Jul 24 2007
Your New Eye Care Advice Blog
Dear Friend
Welcome to your brand new eye care advice blog!
I’ve set up this site to keep you informed of the latest eye care information, industry changes and up dates. There’s no hard sell here just up to the minute information.
However, to get the ball rolling I would really appreciate your input.
All you need to do is leave a comment letting me know what you would like to read about on this blog using the comments box below. There’s no need to login or register just leave a comment and Ill cover that topic for you soon! Â
Example: Would you like information on laser eye surgery, contact lenses, information on eye diseases or eye exercises to improve your vision?If you wish you can also leave comments about what products you would like adding to the spex4less web site.
Many Thanks
Mark Bowden B.Sc(HONS)MCOptom
Leave comments using the box below (PS you might need to scroll down a little but you can read other comments for ideas)
Hi Mark
Great idea! It’s nice to see you’re doing something different from the competition again.
I would like to know more about laser surgery. I’ve thought about it before but never done any research.
This would also be a great topic for your new blog!
All the best
Dave
Hallo Mark
great idea
eye exercises good idea
I have only one eye and find computer work a strain, any info on preserving my sight would be greatly appreciated. I cant be the only one who finds computer work a strain?
all the best
Ben
I’m confused about varifocal contact lenses. I understand how varifocals work on spectacles: you just look through a different band in the lens depending on the distance. But do varifocal contact lenses work the same way? I don’t see how they can unless the eyeball moves underneath the contacts.
Hi,
I would definately like to see more information for options available to those with poor eyesight or awkward prescriptions.
For example, my prescription is as follows:
Rt -5.00 -2.25 x 91
Lt -5.50 -0.75 x 77
Pd 63mm
This can cause me many problems, especially when it comes to contact lenses or, in trying to keep up with the new trends.
Problems I’ve often encountered are the “Daily wear contact lens” adverts that don’t state that people with astigmatism generally can’t wear them.
The other issue I have is in picking frames.
I recently purchased a larger than normal frame, and compensated the lens thickness by getting the lens cut much thinner.
This has lead to some unusual distortion of image for me, to a point where I had to go back from 1.67 lenses to 1.6 lenses.
Great idea though, and I look forward to seeing more from this site.
PS: The sheer number of “Add to” links on the left is quite overwhelming - what happened to the standard “RSS” link like most sites?
Hi Mark,
Thank you for giving everyone the opportunity to understand and find out about these new advances in Opthamology thus enabling everyone to have the chance to change their way they see the world.
Eyesight is precious and these topics are extremely informative. Also thank you for the great prices you have on frames and lenses, which is important to people on a very tight budget but unable to obtain free prescriptions via the National Health Service.
Kind regards and all the best for the future.
Denise
I have always wanted to get a pair of photochromic rimless specs but no site gives this type of informaion as to whether it is possible or not.
I too have heard about eye exercises, but never actually seen any written down to follow, do they help when you are getting older? 60’s.
I would have loved to wear Contact lenses but when I came to try them I was lost as I had no middle vision (needed for reading goods on Shelves etc, but the one thing I did notice was that Spectacles hide a multitude of sins, ie lines and wrinkles, so I guess I will stick with these.
Keep up the good work.
Caz
Hi Mark,
I like your idea for this blog, as i am now in my 70s it would be interesting to see information regarding age related eye problems.
I have a corroidal tumer in my left eye,i attend the Moorfields Oncology clinic for check ups each year.
Kindest regards,
James
Hi,
Does bathing the eyes benefit them? What product do you suggest if it does? Thank you for the opportunity to ask.
Hi Mark,
Sounds like a good idea, but what exercises can be done to improve eyesight?
Also why aren’t varifocals very successful on-line?
Mike
would like more info on eye exercises to improve eyesight (i didnt know there were any)
also if there is laser eye surgery that can work when only needing reading glasses
many thanks
I too am interested in Laser surgery and would welcome any information. Blog is a great addition to your services.
mark
it would be an idea to educate people on the importance of an eye test, i had a general eye test some 20 years ago and discovered i had tumours in my eye. this eye test probably saved my life. i have only minimal sight in one eye now and like James Armitage i would be interested in more info on age related eye problems/what we can expect in later life.
I would be interested in information about modern laser surgery, particularly for those of us who come under the heading of “senior citizens”. I had laser surgery on one eye about 15 years ago which was only partially successful and, thus, I decided not to have the other eye done. This now leaves me with a unique vision correction difficulty for which I have never found an ideal solution.
I would also be interested in info on eye exercises.
Dear Mark
It is an excellant idea, I would be very interested in all aspects of eye care and methods to compensate or correct poor vision. Keep up the good work. Unfortunately I don’t have a particular topic at the moment, but thanks for your interest.
Best regards, Bill.
I was wondering about whether my eyesight is deteriorating, I am just being lazy - tired or what. I do a lot of computer work and can still focus on the screen - but it’s harder than it used to be and I get headaches - especially when tired. I’d really rather focus my eyes somewhere way off in the distance.
Hi mark,like the blog,I would like information on floaters,I have these and they seem to be getting worse,is there any treatment for this condition yet.regards,RON.
Hi Mark,
I feel more comfortable with varafocals and like Mike i would like to know why they are unobtainable on line.
Brian.
Hi Mark,
Great idea and interesting to see what others are asking.
I would be very interested in eye care / exercises to help my eye sight.
I get very dry eyes which are helped slightly by using eyedrops. This is much worse in the winter. I would like to know if there is anything I can do to help this. I work on a computer all day.
Thanks
Is there any effective surgical solution to age related sight deterioration?
Laser eye surgery seems to be a popular suggestion, but I would appreciate information in detail. My understanding is that this surgery is really delicate and makes permanent changes to the eye (lens?).
What if it goes wrong? Can a mistake be corrected?
Is there any (incipient) scarring which can lead to problems in the future?
What is the success rate? Are some practitioners significantly better than others? Are there different techniques and or equipment? Which is best?
What happens if the prescription changes over time? Can a second or third correction be performed?
What can go wrong? What are the statistics related to success/failure?
Are there types of operation suitable for people who use varifocal spectacles?
Who is the most suitable type of candidate for this operation?
I’m sure there are many more such questions, but I’ll leave those for others!
Funnily, I’m a Ron with floaters, and would be interested in reading about macular degeneration
Any views on the use of, for example, lutein?
I too would be very interested in laser surgery. I did some research but was put off by some of the negative chat room sites on post op problems. The TV adverts seem impressive but I would be more reassured to know that practising eye specialists have themselves had this corrective surgery.
Hi Mark
I would like to know if I am a candidate for eye surgery at the age of 57, as wearing glasses is a real pain for me. I have glasses for PC, glasses for reading, glasses for driving, and then sunglasses for reading and driving, it is a real pain.
regards
Lyn
Hi Mark
Same question as some others,Would look forward very much to Varifocals being availiable on line,also advice on the best type of glasses for day & night driving.Keep up the good work.
Regards Richard
would like more information on laser surgery
I would like to know more about Laser Eye Surgery. Not for me, but for my wife who is very keen on the idea. What are the possible side effects/problems that may be encountered? The ads don’t mention these.
Would you for example, as a professional eye care specialist, have corrective laser eye surgery? If so who would you allow to do it?
