunglasses can be made with single-vision, bifocal or varifocal designs to offer the same standard of protection as non-prescription sunglasses. Only costs an extra £10 (online price, may cost a lot more on the high street) for having the sunglass tint put on the glasses, worth while in the long term"

Scratch-resistant / hard coating

2008-01-28T16:12:00.000Z

"Plastic lenses are lighter than traditional glass lenses but they scratch more easily. Scratched lenses can be irritating for the wearer and look unsightly. Scratch-resistant coatings are available to protect against damage and prolong lens life."

Anti-Reflection Coating

2008-01-28T16:10:00.000Z

"Spectacle lenses can be provided with anti-reflection coatings which virtually eliminate distracting reflections off the lens surfaces. Reducing reflected light is particularly helpful for computer users and for night driving. Anti-reflection coatings also improve the cosmetic appearance of your glasses and can make thick lenses look thinner."

Varifocal Lenses

2008-01-28T16:07:00.000Z

"Varifocal lenses, also known as progressive lenses, are used for correcting presbyopia but unlike bifocal lenses, varifocals have no visible dividing lines between the different corrections. Instead they have a graduated section in which the power of the lens progresses smoothly from one prescription to the other, allowing the wearer to see clearly at all distances. These lenses also have the benefit of looking better - they don't draw attention to the ageing process. A range of varifocal designs is available depending on your lifestyle and occupation. Modern lens technology means that there are many different designs and materials to choose from. Your optometrists or dispensing optician will be able to advise you on the best lenses to suit your individual requirements."

Bifocal Lenses

2008-01-28T16:06:00.000Z

"Bifocal lenses contain two optical corrections with a distinct dividing line between the two parts. The most common use of bifocals is for people who have become presbyopic and need a different prescription for close work. The upper part of the lens corrects distance vision and the lower half is for near vision. Trifocals are also available that have three sections and incorporate a correction for intermediate vision. Bifocals and trifocals come in a range of designs. Bifocals or varifocals are more commonly prescribed than trifocals"

Single Vision Lenses

2008-01-28T16:03:00.000Z

"The simplest form of spectacle or contact lens is the single-vision lens, made to a single prescription to correct a particular eyesight problem. Concave lenses are used to correct short sight and convex lenses to correct long sight. Concave lenses are generally thinner in the centre than they are at the edge and convex lenses are usually thinner at the edge than at the centre. The curvature of the lens, its thickness and weight will depend on the amount of long or short sight it is designed to correct. The lens material will also influence the thickness and weight of your lenses, as will the size and shape of the spectacle frames you choose. Traditionally, spectacle lenses were made of glass but most lenses are now lightweight plastic (1.5 cr39) and there is a wide range of materials available to suit your prescription and lifestyle."

Optometrist praised for swift diagnosis of papilloedema.

2008-01-26T18:58:00.000Z

"An optometrist at Asda's Mansfield store whose swift diagnosis of a young customer led to the detection of a brain tumour has been named Asda's Shining Star of the year at its ceremony.

Sarfraz Ali discovered that 12-year old Jessica Wilkins had papilloedema after a colleague at the store suggested she have an eye test, having complained of a headache for several weeks and already been to an accident and emergency department and her GP. Ali referred her immediately to hospital, where after an MRi scan a brain tumour was discovered.

He was one of 37 colleagues nominated as a Shining Star, an award that is given out annually to someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty. The event was presented by celebrity Ian Wright at the ICC in Birmingham last week and was a feature of Asda's Christmas campaign."

Pharmacists warned over plano Contact Lenses sales

2008-01-26T18:54:00.000Z

"The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain has advised pharmacists that they must not sell plano cosmetic contact lenses unless they are sold under the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor.

In its latest Law and Ethics Bulletin, the RPSGB informs those pharmacists wishing to sell plano lenses that they must do so in accordance with the relevant legal requirements set out in the 1989 Optician's Act. It refers them to a statement made by the General Optical Council in October 2006 clarifying the sale and supply of optical appliances."

Patient record memory stick reported to be 'found in car park'

2008-01-25T17:56:00.000Z

"THE importance of security when dealing with patient records was highlighted this week when a device with private details of hundreds of patients was found in a car park.

It contained the medical and personal data of diabetic patients who were taking part in a trial for the newly re-launched Greater Manchester diabetic screening scheme which had apparently been lost by a local practice.

The computer memory stick detailed the names, addresses, dates of birth, telephone numbers and medical conditions of over 340 patients from Specsavers Opticians in Wythenshawe, reported the Manchester Evening News, (January 23).

The screening scheme, which was launched by Coronation Street star Sue Clever last month, is run by Greater Manchester primary care trusts and aims to get patients to have an annual eye examination. However, the organisers of the scheme emphasised that this loss of the trial’s data from a single practice was not a reflection on the way that the scheme stores its patient data.

Staff at Specsavers were unaware that the device was missing until it was handed into the paper, the Manchester Evening News reported.

Student Karen Hewitt found the device in a car park behind Stockport shopping centre last year but she forgot that she had it until she read about the newly published data loss scandals.

Anthony Showman, director at Specsavers in Wythenshawe, told the paper: “We are launching an immediate internal investigation to try to ascertain how this information could have come into the public domain.

“We would like to reassure all our customers that Specsavers patient records are kept confidential and are 100% secure at all times and that these records were part of the Manchester diabetic screening scheme, not Specsavers’ customer records.”

Manchester Primary Care Trust will also be conducting a full investigation."

Protection From UV radiation

2008-01-24T11:19:00.000Z

"Ultraviolet radiation reaches the eyes not only from the sky above but also by reflection from the ground, especially water, snow, sand and other bright surfaces. Protection from sunlight can be obtained by using both a brimmed hat or cap and UV absorbing eyewear.

A wide-brimmed hat or cap will block roughly 50 per cent of UV radiation and reduces UV that may enter above or around the glasses. Ultraviolet absorbing eyewear provides the greatest measure of UV protection.

It is prudent to protect the eyes of children against UV radiation by wearing a brimmed hat or cap and sunglasses. Sunglasses for children should have lenses made of plastic rather than glass for added impact protection.

Ideally, all types of eyewear including prescription spectacles, contact lenses and intraocular lens implants should absorb the entire UV spectrum (UV-A and UV-B). UV absorption can be incorporated into nearly all optical materials currently in use, its inexpensive, and does not interfere with vision. The degree of UV protection is not related to price. Polarisation or photosensitive darkening are additional sunglass features that are useful for certain visual situations, at the same time providing UV protection.

For outdoor use in the bright sun, sunglasses that absorb 99-100 per cent of the full UV spectrum to 400 nm are recommended. Additional protection for the retina can be provided by lenses that reduce the transmission of violet/blue light.

Such lenses should not be so coloured as to affect perception of the colour of objects, such as traffic signals. The visible spectrum should be reduced to a comfortable level to eliminate glare and squinting. Individuals who also wear clear prescription eyewear outdoors should consider using lenses which absorb 99-100 per cent of the UV radiation to 380-400 nm."

