You might have heard about the dangers of the blue light that comes from our device screens. But, what does blue light from phone, tablet and computer screens really mean for our eye health? And, how can we minimise the damage?

What is blue light?

Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum, which is part of the larger electromagnetic spectrum. What we call 'blue light' is actually a very small section of the spectrum, which is right next to ultraviolet light.

Like ultraviolet light, blue light can have a powerful effect on our bodies. This is because it has the shortest wavelengths on the visible spectrum which means it produces a high amount of energy.

Where does blue light come from?

Blue light occurs naturally, in the sun's rays. Therefore, articles about blue light being 'dangerous' can be misleading. The natural levels of blue light found in the sun are completely safe.

However, in modern society, there are far more and far stronger sources of blue light than human eyes are used to. All device screens emit blue light, this includes, phones, tablets, computers and televisions. Blue light is also found in the light from artificial light sources such as LED lights and fluorescent lights.

How does blue light affect your eye health?

Blue light is known to flicker more than other colours due to its extra high energy wavelength. This flickering causes eyestrain, which causes pain and dryness in the eyes. Eyestrain often turns into headaches and feelings of fatigue.

There is also evidence that blue light exposure may increase the risk of macular degeneration. The human eye shape is not very good at blocking blue light from penetrating the eye. This means that large amounts of blue light can damage light-sensitive cells in the retina, which could lead to vision loss.

How to protect your eyes from blue light

There are a few ways you can protect your eyes from excess blue light:

• Use 'night mode' or the equivalent on your phone or computer. This changes the tone of your screen to use more orange and red colours. It is mainly used to prevent blue light exposure at night from disrupting your circadian rhythm. If your computer does not have this option, try the free software - f.lux
• Turn down the brightness on your device, especially at night. Research has shown that dimming your screen is more effective at preventing eye strain and headaches than just using the 'night mode' to curb the blue in your screen. Using both together is best.
• Where possible, use soft warm lighting in your home. Choose globes that have a warm rather than white light, and avoid using fluorescent lights if possible.
• Take regular breaks from your computer screen, if you work in front of a computer. Go outside, if possible, and look into the distance. Don't spend this time on your mobile phone. If your office has harsh fluorescent lighting these short breaks are especially important.
• Try blue light blocking glasses to protect your eyes when using the computer. These glasses have orange or red toned lenses to block the blue light from reaching your eye. Some brands of blue blocking glasses offer prescription lens options.

We recommend Blue Light Blocking Glasses

They are assembled here in Sydney and focus on functionality and style while remaining affordable. Blue Light glasses are available in prescription and non-prescription options.  With so many styles and colours to choose from, you are sure to find the right pair for you!

Since The Great British Bake Off aired in the UK our customers have been asking us a lot about "Prue Leith glasses"!

Throughout the series Prue had been wearing some rather bright and colourful glasses, clothes and accessories to match. To answer the question on everyone's lips - the eyewear brand she had been wearing is Ronit Furst!

About Ronit Furst

Each one of their frames is hand painted. This is what gives Ronit Furst the freedom to produce almost every pattern and color combination that we (or rather Ronit) can imagine. Looking closely one can actually see the paintbrush strokes and the texture of the paint, just like a painting on canvas. After the painting is done the frame undergo a special coating procedure, which will give it it's finished look – crystal shiny or sandy matt – and which also protects the painting from dirt and other unwanted effects.

The frames are designed to look different from every angle, with fine detail and tiny embellishments, graduated color schemes and asymmetric designs. The ethos of the range is to create quirky, individual styles that capture the wearer's personality.

Which Ronit Furst glasses does Prue Leith wear on The Great British Bake Off?

Reliable sources tell us that Prue's glasses were models 5060-33, 5060-J1, 5024-17 and 5060-J3.

All of them do come in a range of colours so if you like that style she was wearing but want it in another colour then that is available.

Where can I get them?

Right here at Sparks & Feros Optometrists!

Come in store to check out the latest Ronit Furst eyewear! Contact us on 02 9872 1555 or click here to book your eye test now.

Macular disease is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia¹. It includes age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, along with other less common diseases of the macula. The macula is the name given to the area at the very centre of the retina. This region is responsible for detailed central vision and most colour vision. It is responsible for the ability to read, recognise faces, drive a car, see colours clearly and any other activity that requires fine vision.

Many people in our community are at risk of developing macular disease but just don’t know it. Those over 50 are at higher risk of age-related macular degeneration¹, and everyone with diabetes is at risk of developing vision loss from retinopathy².

It’s essential to have a regular eye test including a macula check, as you can have the early stages of the disease without knowing. If you’re at risk, Macula Month is the perfect time to have your eyes tested by an optometrist.

Also, no matter what your age, if you have sudden changes in your vision you need to have your eyes tested immediately.

Macula Month is an initiative of Macular Disease Foundation Australia. Chief Executive Officer, Dee Hopkins, said that in addition to having your eyes tested, she wanted the community to learn more about macular disease.

