What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is an eye condition that can affect the clarity of your vision and make it more difficult for you to focus on objects and your surroundings. It is most common in eyes where the cornea is oval like a rugby ball instead of spherical like a football. This causes light to focus at more than one point in the eye, resulting in blurred vision.

Astigmatism can be a mild or fairly serious eye condition, with symptoms ranging from very mild blurred vision to severe blurriness resulting in squinting, fatigue and headaches.

Astigmatism may occur in children and adults; it is fairly common and is not contagious. It is usually congenital - is present at birth - but can develop after an eye operation or an injury to the eye.

The two most common types of astigmatism are:

    ▪    Corneal astigmatism - the cornea has an irregular shape
    ▪    Lenticular astigmatism - the lens has an irregular shape

If you are having any issues with your eyes we recommend you get your eyes checked, it doesn't matter if you are not due for your full eye test we are always happy to help. Astigmatism is very common - experts say most of us are born with a degree of astigmatism. Most children who are born with astigmatism will not realize they have it until they have an eye test. Reading and concentrating at school may be affected if a child has undiagnosed astigmatism. Therefore, regular eye tests are important.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is http://specsdirect2u.co.uk/ where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell. Remember, eye examinations are free in Scotland, call us on 0141 554 8886 to either arrange a free home eye test or to come into one of our 4 Glasgow Optical Practices.

What Is A Lazy Eye?

A lazy eye refers to a visual disorder characterised by undeveloped vision in an otherwise normal and healthy eye.  A lazy eye is also known as Amblyopia and is caused by poor, or no transmission of visual images from the affected eye to the brain, this condition is best treated in childhood.

The name “lazy eye” is a strange name, as the eye or the person is not lazy. It is in fact caused by a developmental issue in the brain, where the area of the brain linked to the affected eye develops abnormally because of under-stimulation.

A lazy eye may go unnoticed for many years, as individuals rely on vision from their stronger eye.

A lazy eye is normally treated by forcing use of the under developed eye, using either a patch or otherwise temporarily disabling the healthy eye. This treatment is most effective in children under the age of 5, but has also been shown to benefit older children and adults.

We recommend having your eyes examined once every year, or two years.  Specsdirect2u can visit you in your home to examine your eyes, in addition we will bring with us various spectacles for you to choose from.  You can also book an appointment to get your eyes tested in any one of our 4 Optical Practices in Glasgow.  We are a family friendly Opticians, every shop has a Kids play area to keep your little ones distracted while you get your eyes checked out and if needed, select a pair of Glasses or Sunglasses

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is http://specsdirect2u.co.uk/ where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell. Remember, eye examinations are free in Scotland, call us on 0141 554 8886 to either arrange a free home eye test or to come into one of our 4 Glasgow Optical Practices.

Health Problems Your Optician Can See First

Health Problems Your Optician Can See First

 

An eye test can detect various health problems and is recommended every 1 to 2 years, below is a list of the many early noticeable conditions.

1. Diabetes: A routine eye exam can detect blood and other yellowish fluids seeping out of fragile and miniscule vessels in the retinas, referred to as Diabetic Retinopathy – the leading cause of blindness
2. Cancer: A routine eye exam can see changes in the structure of the eyes and unusual growths, including a rare form of cancer called Ocular Melanoma which develops within the cells that make pigmentation in the eye. Skin cancer can also be detected through an eye exam, as lesions called basal cell carcinomas can show up on the eyelid and can possibly spread to the brain through the eye.
3. Hypertension: A routine eye exam can show bleeding in new blood vessels in the eye and bends or kinks in the vessels which normally run straight to the retina, which may be signs of high blood pressure.
4. Autoimmune Disorders: A routine eye exam can detect an inflammation of the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye, which may be a sign of Lupus or other autoimmune disorders.
5. High Cholesterol: A routine eye exam can detect a yellow ring around the cornea, which can be an indicator of high cholesterol: putting you at risk for heart attack or stroke. High cholesterol can also be detected by a yellow plaque forming on the blood vessels of the retina.
6. Thyroid Disease: A routine eye exam can detect a bulging of the eyes, which is one of the symptoms of Grave’s Disease – a disorder characterized by an overactive thyroid.
7. Tumors: A visit to the eye doctor can reveal that you have droopy eyelids and pupils that aren’t the same size, which can point to tumors in the neck or even possible aneurysms.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is http://specsdirect2u.co.uk/ where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell. Remember, eye examinations are free in Scotland, call us on 0141 554 8886 to either arrange a free home eye test or to come into one of our 4 Glasgow Optical Practices.