UV risk factors

2008-01-24T10:26:00.000Z

"No one is immune to sunlight-related eye disorders. Every person, regardless of their background is susceptible to ocular damage from UV radiation that can lead to impaired vision.

Any factor that increases sunlight exposure of the eyes will increase the risk for ocular damage from UV radiation. Individuals whose work or recreation involves lengthy exposure to sunlight are at greatest risk.

Since UV radiation is reflected off surfaces such as snow, water and sand, the risk is particularly high on the beach, while boating, or in mountain areas. The risk is greatest during the mid-day hours, from 10 am to 3 pm, and during the summer months. Ultraviolet radiation levels increase nearer the equator, we are luckily far from away from it, remember holidays though, especially ones to Africa etc. UV levels are also greater at high altitudes.

Since the human lens absorbs UV radiation, individuals who have had cataract surgery are at increased risk of retinal injury from sunlight unless a UV absorbing intraocular lens was inserted at the time of surgery. Individuals with retinal dystrophies or other chronic retinal conditions may be at greater risk since their retinas may be less resilient to normal exposure levels.

Children are not immune to the risk of ocular damage from UV radiation. Children typically spend more time outdoors in the sunlight than adults.Solar radiation damage to the eye may be cumulative and may increase the risk of developing an ocular disorder later in life.

Iris colour can pose a potential risk as well. Light blue coloured irides can block less UV than dark brown irides, resulting in more UV exposure by the tissues of the eye."

UV related eye diseases

2008-01-24T10:20:00.000Z

"Ultraviolet radiation can play a contributory role in the development of various ocular disorders including cataract, pterygium, cancer of the skin around the eye, photokeratitis and corneal degenerative changes, and may contribute to age-related macular degeneration.

Cataract is a major cause of visual impairment and blindness world-wide. Laboratory studies have implicated UV radiation as a causal factor for cataract. Furthermore, epidemiological studies have shown that certain types of cataract are associated with a history of higher exposure to UV, and especially UV-B radiation.

Age-related macular degeneration is the major cause of reduced vision in the U.K (most of the western populations) for people over the age of 55. Exposure to UV and intense violet/blue visible radiation is damaging to retinal tissue in laboratory experiments, thus scientists have speculated that chronic UV or violet/blue light exposure may contribute to ageing processes in the retina.

Pterygium is a growth of tissue on the white of the eye that may extend onto the clear cornea where it can block vision. It is seen most commonly in people who work outdoors in the sun and wind, and its prevalence is related to the amount of UV exposure. It can be removed surgically, but often recurs and can cause cosmetic concerns and visual loss if untreated. Excessive UV exposure is well known to predispose to skin cancer, which includes the eyelids and facial skin.

Photokeratitis is essentially a reversible sunburn of the cornea resulting from excessive UV-B exposure. It occurs when someone spends long hours on the beach or snow without eye protection. It can be extremely painful for 1 to 2 days and can result in temporary loss of vision. There is some indication that long term exposure to UV-B can result in corneal degenerative changes."

Effects Of UV on the eye

2008-01-24T10:17:00.000Z

"Ultraviolet radiation in sunlight is commonly divided into two components: UV-A (320 to 400 nanometers) which causes tanning and is thought to contribute to ageing of the skin and skin cancer, and UV-B (280 to 320 nanometers) which can cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Clinical experience and evidence from accidents and experimental studies show that UV-B is more damaging, presumably because it has higher energy. Most of the UV-B is absorbed by the cornea and lens of the eye (FRONT PART OF THE EYE); therefore it can cause damage to these tissues but will not normally damage the retina (BACK OF THE EYE). However, the retina can be damaged if exposed to UV-B.

UV-A radiation has lower energy, but penetrates much deeper into the eye and may also cause injury. Sunlight contains much more UV-A than UV-B. Neither UV-A nor UV-B has been shown to be beneficial to the eye, and neither contributes to vision. Optimal sun protection should screen out both types of UV radiation."

Ultraviolet & the eye

2008-01-24T09:58:00.000Z

"Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comprises invisible high energy rays from the sun that lie just beyond the blue end of the visible spectrum.

More than 99% of UV radiation is absorbed by the anterior structures of the eye, although some of it does reach the light-sensitive retina (back of the eye). The UV radiation present in sunlight is not useful for vision. There are good scientific reasons to be concerned that UV absorption by the eye may contribute to age-related changes in the eye and a number of serious eye diseases.

Protection can be achieved by simple, safe and inexpensive methods such as wearing a brimmed hat and using eyewear that absorbs UV radiation (sunglasses, including prescription sunglasses/reactolite lenses)."

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

2008-01-22T13:31:00.000Z

"Acanthamoeba is a microscopic, water-borne, parasite that may invade the cornea, causing a potentially devastating ocular condition known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. The infection occurs almost exclusively in contact lens wearers. The primary risk factors for this condition are: swimming in pools, lakes or sea water while wearing contact lenses, storing contact lenses in home made solutions including tap water, and poor contact lens hygiene.

This condition is typically accompanied by severe pain, redness, and scant (if any) discharge. The diagnosis must be considered in patients with risk factors who also present with corneal infiltrative deposits or ulceration - especially those in which the condition fails to resolve with traditional antibiotic therapy. The diagnosis is confirmed with a microscopic examination of the cells taken from the cornea, using specialized laboratory staining techniques.

If the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment with multiple antibiotics including antifungals is generally initiated, and hospitalization is often necessary. Some patients incur severe corneal scarring and require corneal transplantation, even if the infection is brought under control. Severe loss of vision or of the eye may occur, even if the condition is diagnosed early and managed appropriately. Therapy and treatment are long, lasting as much as a year or more."

Opticians 'seeing 1,000pc profit on glasses'

2008-01-22T13:08:00.000Z

An interesting piece found in the daily mail..................

"High Street opticians are making profits of more than 1,000 per cent on glasses, it has been claimed.

A recent Government study found that the sale of spectacles is the one area where deregulation and the supposed introduction of greater competition has failed to drive down prices. In fact, the average price paid for a pair is now put at £148.50 - up by around 40 per cent since 1999.

The industry is dominated by four major chains, Boots, Vision Express, Specsavers and Dollond & Aitchison, which are responsible for more than 70 per cent of sales.

It is claimed there is little evidence of price competition - except around promotional periods such as January.

The public is largely kept in the dark about the true cost of frames and lenses, which means they are unable to challenge charges. And there is little or no value in shopping around because prices across the major High Street names, and even small independent opticians, are about the same."

Presbyopia - Cause / Treatment

2008-01-21T11:31:00.000Z

"Presbyopia is caused by an age-related process. This is different from astigmatism, myopia and hypermetropia, which are related to the shape of the eyeball and caused by genetic factors, disease, or trauma. Presbyopia is generally believed to stem from a gradual loss of flexibility in the natural lens inside your eye.
These age-related changes occur within the proteins in the lens, making the lens harder and less elastic with the years. Age-related changes also take place in the muscle fibers surrounding the lens. With less elasticity, the eye has a harder time focusing up close. Other, less popular theories exist as well.

