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Archive for the ‘Eye Sight & Vision’ Category

Jockey Danny Cook fighting to save eyesight and career – Yorkshire Post

Friday, December 4th, 2020

SportOther SportDANNY Cook hopes eye surgeons can save his career after being forced to give up race-riding for the time being.

Sunday, 29th November 2020, 2:01 pm

He made the decision immediately after Definitly Red, a horse integral to his career, fell in Newcastles Rehearsal Chase. He cited medical reasons for giving up two rides at Carlisle on Sunday.

Cook had returned to the saddle on November 21 just weeks after suffering a fractured eye socket in a horror fall. He required 60 stitches to facial injuries following a fall at Market Rasen in which he was kicked in the face by a pursuing horse.

But the jockey, who has built a strong association with Yorkshire trainers Sue Smith and Brian Ellison, has conceded that he is currently unable to do justice to his rides because of impaired vision during races.

Im going to take time out to get myself sorted its just one of those things, he told The Yorkshire Post.

If they operate, theres an 80 per cent chance my sight will be even worse so I need to weigh up all the options.

Hopefully, I will know more in the next week. If it doesnt get better, I will not return.

Cook denied widespread weighing room speculation that he had already chosen to retire. People are going to say what they are going to say, he went on.

Mentally, I am good to go and I am confident and strong. But the vision is very much impaired when I go into a jump its not helping.

I have got to look after myself. If I cant ride at my best, I must get myself sorted. Whatever happens, I have had a good innings and hopefully it is not the end.

Time will tell. I have just got to take time to get it right because I dont feel I am riding to the best of my ability as things stand.

Ellison said that the jockey had told him that he was finished after the ride on Definitly Red, a former winner of Wetherbys Charlie Hall Chase, at Newcastle.

The Malton trainer says the horse appears sound after a fall which saw the multiple Grade Two winner, and former Cheltenham Gold Cup contender, slither along the turf. He says Definitly Red could reappear at Christmas.

The Rehearsal Chase was ultimately won by the resurgent Yorkhill for Sandy Thomson and former Grand National-winning jockey Ryan Mania, who was recording his most significant win since he made his own comeback from retirement just over a year ago.

A multiple Grade One winner with Willie Mullins, Yorkhill had badly lost his way in the last two seasons after successive wins at the Cheltenham Festival seemingly had left him destined for greatness.

Golfing star Lee Westwood took over ownership with friend David Armstrong, from their mutual acquaintance Sir Graham Wylie, and sent him to be trained in the Scottish Borders by Thomson.

I think he just needed the personal touch theyve given him a bit of time to nurture him back to where he was, eulogised an emotional Westwood. I was at Cheltenham the day he beat Yanworth, and I got a real feel he was back to that sort of form.

His ears were pricked, he loved his jumping, and when they came at him he went away again he was even racing the loose horse at the end. I was in tears.

Champion Hurdle heroine Epatante confirmed her class by landing the Grade One Fighting Fifth Hurdle in scintillating style Micky Hammonds Cornerstone Lad, the 2019 winner, was a non-runner because of the quick ground.

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Jockey Danny Cook fighting to save eyesight and career - Yorkshire Post

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Eye color percentages around the world and what causes eye color – Medical News Today

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

The iris is the name of the colored part of the eye.

The iris surrounds the pupil, which is the small black hole in the middle of the eye that helps control how much light enters it.

Scientists used to think that eye color linked to just one gene and that brown eyes were dominant over blue eyes.

They now know that what determines eye color is more complex.

As many as 16 genes influence eye color. Most of these genes play a role in the production, transportation, or storage of melanin.

Melanin is a brown pigment that determines the color not only of someones eyes but also of their hair and skin.

Eyes that are not brown do not have different color pigments. Instead, they absorb less light because they have less melanin. As a result, they scatter more light, reflecting it along the spectrum of light color.

An iris with the least melanin will appear blue. Those with a little more melanin will appear green or hazel, for example.

The vast majority of people in the world have brown eyes.

The second most common color is blue, but people can also have green, gray, amber, or red eyes.

Some people have eyes that are different colors than each other.

According to estimates, 7079% of the worlds population have brown eyes, making it the most common eye color worldwide.

In fact, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) state that everyone on Earth had brown eyes around 10,000 years ago.

Nowadays, the AAO note that about half of those living in the United States, and a higher proportion of people in Africa and Asia, have brown eyes.

People with brown eyes are less likely to develop eye cancer, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy than those with lighter colored eyes.

