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Diabetes – It’s more than sugar!

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 07:16:02 GMT

Diabetes – It’s more than sugar!

Have you been told you have diabetes? Did the news shock you? Many people get told they have diabetes before they even know they have a problem! Let’s look at some early signs and what we need to do to manage this disease. Some signs that happen in early diabetes are: Drinking more water Going…

Drinking more water

Going to the toilet more often

Losing weight without doing anything to lose weight.

A lot of people ignore these signs as they think the reason, they are going to the toilet more often is because they are drinking more often. And then also who doesn’t like to lose weight?

When was the last time you checked your sugar level?

If you have diabetes this must be checked regularly. The body cannot cope with big swings in sugar levels, and this will cause a lot of changes in your eyes and your body. Having a high sugar level for too long will also cause damage.

A random sugar level should be between 80-130mg/dL. Anything over 200mg/dL is very concerning!

Regular eye exams have been shown to prevent major sight loss due to diabetes. Unfortunately, the longer you are diabetic the more at risk you are to have changes in your eyes due to diabetes, even more so if we do not control our sugar levels. By taking photos of the back of your eye, these changes can be monitored.

If these changes are not picked up on time, it could mean long and expensive surgery to stop your eyes from getting worse. As they said prevention is better than cure! We know that trying to control diabetes can be frustrating and annoying and that is why at The Optometric Centre we have added extra time to our diabetic eye examinations to use our high technology to check your eyes and spend time with you discussing how we can help you achieve better control over this disease.

 To us, you are a patient with diabetes, not a diabetic patient! Don’t let this disease control your life, we want you to control it!

At The Optometric Centre you are the centre of our focus

We are here to support you in your journey! Book an appointment today!

Let’s look at some early signs and what we need to do to manage this disease.

Some signs that happen in early diabetes are:

However, diabetes is a lifelong disease and needs to be treated with respect. Diabetes can cause you to lose your vision and your life!

Changes due to diabetes can creep up on you and then bang suddenly you start having eye problems, kidney problems, and heart problems.

A healthy diet, exercise, regular checking of your sugar levels and regular eye exams are 4 easy steps to help you look after yourself!

Do you know what your sugar level should be?

A healthy diet doesn’t need to be boring! We need to cut down on the amount of carbohydrates or starchy foods. There is nothing bad in having an occasional mango or ice cream once it is done in moderation!

When we are told we need to exercise, we sometimes think we need to go round and round and round the Savannah but walking around your house, going up and down stairs and 5 minutes on a tread mill are all types of exercise! Something is better than nothing!

Glaucoma – The Thief of Sight!

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 07:04:42 GMT

Glaucoma – The Thief of Sight!

Glaucoma has been called the thief of sight as it seems to rob you of your vision, but did you know that it changes your vision 5 years before you even notice? Read on to learn about this possible devastating eye disease. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause someone to lose…

But did you know, this eye disease could be picked up sooner by regular eye exams?

Who is at risk of this eye disease?

How is it picked up?

Nowadays with modern technology, there are many ways for it to be detected.

What can be done if I have it?

If it is picked up on time, the treatment is normally eye drops or a laser procedure. If it is not picked up on time, the Ophthalmologist may need to use many drops or even complicated surgery. The best thing is to get it picked up as soon as possible by having regular eye exams especially if you have a risk factor.

Other types of Glaucoma are similarly devastating but not as common. Closed-angle glaucoma is when the pressure rises in the eye suddenly, leading to a painful eye. This needs immediate attention!

Diabetes can also cause a special type of Glaucoma so please keep your diabetes under control.

Whilst Glaucoma is a lifelong disease that needs to be managed for the rest of your life it doesn’t have to be a life sentence especially when it is picked up on time.

Remember, your eyes are irreplaceable, and early detection is the key to preserving your vision. Don’t let Glaucoma be the thief of your sight.

At The Optometric Centre you are the centre of our focus

Schedule an eye exam today and take the first step in preserving your eyesight.

The most common type of Glaucoma is called Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG). The risk factors are:

People over the age of 40
People with a family history especially brothers and sisters
People of Afro-Caribbean ethnicity
People with Diabetes

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause someone to lose their vision. The pressure in your eye becomes too high for that eye that it presses on delicate cells in the back of your eye causing them to die off. 32% of all blindness in people over 40 in Trinidad and Tobago is due to Glaucoma.

