Before I get into my feature, I will explain that I was meant to post this account of spectacle buying, a few weeks ago, but life happened, I guess. You see, Patrick and I decided to visit our son in Asia. I haven’t seen him for one year and his dad, for two. We are, here, as you can see – finding out where he lives, works and meeting his love. So without further ado, here’s my post. I hope you find it helpful!
As you can see in the title, I’m still watching the brilliant Beatles Anthology! Their influence is going to stay with me for a while!
I have been experiencing dry, sore eyes for a good while. Is it a symptom of winter hibernation? Even after a good night’s sleep, I look like I have partied out tired eyes. Of course, those days are firmly behind me, I couldn’t keep up!
Before visiting the GP surgery, I spoke to a pharmacist who provided me with a few ideas on how to tackle this condition. It resulted in me trying an array of eye drops for eye conditions for a range of eye drops – antibiotic, dry eyes, Brolene – with little or no relief from any. I then booked a long-overdue eye test at Vision Express.
The eye test started with an optional high-resolution, 3D, OCT scan which takes a cross-section of pictures of the retina and optic nerve. I paid extra for this – you can read more about it, here.
Later, with the results, the optometrist told me my eye health was excellent at the front and back of my eyes. I was relieved. But, he did see some signs of dry eyes. He suggested I use an Optase heat mask. I was told to use the mask twice a day for two weeks, then slowly reduce to once a day followed by a few times a week for maintenance.
This mask delivers hydration and warmth to the eyelids by melting the oils in the eyelid glands, allowing them to flow more freely which, in turn, prevents the evaporation of natural tears which improves tear film stability and reduces dry eye symptoms.
I have been using this for nearly two weeks, along with Hycosan Extra eye drops, which are prescribed for persistent dry, irritated eyes. These drops are compatible with contact lenses if you wear them.
So far, I’m already feeling relief. The drops contain a moisturising hyaluronic acid, which provided instant relief for my parched eyes, resulting in them feeling comfortable and nourished without being overloaded. The soreness has nearly gone. If you want to give these remedies a try, be prepared for blurriness following use of both the heat mask and drops – NB, which quickly wears off.
While having my eye test, I explained to the optometrist that I’d had my eyes zapped by a laser for short-sightedness a good while ago. I also pointed out that, in my day-to-day, I mostly use my Kindle, MacBook and iPad. I’m not on my phone constantly and, occasionally, don’t switch it on for days. My excuse is that the friends and family I want to hear from show up on my iPad and MacBook because I have their numbers synced.
Causes – You may be more likely to get dry eyes if:
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You’re over the age of 50
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You wear contact lenses
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You look at computer screens for a long time without a break
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You spend time in air-conditioned or heated environments
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It’s windy, dry or dusty
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you smoke (or spend time in smoky environments) or drink alcohol
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You take certain medicines (for example, some antidepressants or blood pressure medicines)
Taken from the NHS Website
Choosing Frames!
I found Vision Express to be very efficient and professional. But, I decided to take my prescription to Asda’s Opticians, because the hubs, Patrick, had a great experience with them. He was right, they were very helpful, and explained everything regarding the lenses in detail. Their care was second to none. I wanted two pairs – one for the house and the other for my handbag. There’s nothing worse than forgetting reading glasses.
When choosing the frames, it can be daunting because there are so many to choose from. Some frames are reasonably priced, while other designer frames can be expensive. This can work out to be a costly affair when the lenses are added to the price. I tend to follow my instinct when choosing the frames – and try lots on. I had it in mind to get a round pair for a change, which didn’t work out. They really clashed with my round face. Instead, I opted for the familiar square frames. If you haven’t got someone with you regarding suitability, ask for advice. From experience, the fit is also so important – I have had ill-fitting glasses before, and it’s no fun.
Which Lens is suitable?
I was prescribed bifocal lenses. A bifocal lens is basically a lens in two parts – one part for reading and the other for intermediate sight, such as glancing at my computer. This type of lens is also known as an occupational or office lens, which is ideal for when you work on computers. I’ve also requested anti-glare and a blue lens addition to my lens – both are supposed to help reduce reflections from screens. – hopefully keeping my vision clear and comfortable. I hope this resolves my issues – time will tell. Like everyone, I have cut my screen time down. I find I am using my screens more in the winter months because I am outside in the garden a lot in the warmer months.
Eye strain can be due to many factors – eg wearing incorrect lenses; room lighting being too bright; and not remembering to blink. The 20-20-20 rule is recommended to reduce digital eye strain from prolonged screen use (computers, phones, TVs). This simply means you should take a small break every 20 minutes to focus your eyes on something 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds. This will help your eye muscles relax and reduce the likelihood of digital eye strain.
The Costs for My Glasses:
Eye Test – Free for over 60’s. Oh, the joys! Though I did have to pay £10.00 for the 3D OCT scan
2 pairs of glasses with bifocal lenses. Both have blue light and anti-glare added – the total was £200 for both.
I hope my post has been helpful in some way. If you have any of the conditions mentioned or are considering an eye test, consult an expert who is specifically trained in this area. The information in today’s post comes from my “layman’s terms” experience.
As I have mentioned at the beginning of my post I am away travelling in Asia, so no posts until I return in March.
See you next time, and take care!!!
Borocay!