If you would not, why not?
Many thanks
Hi, just a question that I enquired about some time ago, but got no reply. I wear vari focal specs, and you said, some while ago that you did,nt supply these, but were working on it. Any news yet please?.
Hi,
Like many people I’m very interested in laser surgery but what puts me off is that I’ve been told it still needs some more years final testing as can only guarantee a certain amount of years before it wears off??
What can be done against macular degeneration in future old age?
I take lutein lycopene when I remember. What do you think? It is not really in my family but I see much of it around in older people.
Hi Mark, I am a budding organist and i have a problem reading music
from the stand which is approximately 36″ from the bench.
Is it possible to get Lens to help me read music at this distance ?
Good luck with your new website.
Suggestion for your site for the big guys. Mark how about esier to search for frames that are a certain size, it seems to me like you have to look at all the frames only to find out that they are narrow or thin in depth,
I would like laser eye surgery BUT i have been told that it can cause major problems if cataracts develop in your eyes later on. Is it true that the older you are, the more likely you are to develop thse problems.
Hi Mark,
Would like some information on laser eye surgery and contact lenses as I am a keen sports player and would like to keep on playing for many years to come.
Greetings!
What I good idea - I hope it succeeds. My concern is linked to Ian McLauchlin’s (above) about laser eye surgery. I had this procedure last July when my prescription was approx -5 and -6. For the first day or two post surgery, my sight was perfect and then over the next fortnight it deteriorated to my current prescription which is -1 and -1.5. This is a great improvement but not as perfect as I had hoped. How “safe” is it to have the procedure done again? The surgeon has suggested correcting one eye only so that I have “hybrid” vision, being able to see long distances with one eye, and close up with another.
It would appear that anybody connected with laser surgery is very positive about the whole thing, whereas visits to seemingly impartial opticians have expressed concern over a second session under the laser.
Hi
I would really appreciated a bit on contact lenses, I too have an astigmatism and have a higher range perscription. However I have had them in the past about 10 years ago, but they where the harder lenses and i reacted to cleaning soloution. So I would love disposables.
Cheers
Jen
as above more about laser surgery, as i have heard you have to get it done every 10 years although some quote “vision for life”; also the drawbacks of contact lenses to glasses, thanks
I am due to replace my varifocals soon, and wish to pay less than the high street prices. I read that this lens is not yet possible to produce for online customers but wonder if I should wait a month or so longer to get what you are working on. How soon will you be selling varifocals?
Hello Mark,
pretty much the same as the other guys,
Laser surgery.
Varifocal on line, some do some don’t, are you any nearer supplying.
Eye exercises and eye bathing.
Do Bi-focal lenses still have a “step ” in them ?
Good site thanks.
Mark,
My recent order for glasses was OK have you any plans to get some higher refractive index photocromic plastic lenses then what you currently stock.
I got a pair of glasses in Cyprus last year they are fantastic and the price was remarkable! on comparison of the thickness of your lenses and the ones obtained in cyprus for the same prescription the difference is amazing.
Dave W
Hi Mark
I’d like to see an article about problems (and solutions - if any) for those with high myopia plus astigmatism.
I am about -11.5 with -2.75 astigmatism and wear gas permeable lenses. This level of prescription is too high for laser correction and though I’d love the comfort and convenience of disposable lenses they are available to either correct this level of myopia but not this degree of astigmatism, or the astigmatism but not high enough power it seems! Plus I just found out recently that after you leave gas permeables out for a while, you become more myopic as time goes on which makes getting glasses a problem.
I can only echo those comments already covered by other satisfied customers. Approaching 70 now, any avenue that may be open to me personally to improve my vision is welcomed. Do feel that the test that I got recently was a “run of the mill” assembly line exam, leaving me with little confidence in getting an eye test in the future from a High St multiple. Seem to recall that the result differed in the Axis coorection from one previously carried out? They also get quite “stroppy” when you tell them that you only want the prescription and they always ask to see your present specs first, which are stamped as a giveaway that you shopped elsewhere for a better deal. No answer to this presumably?
Would like to see and here about laser eye surgery, however reading the above statement i’m concerned to say the least.
I to would be keen to here the dangers to the procedure.
Hello Mark
I would like to have information about looking after my eyes and I would be interested in learning about how to exercise my eyes.
Best wishes
Great idea but I hope these aren’t the ‘live’ colours as my eyes are straining a bit to read the near black grey and the soft blue-grey.
Hello there
I would be interested in eye exercises to help improve general eye health.
Curious to know more about eye exercises … although I think will take a complete change of my vitreous fluid to bring back my depth of focus!
Hi mark. Nice that someone not only explains but explains in plain english for us non opticians. I and my husband are both diabetic with fluctuating eyesight so you can appreciate the problems that can throw up. Keep up the good work babe.
As a diabetic with high blood pressure, I would be interested to know how I can help myself particularally with eye exercises and perhaps a few tips on diet if you have any.
Thank you.
I, too would like to be able to buy varifocals online.
what is pigment dispersion syndrome?????
is it dangerous to my sight?
Hi Mark
You’ve got 47 responses since you started your site less than 5 hours ago… looks like you’ve got a good thing going! Congrats.
Yes… Why no varifocals? They are available domestically in the USA.
All the best, Tom D
I’m interested in normal age related eyesight changes. It seems to happen so fast and I don’t like it, even though my optician assures me it’s normal. I’ve changed from being -1.00/-0.75 for everything over about 6-7 years to +0.50/-0.50 for distance and +2.00/+1.75 for reading.
I thought straining to read in good light or use my PC without glasses was good, but it is giving me eyestrain headaches so I am giving in more and more to using them and there are more and more situations where I simply cannot read something at all. Poor light makes it significantly worse, as does tiredness.
Mark,
I am particularly keen on the simple idea that I can, to my own benefit, contribute to keeping your prices at reasonable levels by informing my friends and colleagues of your products, thus saving unnecessary advertising expenditure.
I have long been appalled at the prices that many of my friends seem willing to pay for spectacles through High Street vendors. I have been very pleased so far, with the purchases that I have made through you, which are excellent value for money in my book.
Do you have product information that I could use to persuade my friends that they should explore your option? For example are there significant differences in workmanship, quality of materials, basic design features, or any other factors, between your products and High Street items, which could shed light on the vast relative differences in cost?
John Duddy
Great site Mark, and seems like laser surgery is a popular subject. For those seeking eye exercises a quick search on Google for the “Bates method” or “vision improvement exercises” will find a deal of information.
Having had tunnel vision in one eye (and no useful vision in the other) since I was 8, I need a very high prescription lens: -10.50 although unaided, I have perfect vision at a distance of 2-3 inches
Information on high index lenses and whether they can be combined with reactolite would be appreciated, with a guide to typical prices. I noted that the online order system doesn’t quite reach up (down) to my level. Which are better? Large lenses or smaller - is it purely a question of personal taste? From experience I know the weight of glass lenses can certainly be a factor.