Brown-eyed people are, however, more at risk of cataracts as they get older.

Blue is the second most common eye color globally, with estimates suggesting that 810% of people have blue eyes.

In the U.S., that proportion is higher, at about 27%.

Scientists believe that it is possible to trace all blue-eyed people back to a common ancestor, who likely had a genetic mutation that reduced the amount of melanin in the iris.

Most people with blue eyes are of European descent.

Approximately 5% of the worlds population and 18% of people in the U.S. have hazel eyes, which are a mixture of green, orange, and gold.

Hazel eyes are more common in North Africa, the Middle East, and Brazil, as well as in people of Spanish heritage.

Amber eyes, which have slightly more melanin than hazel eyes but not as much as brown eyes, account for about 5% of the worlds population.

People of Asian, Spanish, South American, and South African descent are most likely to have amber eyes.

An estimated 2% of the worlds population have green eyes, making them very rare overall.

However, green eyes are very common in some parts of the world, including Ireland and Scotland.

In the U.S., where many people descend from ancestors from Ireland and Scotland, about 9% of people have green eyes.

Close to 3% of the worlds population have gray eyes.

People with gray eyes have little or no melanin in their irises, but they have more collagen in a part of the eye called the stroma.

The light scatters off the collagen in a way that makes the eyes appear gray.

People with albinism or ocular albinism usually have little or no melanin in the iris. This lack of pigment causes red or violet eyes.

As eye pigmentation is important for vision, people with ocular albinism often have problems with their eyesight.

A person with ocular albinism may have very blurry vision or poor depth perception. They may experience rapid, involuntary eye movements, have higher light sensitivity, or find that their eyes look in two different directions.

Heterochromia in which a person has more than one eye color affects less than 1% of people.

The two eyes might be completely different from one another, or one part of the iris might be different than the rest.

The AAO explain that in people with central heterochromia, the iris has two rings of different colors, while in those with complete heterochromia, one iris is a different color than the other.

Some people are born with heterochromia. In others, an eye injury or health problem might cause it.

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Eye color percentages around the world and what causes eye color - Medical News Today

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Your Healthy Family: The most common eye problems that can be caused by diabetes – KOAA.com Colorado Springs and Pueblo News

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

COLORADO SPRINGS While there is considerable and appropriate focus on COVID-19 as we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, its important to remember there are many other deadly and debilitating chronic health issues that we and our loved ones will continue to struggle with long after the pandemic ends.

Diabetes is one of the more important of these issues.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. To help inform the public about diabetes and its effects on eyesight, I interviewed Dr. David Davis, MD FACS, a board-certified ophthalmologist with Haas Vision Center in Colorado Springs.

Previously, Dr. Davis talked about the overall importance of having your eyes checked regularly, especially if you have diabetes. YHF: Dont let diabetes rob you of your eyesight

To clarify, type one diabetes is also called insulin dependent or juvenile onset diabetes, while type two diabetes is also known as non-insulin dependent or adult onset diabetes. Type one diabetics require insulin, whereas type 2 diabetics often are treated with pills, although they may also be given insulin. With the advent of things like the insulin pump and pancreatic islet cell transplants, type one diabetes is becoming better controlled than it has been in the past. Type two diabetics also have benefited from a plethora of newly developed medications.

Dr. David says there are several significant problems diabetes can cause with your eyes.

After fifteen years of having diabetes, about 98% of people with type one diabetes will have damage to the retinal blood circulation, whereas about 78% of people with type two diabetes will have damage to the retinal vessels. This impaired retinal circulation can cause death of cells in the retina, bleeding, tiny aneurysms in the retina, swelling or retinal edema, hemorrhage in front of the retina and other problems.

Dr. Davis explains, The macula is the center of the retina and the center of your vision. When you are looking directly at something, you're using your macula - it's particularly important. If your macula swells due to blood vessel damage causing leakage of fluid into the macula, then everything becomes bent and blurry. As the surface of your retina is distorted, the picture you're going to see is going to look distorted like a fun-house mirror. This can be treated by shots in the eye, sometimes with steroids and other times with hormone inhibiting factors.

In the most serious cases, lack of circulation stimulates the growth of new abnormal blood vessels on the retina and sometimes the iris. These can cause a detached retina and sometimes a very aggressive form of glaucoma, and these both can lead to blindness.

Preventing this is paramount because after it occurs, vision usually can never be fully restored.