Tomato Glasses - Designer Accessory for Kids

Every kid wants to look really cool!

SpecsDirect2U would like to introduce to you, a great new designer glasses frame for kids under 7 years of age.

These glasses are called Tomato Glasses and are perfect for your little one.

They are bright, light and comfortable, so light your child won't even notice they are wearing them. The sides and nose pads are fully adjustable, so that they will fit perfect.

Why not take a look at the below video, to see how great these are.

We will have these desirable glasses in our shops, and on our website soon.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is http://specsdirect2u.co.uk/ where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell. Remember, eye examinations are free in Scotland, call us on 0141 554 8886 to either arrange a free home eye test or to come into one of our 4 Glasgow Optical Practices.

Early Signs of Autism May be Observed Through Eye Exams

Did you know that a variety of health conditions can be detected through eye exams?

The results of a new study show that the earliest signs of autism may be detected by monitoring the eyes and watching for fixation on certain objects.

Researchers used equipment to track the movements of babies’ eyes as they watched videos of caregivers. These infants were followed from birth to age three and were divided into groups based on their likelihood of developing an autism spectrum disorder.

Infants placed in the high-risk group were those with a sibling already diagnosed with autism, while the low-risk group included infants with no autistic siblings.

As the potential to diagnose more and more systemic conditions and disorders through eye exams, it reminds us of the importance of making sure eye exams are a must.

Home Eye Tests If You Are Infirm

We understand if you are infirm it can be a struggle to travel to the Opticians to get your eyes tested.  Specsdirect2u are a family business and our customers are our first priority.  We offer a free home eye test service.  The only condition is that you live in the Glasgow area.  Sound good?

It is important to get a full eye examination as it can detect early signs of cataract, glaucoma or diabetes as well as many other health issues. Or it may be that your prescription has changed and a new stronger correction for your glasses is required. 

If you are on benefits, we have a range of frames which are covered completely by the NHS, this means they are free.  However, for private customers, we have a full range of frames from inexpensive through to designer ranges i.e. Prada, RayBan, Tom Ford, Jimmy Choo to name a few.  To see the full range please visit the website http://specsdirect2u.co.uk/

It is advisable to get your eyes tested every one - two years.  To book an appointment for the free home eye test visit, all you have to do is call 0141 554 8886 and we can tell you the availability of appointments. 

If you have an appointment booked, but need to cancel, we just ask for 12 hours notice beforehand.  You can also specifically ask for a male or female Optometrist to visit you.  Simply tell us this when you call. 

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is Specsdirect2u where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell.

Consulting the Right Opticians at the Right time

Just as eyes are the windows to a person’s soul, they are also the windows to the world around you. If they’re not taken care of properly, the dirt would accumulate on them just as it would on any window in your house. The result… your vision gets murky and cloudy. Slowly, the world would start looking darker and darker until you lose your vision. 

Eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration are causing sight loss among millions every day. According to an estimate by RNIB, approximately 2 million people in UK alone are living with sight loss. While sight loss can be related to gender, genetics, over-exposure to sunlight and smoking etc., ageing is the most common cause of sight loss. The risk increases as you grow older but the good news is, it can be treated. Like any other disease, it is the right diagnosis at the right time which may help you to control loss of sight in eyes.

When you’re getting your eyes checked, make sure that you get in touch with the right opticians. Choose those opticians who are not only proficient at testing eye sights but also have the ability to identify any abnormalities or disease symptoms. Specsdirect2u offer you just the right service with an efficient and experienced team of opticians. Our team is equipped with the latest knowledge and instruments to determine the accurate level of your vision and check for any abnormal conditions. Located at multiple locations in Glasgow, we offer free eye testing at your choice of location. If you are uncomfortable or unable to visit one of our offices, we can visit your home and perform an eye test there. Remember that it is Free Of Cost.

Get a prescription from us and browse our wide range of prescription glasses to choose from. We have glasses to suit all ages and genders. You can have designer and budget frames for yourself. Add to that a lens of your choice and you’re ready to go.  If you want to send prescription frames or sunglasses to someone that you care about but aren’t sure of their prescription, why not use our Gift Vouchers scheme?