One last point, I have recently ‘discovered’, as you age, your prescription will normally decrease as you become more long-sighted or, in my case, less short-sighted. So don’t throw away those old spectacles of a lower prescription, 10 years later, I seem to be on the downward curve again
(It peaked at -11.00)
In view of the probable fact that most is already covered I can only support Tony’s point that a valuable addition to your site would be a frame/lens size search option…
hi mark.
i would like to have a tri focal lens at a cheaper price than a
varifocal lens.
i find that a tri focal lens is much better than a varifocal lens
yours in hope .
jh
Hi Mark,
An A plus for trying.
I own a dozen or so of glasses and am astonished to find that lenses made by different people have different rsults for the same prescription.
You sent me glasses that are OK and do not distort my vision.
I got varilenses made for the same prescription and they are the pits. They distort everything the moment I move my head out of perfectly vertical position despite the fact that I warned them to make sure the lenses were made as the ones I sent them as a sample.
Also I am told by the eye examiner that he can not do anything for my left eye because I have growing cataracts. He told me only an operation could fix it full stop.
I looked up on the internet and found eye drops patented by a Russian
eye specialist. got them and hey presto perfect site again.
What gives? Are eye surgeons looking for work?
May be of interest of some of your clients.
Ren
I have had much trouble with a red eye recently, especially when doing prolonged periods of work on the computer or long sessions of driving my car.
My optician says it is “episclera”. Can you please explain exactly what that is?
Many thanks.
I would like to know about Diabetes and eye research and what we need to do to protect our eyesight.
Hi Mark, I too would like to know if any exercises would help to improve my eyesight for reading, I also find my computer becomes a strain after a while.
Hi Mark.
The thing that would interest me are is how Diabetes affects the eyes and eyesight, and what to look for to ensure that your sight doesn’t deteriate too much. I already have a 6 monthly retinopathy done through the NHS. but would like to see some guidelines.
P.S. The perscription you filled for me was just the job. Thanks
What a good idea! I have a few questions please.
I would like to know whether there is any research into using a computer every day and sight deterioration.
Also, my reading vision is perfect, I can read the smallest text on the eye test without any difficulty. My distance vision is getting worse each year (I’m 53). My most recent test showed that my reading vision isn’t normal, but the optician said that this is “cancelled out” by my distance vision defect. How does that work?
What a good idea! I have a few questions please.
1. I would like to know whether there is any research into using a computer every day and sight deterioration.
2. My reading vision seems perfect, I can read the smallest text on the eye test without any difficulty. My distance vision is getting worse each year (I’m 53). My most recent test showed that my reading vision isn’t normal, but the optician said that this is “cancelled out” by my distance vision defect. How does that work?
3. Is it possible to have bi-focal spectacles which are non-corrective for reading to save taking them off every time I need to read something?
Many thanks.
P.S. Please delete my previous message, I hit carriage return and it was submitted before I meant it to be.
maximum age laser eye treatment? turned 70 too old I am told?
aging eye disease?
eye excercises
macular eye disease
I am interested in an honest comparison/discussion of the different varifocal lenses available, though I appreciate you do not sell them online at the current time! I changed from Essilor Panamic to their newer physio lens which they claim to be better all round, but for me the distance is better but for reading and computer usage they are way worse. Is there no way to appreciate what a lens is like/the differences/which lens will be best without actually buying them first?
Thanks for offering a great value service, and helpful advice…
Hi Mark
2 things
First
12 months ago I noticed what looked like bits of dirt in
my eyes I panicked and went to my GP
She advised I go to my optician this I did
He said no need to worry it’s an age thing (I am 64)
And explained about bits of gel becoming detached to rear of eye
he called them floaters and said they could get worst as I get older
Now here is the funny bit he said it would be worse in sun light
strange! I moved to Spain 4 months ago and today the floaters have all but disappeared
Second
I want varifocal glasses but don’t want to pay high street prices any suggestions
Could you give some advice about the protection offered by polarised sunglasses. As I don’t like varifocals I wear several different pairs of glasses(bought from you) and some are tinted to look like sunglasses. Do the tints protect my eyes or should I be wearing polarised lenses? Also, do polarised lenses vary in the types of sun rays they protect against?
Mark,
Do you have any recommendations to ease the problem of DRY EYES
constantly using eye drops to ease the situation, never seems to clear the problem, are there altenative methods to clear up this problem.
I would like to have more details when ordering spectacles
regarding how to be sure that they will fit correctly i.e. length of sides and correct size of lens.
Hi Mark,
Very pleased with my sunglasses I have received from you. I seem to be suffering a lot with hayfever which is affecting my eyes (constnt itching and running like I am crying all the while) and would appreciate any help you could give.
I recently had both eyes operated on to remove cataracts and I’m one of the success stories. I now have almost perfect vision in both eyes and only need specs for very close work. At one time and not all that long ago it was necessary to wait until cataracts were ‘ripe’ enough before removal was possible but now with new surgical techniques the procedure which is painless only takes on average 20 minutes to remove and replace the lense. I can only recomment to anyone who’s quality of life is effected by blurred vison to think seriously about having the cataract op. In this country some 220,000 cataract operations are performed every year and waiting list are generally no longer than 12 weeks. In our local hospital Ophthalmolgy department between 10 and 20 such operation are performed everyday. There are no guarantees of course but all will be explained during the pre op exam.
Thanks
PS I’m 72½
Hi Mark
I would like to know more about the range of contact lenses available. I wear daily disposables but would be interested to know more about those that one can leave in for a month (or longer) and allegedly even leave in while you sleep?!
Some information on exercises to improve eye health would be useful too.
Perhaps a printable eye chart with guides on how to position it and how far way to be to detrmin if you have 20/20 vision.
yes i would be interested about exercise, i do not like hostpitals etc so the more i can help myself the better. thanks for the glasses they are great H.
Hi Mark
Just a note to say thanks for your help a few weeks ago.
Despite the tight timeframe, and ordering with you speciality diving goggles for snorkling at 8am on the Friday, I did get them on the saturday ready for my flight to Kenya on the sunday as you promised.
You helped make my holiday, and I cannot even describe the colours and clarity of the fish on the coral reefs
Thanks for your help, good luck with the site, and I will be using you again
Cheers
Tony
hi mark its a nice site and lots of views
Mark
Why is there such a price difference among online opticians for adding bi-focals? Prices vary between £12 to £35. Some won’t do it at all.
Hi Mark, your online service is great, but I too would like to have acess to varifocals online and more advice on contacts.
My eye problem is using my glasses when playing sport. Static use is fine with single vision lenses, but with advanced years I need the intermediate range vision for golf to judge my swing and this can be difficult. I notice that it is rare for pro golfers to wear glasses (other than sunglasses) so are contact lenses a solution?
I really like the idea of your new `blog`. As with many other comments I would like further information on laser surgery and who it can or cannot benefit. I am 60 and so many friends seem to be having problems with cataracts so I would be interested on any information on this problem
Mark
I am a Glaucoma sufferer whose condition with age is getting worse I would be intersted in any ways I can preserve my field vision for longer and find out more info on my condition
Superb idea Mark.
As always you are leading the field…
All comments are great and I can relate to lots.
Having cataracts, does this exclude you from having laser treatment?or wearing contact lens
Best regards
Hi Mark
Think your website is a good idea and hope it succeeds.
I would like to see information regarding age degeneration problems that can be encountered as you get older. Have just found out that one of my eyes is showing everything blurred and am waiting to see the specialist at the eye hospital to see if anything can be done for me.