Presbyopia is commonly corrected via prescription glasses (single vision reading glasses, bifocals or varifocals), contact lenses (not a common approach with presbyopia)

Consult your Optometrist for the best suited option"

Presbyopia - Reading Difficulties

2008-01-21T11:21:00.000Z

"During middle age, usually beginning in the 40s, people experience blurred vision at near points, such as when reading, sewing or working at the computer. There's no getting around it — this happens to everyone at some point in life, even those who have never had a vision problem before.

When people develop presbyopia, they find they need to hold books, magazines, newspapers, menus and other reading materials further away or at arm's length in order to focus properly. When they perform near work, such as embroidery or handwriting, they may have headaches or eyestrain, or feel fatigued."

Hypertension and eye

2008-01-20T18:25:00.000Z

"Eye is the only organ of the body where one can observe the blood vessels directly. Seeing the retina by using ophthalmoscope, we can see the blood vessels. Thus examination of the eyes help the Optometrist or ophthalmologist to observe the changes in blood vessels because of hypertension. This gives an idea about the severity of the disease elsewhere in the body.

Moreover, presence of swelling of the disc (grade 4 hypertensive retinopathy) is an indicator of a very severe, life threatening malignant rise in blood pressure, which warrants emergency treatment to control the blood pressure."

Hypertension and the eye

2008-01-20T18:20:00.000Z

"Many of the hypertensive related eye conditions may not have any symptoms in the initial stages. Therefore it is important to have a regular eye tests to detect these.

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) may lead to a blurring of vision especially for fine work. A vitreous hemorrhage may lead to a more severe loss of vision associated with a shower of red floaters.

Optic neuropathy may also lead to a loss of vision, which is painless and not associated with any floaters.

Paralysis or weakness of the muscles of the eye leads to restriction of movement of the eye and double vision."

Hypertension and the eye

2008-01-20T18:16:00.000Z

Hypertension or high blood pressure leads to many changes in the blood vessels of the body. These same changes in blood vessels affect the eyes in many ways. It can cause the following problems in the eye:

Hypertensive retinopathy
Macroaneurysms
Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and vitreous hemorrhage
Optic nerve involvement (Optic neuropathy)
Involvement of the nerves supplying the eye muscles, leading to temporary paralysis or weakness of these muscles"

VDU's and Your Eyes - Prescription Glasses

2008-01-18T22:16:00.000Z

"Only a small proportion of users will need spectacles specifically for working at a VDU and the majority of these will be what is known as presbyopic. Presbyopia affects us all as we get older. Around the age of 45 people begin to find they lose the ability to focus on objects that are close up.

Spectacles with single vision, bifocal or varifocal lenses can all be used successfully for VDU work. Contact lenses are also suitable, but wearers should try to blink regularly which keeps the lenses comfortable.

When you concentrate on the screen for long periods, your normal blinking rate slows down. Presbyopic contact lens wearers may need additional reading glasses.

Reflection-free lenses
Reflection-free lenses are well worth considering for VDU users. Because they eliminate almost all reflections VDU glare is considerably reduced, providing clearer and sharper vision."

Your legal entitlement as a VDU user

2008-01-18T22:14:00.000Z

"Since 1993 EC legislation has placed responsibilities on employers whose employees regularly use VDUs as part of their work. These regulations are also designed to protect users who may work for an employer from home, or any other location which is not the employer’s main office.

If you are classified as a user, your employer must:

• Provide a full eye examination free of charge to you when you commence VDU work and at regular intervals thereafter

• Provide a full eye examination free of charge to you if you are experiencing visual problems which may be due to working with a VDU

• Pay for a pair of basic glasses if it is shown that you require these specifically for VDU use, or an equivalent amount of money towards a pair of your choice

• Provide adequate breaks or changes of activity to reduce general visual fatigue

• Provide health and safety training information relating to the workstation. Keep you informed about the Regulations, particularly those relating to eyesight, rest breaks and guidance on work station minimum requirements."

VDU's and Your Eyes

2008-01-18T22:09:00.000Z

"The following precautions can lead to eye strain relief caused by VDU work:

Take frequent breaks
When you work at a VDU your eyes can be focused on the screen for long periods so it is important to take a brief rest and give your eyes a break every 20 minutes or so. You should have sufficient space behind the screen for you to be able to look beyond it and relax your eyes.

Screen settings and position
You should adjust your VDU to levels of brightness and contrast that you find comfortable. Keep the screen clean and free of dust and fingermarks. If possible, position it so that windows or other light sources are to the side rather than in front or behind it – if you can see a window or light unit reflected in the screen, move the VDU until the reflections disappear, or adjust blinds or curtains. The surface of the screen should be between 33 and 100cm from your eyes and if you are working from copy documents these should be placed at roughly the same distance to avoid continual re-focusing.

Lighting
Try to eliminate as much glare as possible from the region around your screen. This is not always straightforward, but as a general rule:

•The office lighting should be set at a level which allows the documents and screen to be read easily. Additional lighting – such as an Anglepoise lamp – may sometimes be necessary to achieve this.

• Avoid an uncurtained window directly in front of or behind your working position

• Any window reflected in the screen should be fitted with blinds or curtains

• Walls and desk surfaces should be non-reflective and neutral in colour

Anti-Reflective Glasses

Use anti-reflective lenses when using/wearing glasses for VDU work. This reduces eye strain."

VDU's and Your Eyes

2008-01-18T22:03:00.000Z

"Although there is no reliable evidence to suggest that even long-term intensive use of VDUs is damaging to the eyes, it is true that VDU users tend to complain of eye strain more than non-users. This is likely to be due to fatigue through causes such as:

• Insufficient and infrequent rest periods

• Incorrect positioning of the screen and/or documents

• Unsuitable lighting

• Poorly designed work area

• An uncorrected eyesight fault such as long sight, short sight, astigmatism or presbyopia

• The eyes not working together comfortably.

Any of these conditions could lead to fatigue; all can be overcome through good design of the working environment and by regular eyecare."

If sight cannot be fully restored - Glaucoma

2008-01-17T21:21:00.000Z

"Early detection and treatment will usually prevent or slow down further damage by glaucoma. If you do experience some sight loss much can be done to help you use your remaining vision as fully as possible. You should ask your optician or optometrist about low vision aids and whether you are eligible to register as sight impaired (partially sighted) or severely sight impaired (blind). Registration can act as your 'passport' to expert help and sometimes to financial benefits. Only the Ophthalmologist can place someone on a partial sighted or blind register."

