If you take good care of your sunglasses they can last for 10 years or more. So what are our top tips for getting the most out of your favourite shades?

1. Protect Your Sunglasses From Scratches

Whilst glass lenses are more resistant to scratching than polycarbonate lenses, whatever your lens types it’s important to store your sunglasses in a case. If you just drop them in your bag they’re likely to get scratched by your keys and ruined.

Get yourself either a hardshell case or at minimum a microfibre pouch.

2. Clean Your Sunglasses Properly

Your sunglasses will be prone to smudges and grime, they will pick up oils from your skin and fingers, dirt from outside, makeup residue, and salt or chlorine from the ocean or pool.

The best way to clean your sunglasses is to start with clean, dry hands. Rinse your glasses under warm water and soap up your fingers with a few drops of mild dishwashing soap without harsh detergents or moisturisers. Rub soapy water on the frames and then dry them with a microfibre cloth for best results.

Do not use rubbing alcohol, glass cleaners, vinegar, or any other household cleaners on your glasses.

3. Don’t Leave Your Sunglasses In The Car

Don’t place your sunglasses on the dashboard where heat from the sun is particularly intense.

Extreme heat can be generated by the windshield of your car and that heat can cause the lens of your sunglasses to delaminate. The mirroring and anti-reflective coatinga on the lenses may degrade.

4. Consider How Your Care For Polarised or Mirrored Lenses

Whilst care for polarised sunglasses and mirrored sunglasses is the same as any pair of glasses, it should be noted that some high-quality lenses place the mirror inside the glass, while less-expensive lenses might spray on the mirroring.

Spray on coatings are more vulnerable to scratching and chemicals.

5. Stop Wearing Your Sunglasses On Top Of Your Head

Wearing your sunglasses on top of your head might seem convenient when not in use, but doing this repeatedly can damage to the nose pads, cause the screws to loosen, and stretch the arms.

If you follow these tips and advice, you will ensure that your favourite sunglasses stand the test of time. If you’re in the market for a new pair, take a look at our guide to polarised vs non-polarised lenses or our guide to prescription sunglasses, or browse our full Sunglasses Lens Guide to compare all the lens options available, then visit us in store at D.I. Blow Opticians to see our full range.

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What is Blue Light?

The world contains electromagnetic energy that travels around, and through, us in waves. Most electromagnetic waves are invisible, except for a small band known as Visible Light, that can be detected by the human eye. Visible light waves vary in length from 380 nanometres (violet light) to 700 nanometres (red light).

The longer the wave, the less energy it transmits. Blue light has very short, high-energy waves. They’re only slightly longer and less powerful than UV rays.

Blue light, like all colours of visible light, is all around you. The sun emits blue light, alongside fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs. Human beings are exposed to more blue light than ever because of the widespread use of devices that rely on light-emitting diode (LED) technology.

Screens of computers, TVs, phones, and tablets all use LED technologies with high amounts of blue light.

How Does Blue Light Affect Your Eyes?

Whilst your eyes are equipped with structures that protect them from some types of light, those structures don’t keep out blue light. Your cornea and lens protect the light-sensitive retina at the back of your eye from damaging UV rays, however.

Some eye health experts have expressed concerns about exposure to blue light from backlit digital screens and devices. This is because people spend so much time on them and use them at such a close range. However, this is more of an issue to do with eye strain than the effects of blue light. People tend to blink less when using digital devices, which contributes to dry eye and eye strain.

So far, research does not appear to validate the concerns about blue light eye damage.

However, exposure to a lot of blue light before bed can disrupt sleep patterns as it affects when our bodies create melatonin. Interruption of the circadian system plays a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer sleep disorders, and cognitive dysfunctions.

Blue Light and Digital Eyestrain

Using digital devices up close or for long periods of time can lead to digital eyestrain.

Research has shown that when people use phones, laptops, and other digital devices, they tend to blink less often than normal. Fewer blinks can mean less moisture.

When your eyes are strained from staring at a blue light emitting screen, you might notice the following:

• Dry eyes
• Sore or irritated eyes
• Tired eyes
• Headaches
• Facial muscles fatigued by squinting

Blue light scatters more easily than most other visible light. This may make it difficult for your eye to focus when receiving blue light. Instead, your eye may process blue light as poorly focused visual static. This reduction in contrast may make it more difficult for your eye to process blue light, potentially contributing to eyestrain.

Are There Any Benefits To Blue Light?