Hi Mark, any information on eye health appreciated, what about dietary suggestions I read somewhere about spinach being good for eyes - eaten not applied! Cheers.
Have to follow the majority, from the many I have read above, and ask for the information about the eye exercises. As a student some 30 years ago I seem to remember being told that it was possible to exercise the muscle in the eye which could help, and even allow some conditions to be improved on, but never given any real details about what exercises to do. I assume it is simply a matter of changing focal distances, thus causing the eye to re-focus, so making the muscle work… but I await the facts with great interest.
Like others have mentione I am interested in eye exercises to improve eye health as I spend a lot of time on my computer.
72 and with a complex prescription I have been wearing varifocals for about 5 yrs.and spend most of my time at home with a lot of reading.Do you think I could get used to bifocals again and how do the prices of executive lenses(straight line) compare to D type, Thank you.
Regards Fred.
Mark,
As per Dave,Charles and Rob regarding varifocals. I currently wear light sensitive varifocals,and when my independent opthalmic optician prescribes for me,he takes great care to mark on a plastic lenses where he requires the lenses to be centered. Is this the problem that you have in being able to supply on-line? Many good suggestions from your customers.
hi Mark, i think a general blog site with information is a great idea, as really people don’t look after their eye’s until something goes wrong but perhaps a site like this can cover a wide range of topics including te various treatments both for good care of the eyes and maintainance of the eye’s, glasses and contact lenses would be great, good luck
sean
As I suffer from retinopathy it would be a great idea for information on eye diseases, also if there is any information available on eye exercises and if they do really work.
Regards
Dianne
a. Many more people are using bicycles to get around these days, for commuting, shopping, etc, at least in Edinburgh area where I live. Are there any points we should bear in mind when ordering prescription glasses that will be used when on the bike? For example, I’ve found the photochromic(?) lenses useful on bright days. Secondly, I have 2 pairs of glasses, one with fairly large lenses (i.e. tall and wide), the other with lenses quite a lot smaller. I find the large lenses much safer as they give me better vision downwards when checking the road surface for potholes, and backwards when I turn my head to look at traffic behind before signalling, turning etc. More generally, you could have a section of advice for people who use glasses for other types of activity/situation.
b. About the eye exercises - many people are asking for info on these. If you provide that, can you also provide evidence, i.e. the results of scientific trials, which prove that they genuinely are effective, and what are the benefits. Personally, I hate spending time on exercise for its own sake (cycling is fine as it is useful to get somewhere, and the exercise is a valuable side-effect) so I would only be interested in eye exercises if I was convinced they would be effective and I knew what benefits should be expected.
I have never heard of eye exercises and would be most intrigued to read up on those, lookin forward to dealing with you again soon as those sunglasses are excellent even though i havent had much time to use them (although they came in very handy around the half marathon course that i did) cheers Tomo
Would be good to get latest info on Wet and dry Macular degeneration. It is the latest topic in eye care - how to recognise it if it happens to you and how to prevent it. How to prevent it worsening. What can people do to try and delay the onset? I think this website will be a great help to all - with the added benefit of being able to get specs from you as well.
|Hope it does well - sue
As a none user of contact lenses would be great if you could give info on the various kinds and which may be suitable for whom.
Also love to see info on laser surgery and what actually having it done entails.
Been interesting reading comments so far.
Tim
How about a discussion on the problems of availability of glasses online with more complex prescriptions.I would love to buy my glasses online but the prisms in my prescription eliminate me from most online glasses sites. When I add varifocal there are almost none. I would expect to pay extra for the more complex prescription but it must be a lot cheaper than my typical high street price of £450+, even without expensive designer frames. How about a separate option on your website for individually quoted complex prescriptions.
Great idea.
Exercises for eyes, also varifocals on line please.
Regards Sarah
Interested to know if it is advisable to remove specticles a period of time before having an eye test for new spectacles. This would allow the eyes to return to their normal vision.
Hi Mark
There does seem to be a lot of support for info on eye exercises, and I’d go along with that. General infomation on care of the eyes could also be a useful contribution, as I (and, I assume, some others) am getting to an age when I really appreciate how valuable my sight is. I look forward to seeing how the ideas you’re collecting will pan out.
Hi Mark
I think the website is a great idea - there are lots of great suggestions.
I too would like more info on laser surgery
what exactly happens ? Its success rate , any furture complications.
Pretty much stuff thats been covered by other people.
I went for a consultation - they seemed all positive and its just I feel that I need more information - from someone impartial (ie - who’s not out to get my money)
For me It will be a rather expensive procedure and if i gend up having to have surgery more than one or end up in glasses again - I’ll feel like its money down the drain.
Kind regards
Clare
I do not see much benefit in laser surgery if you are reaching middle age and losing your focusing range. By correcting short sight you will then need to have reading glasses, the same as if you wear contact lenses. I used contact lenses for the first time in March while skiing and although they wear great for sport (no problems with misting up and also able to use standard sunglasses)it did make map reading difficult. When I wear my specs for short sight I can just look over the top to read! I guess with Bi or Variefocals I would not even need to do that. One other benefit I have found over the years from wearing specs is the eye protection given even without using specific safety glasses.
Maybe some eye exercises will help restore some focussing range.
One thing that I do find a little irratating with eye examinations/prescriptions is the small variation from one test to the next. This variation may well be the result of time of day, year, general health, hayfever, and it would be helpful to specify the tolerance that can be applied to the prescription. For eample if the axis is defined as 20 degrees then 0 degrees may be almost indestinguishable and kept the prescription simpler. From one 2 year examination to the next I have found the strength, cylinder and axis measurements going from one measurement to another by a small amount but then back again. I’m sure these small variations when corrected can be more troublesome than leaving the brain to sort things out! I suspect that for many people an axial variation for astingmatism is not a big factor and the main problem is cylindrical correction from a perfect sphere along with focal range correction. This should allow contact lenses to provide reasonable vision for most people.
Is laser worth the risk? You decide but I not convinced.
Hi Mark.Very good idea.I would like information on twu areas. Eye exercises and information about drooping eyelid.. Regards Brian.
Hi Mark, I to have heard that eye exercises work, is this true ? I guess it could be! I have tried varifocal contacts and cant work with them, feels wierd! I prefer the daily acuvue moist they are wonderful.
I love your site, but wish I could get my varifocals from you, I get very bored with wearing the same frames so would like to buy more from you.
I also suffer from glocomma which I keep under control with drops How about some info on that and the importance of being checked for this. My Father did not get checked and went blind.
Also can lazer work for me ?
Regards Margaret
I’d like information on glaucoma and cataracts and also the technicalities of lenses. As has been already raised a full explanation of prescriptions would be helpful too.
Hi Mark,
Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to your blog. However, I find that all my queries/interests/concerns have already been covered by other contributors.
Thanks again
Dave
I’d like to see more info on contact lenses. I have tried several types of monthlies and dailies, but the ones I find comfiest do not come in my current prescription due to the axis. What are the different types and why are some more bearable than others for longer periods of time.
I have also been told that monthly means 30(ish) wears over any period of time (of the record of course), but also that monthly means throw away after a month - both by opticians working for the same company!
And why do opticians never really tell you the difference?