Glaucoma Treatment

2008-01-17T21:11:00.000Z

"The loss of vision in glaucoma is permanent, but with early treatment, the damage to vision can be minimised. In some patients, the loss of vision occurs very slowly and treatment may not be necessary. However, most patients do require treatment. This prevents or slows further loss of vision in most patients. Taking the treatment is important, even though the vision may seem normal, because the loss of vision may get worse without the patient noticing.
All treatment for glaucoma is designed to reduce the level of intraocular pressure to a point at which further damage to the optic nerve is prevented. This reduction in the level of intraocular pressure is achieved by a variety of means including eye drops, tablets, laser treatments for glaucoma and surgery for glaucoma. Each has advantages and disadvantages and the choice of the glaucoma management regime best suited to an individual patient should be made as a collaborative decision involving the patient and the ophthalmologist.
Eye drops usually form the first stage of treatment for glaucoma. There are now a wide variety of eye drops which work in a number of different ways. Most commonly the drops act to reduce the amount of aqueous humour being produced by the ciliary body, some increase the outflow of aqueous humour from the eye either by the conventional outflow pathway through the trabecular meshwork, or by the non-conventional outflow pathway (also known as the uveoscleral outflow pathway), and some have a combination effect.
The only tablet commonly used in the treatment of glaucoma is Diamox, which is a very powerful type of water tablet. It is most commonly used in the short term treatment of acute angle closure glaucoma prior to laser iridotomy and is rarely prescribed for long term use due to its side effect profile.
Lasers are used to treat both open and closed angle glaucomas with different lasers and different techniques used according to need.

There are also a variety of types of Surgey for glaucoma depending on the individual needs of the patient.

Treatment for glaucoma is effective and in the vast majority of cases useful sight can be retained for life providing the treatments are used properly and the agreed management regime followed."

Glaucoma Inheritance

2008-01-17T21:01:00.000Z

"Glaucoma tends to run in families, but only some glaucoma patients have affected relatives. If you have glaucoma, your close relatives (parents, siblings or children) should have a regular eye test every year which includes ophthalmoscopy, tonometry and perimetry (visual field test), once they reach the age of 40 years, or earlier if they are subject to other risk factors, such as being of African-Caribbean origin, or having diabetes or myopia (short sight).

People with a close blood relative who has glaucoma are at a minimum of four times increased risk of developing the condition which is why early detection is so important as treatment is more effective when the glaucoma is detected early."

Glaucoma

2008-01-17T20:55:00.000Z

"Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning. Although the most common forms primarily affect the middle-aged and the elderly, glaucoma can affect people of all ages.
There are two main types of glaucoma: primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), and angle closure glaucoma. These are marked by an increase of intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure inside the eye. When optic nerve damage has occurred despite a normal IOP, this is called normal tension glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma refers to any case in which another disease causes or contributes to increased eye pressure, resulting in optic nerve damage and subsequent vision loss."

Glaucoma Awareness Month

2008-01-17T20:52:00.000Z

"January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, an important time to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease. Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Everyone, from infants to seniors is vulnerable. Moreover, among African-American and Hispanic populations, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness.
Nearly 70 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them don’t know they have it. Combined with our aging population, we can see an epidemic of blindness looming if we don’t raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision.
The most common type of glaucoma—primary open angle glaucoma—is hereditary; so if you do have glaucoma, don’t keep it a secret. Let your family members know they are at increased risk."

Diabetic Retinopathy - Macula oedema treatment

2008-01-15T12:57:00.000Z

"Macular oedema is treated with laser surgery. This procedure is called focal laser treatment. The eye doctor/Opthalmologist places up to several hundred small laser burns in the areas of retinal leakage surrounding the macula. These burns slow the leakage of fluid and reduce the amount of fluid in the retina. The surgery is usually completed in one session. Further treatment may be needed.
A patient may need focal laser surgery more than once to control the leaking fluid. If you have macular oedema in both eyes and require laser surgery, generally only one eye will be treated at a time, usually several weeks apart.
Focal laser treatment stabilizes vision. In fact, focal laser treatment reduces the risk of vision loss by 50 percent. In a small number of cases, if vision is lost, it can be improved. Contact your eye care professional if you have vision loss."

Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment

2008-01-15T12:55:00.000Z

"During the initial background/pre-proliferatuve stages of diabetic retinopathy, no treatment is needed, unless you have macular edema. To prevent progression of diabetic retinopathy, people with diabetes should control their levels of blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol. Consult your G.P!!!!
Proliferative retinopathy is treated with laser surgery. This procedure is called scatter laser treatment. Scatter laser treatment helps to shrink the abnormal blood vessels. Your doctor places 1,000 to 2,000 laser burns in the areas of the retina away from the macula, causing the abnormal blood vessels to shrink. Because a high number of laser burns are necessary, two or more sessions usually are required to complete treatment. Although you may notice some loss of your side vision, scatter laser treatment can save the rest of your sight. Scatter laser treatment may slightly reduce your color vision and night vision.
Scatter laser treatment works better before the fragile, new blood vessels have started to bleed. That is why it is important to have regular, comprehensive dilated eye exams. Even if bleeding has started, scatter laser treatment may still be possible, depending on the amount of bleeding.
If the bleeding is severe, you may need a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy. During a vitrectomy, blood is removed from the center of your eye."

Diabetic Retinopathy - Risks

2008-01-15T12:49:00.000Z

"All people with diabetes--both type 1 and type 2--are at risk. That's why everyone with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. The longer someone has diabetes, the more likely he or she will get diabetic retinopathy. Some stages of diabetic retinopathy usually requires close monitoring by an Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist. Other stages of diabetic retinopathy would require specialist treatment to help prevent its progression.

During pregnancy, diabetic retinopathy may be a problem for women with diabetes. To protect vision, every pregnant woman with diabetes should have an eye exam as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend additional exams during your pregnancy.

In the U.K, everyone with diabetes are entitled to a FREE NHS eye test once every year

Oh yeah - do remember, diabetics are also at risk from other eye conditions such as cataracts, ocular infection, optic nerve problems etc....hence. more of a reason to have regular eye tests"

Diabetic Retinopathy - Vision Loss

2008-01-15T12:45:00.000Z

"Blood vessels damaged from diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss in two ways:

1.Fragile, abnormal blood vessels can develop and leak blood into the center of the eye, blurring vision. This is proliferative retinopathy and is the most advanced stage of the disease.
2.Fluid can leak into the center of the macula, the part of the eye where sharp, straight-ahead vision occurs. The fluid makes the macula swell, blurring vision. This condition is called macular edema. It can occur at any stage of diabetic retinopathy, although it is more likely to occur as the disease progresses. About half of the people with proliferative retinopathy also have macular edema.

These changes would both require urgent ophthalmological assessment/treatment."

Stages Of Diabetic Retinopathy

2008-01-15T12:38:00.000Z

"Diabetic retinopathy has three distinct stages:

1. Background Stge. At this earliest stage, microaneurysms occur. They are small areas of balloon-like swelling in the retina's tiny blood vessels.
2. Pre-proliferative Sytage. As the disease progresses, some blood vessels that nourish the retina are blocked. Small haemorrhages, more blood vessel invlovement.
3. Proliferative Retinopathy. At this advanced stage, the signals sent by the retina for nourishment trigger the growth of new blood vessels. This condition is called proliferative retinopathy. These new blood vessels are abnormal and fragile. They grow along the retina and along the surface of the clear, vitreous gel that fills the inside of the eye. By themselves, these blood vessels do not cause symptoms or vision loss. However, they have thin, fragile walls. If they leak blood, severe vision loss and even blindness can result."