Our website gives you complete directions for ordering and sending a gift voucher. Go ahead and improve your vision with style using our wide options for different kinds of lens, frame designs and sunglass tints.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen. The main website is www.specsdirect2u.co.uk where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell.

Child Friendly Opticians in Glasgow

Shopping isn't fun if you have small children and they are less than pleased, going from 1 shop to the next.  Can you relate to this?

Specsdirect2u are an Independent Family Opticians with 4 Practices in Glasgow.  In each of our Practices, we have a Child's Area.  Each area has a small table and chairs with some toys.  It is just enough (hopefully) to keep your little darlings entertained while you get your eyes tested, or look for a new pair of stylish Glasses / Sunglasses.

As far as we know, most Opticians don't cater for children, but we do.  The only thing we don't do, when you come into our practices is babysit. 

We have practices in Alexandra Parade, Cambsulang, Duke Street and Tollcross.  We also have a resident Optometrist, so if you want to get your eyes tested for a health check, just give us a call on 0141 554 8886 and we will give you an appointment, that suits.

Don't be put off by our adverts for Designer Frames, or Designer Sunglasses, we are NHS Friendly and we also have budget frames from as little as £15.

We also have an offer on at the moment, 2 for 1, so buy one frame and get the other frame absolutely free.  There is no catch, come into one of our practices today and see what frames are included in this offer.

Looking for a Home Eye Test, either phone 0141 554 8886 or click here to arrange a suitable date and time.  This applies only to the Glasgow area. 

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog.  We hope you subscribe to this RSS Feed to enjoy all future blogs, and please connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen.  The main website is www.specsdirect2u.co.uk where you can see the full range of Designers that we sell.

A Focus on Women and Eye Health

This week we are focusing on eye health for women. It may surprise you to know that around two all blindness and vision impairment are found in women. Therefore April has been designated Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month in order to promote eye care and health knowledge, particularly for women.

There are a lot of different things that can affect your eye health, some of which are genetic, putting you at a higher risk, some are linked to longevity, however many are linked to lifestyle.

While there isn’t a great deal you can do about the onset of some eye diseases, the one thing that you can do it to make sure that you get a regular check-up at Specsdirect2u. We do not just check that you can still see clearly, although that is a primary task, we also carry out various checks and tests in order to pick up early stages of any eye disease. Here at Specsdirect2u we have four local branches where you can pop in and book an appointment, or you can give us a call. We have very friendly expert opticians who will carry out your eye examination. Don’t forget that eye tests in Scotland are free so there is no excuse not to have an eye test at least once every two years.

Outside of regular eye checks there are a number of things that you can do in order to help reduce the likelihood of you developing an eye disease or condition that may lead to you losing your sight later in life.

Sunglasses

It may seem like sunglasses are a handy fashion accessory on a sunny day. In fact sunglasses do a lot more than stop you from squinting on a bright day. If your sunglasses have good UV protection you will reduce the amount of damage that UV rays can do to your eye. UV rays of various wavelengths are absorbed by different structures within the eye and if you do not protect your eyes you could be putting yourself at risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration and causing other general damage to the eye that can lead to sight loss.

If you don’t have any sunglasses we recommend that you get some now that spring and brighter days are on the way. If you don’t know where to start then why not check out our range of sunglasses that we offer here at Specsdirect2u. We offer everything from budget frames through to the latest Ray Bans and there are both prescription and non-prescription options for them all.

Diet

Mum’s are very fond of telling kids to eat their carrots so that they will be able to see in the dark. Although not strictly true, you do need to make sure that you are getting the right nutrients in order for your eyes to stay healthy. So let’s start with the carrots. Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, as are sweet potatoes, spinach and kale, which may slow the progression of macular degeneration.

Other key nutrients you should try to eat plenty of are omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc. It may sound like you will have to eat a hundred and one different foods to make sure that you can cram all of these is, but actually you can get most of them from berries, dark green leafy vegetables, orange vegetables, oily fish, poultry and dairy products.

So in short, don’t take your eye health for granted and if you do nothing else, make sure that you take advantage of an eye examination here at Specsdirect2u.  We also offer free home eye test visits, if you cannot make it into one of our optical practices.  We are in Alexandra Parade, Cambuslang, Duke Street in Dennistoun and Tollcross.  

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog.  Please subscribe to receive all future blogs, and connect with us using the social media buttons at the top of the screen.  We are an Independent Family Owned Opticians and our main goal is to look after your eyesight.  