“Knowledge is definitely power in the defence against macular disease, so it’s imperative Australians learn what they can do to minimise their risk. This can be as simple as eating an eye friendly diet and modifying or managing lifestyle choices.

“Macular Disease Foundation Australia is committed to supporting the community through offering expert health information and advice through our free publications and via our toll-free Helpline,” said Dee.

Optometry Australia Chief Executive Officer, Lyn Brodie says, “Optometry is at the front line of eye care in Australia. With the prevalence of macular disease expected to rise^1,3, we fully support Macular Disease Foundation Australia’s efforts in raising awareness during Macula Month.”

Is it time to get your eyes tested?

Book Online Now

About Macula Month – 1 to 31 May 2018

Macula Month is an initiative of Macular Disease Foundation Australia and runs for the month of May. It is an annual campaign designed to raise awareness of macular disease, which includes age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, along with other less common diseases of the macula. Macular disease is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Australia. Macula Month 2018 calls on Australians to reduce their risk of developing macular disease by following three simple steps. Step 1: See your optometrist for an eye test including a macula check; Step 2: Adopt an eye healthy diet and lifestyle; Step 3: Order a free information kit. To order a kit or find out more contact Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australians over 50, with 1.29 million people having some evidence of the disease¹. Age-related macular degeneration causes progressive loss of central vision, leaving the peripheral or side vision intact.

Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease refers to a range of conditions, the most common being diabetic retinopathy. Over one million Australian adults have been diagnosed with diabetes. Nearly as many are believed to have diabetes but are undiagnosed. The prevalence of diabetes is climbing rapidly posing major public health and economic concerns³. Diabetes can result in a number of serious complications including diabetic eye disease. Most people with type 1 diabetes and over 60% of people with type 2 diabetes will develop diabetic eye disease within 20 years of diagnosis. The significant increase in diabetes prevalence is expected to increase the number of people with diabetic eye disease³. Early diagnosis and intervention can dramatically reduce vision loss.

About Macular Disease Foundation Australia

Macular Disease Foundation Australia’s (MDFA) vision is to reduce the incidence and impact of macular disease in Australia through education, awareness, research, support services and representation. It is a national charity providing independent, free, expert advice on preventing and living well with macular disease.

For more information call 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au

About Optometry Australia

Optometry Australia is the peak professional body for optometrists. Optometry Australia’s focus is to lead and advance the profession of optometry by putting eye-health front and centre of Australian health care.

For more information on optometry services in Australia visit www.optometry.org.au

References:

1. ‘Eyes on the future - A clear outlook on age-related macular degeneration’. Report by Deloitte Access Economics & Macular Degeneration Foundation, 2011. 2018 prevalence estimates are derived from a straight line extrapolation between 2015 and 2020 estimates in this report.
2. Guidelines for the Management of Diabetic Retinopathy. NHMRC 2008.
3. “Out of Sight – A Report into Diabetic Eye Disease in Australia”. Baker IDI and Centre for Eye Research Australia 2013.

As drivers, we are very focused on safety, it's a must-have. Whilst we are concerned about our car's safety features, we often don't think about the major influential factor in crashes: human error.

We know that vision is the most important sense for making decisions on the road. Poor vision is a contributor to road accidents, and yet it's a risk every driver can easily reduce by following the 'Check Your Vision' 3-step Golden Rule below:

1. Check your vision regularly
2. Protect your eyes from glare
3. Wear your glasses on the road

How Sparks & Feros can help

Today, we have more options and technologies than ever before to help you stay safe on the road.

Talk to us about the ways we can help.

Contact us on 02 9872 1555 or click here to book your eye test now.

What foods are important to keep your eyes healthy?

1. Dark Leafy Vegetables
   Kale, spinach, silverbeet
   High in Lutein and Zeaxanthin
2. Oily Fish and Seafood
   Salmon, mackerel, anchovies, trout, herring, sardines and to a lesser degree, tuna
   High in Omega-3 and Zinc
3. Nuts
   Almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, pine nuts, pecans and pistachios
   High in Vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium
4. Fruit and Vegetables
   Citrus fruit, berries, tomato, capsicum
   High in Vitamin C

Want to discuss your eye health in more detail? Contact us on 02 9872 1555 or click here to book your eye test now.

Please consult your doctor before undertaking any changes in diet or lifestyle.

Are you currently Experiencing Digital Eyestrain?

TALK TO US ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF DYNAMIC – SYNC GLASSES

Today, the majority of us are looking at digital screens for 5+ hours per day*, resulting in eye fatigue and digital eye strain.

Dynamic Sync lenses are specifically designed for people who require glasses to see clearly in the distance, yet spend long periods of time looking at near objects such as digital screens. With Dynamic Sync lenses, you'll enjoy comfortable, clear vision all day long; with less eye fatigue and eye strain. Ask about Dynamic Sync lenses today!