The problem is the first batch of cells to die off are the ones that help you see to your side. This is why we do not notice these changes as most of our daily tasks are central tasks. It is only when we start to bump into people on the street, have problems driving the car or have difficulty going up and down stairs that people start to know they have a problem but by then damage could have already happened!

Pressure check=> You may be familiar with the “puff of air” test at the optometrist’s. Some people dread this test, that’s why there are new ways of measuring pressures without the puff!

Visual Field Test=>This machine checks how far you can see to the side. This is an important test to have down. Some people think it is boring, but it is vital to have it done!

OCT=>This is like an ultrasound but using light and it tells us if those delicate cells have been damaged many years before you would know!

Other types

Cataract – What exactly is a cataract?

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 06:56:31 GMT

Cataract – What exactly is a cataract?

If you think a cataract is a film that grows over your eyes, you are not alone! Many people think this is a cataract. However, a cataract is something that grows IN your eyes! Our eyes are nature’s camera, and they have a lens inside to focus on all the many things that we look…

If you think a cataract is a film that grows over your eyes, you are not alone! Many people think this is a cataract.

However, a cataract is something that grows IN your eyes!

Our eyes are nature’s camera, and they have a lens inside to focus on all the many things that we look at each day.

When we are young this lens is clear and springy and works just like a camera that zooms in and out.

Every year a new layer of cells is added onto the lens, just like a tree trunk gets a new ring added to it every year.

With these new layers added on every year, the lens gets thicker and thicker and then also less flexible. Just like a camera is unable to zoom in and out. This is called presbyopia.

With this, the lens also becomes less clear and more difficult to see. When your vision becomes so bad that you cannot do your daily tasks that is the time to think about getting your cataracts removed.

Why do people to get them?

Age!=> Most people get cataracts around the age of 65. At the Optometric Centre, we like to think about cataracts is as a celebration of age! You are fortunate to have lived a life to get to the age of having cataracts!

What happens when I get a cataract?

Most times cataracts start small and may only affect your vision slightly, possibly in poor light. However, when it gets to the stage where you can no longer function that is definitely the time to start thinking about having them removed by an operation.

Cataract surgery is one of the World’s most performed and successful operations in all areas of medicine. It is a much quicker operation than before, and the recovery is also much quicker. Like most eye problems, the sooner the cataract is picked up, the easier the operation.

Why can’t I just use eye drops to make it go away?

Currently, there are no eye drops that make a cataract go away. You may have heard of one but that was sometimes only successful on dogs!

Why can’t I just get new specs?

Because the haziness is caused by something in your eye, a new pair of spectacles will not help as much as you may expect! Another way to think about it is if the window in your house is cracked, nothing you do inside your house or outside the house will be effective, the window needs to be fixed! The same with a cataract.

We want you to enjoy your eyes as you get older! Remember, your eyes are precious, and understanding cataracts early can lead to swift and effective treatment. Don’t let haziness in your vision hold you back.

At The Optometric Centre you are the centre of our focus

Schedule a regular eye exam today and embark on the journey to clearer, healthier eyes.

However, some people get them younger in life, these types are normally caused by.

Trauma
Certain medication
Certain illnesses, for example, uncontrolled Diabetes
Being out in the sun without UV protection

80% of all vision loss is preventable!

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:40:35 GMT

80% of all vision loss is preventable!

Unlocking the Power of Prevention: Defying the Odds Against Vision Loss In healthcare, there’s a profound truth that often goes unnoticed—the majority of vision loss is preventable. An astounding 80%! Let’s look into this fact and understand how the journey to preserving eyesight begins with proactive choices. The Alarming Reality: A Call to Action Vision…

Unlocking the Power of Prevention: Defying the Odds Against Vision Loss

In healthcare, there’s a profound truth that often goes unnoticed—the majority of vision loss is preventable. An astounding 80%! Let’s look into this fact and understand how the journey to preserving eyesight begins with proactive choices.

The Alarming Reality: A Call to Action

Vision loss, once considered an inevitable part of aging, is now met with a powerful revelation—four out of every five cases are preventable! This realisation is a call to action! We urge you to take charge of their eye health and embrace a proactive stance against the looming threat of vision impairment.

The Preventable Landscape: Unveiling the Causes

Understanding preventable vision loss requires a closer look at the contributing factors. Some of culprits often include:

Empowerment through Knowledge: The Role of Education

Central to the prevention of vision loss is the sharing of knowledge. Knowing the importance of regular eye check-ups, early detection, and lifestyle choices empowers you to make informed decisions about you eye health.