A problem that arises earlier in the course of the disease occurs when your blood sugar rises and you get sugar in the fluid in your eye. This can enter the lens of the eye and cause it to swell, resulting in temporary changes in the optics and resulting in blurring and clearing over and over again as the sugar levels rise and fall.

Having higher levels of sugar in your body will cause the proteins in your lens to cross-link earlier and cause you to develop cataracts earlier in life. Cataracts can only be repaired with surgery. The results of modern cataract surgery are very good with a success rate over 98%, but having surgery is still less fun than going out to eat.

Diabetics are roughly twice as likely to develop glaucoma. In glaucoma, pressure inside the eye causes permanent and irreparable damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is sometimes called the silent thief of sight. It usually has no symptoms you can detect until there is already quite a lot of permanent eye damage. Optic nerve damage cannot be improved but only prevented. Regular exams by eye-care professionals allow glaucoma to be detected and controlled long before it gets to the point where you would otherwise notice it.

If you have diabetes or have been recently diagnosed, your primary care doctor will routinely refer you to an eye doctor to have your vision closely monitored for these issues. An ounce of prevention really can be worth a pound of cure especially in situations where there is no cure.

If you have any questions about eyesight and diabetes you can follow up with Dr. Davis and the team at HAAS Vision Center in Colorado Springs, by visiting their website (HERE) https://www.haasvisioncenter.com/

Haas vision center is a proud sponsor of Your Healthy Family

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Your Healthy Family: The most common eye problems that can be caused by diabetes - KOAA.com Colorado Springs and Pueblo News

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Onesight teams with AETNA to provide vision care to 275+ North Atlanta residents at Roswell Vision Clinic – The Atlanta Voice

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

OneSight, a leading global vision carenonprofit, andNorth Fulton Community Charities partnered to offer free eye examinations and glasses to over 275+ children and adults at theRoswell Vision Clinic from Nov. 17-19. The three-day charitable clinic was sponsored by Aetna, a CVS Health company, which contributed $50,000.

The event addressed unresolved vision care needs for North Atlantans who may otherwise lack access. Leveraging OneSights proven clinic model and manufacturing capabilities, most participants in need of glasses received their newly prescribed eyewear on-site.

Aetna is committed to extending care to all those who are in need, said Aetna Market Leader Richard Weiss. The opportunity to support an event with such a positive impact on the health of the Atlanta region was a natural one. Its something we saw clearly.

NFCC, which serves close to 10,000 individuals and 4,000 families each year at their facilities in Roswell, Georgia, assists families with basic essentials such as food, rent and utilities, and clothing for short-term emergencies.

North Fulton Community Charities is excited to partner with OneSight to connect families in the community to this impactful medical resource, said NFCC Director of Assistance Carol Swan. Vision care is essential, but also elusive for those who are financially vulnerable and cant afford it. This is a great opportunity for our community, and we are proud to work with OneSight to help them realize it.

According to a study by OneSight and Deloitte, there are more than 1 billion people around the world who need glasses but do not have access to get them. Studies show that clear sight can dramatically impact learning, job performance, and earning potential. Clear sight can help students learn up to twice as much in schooland can helpincrease a workers productivity by 35 percent and enable them to earn 20 percent more.

Were so happy to have been able to support the North Atlanta community with vision care this week, said Dawn Yager, a program manager for OneSight. We appreciate the support from Aetna, North Fulton Community Charities, and so many volunteers and doctors to enable this vision clinic to happen.

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Onesight teams with AETNA to provide vision care to 275+ North Atlanta residents at Roswell Vision Clinic - The Atlanta Voice

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What Are The Types And Symptoms Of Glaucoma? – Greeneville Sun

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

Eyesight is important but easily taken for granted. Few people can imagine life without their eyesight, but hundreds of millions of people across the globe experience compromised vision every year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. In fact, estimates from the World Glaucoma Association indicated that 79.6 million individuals would experience glaucoma in 2020. By 2040, that figure is expected to rise to 111.8 million people.

WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?

Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma usually results from the buildup of fluid in the front part of the eye. As that fluid builds up, it increases the pressure in the eye, ultimately damaging the optic nerve.

ARE ALL GLAUCOMAS THE SAME?

All glaucomas are not the same, and the AAO notes that there are two major types of the disease: primary open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The symptoms of glaucoma differ depending on which type a person has.

According to the AAO, there are no obvious symptoms in the early stages of open-angle glaucoma. Blind spots develop in patients peripheral vision as the disease progresses. Because people often do not experience symptoms until the damage from open-angle glaucoma has become severe, the AAO urges adults to schedule routine eye exams with an ophthalmologist so the disease can be found before any significant damage has occurred.