Tips that may also help reduce digital eyestrain

1 in 7 people over 50 have some evidence of macular degeneration, an alarming statistic given the rapidly ageing Australian population.

That’s why Sparks & Feros Optometrists is supporting Macular Disease Foundation Australia in urging Carlingford and nearby residents to visit for regular eye tests and macula checks, as they are critical to detect macular degeneration which occurs at the back of the eye. You can have the early signs without knowing, even before symptoms occur.

Risk factors include age, a direct family history and smoking. Almost 1.2 million Australians over 50 have some evidence of macular degeneration, making it Australia’s leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness. Without appropriate prevention and treatment measures, this number is set to increase to 1.7 million by 20301.

Early detection is key to saving sight, as the very early signs of macular degeneration can now be easily identified with an eye test. Early diagnosis gives the best opportunity to save sight by adopting nutrition and lifestyle practices and timely access to treatment.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia Chief Executive Officer Julie Heraghty says the cost of vision loss is too high. “This is a chronic disease and I urge you to make an eye test part of the normal health routine for you and your family.

“If you notice any sudden changes in your vision it is essential to seek medical attention urgently. The ‘wet’ form of macular degeneration can progress very quickly and requires rapid treatment to save sight. An Amsler grid can also be used to self monitor for changes in vision between professional appointments and is available free from the Foundation,” said Ms Heraghty.

For more information or a free Amsler grid call Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au

Migraines are caused by inflammation - inflammatory substances are released deep inside the brain and around the blood vessels of the head and brain resulting in migraine symptoms.

Virtually everyone will suffer a migraine attack at some point in their life.

Your first migraine experience can be frightening- the sudden loss of vision preceding an attack followed by flashing lights is often sudden and alarming. Visual symptoms include vision loss, waving lines and sensation of flashing lights. This is often followed by a nasty headache that can cause nausea and sensitivity to light and noise.

Not all migraines are the same

Typical migraines – can include an aura, which can involve flashing lights and blind spots in your field of vision.

Ocular “Eye” migraines - can occur with or without the accompanying headache.

Retinal or ocular migraines are caused by the same inflammation as in typical migraines. Inflammatory substances are released deep inside the brain and around the blood vessels of the head and brain. While both Ocular and Typical migraines affect vision, ocular migraines usually only affect one eye. It is more common for ocular migraine sufferers to have some family history of migraine headaches.

What causes ocular migraine?

The primary cause of ocular migraine is genetics. If you have a family history of migraine headaches, then you have a much higher chance of becoming a migraine sufferer.

It is also thought that migraines may be related to blood vessel constriction or spasms of the retinal blood vessels. The retina is a fine film of neural tissue at the back of your eye that enables us to see. You can check to see if the problem is affecting one eye or both by covering each eye alternately. 

Eye strain may be a contributing factor.

Eye Strain

Eye strain may be a contributing factor to the onset of a migraine.

Your eyes can become strained and fatigued from a range of visual activities including:-

• Computer Screen Work
• Glare from fluorescent or ambient lighting
• Driving for long periods
• TV viewing.

All of the above activities can result in visual fatigue a possible cause for migraines.

An eye examination will reveal if you need a particular type of spectacles to reduce eye fatigue during these activities. 

If you have experienced some visual disturbances or unusual vision symptoms, we recommend that you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrists. In this way we can rule out vision-threatening conditions such as a detached retina. If you are concerned or have any questions regarding migraines please call us 9872 1555 to make an appointment.

A recent AREDS II  study in the US confirms the strong link between the use of antioxidants and the control of Macular Degeneration (MD). Antioxidants and supplements that include zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamins A, C and E and copper were found to help lower the risk for MD or slow down its progression.

Other nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids or “good fats,” which are particularly prevalent in cold-water fish, also had a protective effect against advanced macular degeneration. Meanwhile, avoid omega-6 fatty acids, prevalent in vegetable oils, and all processed Canola products which have been linked to an increased risk of developing MD.

Don't wait until it's too late - find out how you can prevent or slow down Macular Degeneration by speaking to one of our professional team of Optometrists.

Click here to book your eye test now to check for macular degeneration or give us a ring on 02 9872 1555

Salmon is good for your vision!

Salmon is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which aids in the prevention of macular degeneration (AMD) and dry eyes. Salmon also contains selenium, which when combined with carotenoids and Vitamins C and E, may reduce the risk of AMD.

Salmon is also a great source of niacin, which helps reduce the risk of cataracts. If you love salmon, you will be happy to know it is recommended to consume salmon or other oily fish such as tuna 3-4 times per week.

Here's a recipe we love to get you started!

Warm potato and salmon salad

Ingredients

• 1 kg baby new potatoes
• 500 g salmon fillets
• 1 cup(240 grams) sour cream
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh dill
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 100 g baby spinach leaves