Dry Eye Management

A guide to dry eye management options

Here at Woodfall’s we are being asked more and more often by our patients to offer advice around dry and uncomfortable eyes.

DEFINITION

Our tears are made up of three layers, a mucin base layer, a watery or aqueous layer which is the bulk of the tear film and a lipid or oily front layer.

There are two types of dry eye disease:

• Aqueous deficient dry eye: This is when your eyes don’t produce enough tears.
• Evaporative dry eye: This is when your tears evaporate too quickly.

Some people have aqueous tear deficiency and tear instability.

Dry eye disease is a pathological condition which is why it is classified as a disease; Dry eye involves many eye surface changes caused by tear dysfunction.

D.E.D. CANNOT BE CURED BUT MUST BE CAREFULLY MANAGED

COMMON SYMPTOMS

• Stinging
• Burning
• Scratchy sensation
• Watery eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Red eyes
• Stringy mucus
• Foreign body sensation
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Difficulty with night vision
• General fatigue or blurred vision

SOME CAUSES OF SYMPTOMS

• Natural ageing changes
• Using devices
• Contact lens wear
• Eye surgery
• Some eye conditions
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Diabetes
• Hormonal imbalances
• Skin conditions
• Certain medications
• General fatigue

NEXT STEPS

STEP 1: Fees
Diagnostic consultation  £85
Per treatment                   £85

Activa mask                       £35
Eyeplan                              £25 per month*

STEP 2: Diagnosis
Once we have identified your dry eye concern, we will schedule a full dry eye diagnosis using our Idra device to provide an individual analysis of your tear film, delivering a fast and detailed structure of your tear composition. This helps identify the type of dry eye disease that is present, and the best treatment to prescribe.

STEP 3: Treatment
You will be offered options for treatment; this may be a basic package of takeaway products such as a heat mask and dry eye drops or a procedure to stimulate the meibomian glands which is painless and usually takes around 20-30 minutes. We’ll offer you treatment immediately, ideally on the day of your diagnosis.

STEP 4: Follow up
You will feel the benefits of our prescribed treatment within hours, depending on the treatment you receive and the nature of your condition, you will need to return for a repeat treatment and management plans.

TREATMENT – TEARSTIM

TEARSTIM: THE PROCESS
The treatment only takes a few minutes. You sit comfortably in a chair. Our dry eye specialist covers your eyes with eye protector shells. A special gel is applied below the eyes. A series of 10 light pulses is aimed at the region below the eyes. They are painless and non-invasive. The series is repeated in the same way on the lower eyelid of the other eye.

TEARSTIM: HOW IT WORKS
The application restores the normal activity of the meibomian gland, with very rapid improvement for your eyes within hours of the application. The effect lasts a few days at the beginning. In total, the treatment comprises three to four sessions, following that, the effect will last from a period of 6 months to 3 years. An annual booster session in the form of a single treatment is recommended.
It is advised you have three rounds of treatment for long-lasting results of over 3 years (optional fourth round if patient still symptomatic):

• Day 1: First round of treatment
• Day 15: Second round of treatment
• Day 45: Third round of treatment
• Day 75: Fourth round of treatment
• It is advised for the patient to have additional 1 session treatment 1x a year if symptoms return.

TREATMENT – ACTIVA

ACTIVA: THE PROCESS
The Activa device combines eyelid heating and vibrating massage to stimulate meibomian glands by applying heat at a very specific temperature using a unique eye mask worn in the consulting room under supervision of our trained dry eye specialist.

ACTIVA: HOW IT WORKS
This innovative eye-mask provides a complete heating and automatic squeezing technology in a fast and painless single device, effective on meibomian glands dysfunction associated with tear film evaporation.

• Unclog glands
• Melting the meibum
• Restore natural meibum flow
• Better pathology management
• Increase glands functionality

PLEASE NOTE: OUR DRY EYE CLINIC IS CURRENTLY ONLY AVAILABLE AT OUR CRYSTAL PALACE BRANCH

Eyeplan

We all know how important it is to look after our eyes; after all, we only have one pair and they need to last our lifetime.

Eyeplan is a comprehensive eye care package designed to provide you with access to the very best of eye care at an affordable price.

As a member of Eyeplan, you are entitled to a series of benefits designed to take care of your eye health and what’s more, we can open up a whole new world of innovative designer frames and lenses at excellent prices – as many as you want! Just look around our practices to see the savings!

When do the benefits start?