Blurred vision, halos, mild headaches, or eye pain are some early symptoms of an angle-closure glaucoma attack. However, the AAO notes that people with angle-closure glaucoma do not typically notice any symptoms until the attack has started. As a result, the AAO urges anyone experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms to contact their ophthalmologist immediately. Once an angle-closure glaucoma attack has begun, symptoms may include:

No one is immune to glaucoma, which can quickly rob otherwise healthy individuals of their vision. Learning to recognize the early signs of glaucoma and seeking prompt treatment can reduce the likelihood of substantial vision loss.

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What Are The Types And Symptoms Of Glaucoma? - Greeneville Sun

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Covid-19 Pandemic: Ways To Beat Computer Vision Syndrome As The Screen Time Goes Up – NewsPatrolling

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

The COVID-19 crisis has led to an increase in the average screen time of people. People are busy spending a lot of time watching television, and on digital devices like computers, mobiles, and tablets more than ever! Getting hooked to electronic devices for long uninterrupted hours is causing digital eye strain, aka computer vision syndrome in people

What is computer vision syndrome?

Computer vision syndrome is a temporary eye condition that results from focusing on a digital screen for a long time without breaks. Suffering from CVS does not only affect eyesight but also hampers an individuals productivity.

Why is computer vision syndrome concerning?

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) affects around 60 million people globally. It has become even more concerning in the times of COVID-19 for well-being for a person. A study shows that nearly half of the population in the world will be short-sighted (myopic) by 2050. One of the primary reasons associated with this eye condition would be the effects of prolonged usage of digital devices or televisions every day.

Symptoms of computer vision syndrome

Computer vision syndrome (digital eye strain) causes

There are various causes associated with computer vision syndrome, like:

When you are hooked to any electronic devices, you tend to blink less. Less blinking causes dry eyes. Blinking is the natural reflex of eyes to keep it moist. An average person blinks about 16-20 times in a minute. If blinking reduces to 6-8 times in a minute, then gradually, it results in dry eyesand becomes a cause for computer vision syndrome.

If you have not set up your workstation in a proper way, then it could cause computer vision syndrome. You need to adjust the monitor, desk, chair, and lighting in the room also so that your eyes dont feel strained.

ACs in offices strip the air of its moisture, thereby making the environment dry. This dryness, an improper workstation, or bad sitting posture, makes people prone to computer vision syndrome.

It will require a bit of planning, but it is important to take a break from the screen at least two hours before you go to bed. Studies show that blue light emitting from screens can affect natural sleep and wake-up cycle.

Ways to deal with computer vision syndrome during COVID-19 pandemic

Remember to blink while watching television or doing work on any digital device. Dont let your eyes dry out. Be mindful of blinking and keeping your eyes lubricated. Encourage others around you to blink at least 18 times per minute.

Have you heard of the 20-20-20 rule? While working on a computer or any digital device, take a break every 20 minutes and look at distant objects (at least 20 feet away) for 20 seconds. This habit will break the continuity of the screen.

You need to rework on the place where you generally sit to work or binge-watch. Keep a distance of a foot away from the monitor or the gadget when sitting straight. Adjust the brightness of the screen. Make sure to put an anti-glare screen to your device to avoid eye strain. Use proper lighting in the room. Avoid excessive or under lighting.

Whenever you get time, exercise even when sitting. Stretch your neck and shoulders frequently. During break time, move your arms and legs. Walk a bit.

Few other tips to avoid computer vision syndrome for children

Children dont pay attention to drinking water unless theyre thirsty. Drinking water keeps the body hydrated. It not only flushes out body waste but also regulates body temperature. It helps in maintaining blood pressure and boosts healthy skin. It also helps in forming saliva and mucus. Most importantly, it hydrates eyes, flushes out salt, and reduces eye strain.

From online classes to a lot of digital content consumption for entertainment, children are also spending a considerable amount of their time on-screen during the lockdown phase. Parents need to ensure to have a customized furniture setting that suits their childs sitting posture and refrain from neck or body ache.

Parents need to ensure that even in the lockdown period, children dont spend a lot of time on screen. Set time for their screen time activities. Instead, for entertainment, ask them to indulge in traditional indoor games like ludo, chess, etc.

