Children may not always realise they have a vision problem. They assume everyone sees the way they do, which is why early detection is key and an early diagnosis will not just help your child's vision long term, but will also help them develop.

Experiencing headaches, blurry vision, or eye strain? Your glasses prescription might be wrong. Learn the signs and what to do about it. Read more at Care Optics!

Contact lenses have become a popular choice for vision correction, offering convenience and improved aesthetics. However, improper care and handling of contact lenses can lead to serious eye health issues.

     Also known as "Surfer's Eye", Pterygium is an elevated, wedged-shaped growth from the lining of the eyelid onto the cornea. Although is benign, the growth itself can permanently disfigure the eye, reduce significantly the eyesight or even cause blindness. It became known as "Surfer's eye" because it is usually a consequence of being exposed to bright sun for long hours, specially by the water or snow - which reflects the UV rays to your eyes. 

Causes
     As written above, UV exposure seems to be one of the main reasons for Pterygium development, but wind and dust can also cause it as this leads to Dry Eye Disease, which by consequence will lead to this condition. Genetics may also play an important part, as some people seem to be more at risk than others.

Signs & Symptoms
     Pterygium usually appears on the side of your eye that is closest to the nose, but it can also appear on the other sometimes. It is common to have it in one eye only, although sometimes it may appear on both eyes.
     There are people who don't experience any symptoms or require treatment in the beginning, but as the growth develops, there can be redness,  gritty, itchy or burning sensation, the eyes can become irritated and even swollen.
      When the Pterygium starts to invade the cornea, it distorts the shape of the front of the eye, causing  the curve of the cornea to change, leading then to refractive errors (Astigmatism in most cases).

Treatment
    The treatment depends on the size of the Pterygium itself. If it's just a small growth, your Optometrist/Ophthalmologist can advise the patient on lubricants (eye drops or gels) to temporary reduce symptoms like redness, swelling, itchy or gritty felling.  
      If the Pterygium is more advanced, the only option is then surgery.

How to avoid it
     As previously said, UV radiation and exposure seems to be one of the main reason leading to Pterygium. For that you have the perfect solution that is available for everyone - sunglasses . A good pair of sunglasses will filter the UV rays, giving you a sharper vision but also protecting you from conditions like Pterygium, Cataracts, Glaucoma, etc. Make sure to buy your sunglasses from a Optician instead of a shop non-related to eye care. A good pair of sunglasses should have UVA, UVB and UVC protection, and usually those shops will only have one of those protections - or even none.

     We remind you that if you have any of these symptoms or any other, if you need to book an appointment or if you have any queries, please contact us over phone or email. We will be very happy to help you.

Keep in mind: At Care Optics - Eye Care, We Care 

Contact lenses vs glasses – which is better? Find out the pros and cons from expert opticians in Dagenham & Woodford at Care Optics. Book your eye test today!

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February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month, a crucial time to focus on eye health and early detection of vision-threatening conditions. Learn about Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), low vision solutions, and how to protect your sight with expert eyecare at Care Optics in Woodford and Dagenham. Take advantage of our special offers, including 20% off eyewear every Wednesday and discounted eye exams for over-60s before 1pm. Book your appointment today and prioritise your vision health!

Regular eye examinations are essential for maintaining good vision and detecting potential eye health issues early. At Care Optics, we provide advanced eyecare services in Woodford and Dagenham, including OCT scans, varifocals, and myopia control. Plus, take advantage of our special offers—20% off frames, lenses, and sunglasses every Wednesday, and discounted eye exams for over-60s before 1pm. Book your appointment today for expert eye care and clear vision!

Conjunctivitis is a common condition which causes the surface of your eyes to go red and, often, sticky or watery and your eyes become sore. Read all about it here.