And why do costs vary so much?
I to am interested in laser treatment but i notice a lot of opticians are still wearing specs, is this an advertising ploy?
After wearing varifocals for 8 years i am trying standard lenses again supplied by you,( belated thanks )and i do feel that
opticians supply varifocals to people who can manage without,it is early days yet but at the moment i feel my near sighted vision would have to get worse for me to gofor expensive varifocal lenses in the future.
Hi Mark
Good idea. Information is hard to come and costs by so this should be good as its free too.
I’d like to know who does coloured lenses with sun protection so I can get some coloured sunnies for summer.
Al
Great Idea - I’d like to be able to get advice on all the subjects you mentioned and a few more besides. What about ‘floaters’ in the eye and treatments/excercises?
Regards
Robin
Hi Mark,
I ware varifocals, but I am interested in eye exercises, also laser
treatment, how long does laser treatment last for, is treatment
temporary or permanent.
Good Luck Mark.
Kind regards
Brenda.
Hi
This is a really good idea!
I’d like to know more about stigmatisms, I have one in my left eye and have worn glasses for the past 5 years but each time I get a new pair I have to return to get the prescription weakened, as the ground seems about 2 feet away, very strange.
Good luck
Andrea
Very interesting site,like many others I suffer from eye strain and take hypromellose eye drops.I would like to learn more about eye exercises
hi mark.i have bought varifocals on line last year, with no problems/
regards margi.
Hi Mark
I haven’t read all the comments so maybe mine has already been said. I think it would be good to have information on how eyes change over the years and what can be done to help lesson sight problems as one gets older. What the options are. Being kept informed about new treatments etc.
Are there any glasses better for driving at night? Or cycling I once had a pair of specialist cycling glasses which had prescription lenses supported behind the usual specialist shades
How does diet affect your eyes? E.G Alcohol Carrots?
Hi Mark
Many thanks and congratulations to you for setting this site up. I will like you to explain to the users of this forum the sort of people who can be suitable for Laser Surgery e.g. is it suitable for people with Glaucoma etc. These are some of the things that those commercial companies will not tell you. I will also be interested in knowing why most people cannot cope with using varifocals. Is there any special way of using varifocals?.
I’d echo the comments made by Tony Fowler re the wish to search your site by spec measurements. Also the comments by Steve Onions re Diabetic eye care. Lots of people have also mentioned the need for more info re laser treatment…..for what intensity of condition is it beneficial, how long before one needs to repeat the process, dangers, etc.
Eye exercises sound interesting and I did once send off for some material on this subject, but it seemed to give me more headaches than I needed so did not persevere. Some independent advice would be welcome.
Hi Mark.
I didn’t have time to read the entries on the blog other than the first in relation to laser surgery. I ned spectacles for reading. Opticains tell me that Lasr surgery would not benefit me, but watching some of the USA reality shows I hear opthalmic(?) surgeons stating that they cn correct near vision with a loss of some far vision. Who is right?
Andy
I have had varifocal specs reglazed by your company, any advance on buying varifocals on line??
What a good idea: we don’t take good care of our eyes: especially youngsters. I would like to know if there is any remedy or exercises for blocked tear duct, which I think is a fairly common ailment - my eyes constantly weep, especially when it is cold. also is it true that the ‘readers’ you can buy from the chemist or supermarket are merely magnifying glasses and can damage your sight or make it deteriorate faster?
HI MARK
I HAVE PURCHASED VARIFOCALS FROM ANOTHER SITE ON THE WEB
FOR MYSELF AND MY WIFE,BUT WITHIN A WEEK BOTH OF US COULD NOT GET
ON WITH THEM WE BOTH RETURNED THEM BUT WHEN THEY CAME BACK THEY WERE NO BETTER,WE WENT BACK TO OUR OLD VARIFOCALS,I DO THINK FOR THIS TYPE OF LENS A VISIT TO THE OPTICIANS IS NESSASARY TO GET THE CORRECT MEASUREMENTS,OR WOULD IT BE POSSIBLE TO SEND OUT A PAIR OF CLEAR GLASSES WITH MEASUREMENTS ON THAT COULD BE WRITTEN DOWN TO FIND THE CENTER OF THE EYE ECT.YOU WOULD THEN HAVE TO LIST YOUR
GLASSES WHICH WOULD BE OK FOR VARIFOCALS AS “SIZE DOSE MATTER”
GREAT BLOG
REGUARDS
JOHN W
Great service but,
I tried to contact you about providing midrange glasses for PC work (No direct email address available)
also why can’t I order changed sizes for frames? (sizes are in boxes on web site!)
time for more styles in price ranges
Hi there, this all seems to be such a good idea, and I will certainly be interested when it takes off.. Being in my 60s but also liking to keep up to date with the modern specs. I find it difficult to find specs to suit me. It is most important that they do suit me as I wear them all the time and with my lens requirements they can be very costly, as I do require varifocals in one lens and the other lens is more or less for balance and light, as I don’t see much with that eye. Also I have not found any website that goes over +10 (I think that is the reading part)and mine is 10.75. I will look forward to visiting your site in the future.
Hi Mark, Like many others I would be interested in learning about age related problems,(I am 77) diabetic, (controlled soley by diet) high blood prssure,(controlled with medication0 and have been told that I have cataracts in both eyes. I am stopping right there as I could get paranoic as well! I find that using the prescription polaroid sun glasses seems to help when the sun is very bright.
An interesting idea and will watch with interest to see how you develop it
Regards
Roy
hi mark could you let people know the advantages and disadvantages for bi and vari focal lenses
your service and backup is second to none
julie
Laser Surgery………
I have heard that this can be done professionally and cheaply in India. Does anyone have any info or recommendations?
MMX
Mark,
Good idea. I would opt for prevention of eye disease, eye exercises etc.
Cheers
Ray
Informaton is power! Much of this info you suggest providing is not readily/easily available from your mainstream or niche competition. Go for it! Do strive to tackle the provision of varifocals to your customers. Your competitors in your niche market are now providing varifocal solutions and I have not heard of any seriously adverse outcomes thus far - youmay know more.
Eye exercises and diet seem to me two isues of particular worth.
Excellent idea Mark
Is there anything on the horizon to help with loss of focus variation in old age. My eyes are equal and sharp in distance but anything under 10 feet away is blurred. I can’t get on with Varifocals (perhaps I use my peripheral vision than some?) My solution as your records will show is to have a whole range of glasses from +.5 to + 3.00. including 4 pairs of bifocals in various combinations. The bifocals are useful in some situations BUT arthritis in the neck means that even these cause problems.
I am 62, my mother is 85 (after a cataract op. she seems to have a much greater focus range than me - does this mean that she is actually adjusting the new lenses which they have inserted?
Are there any glasses which you can adjust manually, (not fashionable but would be good for work!)?
Good luck with all replies!
Roy E
Good morning.
Would be interested in knowing about any eye exercises that can improve vision, will they work if you wear glasses for driving etc. It would be great if I could manage without them.
Thanks
Hi Mark,
I would like to purchase varifocal lenses and would like more information on eye exercises, also I am keen to resume wearing Daily contact lenses after stopping for a while.
Thanks
Hi Mark
This blog is a very good idea . I would be interested to know if varifocals are ok for motorcyclists ?