Parents should keep a check on their children if they are rubbing their eyes too much. It could be an indicator of dry eyes or some eye infection. Insufficient blinking also leads to dry eyes.if your child does not stop rubbing frequently and complains about irritating red eyes consult the nearest eye specialist.

Eat more greens

Include green leafy vegetables in your diet to keep your body and eyes healthy. The nutrients present in green vegetables like lutein and zeaxanthin carry anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that keep the eyes healthy. When it comes to eye care, Centre for Sight is always there at your service.

By: Dr Ritika Sachdev , Additional Director, Centre For Sight Group of Hospitals,

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Covid-19 Pandemic: Ways To Beat Computer Vision Syndrome As The Screen Time Goes Up - NewsPatrolling

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New Vision: Seeing the Light of Chanukah During COVID – Chabad.org

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

A few years ago, I had an operation to remove a cataract from myleft eye. I was advised to wait for my right eye. The doctor said, Call ifyour eyesight gets worse, and we will schedule the surgery.

Then came COVID.

During that time, I found it more and more difficult to read andto cook. It felt like each passing day I was being surrounded by more and moredarkness.

As a senior with medical issues and anxiety, I was unable toI have become used to being aloneparticipate in holiday services with my family. Since COVID, I have become usedto being alone, and even if everyone wears masks, Im not comfortable takingchances by being around people.

After a long wait, followed by two weeks of even strictersocial-distancing, the day came for the surgery. The night before, I hadstopped eating and could only drink until 10 a.m. The surgery was scheduled fora little after noon.

Wearing a mask, my son Mike drove me tothe hospital for the operation. Once there, we called reception and were toldthat there was a 45-minute wait, maybe longer. We could wait either in the caror in a waiting room. We chose the car. Mike put on some music, and we listenedto Chanukah songs, including my favorite, Chanukah, oh Chanukah, come light themenorah...

After an hour, Mike called again andfound out that our wait could be another hour or so; they didnt know how manypatients were ahead of me. By that time, I didnt feel well since I hadnt hadanything to eat or drink in many hours.

I also needed a restroom, so we went inside, up the elevator,into what I considered a crowded room. I felt danger everywhere. I was so afraid that I wanted to cancel theoperation and go home. I closed my eyes andprayed for the strength to triumph over my fears and overcome my anxiety.

Thats when I heard Mikes cell phone ring; it was my turn forthe operation.

A nurse came out and asked me questions before letting me intothe office alone. I handed Mike my cane. He touched my arma human touch Ihadnt felt in five months.

The nurse must have felt my emotions because she said, Theseare dark, difficult times.

What an understatement, I thought, as I entered alone and wastold in which chair to sit. The nurse followed me so I wouldnt fall.

My surgeon came out and put an X over my right eye. There weretwo other patients waiting. We discussed how long the wait had been both forthe scheduling and the day itself.

Finally, they took me into surgery.

The anesthesiologist put in the IV, while one nurse put in dropsand another took vital signs.

I hadnt been near so many people in months, and again, I feltoverwhelmed, but I silently prayed as I kept answering their questions.Finally, I was wheeled into the operating room.

The chair went down and then came the needle, and before I knewit, the operation was over. They gave me many instructions regarding recovery:the eye drops, not to get my face wet, when to see my doctor.

As soon as I took off the patch over my eye, I looked around andI could see. It was as though my world had gone from darkness to light. Andthats when I realized the connection between the music we had been listeningto in the car, my operation, and the approaching holiday of Chanukah.

On Chanukah, a small band of Jews fought against the huge GreekDespite all odds, they triumphedarmy. Despite all odds, they won. They won because they had faith that Gdwould give them the strength to triumph. Then they found a single flask of pureoil, enough for just one day. But they did their part and lit the menorah.Miraculously, it remained burning for eight days, until they could procuremore.

My cataract operation was like my own little Chanukah triumphmy personalvictory of overcoming my anxiety, and my universe turning from darkness tolight.

A little bit of light brightens up a whole lot of darkness. Weneed to do our part, strengthen our faith, and Gd will help us.

For the past few years, I couldnt see in the dark well enoughto join in the festivities at the public lighting of the menorah in downtownNatick, Mass. Gd willing, this year they will be able to hold the festivities,and I will be able to join. Together, we will all sing, Chanukah, oh Chanukah,come light the menorah... And I will be able to relish the brightness.

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New Vision: Seeing the Light of Chanukah During COVID - Chabad.org

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Teacher who woke up with blurred eyesight discovers she has life-changing condition – Daily Star

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

An Australian teacher saw a holiday of a lifetime to Europe turn into a life-changing experience after she lost vision in one eye while travelling in the Mediterranean.