Blue light boosts alertness, helps memory and brain function, and elevates mood. It regulates your body’s natural wake and sleep cycle (circadian rhythm). Sunlight, the biggest source of blue light, is also important for the growth and development of eyes and vision in children.

Light, in particular blue light that reaches the retina, can also affect psychological wellbeing. For example, light therapy is used to treat winter depression and insomnia. However, it should be done in moderation as too much light exposure carries certain risks and can be damaging.

Do Blue Light Glasses Work?

There are many studies on blue light glasses, but there is yet a consensus to be reached. However, they can help protect eyes from eye strain caused by overexposure to blue light.

If you spend a lot of time using digital devices and notice digital eye strain, blue light glasses might be helpful.

Limiting Blue Light Exposure / Reducing Digital Eyestrain

Use the 20/20/20 Method

When using a device that emits blue light, stop every 20 minutes to focus on an object that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Keep Your Eyes Moist

Eye drops, like artificial tears, and room humidifiers are good ways to keep your eyes from becoming too dry and irritated when using blue light devices.

Use Glasses With The Correct Prescription

Squinting at screens for long periods of time isn’t recommended for the overall health of your eyes. If you wear prescription glasses to correct your vision, make sure you’re wearing the correct prescription.

Adjust The Blue Light On Your Screen

To lower the risk of eyestrain and sleep disturbance, you can set your screens to a ‘night shift’ setting that uses warmer tones. You can also buy blue light screen filters for when you’re working at night. The filter is designed to cut the glare of your screen.

FAQs

Is Blue Light Bad for Your Eyes?

Current research doesn’t show that everyday blue light exposure from phones, laptops, or TVs causes lasting eye damage. Most of the discomfort linked to screens, dryness, tiredness, headaches, comes from reduced blinking and extended close-up focus rather than blue light itself.

Does the Sun Emit Blue Light?

Yes; sunlight is by far the biggest source of blue light we’re exposed to, far more than screens or LED lighting. Natural blue light exposure also plays an important role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle and, in children, healthy eye development.

How Does Blue Light Work?

Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum with a short wavelength and high energy, just below UV light. It scatters more easily than other visible light, which is part of why screens can feel harder to focus on during long sessions.

What Is Blue Light Used For?

Beyond vision, blue light helps regulate alertness, mood, and your natural sleep-wake cycle, and is used therapeutically in light therapy for conditions like seasonal depression. Too much exposure late at night can disrupt sleep, which is why many screens offer a “night mode” that reduces blue light output.

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If you’re concerned about your eye health, book in for a comprehensive eye exam with D. I. Blow Opticians today.

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As parents, we prioritise our children’s health and well-being in every aspect of their lives. Yet, when it comes to vision, it’s easy to overlook the need for regular eye exams. We want you to understand the importance of scheduling routine eye exams for children and how early detection of vision issues can positively impact their academic performance and overall quality of life.

The post The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Children appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Ageing brings many changes, and your vision is no exception. As we grow older, our eyes undergo various changes that can affect our vision. These changes range from a gradual need for reading glasses to more serious conditions that can develop gradually over several years, which is why understanding what’s normal — and what warrants a closer look — becomes increasingly important with age.

The post Vision and Ageing: Common Eye Conditions and How to Manage Them appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Understanding Hay Fever’s Impact On Eyes

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is triggered by pollen, dust mites, and pet hair. These allergens can cause allergic conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids).

Common symptoms include:

• Itching: A persistent, uncomfortable sensation that makes you want to rub your eyes — caused both by pollen landing in the eyes and by the release of histamine, which irritates nerve endings.
• Redness: The inflammation and dilation of blood vessels in the eyes as they try to fight off the irritant.
• Watering: Excessive tearing as the eyes attempt to wash away allergens, which can also blur your vision.
• Grittiness: A feeling of sand or grit in the eyes, which can be particularly irritating.

Can Hay Fever Affect Your Vision?

Alongside these symptoms, hay fever can have a more direct impact on your vision:

• Eye fatigue: Itching of the eyes and rubbing can lead to strain and eye fatigue.
• Blurred vision: Swelling and inflammation in and around the eyes can lead to blurry vision.
• Double vision: Hay fever can occasionally cause the eye muscles to weaken, leading to double vision.
• Decreased visual acuity: In extreme cases, hay fever allergies can lead to decreased visual acuity or temporary vision loss.

