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Floaters are dark specks in the form of dots, circles, lines or cobwebs that appear to move across the field of vision. They are particularly noticeable when one is looking at a light-coloured background such as a clear sky or a white wall. Floaters come in many sizes and numbers, and they appear to move when the eye looks in different directions.

WHAT CAUSES FLOATERS?

The inside of the eye is filled with a clear, gel-like substance called the vitreous. The retina is a thin, light-sensitive tissue that covers the inside back portion of the eye and works like the film in a camera. Floaters are small clumps of gel that form in the vitreous. Although they appear to be in front of the eye, they are actually floating in the vitreous and are seen as shadows by the retina.

The appearance of floaters may cause concern, especially if they develop suddenly. However, they are usually of little importance. The vitreous pushs up against the retina like air pushs on the wall of a balloon. As we get into our fifties and up the vitreous shrinks and often separates from the retina. By the age of 50 years the vitreous has separated from the retina in about 50% of all people. As the vitreous detaches, it causes floaters. At first the floaters may be quite annoying, but the brain gradually learns to ignore them, and after several months they are hardly noticed. 

If you get flashes that are followed by a shower of dots that do not move or go away you shoud see your optometrist that same day.

WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT FLOATERS?

Floaters may sometimes interfere with clear vision, often when one is reading. If a floater appears directly in your line of vision, move your eye around; this will cause the vitreous to swirl around and will move the floater out of your way. Looking up and down rather than back and forth will cause different currents inside the eye and may be more effective in getting the floater out of the way.

WHAT ARE FLASHING LIGHTS?

Flashing lights are the sensation of lights going on and off, noticed particularly off to one side. They tend to occur in only one eye at a time and persist even when the eye is closed.

WHAT CAUSES FLASHING LIGHTS?

The vitreous, a clear gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye, sometimes pulls or tugs on the retina. This pulling causes the appearance of flashing lights or lightning streaks, though there is no flashing light actually present. This same sensation sometimes occurs when one is hit in the eye and sees "stars".

This commonly happens as people grow older and usually is not cause for alarm.

Flashes of light that appear as jagged lines, last 10 to 50 minutes and are present in both eyes are likely migraine caused by a spasm of blood vessels in the brain. Sometimes this occurs only in one eye.  If a headache follows, it is called a migraine headache. If there is no subsequent headache, the light flashes are referred to as ophthalmic migraine, or migraine without headache. If your symptoms fully resolve in 1 hour than it is likely not a retinal problem.

SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED?

Most of the time the vitreous separates from the retina without causing any problems. Occasionally, flashing lights are associated with many new floaters and even a blacking out of part of the field of vision. If this occurs, immediate examination by an eye doctor is important to determine whether a retinal tear or retinal detachment has developed. Retinal tears require treatment to prevent the retina from detaching. Retinal detachment is a serious problem that must be repaired surgically.

In summary, floaters and flashing lights usually do not indicate any serious eye problem. If a large number develop or if they seem to be much worse over a period of time, an examination by an eye doctor is recommended. The examination involves careful observation of the retina and vitreous.

When in doubt check it out!

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360º Comprehensive Eye Test

More than meets the eye!

A 360º comprehensive eye exam not only checks your vision but involves a thorough examination of your eyes’ health. Sparks & Feros Optometrists take the time to make sure that your glasses or contact lenses accurately prescribed. We also work to ensure that any eye conditions requiring treatment are referred in timely and efficient manner.

Our aim is to help you enjoy a lifetime of healthy eyesight and comfortable vision.

See Better.  See Us.

A 360º comprehensive eye consultation covers all the below points. Click here for a detailed brochure. 

Understanding You

Eye Health

We examine the internal and external health of your eyes at length through a series of procedures using the latest technology, checking for signs of eye disease, UV damage and other general health conditions including diabetes.

Eye Focusing

The sharpness of your vision will be tested at multiple distances to identify your need for, or any changes in eyewear to correct problems such as blurry vision. This is then translated into your eyewear or contact lens prescription.

Eye Coordination

We assess how well your eyes work together as a team. Misalignment can be cause double vision, fatigue and headaches as well as problems with learning.

Eye Protection

We discuss your workplace and leisure eye safety needs, including quality UV and glare protection to determine eyewear or contacts that best suit your lifestyle.

Advice on Lenses

Not all spectacle lenses are created equal. Our optometrists recommend the latest lens technology to give you best vision possible. Whilst we love frames, we believe that the lenses you see through are vitally important, accordingly we will discuss the best spectacle lens design that best suits your work, sporting activities and hobbies.

Contact Lenses

We will provide preliminary advice on your suitability for contact lenses now or in the future as part of a flexible eyewear solution.

Health & Lifestyle

Understanding the impact of diet and lifestyle on your eye health and vision is vital to maintaining lifelong vision and we will provide the appropriate advice for you.

Eye Medications

Where required, we can arrange for medication to treat eye conditions or refer you for more specialised medical treatment. We have therapeutically qualified optometrists that can prescribe certain eye care medication if needed.