Diabetic Retinopathy

2008-01-15T12:33:00.000Z

"Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye disease and a leading cause of blindness in the working population of western countries. It is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina.
In some people with diabetic retinopathy, blood vessels may swell and leak fluid. In other people, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. A healthy retina is necessary for good vision.
If you have diabetic retinopathy, at first you may not notice changes to your vision. But over time, diabetic retinopathy can get worse and cause vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes."

Coloured Glasses - Meares–Irlen syndrome

2008-01-14T21:15:00.000Z

"Children who persist in using their overlay usually find coloured glasses more convenient to use. Glasses can help with writing, whereas overlays cannot. The degree of precision in the choice of colour is critical for obtaining the best results, and the precision available with lenses is far greater than with overlays. Perhaps for this reason glasses often give better results.

It is essential to realise that the appropriate colour for use in glasses is not the same as that in overlays. For example, a child may choose a yellow overlay and benefit from blue lenses. The colour of the lenses can only be assessed by optometrists or orthoptists who use the Intuitive Colorimeter ®, or by the use of a very large number of coloured trial lenses. Other methods of selecting coloured lenses may be less likely to select the optimal colour.

When you wear glasses everthing you see is coloured, but you are often unaware of the colouration because you adapt to it and make allowances for it (for example, the colour of light from a normal household light bulb is very yellow in comparison to daylight, but you are never aware of this). When you use an overlay only part of what you see is coloured and the eyes are adapted to white light. The way that the brain processes what you see in the two circumstances is very different."

Coloured Overlays / Coloured Glasses - Meares–Irlen syndrome

2008-01-14T21:12:00.000Z

There are many factors involved. First, are the overlays obviously beneficial? If so, only a short trial period, say six weeks, is necessary, particularly if headaches have been reduced but not eliminated, and if untidy writing continues to be a problem. Under these circumstances glasses may further reduce the headaches and may well improve the handwriting.

If, on the other hand, the response to overlays is less marked, it seems sensible to see whether the child continues to use overlays without prompting for, say, a school term or longer, before considering coloured glasses. Coloured glasses are more expensive than overlays, and it may be wise to wait before incurring the cost.

Another factor to consider is the age of the child. It is often difficult to assess a child for coloured glasses below the age of 8."

Coloured Overlays + Meares–Irlen syndrome

2008-01-14T21:02:00.000Z

Coloured overlays are sheets of translucent or transparent coloured plastic that can be placed over a page of a book.
Coloured overlays reduce the perceptual distortions of text that children sometimes describe. They enable some children to read text more fluently and with less discomfort and fewer headaches. Each individual seems to need a different colour, so it is important to assess the effects of a wide range of colours.
In several studies, children in county primary schools were individually shown a passage of text covered in turn by a variety of coloured overlays, including grey or clear overlays for comparison. About 20% of the children found one or other of the colours improved the clarity of the text. They continued to use an overlay of that colour without prompting for more than three months. They read more quickly with their overlay, both before and after they had become accustomed to its use."

Signs Of Meares–Irlen syndrome

2008-01-14T20:56:00.000Z

"Some of the signs may be:

rubbing eyes
excessive blinking
poor concentration
inefficient reading
difficulty in keeping place"

Meares–Irlen syndrome

2008-01-14T20:53:00.000Z

"The term Meares–Irlen syndrome is sometimes used to refer to the collection of symptoms and signs of visual fatigue when reading that are reduced when colour is used as therapy. Other terms are Irlen syndrome or Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (SSS). (The syndrome is not yet widely recognised by the medical and scientific communities, and there is no universal agreement on its name.) The symptoms of visual perceptual distortion in children with reading difficulty were first described by Olive Meares, but have been listed by Helen Irlen, as follows.

symptoms of Meares-Irlen Syndrome:

Some of the main symptoms are:

glare from the page
headaches when reading
sore eyes when reading
movement/blurring of print

(onset of symptoms varies and may depend on lighting conditions, style of text and quality of paper)."

Tennis turns blind eye to umpires' sight

2008-01-14T13:15:00.000Z

"UP TO 40 per cent of Australian tennis umpires and line judges - branded 'useless' by Lleyton Hewitt this week - have flawed vision, a sports vision expert says.
Patrick Gerry said 11 of the top 24 chair umpires he tested for Tennis Australia before the 2006 Australian Open failed, but the governing body ignored his recommendations.
The most common reason for failing the test was poor depth perception, which is critical when judging whether a ball is in or out.
'Poor depth perception does affect the person's ability to determine where something is … It's absolutely critical in deciding if the ball is in or out.
'The umpires have definite issues that Tennis Australia has known about for two years and have chosen to do nothing about … Their depth perception problems have been identified and I can't believe Tennis Australia has failed to follow up and correct it.
Mr Gerry, who has worked with the Australian Institute of Sport, Cricket Australia, the AFL, and NRL clubs and umpires, said the tennis umpires' problems identified during the test two years ago could be rectified within weeks."

What Are The Treatments For Dry Eyes:

2008-01-13T22:15:00.000Z

"Artificial tears
These come as eye drops, and are usually good at relieving symptoms. You can buy them at pharmacies or get them on prescription. At first, you may need to use them every hour or more to improve symptoms. Once symptoms improve, you may then only need to use them three or four times a day. You need to use them regularly to keep symptoms away.
There are several types of artificial tears with different ingredients. Occassionally, some people find one type may irritate. A change to a different preparation may help if the first does not suit.
Note: some types of artificial tears contain preservatives such as benzalkonium hexachloride. If you use drops that contain benzalkonium hexachloride for long periods, they may damage the cornea. Therefore, if you use artificial tears more than four times per day long-term, it is best to use a 'preservative-free' brand which does not contain benzalkonium chloride.

Eye ointment
It may also help to use a soothing and lubricating ointment at bedtime for overnight. You can buy this too at pharmacies, or get it on prescription. You should not use ointment during the day as it may make the artificial tear drops less effective, and can blur vision. (Also, do not use eye ointment if you use other eye drops for other conditions such as glaucoma. The other eye drops may not work so well on top of an ointment"

Other treatments
Artificial tears and soothing ointments work well in most cases. Other treatments may be advised by a specialist in severe cases not helped by the above. For example: medicines to boost tear production by the tear gland, or surgery to block the tears from draining away.

Dry Eyes - Tears

2008-01-13T22:07:00.000Z

"Dry eye syndrome is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture in the eye. Its consequences range from irritation to ocular inflammation of the anterior part of the eye.
Tears bathe the eye, washing out dust and debris and keeping the eye moist. They also contain enzymes that neutralize the microorganisms that colonize the eye. Tears are essential for good eye health.
In dry eye syndrome, the eye doesn't produce enough tears, or the tears have a chemical composition that causes them to evaporate too quickly.
Dry eye syndrome has several causes. It occurs as a part of the natural aging process, as a side effect of many medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson's medications, and birth control pills; or because you live in a dry, dusty or windy climate. If your home or office has air conditioning or a dry heating system, that too can dry out your eyes. Another cause is insufficient blinking, such as when you're staring at a computer screen

Dry eyes are also a symptom of systemic diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, rosacea or Sjogren's syndrome (a triad of dry eyes, dry mouth, and rheumatoid arthritis or lupus).
Long-term contact lens wear is another cause; Dry eye syndrome makes contact lenses feel uncomfortable, and the rubbing of the lenses against the conjunctiva seems to be a cause of dry eyes.
Incomplete closure of the eyelids, eyelid disease and a deficiency of the tear-producing glands are other causes. Tears are composed of three layers: the outer, oily, lipid layer; the middle, watery, lacrimal layer; and the inner, mucous or mucin layer. Each layer is produced by a different part of the eye, so a problem with any of those sources can result in dry eyes.

