Ortho-K
Wake Up Frame Free - Unlock clear vision overnight!
Orthokeratology is a non-surgical method of vision correction that involves wearing specially designed gas permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, correcting refractive errors, such as but not limited to myopia.i
The benefit?
Clear unaided vision throughout the day without the need for refractive surgery, glasses, or daytime contacts.
How does orthokeratology work?
The unique curved design of Ortho-K lenses generates pressure in the thin layer of tears under the contact lens. By applying gentle pressure to specific areas of the cornea, Ortho-K lenses alter its curvature, effectively changing the way light rays are refracted onto the retina.ii It’s this gentle tear pressure, rather than the lens itself, that is responsible for the subtle change in corneal shape.
Is orthokeratology safe?
Worn while you sleep, orthokeratology lenses are made from a highly oxygen permeable (breathable) material enabling treatment to proceed relatively safely during sleep without the problems caused by a lack of oxygen to the cornea.
How often are Ortho-K lenses worn?
The cornea is highly elastic and will return to its original shape if orthokeratology lenses are not worn on a regular basis. For this reason, Ortho-K lenses are generally worn several times per week, or nightly, to maintain the re-shaping effect once the desired cornea shape has been achieved.
Who is eligible for orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology is most commonly used for people who are short-sighted (myopic). It is ideal for sportspeople, swimmers or those who work in dusty or dirty environments.
Scott and Kate are experienced in Ortho-K and will assess your eligibility based on your prescription and general eye health.
Find out your suitability for Ortho-K lenses by booking an appointment at Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists Maroochydore today!
ihttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6095568/
ii https://www.contactlensjournal.com/article/S1367-0484(21)00017-5/abstract
Dry Eyes
Say Goodbye to Dry Eye!
Understanding Dry Eye Causes and Symptoms
Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem affecting over 4 million Australians. In January 2020, Optometry Australia reported 77% of Australians have suffered dry eye, yet only 26% have seen an optometrist about the treatment options available.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry Eye occurs when your tears aren’t able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes, due to a reduction in the quality or quantity of tears. This tear film comprises three layers that work together to keep your eyes moist and protected. If anything upsets the tear film, it can become unstable or evaporate and results in dryness and inflammation of the cornea (front of the eye).
How can I manage Dry Eye?
While dry eye can be an ongoing challenge, there are practical steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and enhance eye comfort, and we have listed a handful of these below:
• Hydration is key, as drinking enough water throughout the day supports tear production, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Blinking helps to replenish the tear film in your eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, especially during prolonged screen time or focused activities.
• Dry indoor environments, particularly during colder months, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Adding a humidifier to your living or working space helps maintain optimal humidity levels, preventing excessive tear evaporation.
• Shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and windy conditions by wearing sunglasses outdoors. Strong weather conditions can contribute to dryness and irritation, so proper eye protection is essential.
• Over-the-counter artificial tear drops may provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes.
An optometrist is the best person to diagnose dry eye. We will conduct tests that investigate tear production and tear evaporation, and examine the integrity of your tear film, and identify the best solution.
If dry eye is causing you significant or prolonged discomfort, book a comprehensive eye exam with Scott or Kate at Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists Maroochydore today.
1https://www.optometry.org.au/wp-content/uploads/GVFL/Brochure_PDFs/Dry-Eye-2018-A4-single-page-final.pdf
2https://goodvisionforlife.com.au/vision-problems/dry-eye/
Children’s Eye Test
The importance of back-to-school eye exams - Is your pupil school ready?
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents are busy with shopping for uniforms, backpacks, and school supplies. But amid all the preparation, one critical aspect often goes overlooked - your child's eye health. Is your star pupils' vision ready for the new school year? Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam could make all the difference in their academic and social success.
Why eye exams matter for young children
Vision plays a major role in learning. From reading books and writing notes to using digital devices, clear vision is essential for students to keep up with classroom activities. In fact, it's estimated that up to 80% of a child's learning happens through visual processing. Yet, many children may struggle with undiagnosed vision issues that could hinder their progress.
Children may not always realise or be able to articulate that they have vision problems. Regular eye exams allow us to detect any issues early, such as myopia or amblyopia, before they negatively impact learning.
Common vision problems in children
Some of the most common vision issues in children include:
" Myopia (nearsightedness): This condition is increasingly prevalent, especially with more screen time and less outdoor play. Myopia can affect a child's ability to see distant objects, making it difficult to follow lessons on the board.
" Strabismus (crossed eyes): Involves issues with the muscles or nerves that help the eyes focus. May affect one or both eyes.
" Amblyopia (lazy eye): Often developing in early childhood, this condition involves one eye being weaker than the other. How well treatment works is limited after the age of 9 years old, so early diagnosis and treatment is very important.
Signs your child may need an eye exam
Parents might not realise their child is struggling with vision problems, as children often adapt without understanding that something is wrong. Here are a few signs to watch for:
" Squinting or closing one eye to see better.
" Sitting too close to the TV or holding books too close.
" Complaints of headaches, tired eyes, or double vision.
" Difficulty concentrating or following along in class.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to book an eye exam. Even if there are no noticeable issues, routine checks are vital.
The benefits of routine eye exams
A comprehensive eye exam ensures that your child's vision is supporting their learning, not hindering it. Clear eyesight leads to better focus, improved reading skills, and enhanced performance across academic and extracurricular activities.
Good vision is also crucial for social development. Children with untreated vision problems may struggle in sports, games, and other activities, which can affect their self-esteem and ability to connect with peers.
How often should children have eye exams?
While school vision screenings can be helpful, they often miss more subtle problems. According to Optometry Australia (OA) children should have their eyes evaluated by an optometrist at 6 months, then every year until the start of school and then at least every 2 years during their primary school years. If a child has a known vision issue, more frequent visits may be necessary.
Schedule a back-to-school eye exam with Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists Maroochydore today
As optometrists, we can't stress enough the importance of including an eye exam in your back-to-school preparations. Clear vision is crucial for your child's success, both in the classroom and beyond. At Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists, we're here to ensure your child's eyes are ready for the new school year.
If we detect any vision issues, we'll discuss the best treatment options, which may include glasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, or myopia management, depending on your child's needs. Early detection is key, as many eye conditions are easier to treat while the eyes are still developing.
Make your child's eye health a priority this year. Book their comprehensive eye exam at Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists today to give them the best possible start to the school year.