Total Solution & Eyecare Plan

Our 360 degree eye examination includes a thorough check of your vision and the health of your eyes. This test enables us to determine the type of eyewear or contact lenses that will optimise vision and best suit your lifestyle. Sparks & Feros have been looking after the vision needs of their patients since 1984.

Our professional and experienced team are there to ensure you have the very best eye care possible.

To make an appointment call us on 02 9872 1555 or book online here.

A 30 minute eye exam could save your sight

Most Australians rate loss of sight as their number one health concern, and nearly two thirds of the population are more fearful of going blind than losing a limb or having a heart attack. Yet, more than 4 million Australians have not had a recent eye check and more than one million have never had an eye exam.

Sparks & Feros 2017 “Prevent Vision Loss” campaign is about increasing public awareness of the risks of not having regular eye exams and as a reminder that it might be time to schedule an appointment today! We recommend an eye- check at east every 2 years.

Most people will only visit the optometrist when they notice a change in their vision or suffer some form of eye irritation. However, many serious conditions have no early symptoms. Often, vision loss is only apparent in the latter stages of the disease when significant damage has already occurred.

Early detection

The key to maintaining your eye health is early detection, this is important to the successful treatment of many vision threatening eye problems.

Our “Prevent Vision Loss” campaign encourages people to schedule an eye examination today, the test which usually takes around 30mins may well save your vision in the future. Sparks & Feros Optometrists have the skill and the latest diagnostic tests to complete your 360 degree comprehensive eye consultation.

Having your eyes checked in this way best safeguards against vision loss as early detection is vital to the effective treatment of eye disease.

The 360 degree eye examination includes a thorough check of your vision and health of your eyes as well recommendations on the best recommendations for eyewear or contact lenses that best suit your lifestyle and give you optimal vision. Sparks & Feros have been looking after the vision needs of residents in Carlingford and surrounding areas since 1984. Our professional and experienced team are there to ensure you have the very best eye care possible.

To make an appointment call us on 02 9872 1555 or book online here.

Information sourced from: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW); Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2011–12 National Health Survey (NHS); Line of Sight blueprint by Optometry Australia; Vision Australia; www.aihw.gov.au/hospitals/surgery-2010-11; www.visioneyeinstitute.com.au/article/facts-eye-health-australia/

Corneal Topography

You can now have a scan of the surface of your eye to provide accurate assessment for dry eye.

The Corneal Topographer creates a computer generated image of the surface of your eye checking for conditions that may affect your vision.

Early detection and treatment can help you save protect your eye sight, even if you aren’t experiencing any vision problems.

This test is safe, painless and easy to complete.

To make an appointment call us on 02 9872 1555 or book online here.

HUMPHREY’S eyewear is refreshing, colourful and authentic. The international brand is exemplary of unconventional looks, inspired by urban street style.

Fashion-inspired young and young-at-heart people love the uncomplicated collections, with which they are able to create individual looks.

Because life simply is colourful. Everyone has their favourites and sets their own style priorities. This is why it is important that there are trend pieces such as frames and sunglasses from HUMPHREY’S eyewear.

They are fashion-oriented and at the same time offer maximum scope for individual style. Designed for people who have a mind of their own and are happy to show this outwardly.

With its diversity, HUMPHREY’S eyewear supports the trend towards second or third pairs of spectacles. For why settle for a single style when so much is possible?

To have a variety spectacles to choose from in much the same way as is taken for granted when choosing an outfit, is what HUMPHREY’S eyewear is striving for with every collection.

Brad Pitt wore a pair of iconic Titan Minimal Art glasses to the New York premiere of his new film, “The Big Short “. This Golden Globe nominated film, starring Brad Pitt and Silhouette Premium Eyewear, is currently being shown in select US theaters and will be released nationwide in January 2016.

About Silhouette

What began in 1964 as a vision of glasses as a decorative device is today the world’s leading brand of light and high quality glasses – Silhouette. This is the brand of the world’s lightest glasses, made with great attention to detail, a large proportion of work by hand, an individual design approach and the use of the best materials and the latest technology. Made in Austria, they are exported to 100 countries worldwide. In 1999, Silhouette revolutionized the eyeglass world with its Titan Minimal Art glasses, which weigh only 1.8 grams, without screws, hinges or rims. Silhouette glasses have gone into space 35 times with astronauts; and they travel around the globe with the Vienna Philharmonic as well as with a number of celebrities from entertainment, business and politics.

Australia is said to have the highest summer UV and skin cancer levels in the world. This is due to our close proximity to the equator and other factors.  Even in winter our UV levels can still be very high. High levels of UV can damage our skin but also can cause severe eye problems such as Pteriygums, Cataracts and retinal damage.

If you are planning a day outdoors remember to check the Daily UV Index so you can select the best protection for skin and eyes.

UV and your Eyes

Before venturing outdoors you can check the Bureau of Meteorology’s UV index forecast. You should also download the SunSmart App for iPhone or Android (provided by SunSmart Victoria). This allows you to check UV levels across the country and alerts warning of high UV levels. Try to stay out of the sun on high risk days and/or wear high protection sunglasses and use other sun smart measures such as UV-protective clothing, lip balm, hats and sunscreen, which is now available in SPF50+ for best sun protection.