Why Choosing and Fitting a Pair of Frames Isn’t As Easy As You Might Think

So, you’ve had your eye test and now have a new prescription in your hand. The next bit is the fun part where you get to choose your new frames.

The question is; do you stick with the same sort of design as you’ve already got, or do you try something new? If these are your first glasses you might be wondering where on earth to start in order to narrow down your options.

Clearly the look of the frames is going to be the dominant factor, but there are also a few considerations that you might want to be aware of, so that you can ensure that you pick the best frames.  This is where our Optical Assistants at Specsdirect2u come in - to help you.

Let’s start with the important bit; how the frames will look on you. This is a particularly important factor for anyone who is short-sighted as you will have to wear your glasses most of the time.  The question is how do you know which ones to choose?

If you come to Specsdirect2u, you can easily browse through a huge range of styles. You can try on any number of frames to see what they look like, whether they are the latest Tom Ford designer frames or our vast collection of budget frames.  Going into one of our Optical Practices is ideal if you live in Glasgow, but remember you can order your frames online, and if they don’t suit, you can return them. 

The Specsdirect2u website offers great discounts, but we are also available to speak to you, if you have any questions before processing your online purchase.  Our goal is to ensure that you feel you are receiving the best possible customer service, and making a cost saving at the same time.   The website shows designers by brand, so if you are specifically looking for a set of frames from Gucci, Prada, Ray Ban or Police, you can go straight to the range that you want.  We also have a search facility to show frames within a specific price range. 

So, what else is there to think about?  Well, another very important fact can be the thickness of the actual lenses.  At Specsdirect2u, we advise you how thick your lenses will be at the edge; this ensures that you can get an idea of what your glasses will look like from the side.  More importantly you don’t want to spend money on glasses and then be disappointed because the lenses are too thick, whereas if you had spent a little more money they would look and feel better.  

It is also worth being aware of the pantoscopic tilt of frames. You may well be wondering what on earth that is; it is the slope angle from the top of the lens in towards the face. The higher your prescription, the greater the effect of this angle.  If you feel like something just isn’t quite right then it is likely that this angle is slightly off from the ideal angle for your face. This is where Specsdirect2u can offer more than other online suppliers because all of the glasses that you buy online from us are made by qualified Optical Technicians. 

 

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog.  Please subscribe to ensure you receive future blogs, direct into your email inbox.  We are active on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn, so if you use these sites, we would like to connect with you. Our main website is http://www.specsdirect2u.co.uk

Is Pinterest Cool?

Research states that Pinterest has grown by 4000% in the past 6 months.  So, with this startling fact in mind we at Specsdirect2u set-up Pinterest boards.  Some promote our Designer Frames, others promote stylish fashionista's.

But, we need friends on Pinterest - if you haven't followed our boards, please check them out here.

Pinterest is great for fun, promotion and sharing fashion styles, tips & mishaps. 

Here are a few of our boards:

http://pinterest.com/specsdirect2u/tom-ford-designer-glasses/

 

http://pinterest.com/specsdirect2u/prada-designer-frames/

http://pinterest.com/specsdirect2u/just-for-fun/

 

 

Sure you will agree our prices are fantastic, all frame prices include single vision lenses.  If you live in Scotland, please remember you can get your eyes tested for free. 

 

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog.  Don't forget to subscribe to this blog, and also to connect with us using the social media icons on this blog.  If you have any questions, we would love to hear from you so come into any of our 4 Glasgow Optical Practices, or pick up the phone.  Our main website is http://www.specsdirect2u.co.uk

 

Why You Should Add Eye Tests To Your Regular Check-Ups

Many people are happy to turn up at the doctor’s and the dentist’s every 6 months for a well-woman or well-man clinic, or for a general check-up with a scale and polish, just to make sure that everything is ok. But how many people go to see their optician the recommended once every two years? Are you one of them, or do you assume that because you think you can see clearly that everything is ok?

There are lots of reasons to make sure that you go for that check-up every two years. If you live in Scotland then you have no excuse not to make that optician’s appointment because eye tests in Scotland are free. Specsdirect2u have four practices in the Glasgow area that offer appointments that can be easily made by ringing the preferred practice and arranging a suitable time and date. While most people are able to get to one of the friendly local practices, some people can’t. This is why Specsdirect2u offer home eye tests for people who are not able to attend a Practice.