Elise Osmand was island hopping around Greece and enjoying fine dining in Italy when she suddenly lost most of her vision in one eye.

The 28-year-old was then given a diagnosis by Greek doctors which she compared to a "death sentence" when her symptoms worsened.

At first, Elise found her vision in her right eye was impaired she could see the bottom half of her vision in her right eye, but the top half was "blurred to a dark brown", leaving her feeling like she had make-up smudged on her iris.

Dismissing the symptoms as jet lag, she waited another 24 hours to arrive in Athens before seeking medical attention.

It was by this point the Aussie national had lost vision completely in her right eye.

Meeting with a doctor in hospital, medics struggled to figure out what was wrong with each diagnosis bringing Elise fresh panic.

Opening up to news.com.au, she explained: "He said very straight up it might be a brain tumour.

"Then the next thing he said was 'you dont have a brain tumour but it could be cancer'. Thats when things freaked me out."

After further examination, doctors determined that while it was neither a tumour nor cancer, the cause of the blurred vision was a life-changing medical condition.

Elise said: "He said after further investigation that I had Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the only thing I knew about that was a wheelchair.

"At first I got upset about it it was a really confronting moment. It felt like my world had come crumbling down a death sentence."

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system which causes the body to attack itself, with the immune system damaging nerves, leading to symptoms including extreme fatigue, vision problems, and muscle stiffness and spasms, among others.

Following the diagnosis, Elise has seen her life completely change.

She said: "Since my diagnosis in 2019, this has been a huge change to my life," she explained.

"I moved to the Gold Coast to be closer to the beach [and] on a treatment that works."

She went on: "I have always been very active and would do a lot of exercise. Now, while its still really good for me to do, it can trigger symptoms and drain me to a point I cant recover from. So I have to stay hydrated and cool."

Elise is now using social media - including her Instagram page - to raise awareness about the disease.

MS is a lifelong condition but symptoms can be managed with treatment.

While average life expectancy is slightly reduced for people suffering from MS, there are various treatments for the various versions of the disease.

There is no known cure for the disease at this time, and the NHS advise that the disease is "challenging" to live with but advancements in medical science over the past 20 years have "considerably improved the quality of life" of people with the condition.

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Teacher who woke up with blurred eyesight discovers she has life-changing condition - Daily Star

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Taxi driver struck in the eye by a rock wins insurance payout – Daily – Insurance News

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

A man who suffered 89% blindness in his right eye in an accident during a taxi driving shift has won a claim dispute and a $250,000 payout.

The worker was a beneficiary of his employers Taxi Personal Accident policy, held with Lloyds Australia, for drivers of insured vehicles.

It covered accidents causing death, partial or total disablement of limbs or eyesight sustained during working hours while you are driving a taxi that is listed in the policy schedule.

It included time limitations that provided a claim would only be paid if you suffer Temporary Total Disablement within twelve months of the date of the accident occurring, and such Temporary Total Disablement lasts for twelve months.

The driver lodged a claim after sustaining serious damage to his eye during a work shift in August 2018 when he was struck in the face by a rock thrown through his car window.

Medical experts in Australia and overseas all found the damage was permanent. No treatment options were recommended and the medical evidence indicated his eye sight was likely to deteriorate further in time.

Lloyds settled weekly temporary disablement benefits until he regained employment but denied a claim for lump sum benefit for total loss of sight in one eye, saying his impairment - at 89% loss of sight - did not constitute a total loss of sight.

Lloyds said other policies on the market offered a percentage of benefits for partial loss of sight and provided examples, whereas the taxi drivers policy had no such scope. Lloyds said the only way the lump sum benefit was payable is if the loss of sight was 100% in or around August 2019 being within 12 months of the injury. As the loss of sight was not 100% in August 2019, then it was not liable.

The man took the matter to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), arguing he had effectively lost all eyesight in his right eye.

AFCA determined Lloyds was liable to pay $234,434 - the lump sum benefit of $250,000 less the $15,566 temporary disablement benefits already paid.

The available medical evidence demonstrates that, due to the accident, he no longer has any effective eyesight in his right eye, AFCA said. It is fair in the circumstances to determine the complainant has suffered a total loss of sight in his right eye.

AFCA said the policy did not define total loss and the Certificate of Insurance provides that should any ambiguity exist in the clauses they will be interpreted in favour of the insured.