Managing Symptoms

To alleviate the symptoms of hay fever and protect your eye health, consider the following:

Minimise Allergen Exposure:

• Stay Indoors: On days with high pollen counts, try to stay indoors as much as possible, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when pollen levels are typically highest.
• Use Air Conditioning: Keep windows closed and use air conditioning to filter out pollen and other allergens.
• Clean Regularly: Vacuum and dust your home frequently to remove allergens. Consider using a vacuum with a HEPA filter.

Medications:

• Antihistamines: These medications can help reduce the body’s reaction to allergens. They are available in both oral and eye drop forms.
• Decongestants: These can help reduce redness and swelling in the eyes, but should be used with caution and not for extended periods.
• Anti-allergy eye drops: These target the site of inflammation directly. Make sure to check if the eye drops are compatible with contact lenses.
• Mast cell stabiliser eye drops: These prevent the allergic reaction and the release of histamine, treating the symptoms before they start.
• Steroid eye drops: Best used in severe cases and only available on prescription, these are powerful anti-inflammatories — but come with the risk of side effects such as damaging the cornea, glaucoma, and cataracts, so should only be used under professional guidance.
• Cold Compresses: Applying a cold, damp cloth to your closed eyes can help reduce inflammation and soothe itching. Do this several times a day for relief.

Protecting Your Eyes

In addition to managing symptoms, take proactive steps to protect your eyes from further irritation:

1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can worsen symptoms by spreading allergens and causing additional irritation. It can also lead to the release of more histamines, worsening the allergic response.
2. Wear Sunglasses: When outdoors, wear sunglasses to help shield your eyes from pollen, dust, and other airborne allergens.
3. Wear Glasses Instead of Contact Lenses: Especially when the pollen count is high, contact lenses can trap allergens against the eye.
4. Hydrate Your Eyes: Use lubricating eye drops to moisten your eyes and flush out allergens.
5. Rinse Your Eyes Regularly: Use an eyewash to remove any dust and pollen from the surface of the eyes.
6. Maintain Good Eye Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently to avoid transferring allergens to your eyes.
7. Home Humidity: To prevent dry eyes, maintain an optimal indoor humidity level (around 40-50%). Use a humidifier if necessary.

Additional Tips

• Monitor Pollen Forecasts: Use weather apps or websites to check daily pollen counts and plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
• Shower and Change Clothes: After spending time outdoors, shower and change your clothes to remove pollen and other allergens.
• Eye Makeup: Be cautious with eye makeup as it can trap allergens. Consider using hypoallergenic products and removing makeup thoroughly each night.

By understanding hay fever triggers and implementing these strategies, you can minimise discomfort and protect your eye health during allergy season. If you’re still experiencing symptoms after trying all preventative and treatment measures, book yourself in with your local opticians for personalised advice and treatment options.

Take control of your eye health this hay fever season. Schedule an eye examination with us today to ensure your vision remains clear and comfortable all year round.

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Vision problems in children can have a significant impact on their learning, development, and overall quality of life.

At D.I. Blow Opticians, we recognise the importance of early detection and intervention for maintaining optimal vision in children. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the key signs to watch out for that may indicate a vision problem in your child.

Key Signs Of Vision Problems In Children

1. Squinting or Eye Rubbing:

If you notice your child frequently squinting or rubbing their eyes, it could be a sign of vision strain or fatigue. Squinting helps to temporarily improve focus by reducing the amount of light entering the eye.

Similarly, eye rubbing may indicate discomfort or irritation, often associated with conditions such as dry eye or allergies. Persistent squinting or eye rubbing warrants further evaluation by an optometrist to rule out underlying vision issues.

2. Sitting Close to the TV or Holding Books Close to the Face:

Children with uncorrected vision problems may instinctively sit closer to the television or hold books and electronic devices close to their face to compensate for blurred vision. This behaviour can indicate short sightedness (myopia) or other refractive errors that affect distance vision.

If your child consistently exhibits this behaviour, it may be time to schedule an eye examination.

3. Complaints of Headaches or Eye Strain:

Frequent complaints of headaches, eye strain, or fatigue, especially after reading or engaging in close-up tasks, can signal underlying vision problems.

Children may struggle to articulate their discomfort accurately, so it’s essential to pay attention to subtle cues and observe any changes in behaviour or mood associated with visual tasks.

4. Avoidance of Near or Distance Activities:

Children with undetected vision problems may avoid activities that require clear vision, such as reading, drawing, or participating in sports. They may express reluctance or frustration when asked to engage in tasks that strain their visual abilities.

Observing your child’s participation in various activities can provide valuable insights into their visual comfort and confidence.