You’re registered as soon as your first payment is made. If you have a problem with your vision or eyes then don’t delay – have it checked out. You can also purchase anything you need from us at our very special prices.

Eyeplan benefits at Woodfall

Group practices include:
• An annual full personalised eye examination including an OCT eye scan (where applicable). This offers a complete ocular health check and early detection for better protection against glaucoma, macular degeneration and other health conditions.
• Complimentary contact lens consultation, fitting and upgrade.
• Follow-up contact lens aftercare.

We also offer our members:

• 25% off complete glasses (including lenses).
• 25% off prescription and non-prescription sunglasses.
• 10% off all optical accessories.
• 10% off hearing aids.
• Interest free payments.
• Exclusive contact lens prices.
• Spectacles will be covered by the Eyeplan Accidental Damage Scheme (T&Cs apply).

What’s the Accidental Damage Scheme all about?

Had an accident with your spectacles? No need to worry – your Eyeplan membership will look after you!

Any spectacles under two years old, covered by the Eyeplan Accidental Damage Scheme, will be repaired or replaced if you damage them accidentally. There is a small excess charge depending upon the nature of the damage and the age of the spectacles.

What does Eyeplan cost?

The monthly care fee is less you think.,

Single membership is £12 per month and families from £20 per month.

Sunglasses

It’s important to protect your vision in bright sunlight – not only against glare, but also the hidden dangers of ultra-violet rays.

Over-exposure

Over-exposure to UV light can damage your eyes as well as your skin. It may lead to cataracts and can prematurely age your retina, causing reduced vision in later life.

It’s therefore essential to choose sunglasses that are not only stylish but have optical quality lenses and a UV filter.

Prescription sunglasses

If you already wear glasses, you can still wear quality sunglasses. We stock lots of designer brands – from Maui Jim to Ray Ban – which can be made up to your individual prescription. They can carry single vision, bifocal or varifocal lenses. They are also available with photochromic lenses, which have a light tint indoors, yet darken in sunlight. Modern photochromic sunglasses are comfortable to wear because they are made with fast-reacting, lightweight plastic lenses.

Styles of sunglasses

Specific situations sometime call for specific styles of sunglasses. If you do a lot of driving, or are keen on sports such as golf, cycling or watersports, there are particular frames and lenses which would help you see clearer in sunlight.

Eyecare

An eye examination could be the most important appointment of your year. If it’s your first one, let us talk you through it.

• Why is the health of your eyes important?
• What is an eye examination and do I need one?
• Some of the tests we make during your examination
• Age and vision
• Do I have to pay for an examination?
• What is retinal photography?
• What is an OCT Examination?

Why is the health of your eyes important?

Whether you’re born short-sighted or you can still see high aircraft clearly well into your 70s, everyone’s eyesight deteriorates over time. If you think you’ve reached the point where your sight is starting to affect your daily life and are, understandably, unsure of the latest options on offer, we hope this regularly updated step-by-step guide will answers a few questions.

It goes without saying we all want to look great in our new specs or contact lenses (and we can certainly help you with this) but let’s talk about your eye health first.

If you can’t find what you need here, don’t hesitate to drop us an email and we’ll get back to you within a day or two. Or give us a call – our details are in the Contact Us section.

What is an eye examination and do I need one?

There’s more to an eye examination than simply checking your vision. We also investigate the health of your eyes. This is important because serious eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, and even general health problems like diabetes and high blood pressure, may be hidden and not show any symptoms. Yet they can be detected during an eye examination and the sooner a potential problem is diagnosed, the greater the chances are of it being treated successfully.

These are some of the tests we make during your examination:

1. History and Symptoms: we first discuss any problems you might have with your eyesight and general health as many eye conditions are health-related. We also discuss your work and leisure activities to assess your visual needs.
2. Eyewear Assessment: if you already wear glasses or contact lenses, we check them to see if they are still suitable for your vision.
3. Refraction: this part of your examination finds out whether you need optical lenses to correct your eyesight. We test your near vision (for reading), your distance vision (for driving or TV) and your intermediate vision (for hobbies and or computer work).
4. Oculomotor Balance: we check that your eye muscles are co-ordinated and that you have comfortable vision at all distances.
5. Pupil Reflexes: an unusual pupil reflex may indicate neurological problems, so we check that pupils react normally to light.
6. Intraocular Pressure: too much pressure inside your eyes can indicate glaucoma, a disease that eventually leads to blindness if left untreated. This test is usually only carried out if you are over 40 or have glaucoma in your family.
7. Visual Field Test: losing your field of vision is one of the main signs of glaucoma, so where appropriate we check your all-round vision and your peripheral eyesight.
8. Ophthalmoscopy: this important test evaluates the health of your eyes. Conditions such as diabetes, cataracts, hypertension and macular degeneration can be detected and monitored by an eye examination.