Dry eye syndrome is more common in women, possibly due to hormone fluctuations. Recent research suggests that smoking, too, can increase your risk of dry eye syndrome. With increased popularity of eyelid surgery for improved appearance, dry eye complaints now occasionally are associated with incomplete closure of eyelids following a procedure."

Blepharitis treatment

2008-01-12T22:21:00.000Z

"Treatments for Blepharitis

Blepharitis can be treated through

Unblocking the glands in the eyelid, which may be infected and inflamed.
Replacing the tears with lubricants, if the eyes are dry (dry eyes and blepharitis may occur together).
Treating any infection present with Antibiotic Cream.
Tablets: to treat infection and reduce the inflammation using Antibiotic tablets.
25% baby shampoo solution lid scrubs"

Diagnosis Of blepharitis.

2008-01-12T22:19:00.000Z

"Common symptoms of blepharitis include:

Redness of the eyelids
Iitchy or irritated eyelids
Crusting of the edge of the eyelids or lashes
A dry or scratchy feeling to the eye
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Swollen eyelids
Redness of the eye
Blurred vision

Other complications from blepharitis include:

Stye: A red tender bump on the eyelid that is caused by an acute infection of the oil glands of the eyelid.

Chalazion: This condition can follow the development of a stye. It is a usually painless firm lump caused by inflammation of the oil glands of the eyelid. Chalazion can be painful and red if there is also an infection."

Blepharitis.

2008-01-12T22:15:00.000Z

"Blepharitis causes inflammation of the eyelids. The condition can be difficult to manage because of its tendency to recur.

There are two forms of Blepharitis that occur:

Anterior blepharitis affecting the front of the eyelid
Posterior blepharitis affecting the inner eyelid.

Causes of Blepharitis

Blepharitis is most commonly caused by an infection of a common skin bacteria called Staphylococcus, other causes include seborrheic dermatitis (similar to dandruff along the edge of the eyelid )
Anterior blepharitis affects the front of the eyelid and the most common causes of anterior blepharitis are bacteria (Staphylococcus) and seborrheic dermatitis.
Posterior blepharitis affects the inner eyelid and is caused by problems with the oil (meibomian) glands under the eyelid. This form of blepharitis can be caused by two skin disorders: acne rosacea, which leads to red and inflamed skin, and seborrheic dermatitis."

Hyperopia (long sight), long sighted glasses

2008-01-12T22:12:00.000Z

Hyperopia also known as long sight is a visual disorder where the focusing power of the eyes is not strong enough. People who suffer from hyperopia or long sight have difficulty seeing up close.

Causes of Hyperopia

Hyperopia or Long sight is where light rays are focused behind the retina, rather than directly on it. Hyperopia is usually caused by a short eyeball or a flatness of the cornea resulting in the inability of the lens to focus the light rays directly on the cornea.

Diagnosis of Hyperopia

Hyperopia can cause headaches, eyestrain and people who suffer form hyperopia may squint or feel fatigued when performing work at close range. This will be indicated by your optometrist when your eyes are tested.

Treatments for Hyperopia

Hyperopia can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses and refractive eye surgery.
The choice of treatment should be discussed with your eye care practitioner. The most suitable form of correction will depend on your prescription and lifestyle requirments."

Shocking abuse faced by the blind

2008-01-12T21:53:00.000Z

"MORE than 1.2 million blind and partially sighted people in the UK have experienced physical and/or verbal abuse, according to a survey by Action for Blind People.
In one day nearly 20,000 (4%) blind and partially sighted people were physically abused, compared with less than 1% of sighted people.
In one week almost 180,000 (16%) blind and partially sighted people were verbally abused, compared with only 7% of sighted people.
The survey also revealed a visually impaired person is three times more likely than a sighted person (24% v 8%) not to know where or who to turn to, and almost twice as likely not to be taken seriously (31% v 17%) if they told anyone about their experiences.
One of the people who took part in the survey says the charity is helping rehouse her as a result of abuse and harassment.
She said: 'I have had bricks and stones thrown at me, a football kicked at my face, eggs thrown at my window and kids spitting at me.”
The charity's chief executive, Stephen Remington, said: 'Unfortunately, visually impaired people can be seen as vulnerable and an easy target for anti-social behaviour.
"The impact this can have on a visually impaired person, who may already feel vulnerable, can be devastating.
"Many people will be as horrified by these results as we are. All of us can play a role in helping to combat such disgusting behaviour."
If you, or anyone you know, are visually impaired and experiencing verbal and/or physical abuse contact Action for Blind People on its Freephone helpline 0800 915 4666 or visit the website: www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk"

Retinal Detachment - Treatment

2008-01-11T12:17:00.000Z

"A tear or hole of the retina that leads to a peripheral retinal detachment causes the loss of side (peripheral) vision. Almost all of these patients will progress to a full retinal detachment and loss of all vision if the problem is not repaired. The dark shadow or curtain obscuring a portion of the vision, either from the side, above, or below, almost invariably will advance to the loss of all useful vision. Spontaneous reattachment of the retina is rare.

Early diagnosis and repair are urgent since visual improvement is much greater when the retina is repaired before the macula or central area is detached. The surgical repair of a retinal detachment is usually successful in reattaching the retina, although more than one procedure may be necessary. Once the retina is reattached, vision usually improves and then stabilizes. Successful reattachment does not always result in normal vision. The ability to read after successful surgery will depend on whether or not the macula (central part of the retina) was detached and the extent of time that it was detached."

Retinal Detachment - Risk Factors

2008-01-11T12:14:00.000Z

"Studies have shown that the incidence of retinal detachments caused by tears in the retina is fairly low, affecting approximately one in 10,000 people each year. Many retinal tears do not progress to retinal detachment. Nevertheless, many risk factors for developing retinal detachments are recognized, including certain diseases of the eyes (e.g: uveitis, lattice degeneration), high myopia, cataract surgery, and trauma to the eye. Retinal detachments can occur at any age. They occur most commonly in younger adults (25 to 50 years of age) who are highly nearsighted (myopic) and in older people following cataract surgery."

Retinal Detachment - Symptoms, Signs.

2008-01-11T12:12:00.000Z

"Flashing lights and floaters may be the initial symptoms of a retinal detachment or of a retinal tear that precedes the detachment itself. Anyone who is beginning to experience these symptoms should see an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) or Optometrist for an eye exam. In the exam, drops are used to dilate the patient's pupils to make a more detailed exam easier. The symptoms of flashing lights and floaters may often be unassociated with a tear or detachment and can merely result from a separation of the vitreous gel from the retina. This condition is called a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). Although a PVD occurs commonly, there are no tears associated with the condition most of the time.
If the patient experiences a shadow or curtain that affects any part of the vision, this can indicate that a retinal tear has progressed to a detached retina. In this situation, one should immediately consult an eye doctor since time can be critical. The goal for the ophthalmologist is to make the diagnosis and treat the retinal tear or detachment before the central macular area of the retina detaches."