5. Poor Academic Performance:

Vision plays a crucial role in learning, and undiagnosed vision problems can hinder a child’s academic progress. If your child demonstrates difficulties with reading comprehension, writing, or focusing on classroom tasks, it’s essential to consider the possibility of underlying vision issues.

Regular eye examinations can help identify and address vision problems early, allowing children to thrive academically. To understand why these check-ups matter so much, and how often your child should have one, see our full guide on the importance of regular eye exams for children.

If your child is due an exam, our guide on what to expect in children’s eye tests walks through exactly what happens, from first infant exams to what age to start.

Already had the test done? Our guide on understanding the results of your child’s eye test explains what those results actually mean. And if screens are a big part of your child’s day, our guide on screen time and children’s eyes covers what parents should know.

With Easter half-term approaching, now is an excellent time to ensure your child’s eyes are in good health. Schedule an eye examination at D.I. Blow Opticians and give them the gift of clear vision and academic success.

Recognising the signs of vision problems in children is the first step towards ensuring their visual health and overall well-being.

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Myopia or short-sightedness affects around one third of people in the UK. Additionally, what’s even more surprising, is that 4 in 10 people in the UK are prone to ignoring serious eye conditions.

Conditions such as myopia can be detected early on with routine eye exams, which is why visiting your opticians regularly is important.

Although myopia isn’t curable, many people live a full life with the condition by making small changes to their lifestyle and professional treatment. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, otherwise known as shortsightedness, is a common vision condition whereby near objects appear clear but objects further away appear blurry or distorted.

For example, a person with short sight will be able to see things up close quite clearly, like when they’re reading. However, for tasks that require distance vision, like driving or watching TV, their vision will appear blurred.

Signs And Symptoms Of Myopia

Symptoms of myopia can include:

• Blurred vision when looking at distant objects
• Frequent headaches or eyestrain when trying to focus on things far away
• The need to squint or partially close the eyelids to see clearly

Symptoms in children will be more difficult to spot, however common symptoms include:

• Persistent squinting
• Appearing unaware of distant objects
• Excessive blinking
• Rubbing their eyes frequently
• Sitting close to the television

If your child is showing signs of myopia, you can book a visit with us by using our store locator.

Additionally, read our blog on the importance of routine children’s eye exams.

Causes Of Myopia

Myopia occurs when the eye is effectively too long, meaning the distance between the cornea (the clear window at the front of eye) and the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) are too far apart. This is known as a refractive error.

Long term, this means that any light entering the eye is focused before it reaches the retina which in turn, causes blurred vision.

Studies show that you are far more likely to develop myopia if one of your parents has it. However, this is still far from unclear. Other risk factors for myopia include prolonged close-up activities, screen time and environmental conditions.

Other refractive errors include:

• Longsightedness (hyperopia). This occurs when your eyeball is shorter than a typical eye or your cornea is curved too little. Some people may perceive distant objects as somewhat clear, but near objects appear blurry. For some people with farsightedness, objects are blurry at all distances.
• Astigmatism. This occurs when your cornea or lens is curved more steeply in one direction than in another. Your vision will become distorted or blurry at all distances.

If you have any concerns, it’s important that you visit your optometrist to discuss any potential problems.

Is There A Cure For Myopia?

Although there is no cure for the condition, the good news is that myopia can be easily corrected with the correct glasses or contact lenses.

The solution could be as simple as you may need to wear your glasses or contact lenses all the time or when you need them for clear distance vision, like when you’re driving or watching a movie at the cinema.

For adults, there is the option of laser eye surgery which can correct myopia. Your optician will be able to help you choose the right option for you.

When To Seek Professional Help

It’s important that you seek emergency care with an eye care specialist if you suddenly develop any of the following:

• Sudden appearance of multiple floaters — tiny specks or lines that seem to drift through your field of vision
• Flashes of light in one or both eyes
• A grey shadow covering all or part of your field of vision
• A shadow in your outer or side vision (peripheral vision)

These are warnings signs of the retina becoming detached from the back of the eye. Unfortunately, significant nearsightedness is associated with an increased risk of retinal detachment, so it’s important to be aware of any sudden changes.

The Bottom Line

Both children and adults may not be aware of problems with vision or changes that happen gradually. It’s important that you make regular eye exams a part of both yours and your child’s lifestyle to eliminate any risks and detect eye conditions before they cause any damage.

For more on myopia and other common eye conditions, see our full eye health guide.

To book an eye exam online at one of our branches, use our store locator.

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