In November 2018, the taxi driver was examined by an ophthalmology registrar in hospital who determined he had permanent and irreversible central macular damage and his visual acuity due to the accident was 6/60, which is legally blind.

Neither pinhole or corrective lenses improved his sight.

The taxi driver then travelled overseas where he obtained the opinion of another ophthalmologist to try and find some treatment options. A December 2018 report from that consultation stated the damage to the right eye was permanent, irreversible and likely to deteriorate.

Lloyds later engaged a consultant ophthalmologist who said that while the driver had a severe visual defect in his right eye, the injury did not constitute a total loss of vision.

The man obtained a further medical opinion because he believed his sight was worsening but Lloyds said it could not consider that as total loss of sight must be within 12 months of the loss.

The panel disagrees with the insurers interpretation of the limitation periods in the policy, AFCA said.

The man was unsuccessful in his attempt to recoup around $20,000 spent travelling overseas to obtain the second medical opinion for possible treatment options.

See the full ruling here.

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Taxi driver struck in the eye by a rock wins insurance payout - Daily - Insurance News

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I was so scared. I was terrified: 7 people with eye injuries after Denver protests describe their experiences – FOX 31 Denver

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

DENVER (KDVR) Seven strangers who suffered significant eye injuries during Denvers George Floyd protests in May say they believe police projectiles like the less lethal 40mm sponge grenade- may have caused their injuries.

FOX31 Problem Solver Lori Jane Gliha talked to them about their experiences during the protests and in the months since.

Jax Feldmann

Jax Feldmann, 21, was not participating in the downtown Denver protests in May when he was struck in the eye with what is believed to be a police projectile. At the time, he worked as a driver for a meat distribution company and was just leaving a friends apartment near Grant Street and East Colfax Avenue.

Thats when he says he saw a group of police officers riding on a truck, traveling the wrong way on Grant.

I just kind of looked at them, and all of a sudden I was struck in the eye by something and didnt know exactly what it was at first, he said. My first reaction was I just had something in my eye, and then I saw the blood. I looked at my friend and he called the ambulance immediately and told me that it was not good.

Feldmann said the hardest moment was being sent to the hospital that evening because, in the midst of a pandemic, none of his close family or friends could be there in person to support him.

The next three weeks were just Hell. I was having migraines every night. I couldnt sleep. I couldnt close my eye. I couldnt open my eye.

Nearly six months later, Feldmann says he and his doctors are waiting for his eyeball to shrink down enough or for it to start hurting severely enough for it to be removed.

Its pretty horrible. Its not great. Its not great at all, but it cant get much worse. Its already I cant see anything out of it anyways, he said.

Feldmann said his life is now filled with new, difficult tasks.

Im literally circling myself because I have no peripheral vision. Im constantly searching for stuff. Driving is not fun at all. Its extremely stressful. Its made stuff a lot harder.

Feldmann said he is confused about why he was shot.

They didnt say anything before they shot me. They didnt say anything after they shot me. No cop even came up to me, he said. Im stressed out with everythingMy anxiety is through the roof all the time. Its not a good time.

Alex Wolfson

Alex Wolfson, 38, was out for a spin on his skateboard the last weekend in May 2020, observing the protests that had exploded in downtown Denver, near his neighborhood.Wolfson, who works in real estate, was not participating in the protest but he was standing there, soaking in everything that was going on and looking at the people protest when he was struck straight in the eye.

Police were everywhere, he told the FOX31 Problem Solvers. The ones that were closest to me were hanging out in an SUV, hanging out of the windows.

Wolfson said he was alert and his head was on a swivel because there were so many people in the area, but the projectile hit him without warning.

It went from like, looking at everything to just falling to the ground, he said.

Wolfson described a moment of panic as he tried to escape the area as quickly as possible. But he knew something was wrong. He couldnt see out of his eye, and there was blood in his hand, so he approached an officer for help.

I walked up to him, and I asked if I still had an eye, he said. I was so scared. I was terrified. At one point, it kind of like turned into where it was like a kaleidoscope, and I could see a little out of the corner of my eye, I could see a little vision. But other than that, I was just nervous that I wasnt ever going to be able to see, and all I did was just go skateboard around town.

Wolfson said he was upset because he kept thinking about all of the activities he enjoyed that could be in jeopardy.

Will you be able to do it again? My eye looked pretty gross. I was like, Am I going to look like this for the rest of my life?' he said.

Fortunately, Wolfson regained his sight thanks to help from an emergency retina specialist.