Retinal Detachment

2008-01-11T12:08:00.000Z

"A retinal detachment is a separation of the retina from its attachments to its underlying tissue within the eye. Most retinal detachments are a result of a retinal break, hole, or tear. These retinal breaks may occur when the vitreous gel pulls loose or separates from its attachment to the retina, usually in the peripheral parts of the retina. The vitreous is a clear gel that fills 2/3 of the inside of the eye and occupies the space in front of the retina. As the vitreous gel pulls loose, it will sometimes exert traction on the retina, and if the retina is weak, the retina will tear. Most retinal breaks are not a result of injury. Retinal tears are sometimes accompanied by bleeding if a retinal blood vessel is included in the tear.

Once the retina has torn, liquid from the vitreous gel can then pass through the tear and accumulate behind the retina. The build-up of fluid behind the retina is what separates (detaches) the retina from the back of the eye. As more of the liquid vitreous collects behind the retina, the extent of the retinal detachment can progress and involve the entire retina, leading to a total retinal detachment. A retinal detachment almost always affects only one eye. The second eye, however, must be checked thoroughly for any signs of predisposing factors that may lead to detachment in the future."

What Treatment Are Given For Choroidal Melanoma

2008-01-10T19:23:00.000Z

"For 100 years or longer, the usual treatment for choroidal melanoma has been removal of the eye, or enucleation. If the tumor has not spread to other parts of the body, then removal of the eye rids the patient of the tumor.
Since World War II, radiation treatment has been used for choroidal melanoma. During the past 20 years, this method of treatment has been refined. Radiation, at the appropriate dose rates and in the proper physical forms, is intended to eliminate growing tumor cells without causing damage to normal tissue sufficient to require removal of the eye. As the cells die, the tumor shrinks, but it usually does not disappear entirely. The most promising widely available method for irradiating medium choroidal melanoma involves constructing a small plaque with radioactive pellets glued to one side. Doctors who take care of patients who have choroidal melanoma are enthusiastic about the possibilities for this treatment, but satisfactory information about long-term results is not available. Your doctors recognize that they have a responsibility to current and future patients with choroidal melanoma to test radiation in a clinical trial.
High energy particles (helium ion or proton beam radiation) from a cyclotron also can be used to irradiate tumors. Surgery is performed first to sew small metal clips to the sclera so that the particle beam can be aimed accurately. Treatment is given over several successive days. The equipment needed for these treatments is available only in a few centers in the world. Good results have been reported in some patients, but many patients treated in this way have been followed for only a few years. Therefore, the long-term results of these forms of radiation therapy compared with the more commonly used plaque are unknown.
Over the years, other treatments have been used for a small number of patients. Photocoagulation using white light or laser light has been used to burn small tumors, and cryo-therapy has been used to kill the tumors by freezing them. These techniques are believed to work only for very small tumors. Some doctors have combined laser or cryotherapy with radiation, but such treatments are experimental. A few patients have had eye wall resection or a related procedure to remove tumors from their eyes. These methods of treatment are considered experimental by most doctors and have been used only for a small number of tumors. No treatment is available that can guarantee to destroy the tumor, to preserve vision, or to assure a normal lifespan"

Why Is Treatment Required For Choroidal Melanoma

2008-01-10T19:05:00.000Z

"Treatment of choroidal melanoma is recommended when your doctors judge that, on the basis of your medical history and the findings from the eye examination, your tumor is likely to enlarge and possibly spread to other parts of your body if left untreated."

What Happens When There Is Choroidal Melanoma In The Eye

2008-01-10T19:04:00.000Z

"Some choroidal melanomas appear to remain dormant and do not grow. Most enlarge slowly over time and lead to loss of vision. These tumors can spread to other parts of the body and lead eventually to death."

Choroidal Melanoma Diagnosis

2008-01-10T18:59:00.000Z

"Choroidal melanoma is diagnosed during an examination of the eye by an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist. Your eye doctors are able to recognize a choroidal melanoma by the degree of pigmentation of the tumor, by its shape and location, and by other features observed in an eye examination. Unlike tumors in other parts of the body, choroidal melanoma is directly visible through the 'window' provided by the pupil. Most of the time, the ophthalmologist can be nearly certain of the diagnosis from clinical appearance, photographs, and ultrasound pictures. Therefore, biopsy, which is often indicated to diagnose tumors in other parts of the body, is avoided."

What Is Choroidal Melanoma

2008-01-10T18:57:00.000Z

"Choroidal melanoma is a primary cancer of the eye. It arises from the pigmented cells of the choroid of the eye and is not a tumor that started somewhere else and spread to the eye. Malignant means that the tumor is a cancer which may metastasize, that is, spread to other parts of the body. Although some choroidal melanomas are more life-threatening than others, almost all should be treated as if they were malignant."

What Causes Astigmatism

2008-01-09T21:42:00.000Z

"Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped more like an oblong rugby ball than a spherical football, which is the normal shape. In most astigmatic eyes, the oblong or oval shape causes light rays to focus on two points in the back of your eye, rather than on just one. This is because, like a football, an astigmatic cornea has a steeper curve and a flatter one."

Astigmatism - Signs & Symptoms

2008-01-09T21:35:00.000Z

"If you have only a small amount of astigmatism, you may not notice it or have just slightly blurred vision. But sometimes uncorrected astigmatism can give you headaches or eyestrain, and distort or blur your vision at all distances.
It's not only adults who can be astigmatic. In a recent study of 2,523 children at Ohio State University School of Optometry, more than 28 percent of them had astigmatism. Children may be even more unaware of the condition than adults, and they are unlikely to complain of the blurred or distorted vision. Unfortunately, astigmatism can affect their ability to see well in school and during sports, so it's important to have their eyes examined at regular intervals in order to detect any astigmatism early on. In the U.K, it is recommended that children under the age of 16 should have their eyes tested at least once every 12 months."

Astigmatism

2008-01-09T21:25:00.000Z

"Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problem.
It may accompany nearsightedness or farsightedness. Usually it is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea (called corneal astigmatism). But sometimes it is the result of an irregularly shaped lens, which is located behind the cornea; this is called lenticular astigmatism. Either kind of astigmatism is usually corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses"

Lutein and AMD

2008-01-07T21:27:00.000Z

"Lutein and its related compound zeaxanthin are highly concentrated in the macula, providing a yellow color known as the macular pigment.The macular pigment protects the macula from the damaging photo-oxidative effects of blue light.
Of the 600 or so carotenoids present in nature, only a handful are present in human serum. Of those, nature has chosen only lutein and zeaxanthin to be present in the macula. These facts alone suggest that lutein plays a critical role in eye health.
There is a wealth of data available supporting a role for lutein in reducing the risk of AMD.There are a number of observational studies showing the association between lutein intake, serum levels, macular pigment density and AMD risk in humans.
Controlled intervention studies in humans are needed to establish causality. In terms of eye health, more and more studies investigating the direct effect of dietary lutein and lutein supplementation on macular pigment density are now being published.
Researchers agree that it is the body of evidence that must be evaluated collectively in order to determine the merits of a given nutrient, and any conclusions based on a single study are premature. The body of evidence appears to support a beneficial role for lutein in eye health."