So, why all this fuss? Well, unlike the rest of the body there is often little or no indication when serious problems are developing within your eye. You may perhaps note that your eyesight is a little bit blurrier than it used to be, but how many of you would simply put that down to a natural part of the aging process and decide to deal with it later when it stops you doing things? Or perhaps you actually see no changes to your normal eyesight whatsoever.

The thing is that eye diseases can cause very fast degradation of the eye and in many cases once the eyesight is gone it cannot be retrieved. Conditions such as glaucoma, macular holes, macular degeneration, cataracts and hypertension can all be detected by your optician and the sooner a problem is detected, the sooner it can be treated.

Of course there are also other less serious vision defects that can be simply and effectively corrected with lenses. Some changes in eyesight can be so gradual that you may not notice that you can no longer see signposts clearly when you are driving, which means that you not only put yourself, but also others around you at risk.

There are some people who should have their eyes examined more often. Children under the age of 16 are susceptible to relatively rapid changes in their eyesight and so they should be in the group that has their eyes tested once a year in order to make sure that they have the right prescription to ensure that they can see clearly. Other people who should have annual eye tests are anyone with a family history of glaucoma, people over 60 and also anyone who is diabetic.

Of course if you notice changes in your eyes you should make an appointment to have your eyes examined straight away. It may be nothing but the natural aging process, but if it is something more sinister you could be saving your eyesight by acting so quickly.

So if you live in Scotland, make the most of a free eye test at a local, friendly practice. If you are in the Glasgow area then give Specsdirect2u a call and arrange your eye test today.

Specsdirect2u are an Independent Opticians based in Glasgow, Scotland.  We have 4 Optical Practices, the details are listed in the left hand side of this blog (top screen) with address and telephone number. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, please subscribe to receive future blogs from us and also connect with us using the social media sites.

How to Keep Your Eyes Healthy

As World Glaucoma Week comes to an end it is perhaps time to take a more general look at how we should be treating our eyes. It is very easy to take your eyes for granted and to perhaps not look after them as well as you should do. There are a great number of factors that can affect your eyes, some of which are relatively obvious, while others are less so. However the most important thing you can do for your eyes is to be aware of them and how to look after them properly.

Myths

There are various myths about eyes and eyesight that are worth debunking. Firstly, the place where you are most likely to sustain an eye injury is in and around the home carrying out normal everyday tasks, such as cleaning, gardening and DIY. Eye protection may not be the trendiest of looks, but it could save your eyes from the discomfort and damage that may be caused by cleaning fluids or dust and grit.

The second myth to debunk is that reading in dim light and watching too much television will damage your eyesight. There is no doubt that it puts a strain on your eyes, but it will not cause damage to the eye itself.

The Key to Healthy Eyes

There are various things that you can do in order to ensure that your eyes are healthy and that they stay that way. There are three main elements to good eye care.

1.       Eating for healthy eyes: Just like the rest of the body, the eye needs certain amounts and types of nutrient in order to stay healthy. Eating vegetables that contain vitamin A, such as carrots, will help to protect your eyes from becoming dry and will also help to prevent macular degeneration and cataract formation. Dark green leafy vegetables are also great for healthy eyes.

2.       Eye care: It is important to make sure that your eyes are kept clean. The tears that are naturally produced by the eye will do most of the hard work for you but for anyone who wears contacts lenses or make-up regularly there are additional factors to take into consideration.

a.       Water – is not a good choice for cleaning, rinsing or storing contact lenses, particularly in areas with flood water as there is often an increase in the number of pathogens found in even a treated water supply.

b.      Saliva – is often seen as a handy solution to provide a contact lens with a ‘quick clean’. Unfortunately saliva contains a lot of bacteria that can be a possible source of infection.

c.       Make-up application and removal – old make-up can harbour bacteria so it is important to regularly update your eye make-up. When removing eye make-up use a specific eye make-up remover as general removers can cause irritation and dryness.

3.       Professional Check-up: You should have an eye test at least once every two years so that you not only have the quality of your vision checked, but also the health of your eye. If disease or degeneration are detected early it is far more likely that you will maintain normal sight for longer. These check-ups are particularly important for people with diabetes, who are more susceptible to glaucoma, and also for anyone with a history of eye disease within their family.

 

If you are due an eye examination, please call us today on 0141 554 8886 to arrange an appointment.  Eye exams are free of charge to anyone living in Scotland.  Specsdirect2u are an Independent Opticians with 4 Optical Practices in Glasgow. 

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