Stay in focus with Vision Splendid

The vast majority (90 per cent) of vision loss and blindness is preventable or treatable when identified early.

Alison Stuart, from Vision Splendid Optometrist, says that there’s a misconception amongst Australians that visiting the optometrist is only necessary when something is noticeably wrong.

“Just because someone can read the bottom line on the eye chart, doesn’t necessarily mean their eyes are healthy.”

The reality is that many eye diseases occur slowly, over years, and sometimes without any obvious signs or symptoms. This is why regular eye examinations with an optometrist are essential to make early detection more achievable and combat potential issues.

Many eye diseases have no early symptoms. A good example of this is glaucoma which causes slow and painless loss of vision over months or years.

“With glaucoma, the patient typically has no idea anything is wrong,” Alison said. “They notice no change in their vision until the condition has progressed. Because of this, the single best way to protect your vision is through regular eye examinations.”

Another eye disease found mostly in older Australians is macula degeneration. This condition causes blur or distortion in the central part of a person’s vision. Often it isn’t immediately noticed if the other eye is seeing well. A simple at-home test called an Amsler grid (an example is included below) is available for seniors to self-check their central vision.

“It’s basically a small square grid,” Alison explained. “If you wear glasses for reading you put them on and cover one eye. Look at the centre of the grid, there is usually a small dot there to fix on.

“Then check to see if the grid lines appear straight and regular. If they are wobbly or there are dark areas or gaps, there may be changes happening at your macula and you should consult your optometrist as soon as possible.”

It’s vital that all Australians visit the optometrist, with Optometry Australia recommending regular eye examinations from the time just prior to starting school and then throughout life.

Australians should visit an optometrist immediately if they notice changes in vision such as loss of vision; blurred, hazy or double vision; severe, sudden or recurrent eye pain; seeing flashes of light or sudden dark floating spots; unusual or painful sensitivity to light or glare; swollen, red eyes and excessive discharge from the eyes – particularly if green or yellow.

To book an appointment at Vision Splendid, contact the friendly team at one of its four practices located around the North West – Gunnedah (6742 2665), Narrabri (6792 1342), Moree (6752 1753) and Coonabarabran (6842 1533).