AMD - Macular Degeneration, Eye Disease

2008-01-07T21:16:00.000Z

"AMD occurs when the fragile center of the retina–the macula–deteriorates from a lifetime of slow but steady damage. The macula is a small area of the retina responsible for central vision, and high visual acuity. Poor macular health can cause oxidative stress within the retina, leading to a loss of central vision.
According to AMD Alliance International dry AMD, the more common and milder form of AMD, accounts for 85% to 90% of all cases. It develops gradually over time and usually causes only mild loss of vision. One key identifier for AMD is the collection of small, round, white-yellow, fatty deposits called drusen in the central part of the retina. Drusen accumulate in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) tissue beneath the macula and the macula thins and dries out. The amount of vision loss is related to the location and amount of macular thinning caused by the drusen. Sometimes abnormal new blood vessels form (wet AMD). It is therefore important for individuals with dry AMD to have their eyes examined regularly, because it may eventually develop into the wet form.
Although the wet form of AMD accounts for only 10 – 15% of all AMD, the chance for severe sight loss is much greater. It is responsible for 90% of severe vision loss associated with AMD. Wet AMD is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels, or choroidal neovascularization (CNV), under the central part of the retina, the macula. These abnormal vessels leak fluid and blood into the tissue at the back of the eye, causing a blister to form in the retina. This progression leads to scar tissue, distortion and a loss of central vision. Wet AMD can rapidly damage the macula and result in a very quick loss of central vision."

What AMD looks Like As It Progresses:

Prognosis - Amblyopia

2008-01-06T20:38:00.000Z

"What is the outlook (prognosis)?

As a rule, the younger the child is treated, the quicker the improvement in vision is likely to be, and the better the chance of restoring full normal vision. If treatment is started before the age of about 6-7 years then it is often possible to restore normal vision. If treatment is started in older children then some improvement in vision may still occur but full normal vision is unlikely to be achieved.

The most important point is that you must follow the advice given by an orthoptist or eye surgeon about patching (or similar methods to force the affected eye to work). The most common reason why eye patching does not work as well as it might is because treatment is not followed as instructed. Wearing an eye patch for much of the day for several weeks or months may be irritating to some children. However, do try to encourage your child to persist with treatment for the long-term benefit of good vision."

Treatment Options For Amblyopia

2008-01-06T20:36:00.000Z

"What are the treatments for amblyopia?

Treatments include:

Where possible, to treat or correct any underlying eye disorder, AND

Making the the affected eye work so that vision can develop properly.

Correcting the underlying eye disorders
For example: refractive errors such as short or long sight can be corrected with glasses; cataracts can be removed; etc.
Making the the affected eye work
The main treatment for amblyopia is to restrict the use of the good eye. This then forces the affected eye to work. If this is done early enough in childhood, the vision will usually improve, often up to a normal level. In effect, the visual development of the affected eye catches up. The common way this is done is to put a patch over the good eye for a time. This is called 'eye patching'.
The length of time an eye patch is used, and how long it should be used each day can vary. It depends on the age of the child and how bad the amblyopia has become. Basically, treatment is continued until vision is normal, or until there is no further improvement with continued treatment. This may be for several weeks or for several months. The child is then monitored every now and then up to the age of about eight to check that the eye remains 'in use' and is not becoming amblyopic again. Sometimes spells of 'maintenance' treatment are needed up to the age of eight when the vision pathways are mature and fixed.
Sometimes eye drops or special glasses are used to blur the good eye instead of using an eye patch. Again, this forces the child to use the amblyopic eye to see.
Vision therapy is also sometimes used. In particular, as maintenance treatment. For example, playing 'visually demanding' games with a child which require a lot of use of the affected eye."

Amblyopia Diagnosis:

2008-01-06T20:32:00.000Z

"How common is amblyopia?

About 1 in 25 children develop some degree of amblyopia.

How is amblyopia diagnosed and assessed?

Amblyopia can be diagnosed by examining the eyes and testing vision. Different techniques are used to test vision, depending on the age of the child. Also, in particular, children with squint are monitored carefully to see if amblyopia develops.
Children in the UK are usually offered a routine pre-school or school-entry vision check. One of the main reasons for this is to detect amblyopia whist it is still treatable. However, even if your child has had an eye check in the past, tell your doctor if you suspect that vision in one or both eyes has become poor.
A baby or child with a suspected amblyopia is usually referred to an orthoptist. An orthoptist is a health professional who is specially trained to assess and manage children with squint and amblyopia. If necessary, an orthoptist will refer a child to an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) for further assessment and treatment."

What Disorders Can Cause Amblyopia

2008-01-06T20:30:00.000Z

"What disorders can cause amblyopia?

Various eye disorders can cause amblyopia. The three main causes are as follows:

Squint (strabismus)
A squint is a condition where the eyes do not look in the same direction. That is, when one eye looks straight ahead the other eye is pointing inwards, outward, up or down. As the eyes are not straight (aligned) they focus on different points or objects. Because of this, the brain ignores the signals coming from one of the eyes to avoid seeing double. So, just one eye is used to focus on objects. Most cases of squint occur in early childhood - the critical time when the brain is learning to see.
In some cases of squint, the vision in each eye remains fine. In these cases the eye that is used to focus switches from time to time. Therefore, the visual pathways develop from each eye. In many cases of squint, one eye remains the dominant focusing eye. The other 'turned' eye is not used to focus and the brain ignores the signals from this eye. This non-dominant eye then fails to develop the normal visual pathways in childhood and amblyopia develops.

Refractive errors - particularly anisometropia
Refractive errors include: short sight (myopia), long sight (hypermetropia) and astigmatism. These are conditions that are due to poor focusing of light through the lens in the eye. If you have a refractive error in one eye, often the other eye is the same. However, a situation called anisometropia means that there is a difference of refraction in the two eyes.

For example, a child may be much more longsighted on one eye compared to the other. In this situation, the brain tends to ignore the signals coming from the eye with the worst refractive error (in this case, the eye that is most longsighted). Amblyopia may then develop in this eye.

Refractive errors can usually be corrected with glasses. However, unless vision is tested, a parent or guardian may not realise that their child has a refractive error. In particular, if the child has anisometropia and one eye is 'not bad' with good enough vision to to get by with. Without anyone realising, amblyopia may be developing in the eye not being used. Therefore, Early Eye tests are recommended. Even if there are no complaints from the child.

Other disorders that prevents clear vision
Any disorder in a young child that prevents good vision can lead to amblyopia as the brain fails to learn the visual pathways. For example, a cataract in a lens of an eye or a scarred cornea stops light getting to the back of the eye. This is why it is important to remove a cataract in a child as early as possible."