After the examination, we’ll talk you through your vision and eye health and give you a copy of your optical prescription. We try and keep things in plain English, but if anything is unclear (this is medical science after all!) make sure you ask questions. Or contact us at later date if you have any nagging concerns.

Age and vision

Regular eye examinations are especially important once you enter middle age. That’s 40 onwards, in case you were wondering!

Many people in their mid-40s find they need glasses for reading, while nearly everyone will have spectacles by the time they’re 65. In later life, you’re also more likely to experience a medical problem that affects your vision. Glaucoma typically affects those over 40, while cataracts and macular degeneration mainly occurs in the over-60s.

It’s because of this that annual eye examinations are advisable for older people – and for children as well.

Do I have to pay for an eye examination?

You qualify for a free NHS-funded sight examination if:

• You are under 16
• You are under 19 and in full-time education
• You are 60 or over
• You are registered as blind or partially sighted
• You have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
• You are 40 or over and your mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter has been diagnosed with glaucoma
• You have been advised by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) that you are at risk of glaucoma
• You are a prisoner on leave from prison
• You are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optometrist (optician) can advise you about your entitlement

You are also entitled to a free NHS eye exam if you:

• Receive Income Support
• Receive Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (not Contribution-based)
• Receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• Receive Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (not Contribution-based)
• Are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
• Are named on a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)

If you are named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) you may get some help towards the cost of your eye examination.

What is an OCT scan?

OCT is the very latest in optical technology based on a camera which, through a non-invasive, non-contact examination, creates a 3D model of your eye and your optic nerve. Similar to a regular eye test, it will identify the early stages of disease (or track the results of treatments you have received previously).

As well as being more precise than traditional retinal photography, the bespoke models of your eye also mean that we will be able to prescribe some of the latest contact lenses which will fit more snugly to the contours of your cornea.

What is an Optopmap scan?

Optomap is the only scan that captures more than 80% of your retina in one panoramic image. The unique Optomap ultra-wide view helps detect early signs of retinal disease more effectively and efficiently than with traditional eye exams alone.
The exam is fast and pain-free and nothing touches your eye.

Why choose enhanced eyecare

Benefits of an optomap Image

The benefits of having an optomap ultra-widefield retinal image taken are:

– optomap facilitates early protection from vision impairment or blindness

– Early detection of life-threatening diseases like cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease

The unique optomap ultra-widefield view helps your eye care practitioner detect early signs of retinal disease more effectively and efficiently than with traditional eye exams.

Early detection means successful treatments can be administered and reduces the risk to your sight and health.

GLASSES

Frames

Here at the R Woodfall group of opticians, the Optometrist who tested your eyes will hand you over to one of our qualified Dispensing Opticians who will be able to offer you the best possible advice when it comes to choosing a new pair of glasses (or contact lenses).

Your choice of frame needs to be right for you. It should complement both the shape of your face and your skin tone. Additionally, you may need to take into account your prescription and the type of lenses you require. This can add up to a daunting decision.

We always try to give you the best possible advice whilst respecting your budget.

We stock a large range of frames – some from well-known designers and some really interesting ‘not so well known’ brands. Quality is always important to us. In fact, all our frames come with a minimum of a one-year guarantee.

Lenses

As independent opticians we are able to prescribe lenses from all manufacturers to suit your choice of frame and budget – we aren’t tied to any particular make. Our Dispensing Opticians have an in-depth knowledge of both the latest frame and lens designs available on the market today.

Lens design is evolving all the time. There are now thinner, lighter lenses and anti-reflection coatings available that are guaranteed for two years. There have also been significant improvements in the design of varifocal lenses (if you need help with reading and driving for instance), such as personalised lenses designed specifically for your prescription.

There are also special lenses designed for most sport. So, if you ‘re partial to a spot of cycling, skiing, diving – anything really – then we can help you enjoy your passion a little more.

There are also vocational lenses available for computer use – which offer greater comfort if you are in front of a screen all day.

We’ll be more than happy to spend time discussing the choices with you.