Thanks
Hi Mark
I like your thinking, I would like to know more about eye surgery for people with higher lens perscriptions ie -8.00 and -7.75.
I would be very interested in eye exercises.
I would like to know more about high index lenses.
I look forward to seeing all the replies.
Two things really,1st thing my corrective vision is still only just enough for driving it could be better,having field tests etc still no joy.
2nd thing is i have tried a number of different contact lenses in the past the problem being is that my tear ducts do not appear to produce enough to lubricate the lense hense they become dry and very itchy,dissapointing really,having said that i know different products are coming out all of the time.
At least one of my needs has already been covered, I’m diabetic and like many of the earlier comments, I’m personally aware of the necessity for regular checks to avoid retinopathy. However, anythiong you can do to spread that message would be very useful, and may help someone prevent the problems of blindness.
Secondly your guide to buying glasses online is very useful, but can only be used whilst connected to the the net. Like many people, I use an internet cafe. When I downloaded the guide to use on my home pc, there was no way of reading it at leisure!
Hello Mark,
Having read through your correspondence, most things have been mentioned.
Glaucoma is of interest to me and there appears to be confusion about field of vision tests. Is it permissible to wear glasses whilst taking this test? It seems to me that if you need glasses to read, you should be allowed to wear them when taking this test. Yes or No?
Hi,
excellent idea. I would find information on eye exercises really useful as i spend a fair amount of time in front of PC screen. i am sure exercises would make my eyes less tired and probably improve sight as well.
Hi Mark, nice to see you are noty letting the grass grow under your feet!
The area I would be particularly interested in is an area which is particularly close to my heart. I am DIABETIC and am at present just starting to get significant changes taking place in my eyes and would like to see something along those lines please? In fact I am finding it is starting to affect me more and more and trying to get info from the clinic is not easy as they seem to be so busy?
Thanks for this and I wish you all the best in the future!!
Regards
Chris Goddard
www.french-lakes.fr
HI MARK INFO., ON LASER SURGERY WOULD BE GREAT, THIS SITE OF YOURS IS A REALLY GOOD IDEA.
FONDEST REGARDS JERRIE
My interest is if or when internet glasses companies will cater for stronger prescriptions.
My prescription is around the -10.00 mark and as you can imagine, prices for thin lenses in a High Street opticians is expensive!
My last pair of lenses for my glasses was £150 per lens (glass). Luckily it was half price lenses that day.
Is it possible to get lenses online that match my high prescription???
Yes, eye exercises please. Are they useful, how to do them, expected results? Thanks.
Hi,
Great idea. I would like to know more about recurrent erosion syndrome - causes, how to deal with it and what you can do to prevent it.
Thanks
Excellent idea. But I hope you have a lot of time on your hands…
It looks already like a lot of people have questions for you.
I would certainly be interested in many of the above topics.
As a suggestion for improvement, how about adding a forum section where people can share their own experiences (good and bad) of some of the above (e.g. laser surgery, multifocal contact lenses, eye exercises etc)?
You can probably only provide information. I personally always like to hear from people who have tried out these things themselves before taking the plunge myself.
You may find that you need a moderator for this section though to keep an eye on language and content and to referee the odd disagreement…
Good luck with it anyway.
John
Hi Mark,
I think this is great! Question. Please can you please tell me who insures glasses for loss, breakage or damage. I have lost more than 4 pairs in the last couple of years and none of my policies that I have taken out with the stockist (David Cludlow) can fully insure me?
G
Mark
It is a very good idea you have!
I am certainly interested in learning more about laser treatment, eye exercises and who could benifit from using contact lenses.
I have had a great deal of comfort using specs whilst using the computer and keep a pair of specs with an intermediate prescription lenses.
What can you tell us about the advantages of using polaroid lenses.
A few simple explanations about similar topics from someone like you would be most helpful.
Hi Mark
Nice idea! I’d like (as would others) more information about how to avoid/minimise discomfort to my eyes when using a computer for any length of time. Also, what is your opinion on laser eye surgery?
MJ
hi
Some information on laser eye surgery would be useful, and maybe info on eye exercises to improve vision?
Some good suggestions here.
I vote for finding a way to order varifocals online for myself and eye exercises for my son who has Amblyopia.
What a good idea! I’ve bought several pairs of specs from you now, and they’re exellent quality & value. What I’d like to know more about is “Dry eye”. I was diagnosed with this about a year ago and it gets so bad sometimes that I can’t stand normal daylight, even on a fairly dull day. Drops, supplements and artificial tears largely ineffective, although I get some releif from splashing cold water on my eyes. And all of the above.
Wow! Thank you for all your comments so far.
There’s certainly plenty to talk about here. Looks like you guys are going to keep me very busy
Keep them coming and remember I promise to cover every topic raised.
Mark Bowden B.Sc(HONS)MCOptom
Hi Mark
Great idea. I’m another floater sufferer here, one in each eye which have developed over the last year and they drive me mad. I know there is nothing much that can be done.
I have a high prescription and don’t think its fair that we have to pay such a high price for our lens especially on the high street, at least we should get a discount for having to have the thick lens.
Kind Regards
Hi Mark,
List has to be dry eyes, Lutin, Mid range ( how do you specify), Eye correction ( non laser, ie. exercise, diet, training),
Safety glasses (glare and mid range etc)
Thanks
info on eye exersise please to improve vision
Hi Mark
My prescription starts out working fine avery day but by bedtime (having been staring at a VDU or driving all day) I can’t read my book, even with the main light on. Is this something that eye exercises might help with or are my eyes just trying to tell me something?!!
This is the kind of info I’d really appreciate.
Rob
EYE EXERCISES
H E BATES BOOK HAS IT ALL. CAN’T RECALL TITLE AS BOOK AT HOME iT INCLUDES A LETTER CHART AS WELL.
Hi Mark,
Looks like you’ve hit on a winner here - time will tell. I for one will NEVER let anyone near my eyes with a laser - one slip and I’m ruined for life. No thanks! What I WOULD like however is to get rimless transitions/photochromic lenses from you over the net - my wife has got some from one of your competitors and they appear to work fine. Thanks.
Kind regards,
Alan S.
Hi
Information on where to get a much larger choice of frames, and those suited to varifocal and strong lenses
Rosalind
Great idea, Mark, and I see you’ve a lot of response already.
I found your guide to purchasing glasses online very comprehensive and helpful, and it told me about varifocals, which I have used for a few years now. I can see why you don’t advise buying them online at present; are you any nearer a solution to this ?
Hi, would be good to get regular information on children’s eye care issues - latest developments and treatments etc.
This site could become an important one stop shop if it’s maintained and updated with the same care and attention you provide when dispensing your glasses!!
Kind regards.
A great idea, innovative and different. Topics…..night eye sight and advise, difficult prescriptions which result in unusually thick lens and advise of laser treatmsnts ie latest reserach and success,
Will watch with interest, many thanks
It’s a good idea I hope you don’t get swamped by the number of questions.
Myreading specs are fine for ordinary reading but I play in various bands and quite often need to focus slightly further away than I do for reading - say about 2ft 6 ins.
Is there an easy way to convert my reading prescription into one which would take the focus about 12in further back.
If so I’m in the market again.