According to Cancer Council Australia, every year more than 300 Australians are diagnosed with eye and conjunctival cancers. The more you expose your eyes to the sun without proper protection, the more ‘layers’ of UVR damage occurs leading to a higher of developing problems including:

• Increased sensitivity to strong light
• Photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea)
• Pterygium (a growth on the eye membrane over the conjunctiva and cornea)
• Cataracts (clouding of the eye lens, a leading cause of vision impairment)
• Cancer of the eyelids (skin cancer)
• Ocular melanoma
• Conjunctival cancer (the membrane over the whites of the eye)
• Retinal problems – UVR is thought to increase the risk of developing Age-related macular degeneration. ( A leading cause of blindness in Australia).

Tips for Selecting UV-safe sunglass

• Ensure your sunglasses are labelled ‘sunglasses’ and not ‘fashion spectacles’ – check the label for AS/NZS 1067:2003 Sunglasses and Fashion Spectacle..
• Close-fitting, offering good eye coverage or with wraparound arms and curved lenses minimise UVR exposure.
• Check the label must advise the new sunglasses offer 100% UV protection.
• If you plan to use your sunglasses when driving – avoid sunglasses with labels stating: ‘must not be used for driving’ This means the lenses do not have a neutral tint and can impede your ability to identify colours – traffic lights in particular!
• Grey or brown lens colours are usually the best for natural colour perception. Orange and yellow increase contrast and depth perception but will distort your colour perception.
• Polarised lenses are best for reducing high levels of glare of reflective surfaces. And are useful for beach, snow and water sports. They also offer excellent clarity of vision for reducing glare when driving. 

Sunglass Lens Categories

Under AS/NZS 1067:2003, sunglasses and fashion spectacles are classified as one of the following:

Lens category 1: Fashion spectacles

Only provide limited sun glare reduction and UV protection. Note: even though they have a very light tint -  a category 1 lenses are not suitable for driving at night.

Lens category 2: Sunglasses

These sunglasses provide a medium level of sun glare reduction and good UV protection.

Lens category 3: Sunglasses

Similar to category 2, these sunglasses provide a good level of UV protection. Lens category 3 glasses also provide a high level of sun glare reduction.

Lens category 4: Sunglasses

These are special-purpose sunglasses that provide a very high level of sun glare reduction and good UV protection. Never wear them while driving.

Look for a lens category of at least 2 or preferably 3.

Sunglass specials at Sparks & Feros

Our great deal of 20% off a wide range of designer sunglasses is still available at Sparks & Feros for the latest in sunglass designs and technology come in at try on them on – in store now!

The skin around your eyes is extremely delicate. UV radiation can damage the skin causing premature aging, sun spots and wrinkles, and can even lead to the development of skin cancer.

UV rays are harmful in clear or cloudy weather, and UV damage is cumulative, meaning that it builds up over time without you even being aware of it.

Protecting your eyes and the skin around your eyes everyday is essential to safeguard your long-term vision and eye health.

Wear Crizal Lenses

Did you know that up to 50% of UV radiation penetrating the eyes is reflected off the back surface of the prescription glasses? Most clear prescription lenses claiming UV protection only reduce the transmission of UV through the front of the lens.

Only Crizal UV prescription lenses have been developed by Essilor to provide you with the maximum level of UV protection for clear or Transitions® prescription lenses from the front & back. They protect your eyes from UV by reducing the amount of UV radiation reaching them from the front, through the lens, and also from the sides and behind, by minimising reflected UV rays.

Crizal UV lenses are the only prescription lenses endorsed by Cancer Council, and provide the maximum level of UV protection available for your eyes in clear or Transitions® prescription lenses.

Other Benefits

As well as providing the maximum level of UV protection Crizal UV lenses also offers protection against the 5 enemies of clear vision.

1. Reflections
   Crizal UV lenses reduce the appearance of reflections to improve vision quality, confidence and comfort at all times, even at night when reflections from lights can affect your ability to see clearly whilst driving.
2. Dust
   Crizal UV lenses repel dust and dirt to ensure clear vision is achieved in all environments and weather conditions, and to help protect against scratching and damage.
3. Scratches
   Crizal UV lenses enhance durability by being scratch resistance to protect you against everyday wear and tear.
4. Water
   Crizal UV lenses repel water and most other liquids, so their surface remains as dry and clear as possible in wet conditions, providing the best vision possible.
5. Smudges
   Crizal UV lenses disband grease and grime to reduce the appearance of smudges including fingerprints, so they stay cleaner for longer, are easy to wipe clean, making them hassle free to wear.

Ready to start using Crizal UV lenses?

Speak to us today on 02 9872 1555 or leave us a message online here!

Early Detection is the Key!

Our all new Optomap Ultra-Wide Field Retinal Scan is fast and easy for all ages, and is well in advance of standard digital imaging, detecting diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal tears and diabetes. Images are shown instantly on the computer allowing us to review with you on-the-spot.

For a limited time only, we are offering this special scan to you for FREE!*

Book an appointment online
or call 02 9872 1555 for more details

*Offer available until 31st December 2014. Optomap Imaging Normal Gap Payment: $48 (Students & Pensioners $35)