Different types of lens

If you need both near and distance vision correction, then you are probably presbyopic – a condition which most people experience from their mid-40s onwards. The traditional solution is to use bifocals, but these have a sudden change in focus and a visible line across the lens.

Varifocal lenses are an increasingly popular alternative. Because they have a gradual change in their optical power, there is no disconcerting jump between your reading and distance vision. As a result, varifocal lenses give you better middle-distance focus. Losing the bifocal dividing line also makes varifocals look more attractive. The newest design of varifocal will offer you as close to natural vision as possible in a varifocal and is the very best in multifocal technology.

Most lenses can now have special coatings applied which enhance your vision and also improve the appearance of your glasses. Particularly popular are scratch-resistant and anti-reflection coatings.

Scratch resistant and Anti-Reflection coatings

A scratch-resistant coating will prolong the life of your lenses as it protects against everyday wear and tear. An anti-reflection coating virtually eliminates the light reflected from the surface of your lenses. Not only will this make you look better (especially as there are no reflections to get in the way of eye contact) but it will also help when driving at night because it reduces glare from oncoming headlights.

Children

Your child’s first eye examination

It is recommended that children should have their first eye examination before they start Primary School. It’s also really important that children are tested regularly as they are less likely than adults to notice that there is a problem with their sight. We can advise on how regularly after the first examination.

Research shows that one in five children has an undetected eye problem which directly impacts their ability to reach their full potential.

Should they need glasses, we have a wide selection of children’s frames designed specifically for young faces. Many have soft nose pads for extra comfort and spring hinges to stand up to the rough and tumble of the playground.

Frequently asked questions:

Is there a charge for children’s eye examinations?

Children’s eye examinations are available on the NHS for everyone under 16 (or under 19 if in full time education). If your child needs glasses, there is also an NHS contribution to the cost. We have a selection of frames which are  covered by an NHS voucher.

What happens if my child doesn’t know their letters or isn’t able to talk?

We can examine your child’s vision using a range of alternative test charts, our optometrists are experienced in dealing with children, however we cannot perform examinations on children under the age of three and recommend you seek advice from your GP if you are concerned about any vision issues, as a referral to a paediatric specialist may be required.

We also encourage parents or guardians to participate in their child’s exams, as the more you understand about their prescription and the various solutions on offer, the more you’ll be able to help them in the long-term.

What are the signs of eye problems in children?

There are many warning signs but the main ones are:

• Squinting
• Tilting head or covering one eye
• Sitting too close to the television or holding hand-held devices too close to the eyes
• Rubbing eyes excessively
• Complaining of headaches or eye pain
• Having difficulty concentrating on schoolwork

Will I be able to accompany my child during their eye examination?

Yes.  If your child is under 16 it is a legal requirement that a parent or guardian accompanies them in the examination room.

Contact Lenses

Our specialists in contact lens fitting can provide you with lenses to wear full time or for occasional wear.

Can I wear contact lenses?

Modern contact lenses are very versatile and suitable for most people. The best way to find out whether you are able to wear contact lenses and/or which contact lenses would suit your individual requirements is to make an appointment with one of our contact lens opticians or optometrists. They will examine your eyes and will talk you through which type of lens would work best for your vision and lifestyle requirements.

Types of contact lenses?

1. Daily Disposables. We can supply every brand of daily disposable lenses available today. Dailies are now the most popular lens of choice for the majority of wearers due to convenience, health and the wide range of available parameters.
2. Frequent Replacement. These lenses are worn during the day and at night are stored in a case in solution, to ensure they are clean and disinfected for the next day’s wear. After their allotted lifespan, they are thrown away and a new pair is worn.
3. Extended wear contact lenses. Depending on suitability, we can offer two or four weekly lenses that you wear for these periods continuously.
4. Rigid Gas Permeable. RGP’s took over from hard (PMMA perspex) lenses many years ago, they are still a very frequently fitted lens with many high oxygen materials available, they are simple to use and very cost effective, available as single vision, toric and multifocal.
5. Multifocal lenses. For patients requiring a prescription for near and far vision. Available as daily disposable, frequent replacement, toric and all RGP lenses.
6. Ortho-K. Contact lenses that are worn overnight for short sighted eyes so no contact lenses or glasses are required during the day. This lens type is also commonly used in myopia management. Our contact lens opticians are highly experienced in ortho-k lenses. The EYEDREAM from No7 Contact Lenses is our preferred supplier.
7. Scleral Contact Lenses. Our experienced contact lens specialists also fit scleral lenses for complex corneas (e.g. kerataconus), available as single vision, toric and multifocal. We also provide many other specialised lenses for all eye types.