Lifestyle as a Shield: Nurturing Healthy Habits

A proactive approach to eye health extends beyond clinical visits. Embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes:

The Empowered Future: Taking Control of Your Vision

As we unravel the truth that 80% of all vision loss is preventable, it’s an invitation to step into an empowered future. Regular eye check-ups, a commitment to healthy living, and awareness form the pillars of a resilient defense against the encroaching threat of vision impairment.

In Conclusion: A Visionary Shift

The journey from potential vision loss to sustained clarity begins with a shift in perspective. By acknowledging the preventable nature of the majority of cases, we embark on a collective mission to redefine the narrative of eye health. Let’s celebrate the power of prevention and pave the way for a future where clear vision is not just a hope but a tangible reality.

At The Optometric Centre you are the centre of our focus

Cataracts: While cataracts are a common occurrence with age, early detection and timely intervention through surgery can prevent significant vision loss.
Glaucoma: Often referred to as the “thief of sight,” regular eye exams can detect glaucoma early, enabling effective management and preservation of vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy: With diabetes on the rise, managing blood sugar levels and regular eye check-ups are crucial to preventing diabetic retinopathy.
Trauma: Sometimes we forget to protect our eyes doing our daily tasks!

Healthy Nutrition: A diet rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins A, C and E acts as a shield against age-related vision issues.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity is not just beneficial for overall health; it also contributes to eye health by reducing the risk of conditions like diabetes.
UV Protection: Shielding the eyes from harmful UV rays through sunglasses and hats is a simple yet effective preventive measure.

See the world clearly—where prevention is the key to preserving the beauty of your vision

Welcome!

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 05:45:56 GMT

Welcome!

Embarking on a Visionary Journey: The Birth of The Optometric Centre Every venture has a story—a narrative that unfolds the dreams, aspirations, and a deep-rooted passion that propels it into existence. For Lesley and Niall, the founders of The Optometric Centre, the journey began with a shared vision of transforming eye care into an experience…

Embarking on a Visionary Journey: The Birth of The Optometric Centre

Every venture has a story—a narrative that unfolds the dreams, aspirations, and a deep-rooted passion that propels it into existence. For Lesley and Niall, the founders of The Optometric Centre, the journey began with a shared vision of transforming eye care into an experience that goes beyond routine examinations.

A Shared Vision of Care

Lesley and Niall, both seasoned optometrists, share a common belief: eye care isn’t just about prescriptions and visual acuity. It is about fostering a connection with patients, understanding their unique needs, and providing a holistic approach to eye health.

The Catalyst: Identifying Gaps in Traditional Eye Care

Their journey started with a realisation—a recognition of the gaps in traditional eye care. The routine appointments and hurried examinations left little room for personalisation and in-depth discussions about eye health. Lesley and Niall envisioned a space where patients felt seen, heard, and understood.

Beyond 20/20 Vision: A Holistic Approach

The Optometric Centre was conceived as more than just a clinic; it was designed to be a haven for those seeking comprehensive eye care. Lesley and Niall envisioned a place where the journey to clearer vision wasn’t a mere transaction but an immersive experience that encompassed education, prevention, and a personalized touch.

Patient-Centric Care: The Core Philosophy

At the heart of The Optometric Centre lies a commitment to patient-centric care. Lesley and Niall set out to create an environment where patients feel welcomed, where their questions are not just answered but explored, and where the journey to optimal eye health is a collaborative effort.

Innovation in Diagnostics and Technology

The founders understand that staying at the forefront of advancements in optometry is key to delivering top-notch care. The Optometric Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that every patient benefits from the latest in diagnostic tools and treatments.

Community Impact: Beyond the Clinic Walls

Lesley and Niall’s vision extends beyond the confines of the clinic. They aspire to create a positive impact on the community by promoting eye health awareness, conducting educational sessions, and engaging in outreach programs.

Your Vision, Our Mission: The Optometric Centre Today

Today, The Optometric Centre stands as a testament to Lesley and Niall’s dedication. It’s a space where the warmth of personal care converges with cutting-edge technology—a place where your vision is not just a concern but a shared mission.

In Conclusion: A Visionary Legacy

The journey of Lesley and Niall in establishing The Optometric Centre is a tale of passion, innovation, and a commitment to redefining eye care. As they continue to impact lives through clear vision, the legacy of their visionary journey unfolds, inviting you to be a part of a community where eye care is an experience, not just a service.

See the world through our eyes—where clarity meets care.

At The Optometric Centre you are the centre of our focus