Regards Pete B.
Hi Mark,
Great site.
I would like to know why online sites only offer the larger size varifocal lens, whereas in the high street they seem to be able to offer the more fashionable, narrow framed lens. I know the geometry of such lenses is crucial, but with sufficient guidance on measuring, shouldn’t you be able to compete in this area?
I’m interested in some bionic eyes like the six million dollar man.
They must have moved on in cost now, and maybe have eliminated that annoying noise that accompanys them?
Hi Mark,
similar questions have been asked before but mine has a little twist specifically concerning myself.
I’m a type 2 diabetic who uses diet control and Metformin tablets to control it and I have often considered laser treatment. The problem I have is that my eyesight seems to be getting better since I was diagnosed with diabetes about a year ago. I currently have both lenses at -1.50 but last years prescription was -2.0. (I’ve had an eye test recently). I’m 53 years old.
I would much appreciate your comments.
Best regards
Kelvin
Hi
I am interested in varifocal contact lenses. I presently wear weekly standard contact lenses and have to use reading glasses for close up work.
Thanks
Andy
Hello Mark
Great idea, obviously popular with us all.Would love to know when it might be possible to include more difficult prescriptions in your great value website ie; -6 and -7
Great idea!
What to do and what not to do to preserve eyesight
Hello Mark
in addition to the other comments about eye exercises etc. It would be helpful to have some basic education by defining or explaining the meaning of the terms used by opticians e.g. Sphere, Cyl, Axis, Prism etc., and the numbers given for these.
Regards
Bob
Hi Mark,
Thanks for the opportunity of adding comments. I wear varifocal lenses, which I understand are difficult to order online because of the personal adjustments needed. This is the reason I have only purchase a pair of sunglasses from you in the past. I would welcome more ideas on how I can purchase these from you in the future. The other would be eye exercises, as I too use the computer a lot, so would like more information on this idea.
I would like to know more about the different types of contact lenses. I have tried a High Street optician’s own brand of Dailies but can only wear them for a few hours before my eyes feel dry and uncomfortable.
I would like to see you starting to retail progressive vision lenses on your site I am sure that there are many other potential customers in the uk who would also benefit if you had them for sale
Hi Mark,
I have experienced many situations when my glasses have broken through rough treatment/carelessness and would appreciate an area devoted to accurately describing the tougness properties of various metals/plastics for frames and lenses-e.g. polycarbonate lenses (not just flexible frames), so that I can make a better informed decision about which glasses to buy next time. In the past I have bought glasses from the ‘net and found that when they arrive the frames are made of much softer/weaker metals than I had anticipated. In general, this type of info is not easily accessible on optical websites and we don’t all have the time to trawl through sites looking for this info.
I hope you find this comment useful.
Thanks,
Adam
My son had laser eye surgery 4 months ago and is very disappointed;more info about possible problems would be useful,he has dry eyes and poor night vision,maybe they don’t tell you about this as he wouldn’t have had it done if he had known!
I agree with alot of people about advice on using computers, & working in front of projectors causes tired, sore eyes. Some advice on how to rest eyes, or minimise strain & about new advances in lens coatings would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Mark
Is there a growing trend for people to require glasses because of computer use. When I was a child we were always told to view the TV from afar because it damaged your eyes. Nowadays we all seem to have 19+ inches of computer monitor within 18 inches of the eyes.
Are there any statisics available to show that more people today, have to wear glasses, compared to the previous generation. If so, could modern computer use have an effect on our and our childrens eyes.
Thanks for the blog.
Ross.
Hi Mark,
Yes, its a good idea. I think we value anything that is genuine and not spin from someone selling something. Personally, I have a floater and I would like it explained. What is it, etc. Are there ways to treat it, etc?
Don Walker
I have used varifocal glasses for the past few years.
I have always found that the best reading band in the lens is at the very bottom - which means I always have to have my head tilted back.
I would think that the prescription for reading should be in the middle of the bottom half of the varifocal lens……..
Can you advise
thank you
Hi Mark
I keep seeing ads on the TV about laser eye surgery, and wonder how safe it really is.
I would like to know your comments on the matter.
Regards
Dave
Hi, Great idea if I can sift through all the stuff. Title headings and groups req’d. One thing I wish I’d known was that bi-focals [and ? variomatics] are totally unsuitable for neck sufferers / Osteo-arthritis and Spondylosis. I was sold some by a local specs dealer before I discovered spex4less, and suffered for months after the month free change offer; just keep trying them you’ll get used to them! I never did and was dizzy /vertigo whilst trying - then i sent them to the third world c/o Age concern
hello mark,
Fantastic idea, I have worn glasses since I was 2 and have a marked astigmatism in my right eye. I was so excited when laser surgery became readily availiable. Went and had my consultation and was told there was nothing they could do for me.I dont get on with contacts , so my options are wearing glasses. It would be useful if you could offer advice about any surgical proceedures that might benefit us people that laser surgery excludes. I dont mind wearing glasses but I am very self conscious becuse my lenses magnify my eyes so much and make them look huge and distorted.Any advice you can give would be great.
marie
A good idea.
My husband has bi-focals for day to day use, but has another pair of spectacles for use with the computer.
Probably, vari-focals would be the solution, but how can you know until you’ve tried them, since they are too costly to just throw away if you find you don’t get on with them. His brother had vari-focals but quickly discarded them because he couldn’t get along with them.
Hi Mark,
When searching for a pair, i would like to be able to select titanium frames, as i, like others suffer from sensetive skin and cannot wear normal metal frames.
In addition some providers offer to fit clear plastic heat shrink sleeves to the side frames FOC.
Either way this would be a great addition to the services you offer
On the issue of eye exercises, i recently suffered from Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and Bels Palsy, i was given a sheet at the NHS to do eye exercises because of my inner ear infection and i had balance problems
Good Luck
Best REgards
Jim
Hi Mark
Great Idea re. Blog.
One question I have…..
Is there a ‘natural’ way of correcting poor eyesight (long or short vision). I read somewhere, that the eye is a muscle (just like any other muscle) and you can perform exercises to make it work better.
Also, there are ‘Trainer’ glasses which help you do this.
Is this a myth or any truth around this??
Vineet
Hi Mark
Re laser eye surgery, my wife had this done a few years ago. It worked instantly but the sting in the tail was that, a few weeks later, the eye returned to the way it was before except, she now has some scarring. Just as well they only work on one eye at a time. In the end, a waste of money.
Good idea for the blog mark, well done. i do alot of hands on work for my job and was wondering whether you had any suggestions to avoid my glasses slipping off my sweaty face!? any suggestions/ products would be marvelous.
cheers dude.
Hi Mark
I can only echo all the points already made. In response to Vineet’s question, my husband once had some black plastic specs with tiny holes across the “lens” which from a distance looked solid black plastic. These were supposed to exercise the eyes and make them work. Any truth in that - would these be “trainer” glasses.
I was sold varifocals by my local optician. As I work on a computer most of the day, these were supposed to be for reading - pc - and distance. I cannot use them at all for the pc as I constantly look away at documents and then at the screen, focusing is not quick enough for me with the varifocals, therefore I couldn’t do my job efficiently. Any comment?
Keep up the good work - you have a very helpful website.