Aftercare

It is essential that regular contact lens check up appointments are adhered to, these ensure that your eyes remain healthy as well as maintaining optimal clarity with your contact lenses. Regular check ups reduce the risk of contact lens related problems.

Extras

All of our lenses can be supplied through Eyeplan, our direct debit scheme. This spreads the cost with manageable monthly payments and also entitles you to special discounts only available to Eyeplan members. You will also be able to buy your spectacles and sunglasses at a 25% discount, as well as lower costing contact lenses.

Eyeplan:

• Regular 3-month supply of contact lenses with home delivery (where available).
• All aftercare appointments.
• Re-fitting/upgrading of different contact lens designs if required.
• Full enhanced eye examinations.
• 25% discount on complete spectacles.
• 10% discount on all optical accessories.
• 10% off hearing aids.
• Interest free payments.
•  Spectacles will be covered by the Eyeplan
  Accidental Damage Scheme (T&Cs apply).

Our Ortho-K fitting schedule

First visit – Anterior (front of eye) health assessment and topography (simple and painless corneal mapping).

Second visit – Collection of ortho-K lenses, insertion and removal instruction and book follow up appointment.

Third visit – Morning after first night of wear, check vision changes and corneal health.

Fourth visit – One week after previous visit, check vision changes, corneal health and re-take topography.

Fifth visit – One month after wear started. Check vision, corneal health and topography.

Please note, on occasion we may need to refit the lenses during the fitting process. Following visit five we will see you after the first three months then the next three months, then every six months thereafter, where a new pair of lenses will also be supplied.

Ortho K charges

New patient:

• Initial assessment fee: £250
• Monthly fee: £50 per month

Existing Eyedream user from another Optician

• Initial assessment fee: £250 – Includes eye examination, contact lens assessment and first pair of lenses
• Monthly fee: £50 per month

Existing ortho-K wearer from another Optician using an alternative design to Eyedream

• £175 includes 1 x replacement lens and initial appointment plus 1 x follow up 
• £60 for all subsequent aftercare

Please note: In these instances we are purely the supplier of the product

 Existing ortho-K Px from alternative supplier, changing to Eyedream 

• £250 – Includes eye examination, contact lens assessment and first pair of lenses
• £50 per month thereafter

The Hearing Care Partnership

Here at R Woodfall Opticians, we are proud to be working together with The Hearing Care Partnership to offer hearing care services to our patients. You can now book a range of hearing appointments at our practices.

Did you know?

• Men are almost twice as likely as women to have hearing loss among adults aged 20-69.
• For every line up the vision chart you go, the chance of having a problem with your hearing increases by 18%?
• By the year 2035, we estimate there’ll be around 15.6 million people with hearing loss across the UK – that’s one in five.
• Only around 40% of people who need hearing aids actually have them.

Our full hearing care service includes everything from free hearing assessments, the latest hearing aids, ear wax removal, hearing protection services and free tinnitus consultations.

How to book your Free Hearing Assessment

Hearing assessments are completely free with The Hearing Care Partnership. You’ll be looked after by one of our fully qualified audiologists, who will carry out a comprehensive evaluation of your hearing. Find out more here.

You can call your local practice or visit The Hearing Care Partnership to book online HERE.

Depending on the outcome of your hearing assessment, you may be recommended hearing aids or given other hearing care advice and support.

Ear Wax Removal

You can have an ear wax removal appointment with one of our fully qualified audiologists, using the latest and safest methods, ensuring you’re comfortable and not in pain.

There’s no time restrictions on your consultation and the ear wax removal service also includes a quick hearing health check. Find out more here.

Hearing Aids

The Hearing Care Partnership offers the very latest in hearing aids from the world’s leading hearing aid manufacturers. There is a huge variety in modern hearing aids so you can get the perfect aid to suit you. Some can be invisible or hidden and are incredibly discreet, while others pack a lot of technology into a tiny device so you can hear everything from chirping birds to your Bluetooth connected mobile device.

Features can include rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity and can even be compatible with your smartphone. Explore hearing aid technology here.

Free Tinnitus Consultations

Tinnitus affects 6 million people in the UK alone. The condition can be referred to as “ringing in the ears” but can also sound like chirping, hissing or roaring and unfortunately, there is no known “cure”. However, we can help you to find effective ways to manage tinnitus so you can continue to do all the things you love to do. Recommendations can include sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and even hearing aids.

Our tinnitus consultations with The Hearing Care Partnership are free of charge. Find out more.

How you can Protect your Hearing

While regular hearing health checks are vital, hearing protection is also important – especially if you enjoy live music or have some loud hobbies!

The Hearing Care Partnership offers a complete range of hearing protection services, including ear plugs for sleeping, swimming, motorsport, shooting and more, to help protect and preserve your hearing.
Find out more about hearing protection.

Find out more

To find more information about all our hearing services, please visit The Hearing Care Partnership website.

To make an appointment with our audiologist, you can book online HERE or call your local practice:

• East Dulwich: 020 3773 1562
• Sydenham: 020 3773 5501
• West Norwood: 020 3773 4981
• Crystal Palace: 020 8771 3601
• Purley: 020 8660 2147
• Welling: 020 8303 4963

[1] Hoffman, Dobie, Losonczy et al. “Declining Prevalence of Hearing Loss in Adults Aged 20 to 69 years” 2017.
[2] Chia,E; Arch. Opthamol. 2006
[3] Action for Hearing Loss, Facts and Figures. 2020
[4] Action for Hearing Loss, Facts and Figures. 2020

Our Enhanced Eye Examinations

OCT

Optical science advances at a rapid rate and this can mean enormous benefits for your eye health. We are delighted to be able to offer enhanced eye examinations at four of our practices, using state-of-the-art OCT cameras.

What does OCT do?

OCT (Optical Coherance Tomography) is a completely painless and highly advanced imaging system that checks for potentially serious conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, vitreous detachments and more.

The OCT camera is an advanced eye scan for people of all ages. Similar to ultrasound, OCT uses light rather than sound waves to image the different layers that make up the structures at the front and the back of your eye. The OCT machine captures both a photograph and a cross-sectional scan of the eye at the same time. This allows both instant and early diagnosis of a number of common ocular conditions. The scan is non-invasive, painless, simple and quick. What’s more, the software can automatically detect even the most subtle changes to the retina with every eye test you have. This gives you an invaluable ongoing record of the health and condition of your eyes.

What can the scan check for?

Common conditions identified through regular OCT screening include:

1. Age-related macular degeneration – Age-related macular degeneration (SM) is the leading cause of blindness in the UK. It causes gradual deterioration of the macula (the central portion of your retina which enables detailed vision). There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Wet AMD causes rapid reduction in vision and must be treated in hospital very rapidly. OCT can help to identify the earliest signs of AMD, determine whether it is the dry or wet form and help monitor its progress over time.
2. Diabetes – More than 4 million people in the UK have diabetes – with experts claiming that another half a million people are currently suffering from undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in people of working age in this country. OCT examinations help enable early detection of diabetic retinopathy, allowing early referral and management – which can greatly improve the success rate of treatment.
3. Glaucoma – Glaucoma is a condition which causes damage to the optic nerve – the part of the eye which connects to the brain – and causes gradual loss in peripheral vision. Recent statistics suggest that some form of glaucoma affects around two in every 100 people over the age of 40, rising to almost 1 in 10 in people over 75. Because the early stages of chronic glaucoma do not cause symptoms, regular eye examinations are essential to pick up glaucoma at its earlier stage so that ongoing damage can be prevented. OCT examination can measure numerous features at the back of the eye and facilitate early diagnosis of glaucoma. Furthermore, it can enable close monitoring of your eye health year-on-year, allowing identification of glaucomatous changes over time.
4. Vitreous detachments – Vitreomacular traction can be easily diagnosed through OCT providing invaluable information about the current relationship between the vitreous and the retinal surface of the eye. As people get older the vitreous jelly that takes up the space in our eyeball can change. It becomes less firm and can move away from the back of the eye towards the centre, in some cases parts do not detach and cause ‘pulling’ of the retinal surface. The danger of a vitreous detachment is that there is no pain and your eyesight will seem unchanged but the back of your eye may be being damaged.
5. Macular holes – A macular hole is a small hole in the macula – the part of the retina which is responsible for our sharp, detailed central vision. This is the vision we use when looking directly at things, when reading, sewing or using a computer for example. Macular holes usually form during a complicated vitreous detachment, when the vitreous pulls away from the back of the eye, causing a hole to form. Management of this condition needs to be carried out by an ophthalmologist in hospital.