Shirley
Info on eye exercises would be briliant. I spend practically all day on the computer and know this is making my eyesight worse
I know about taking breaks, and focusing on something in the distance every so often but is there anything else I can do?
I would certainly like to see details of eye exercises Mark. Even if they don’t produce improvement it would still be great if they could prevent further deterioration.
Eddie
Hi Mark,
what a great idea, after speaking to several people (some wearing glasses)the questions arises what are the causes for failing eyesight and more often than not I start drawing simple graphics to explain what is going on (I am a qualified optician (German Masters)), how lenses and specs work together etc.
Maybe you see a possibility to add some pictures etc to your website explaining in some detail the function of eyes etc.
Best regards
Martin
Hi,
I am a keen fisherman and wear byfocal sunglasses. I would really like a pair of polariod byfocals but can not justify the expense. I have a pair of polariods which wrap around my ordinary glasses however find these bulky and unsuitable. What are the other options ?.
I go with Ben, I have no ‘focus’ in one eye after optic nerve damage, there is nothing that can be done optically to fix this so computer use can be a real strain - and it’s my job.
When using the PC I find it hard not to close the bad eye but if I do pretty soon things get uncomfortable. Some days I am forced to do the gardening (fortunately I work from home) the eyesight simply give me no alternatives.
Advice therefore for those with ‘partial’ vision in one eye but good vision in the other would be most appreciated.
PPS : For those of you using computers you need something to make you break focus and you need to make sure your monitor is properly configured and your computer set up is appropriate, many people tend to stare and that is bad, many don’t have the screen at an appropriate distance or angle, many don’t adjust the brightness and contrast properly, many even play with the fonts and colours without realising that they are making life really hard on themselves. You need to learn to look away from the screen, look at the keyboard, the wall - anything - just break focus - even if that means walking away for 10 minutes, for me it is a habit now but it wasn’t 15 years ago.
I wear varifocal lenses (and have astigmatism) to a high prescription and consequestly need thin (and therefore very expensive) lenses.
I would be extremely interested to know how near you are to supplying this type of lens on-line?
I think I appreciate the complexities of supplying such lenses, but wonder if it would be possible for you to set up a ‘mobile shop’ purely staffed by those able to ascertain the correct lens for such prescriptions.
Obviously this will add to overall costs, but these may be offset by the number of new customers who would be delighted to obtain such lenses at a more realistic cost.
I am interested in age related degeneration since I change about -0.5 per year but I am told this is normal. Also I have a lot of floaters and I am interested in a discussion or a technique for determining their relationship to pigment dispersion. Finally, are there any opthalmic treatments or corrections for variable pupil dilation? If it gets any worse I could close one eye and not need sunglasses!
Anyway, I hope you don’t regret opening up this blog.
What is considered ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ eyesight deterioration due to old age.
Secondly, I work in an outside environment and would like to be able to purchase prescription sunglasses without ’shading’ on the lower i.e reading part of a bifocal lense
It is a good idea to provide information re-eyesight. An area I am wondering about at present is whether or not it is useful to pay for having a retina scan using the new camera imaging technique. As we get older the retina gives us useful pre-warning about possible future problems.
I am also a little unhappy that when I buy a pair of spectacles I have the right frame size. I always feel that the side frames could do with being longer, but this does not seem to be catered for on-line. Is there a more positive method of measuring?
You already have a wealth of information here and I cannot add to it except to support the idea of an informative site.
Mark
I would very interested if you started selling eye products on-line that are beneficial for eye health.
A friend of mine was returning to Karachi for a short holiday , ASKED ME FOR MY PRESCRIPTION, I obliged and was presented with TWO pair of rimless plastic scratchproof bi-focals upon there return as a present. After an enquiry and disscussion on them it turned out that they had paid a total of £60 , Makes you think how we get to be charged so much in this country.
Hi Mark,
Not much time to read all but seems a great idea. I’d be very interested in the eye exercises though as would love to keep the glasses off for as long as possible
Hi Mark, i have recently suffered from retinal tearing, 2 occurances about 8 months apart in the same eye. having suffered with it am i now more susceptible, and will it affect my vision short and long term. i am short sighted with slight astigmatism in one eye.
Hi Mark,
Thanks for your Email,and the prescription Sun Specs are really good,and great value. So far as the new information goes, the only thing I’m interested in,as I’m 68, is the next time I need a change of prescription,which is 2008, when I will be looking for a pair of Varifocal specs for ordinary every day wear,
Thanks,
Brian Shore
People like Holland and Barret market products which are supposedly good for the eyes. We know that good nutrition helps - can you recommend specific vitamins which are conducive to eye health? Also what, specifically can one do in the form of eye exercises? Good blog site - should be very helpful.
Hello Mark
I’m Most impressed by the amount of feedback you are receiving. You really must have given good service to your customers over the years. As for myself, I am diabetic and therefore all related topics would be of special interest to me.i.e. Cateract treatments, retinopathy, glaucoma etcetera. I would think that every conceivably proposition has already been offered already. I wish you well in your endeavours and thank you for contacting me. J.H.
I have not seen anyone who promotes “safety” glasses online. Would you consider this to be a viable proposition, ( I recently needed to have my company provided “safety specs” repaired and because the 12 months guarantee had run out I was expected to pay for new glasses, this has now been resolved, but if this is was to happen again I would prefer to deal with a company like yourselves.)
Also I think from what I have discovered whilst logging on to your website, you provide a better back up service than the provider my company currently uses.
regards
Frank
why are glasses not as “sharp” as the eye test?? this obtains in the high st & online.Of course the optician uses high quality equip to test ones eyes so is it down to the manufacturers tools or the Plastic material used or their {OPT. & manu.} economic benifit ie returning footfall. The for going posts seem to cover my other areas of interest. Cheers, Mike.
Some mention of Glaucoma it’s causes and advice regarding aspects of this condition would be useful to many readers.
Hi Mark,
I would like more clarity when buying sunglasses in relation to UVA & UVB rays. eg. what is the optimum rating, is the higher number the best, what is the highest number and finally does the colour affect the performance.
My wife suffers from low pressure glaucoma, (Pressure ~12) but keeps it under control with the use of prescribed eyedrops and regular field tests.
The eye drops are not a very pleasant experience.
Any information on the subject and treatment options would be very welcome.
Also, like many above, I think advice on dry eyes in older people would be helpful.
Great scheme. Well done.
D’abord
I would like to thank you for the amazingly efficient service so unlike the ‘laissez faire’ attitude I have come to expect in France.The progressive lenses I received in less than a week were perfect and I had no problem adjusting to them even though everyone was horrified at the idea of ordering prescription lenses on the internet. I have been told that there are signs of macular degeneration
‘Mais on peut faire rien!’(nothing to be done) whereas I am always reading about new approaches to this problemI ;I am 63 years old ,have I no choice but to accept degeneratig vision, i.e over and above the normal aging process. I have had, since the age of 30, one pupil which does not respond to light ,this is the eye in which the damage seems to be. Could there be any connection?
Unfortunately I find that I cannot use your service as I require multi focals which you can only supply as a re-glaze service. I live in France and have only one pair of glasses which I need to wear all the time so I am not able to send them to you. Why is this?
What a great idea somebody who is willing to help and explain things to the