OPTOMAP

Optomap is the only scan that captures more than 80% of your retina in one panoramic image. The unique Optomap ultra-wide view helps detect early signs of retinal disease more effectively and efficiently than with traditional eye exams alone.

The exam is fast and pain-free and nothing touches your eye.

Why choose enhanced eyecare

Myopia Management 

Myopia: The future is now in your hands

Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is an eye health issue that every parent should be aware of. Over one-third of the world’s population has myopia, and this is projected to increase to 50% by 2050.

Whether you suspect that your child is myopic, or you have little to no knowledge of the condition, we will help you support your child and manage their vision.

Signs of short-sightedness

Short-sightedness usually starts in children from age 6 to 13. It can also happen in adults.

Signs you or your child may be short-sighted include:

• Difficulty reading words from a distance, such as reading the whiteboard at school
• Sitting close to the TV or computer, or holding a mobile phone or tablet close to the face
• Getting headaches.
• Rubbing the eyes, excessively.

Short-sightedness often runs in families, so you may have relatives who are also short-sighted.

It can get worse until the eye has stopped growing, at around 20 years of age.

What is Myopia?

Myopia is blurry long-distance vision, often called “short-sighted” or “near-sighted”. A person with myopia can see clearly up close – when reading a book or looking at a digital device – but words and objects are blurred in the distance, for example, watching television or when driving.

This is commonly because the eye is longer than usual from front to back, which causes light to focus in front of the back of the eye, and not on the back of the eye.

Myopia can be influenced by both environmental and genetic factors and is becoming increasingly prevalent.

The main concern is the exponential risks of developing sight threatening eye conditions such as myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment, cataract and glaucoma from high levels of myopia, most notably above -5.00.

CAUSES OF MYOPIA

The exact causes of myopia are not fully understood; however, genetics and environmental factors contribute to the development and severity of myopia.⁽ⁱ⁾

GENETICS

A child is at least twice as likely to be myopic with one myopic parent and five times likely to be myopic if both parents are myopic.⁽ⁱⁱ⁾

ENVIRONMENTAL

Research shows that not spending enough time outside contributes to the increased prevalence of myopia. Natural outdoor light can prevent the eye from lengthening.

EXCESSIVE USE OF SCREENS

Excessive screen time, for example watching TV, smart phones and tablets is not proven to increase myopia prevalence, but these activities have an impact on time spent outdoors.

TREATING OR SLOWING DOWN MYOPIA

Myopia is normally treated with glasses or contact lenses, or both. However, some treatments can slow down myopia progression, this is what we call MYOPIA MANAGEMENT.

Our accredited optometrists and dispensing opticians can offer you several options to slow the progression of myopia.

When myopia management is successful:

• Reduced dependency on glasses.
• A lower prescription, meaning thinner, lighter and lower costing glasses.
• Reduced risk of sight threatening eye conditions associated with high myopia ⁽ⁱⁱⁱ⁾

The results of myopia management may differ from person to person and depend on factors such as:⁽ IV,V,VI ⁾

• Age of onset of myopia.
• Age when starting myopia management.
• Compliance with treatment.
• Amount of near work and outdoor activity.

MYOPIA MANAGEMENT OPTIONS

EYEDREAM ORTHOKERATOLOGY

(ORTHO-K)

Specially designed rigid gas permeable contact lenses worn at night only, this safe and reversable treatment helps to alter the shape of the cornea during sleep.

EyeDream is a form of orthokeratology (ortho-K). These groundbreaking lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the front of the eye. In the morning, the lenses are removed, and the wearer can enjoy crisp, corrected vision all day.

Ortho-k lenses offer children and parents an opportunity to slow the progression of myopia.

Ortho-K offers children the freedom and confidence to swim, play sports and enjoy an active lifestyle without the restrictions of spectacles or contact lenses.

Ortho-K lenses are worn at night and at home so lens wear and care can be monitored – and no more lost glasses or contact lenses!

Ortho-K treatment is effective, reversible and has proved life-changing for thousands of people.

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MISIGHT 1-DAY DAILY DISPOSABLE CONTACT LENSES

Daily disposable contact lenses suitable for children as young as 8 years old, worn as any other daily disposable lenses whilst slowing the progression of myopia.

MiSight® 1 day soft contact lenses from CooperVision provide clear, sharp vision and slow the progression of myopia.

Myopia management contact lenses are the perfect alternative to wearing glasses, easy to use, safe to wear with proven global results.

ESSILOR STELLEST SPECTACLE LENSES

Stellest™ lenses are Essilor®’s best solution to fight your child’s myopia, and their strong efficacy has been clinically proven, using patented technology to slow myopic progression.

Essilor® Stellest® slow down myopia progression by 67% on average* compared to single vision lenses, when worn 12 hours a day.

Essilor® Stellest® lenses create a signal in the eye that acts as a shield against myopia progression. Stellest® lenses are safe, aesthetic and simple.

Myopia may impact children’s well-being and development

• 80% of all learning occurs through vision.
• 1 out of 3 children can’t see the board clearly.

Please ask one of our expert dispensing opticians for more details.

⁽ⁱ⁾The impact of myopia and high myopia: report of the Joint World Health Organization–Brien Holden Vision Institute Global Scientific Meeting on Myopia, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, 16–18 March 2015. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.

⁽ⁱⁱ⁾Jones L, Sinnott L, Mutti D, Mitchell G, Moeschberger M. Parental history of myopia, sports and outdoor activities, and future myopia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2007; 48(8): 3524-3532.

 ⁽ⁱⁱⁱ⁾ https://www.brienholdenvision.org/news/item/95-changing-the-way-optometrists-think-about-myopia.html

⁽ IV ⁾ Wildsoet, C. F., Chia, A., Cho, P., Guggenheim, J. A., Polling, J. R., Read, S., … & Wolffsohn, J. S. (2019). IMI–interventions for controlling myopia onset and progression report. Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, 60(3), M106-M131.

⁽v⁾ Németh, J., Tapasztó, B., Aclimandos, W. A., Kestelyn, P., Jonas, J. B., De Faber, J. T. H., … & Resnikoff, S. (2021). Update and guidance on management of myopia. European Society of Ophthalmology in cooperation with International Myopia Institute. European Journal of Ophthalmology, 31(3), 853-883.

⁽VI⁾ Gajjar, S., & Ostrin, L. A. (2022). A systematic review of near work and myopia: measurement, relationships, mechanisms and clinical corollaries. Acta Ophthalmologica, 100(4), 376-387.

MECS (Minor Eye Conditions Service)

What is MECS?

MECS is an NHS service for patients aged 16 and over who are registered with a Lewisham, Lambeth, Bexley or Southwark GP, to access an accredited local optometrist if they experience a minor eye condition.

Medical eye conditions that can be treated by MECS

• Sudden or recent reduction in the vision of one or both eyes
• Red eye(s) or eye lids
• Pain and /or discomfort in the eyes, around the eye area or temples
• Recent onset or sudden increase of flashes and /or floaters in one or both eyes (appears like a fly, black specks, or a cobweb moving across your vision)
• Mild trauma, for example a scratch to the outer surface of the eye(s) or lid(s)
• Suspected foreign body in the eye
• Recent onset of double vision
• Significant recent discharge from or watering of the eye

If you are unsure whether your symptoms qualify for MECS, please contact us and we will be happy to offer you some advice.

Eye conditions not treated under MECS

If you have any of the following conditions you must go directly to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department:

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Considerable eye pain
• Significant trauma, such as a penetrating injury or lacerations to the eye(s) or lid(s)
• Chemical injury or burns
• Problems arising from recent eye surgery

If you already have an eye condition which is being treated, such as cataracts or glaucoma, you will not be covered by MECS and you should contact whoever is treating you.

Remember: you may not be able to drive immediately after the eye examination.

How do I access MECS?

All you need to do is call us, explain the problem and ask if you can have a MECS appointment. Alternatively, if you make an appointment to see your GP, he or she may refer you to an optometrist (us) for treatment.

What happens when I see the optometrist?

Our optometrist will discuss your eye history, any symptoms you may be experiencing and any related medical history. You will receive an eye assessment relevant to your symptoms.

Please bring along a list of all current medications and your current glasses with you to the appointment.

As a result of the consultation you may be:

• Given appropriate treatment by the optometrist, which may include a follow-up appointment
• Referred to your GP for appropriate treatment if your eye condition is related to your general health
• Referred directly to the hospital eye service if your eye condition is more serious

Following your appointment, the optometrist will notify your GP about the outcome of your consultation, in order to ensure your medical records are updated

Please note:

This service does not replace routine eye examinations and will not cover you for the cost of new glasses or lenses.

A sight test will not be performed as part of your MECS assessment or treatment and you will not be issued with a prescription for glasses.