I had laser surgery on it, he said, but he still has floaters and flashers that appear in his vision. Its like little jellyfish legs swimming in my eye, and then, like, a camera goes off occasionally.

I feel like I got lucky.

Russell Strong

Russell Strong, 35, was passionate about protesting and making his voice heard, so he took a handmade poster that said, No Justice No Peace to the crowded park demonstration near the state capitol and stood in an area where he could be seen.

I was in the park maybe a total of 20 minutes, Strong, who works in the cannabis industry, told the FOX31 Problem Solvers.

When all of a sudden, he felt something explode on his face.

When I came to, I was being carried by a group of people, he recalled.I knew at that moment that I lost my eye. Theres no way you experience that kind of trauma to your eye and your face and think that youre ever going to see again. There was a part of me that knew right away.

Strong said a doctor confirmed that fear the following day.

Im still coping with that. Ill be coping with that for a long time. Im sure, he said. I dont know if I can put into words right now exactly how that felt because there is so much wrapped up in that kind of news.

Strong, who is also a visual artist, said his life now includes many struggles, including difficulties with spatial recognition and depth perception.

Its been unimaginably difficult to lose an eye, he said. Ive lost the ability to complete just simple tasks that we take for granted I cant play sports anymore. I cant catch a ball. I cant shoot a hoop. I cant play catch with my niece and nephew anymoreIll bump into things. Ill bump into people that I cant see on that side.

Strong said he cant think of a single aspect of his life that isnt different or a struggle in some way.

Its all an entire new world that Im having to try to adjust to.

Strong said he still has questions about the circumstances that caused him to be struck in the eye while he was peacefully protesting.

Id hate to think that someone shot me in the face intentionally, but I dont know, he said. Either were accepting that they have terrible aim, and it was an accident and theyre not good at using their weapon, or were accepting that they are good at their weapon, and theyre aiming at peoples faces.

Megan Matthews

Although she still has her eyesight, Meagan Matthews, 23, is still dealing with the aftermath of the eye and facial injuries she suffered in May, during the downtown Denver protest.

Its unfortunately affected my feeling of feeling safe going to protests, she said. I also am working with my therapist around a lot of trauma that Ive been experiencing. Mainly around having anxiety around police officers now.it really gives me a visceral response, so were working through that too.

The college student, who works at an eyewear store, said she had been peacefully protesting in May, by providing water, first aid, and food to protesters.

Thats when she looked up and saw an object headed straight for her face, followed by a loud crack.

I know I had gotten hit really hard with something that had come from the police side of the street, and I know I was bleeding, like, a lot, she told the FOX31 Problem Solvers.

Matthews said she felt like she had a near-death experience because she didnt immediately know the extent of her injuries when her sight went dark in one eye.

I felt extremely devastated and, trying to grapple with the fact that something so vital to my passion might be taken away from me, the visual artist said.

I couldnt see immediately when I got hit, and then, it was so swollen that because of the orbital fracture and everything else around there that it probably was like four days three or four days that it was fully swollen shut. And then, after that, they were like, You know, we might have to perform additional surgery,' she said. I remember trying not to cry, saying Oh no! Its probably worse that Im crying because its coming out of my eyes. But like, Im a visual arts student, and I use my eyes for my work and my passion.

Matthews said her vision is still a little blurry and she still gets floaters in her field of vision a few times a day. She said doctors told her it could be blood that is still trying to be filtered out of her eye, so they are monitoring her progress.

Now, she wants to know why and how she was struck.

If I could just sit down and have a coffee with the guy that shot me, I would. Just like, to know. But I think it would give me a lot of anxiety. I think it would also give peace of mind, she said.

Nicholas Orlin

Nicholas Orlin, 38, calls himself a staunch peaceful protester, and says he was marching, chanting, and singing during the downtown Denver protests in May.

He was wearing a bicycle helmet, attempting to block a gas canister that had been thrown near him with a traffic cone, when something knocked him in the head.

Thats the last thing I remember, he told the FOX31 Problem Solvers. From what it says in my hospital records, I was hit in the head with a rubber bullet or, it says, rubber bullet vs rock. I cant imagine that there was anybody close enough to me that I wouldnt have noticed they hit me with a rock in the head.

Orlin said his physical pain was intense.

There was a whole lot of mental confusion. Just having no idea where I was, what happened to me, he said. His face had become swollen due to several fractures along the base of his eye.

Healing is a long process, and its still happening, said Orlin, who said he works as an executive assistant and paralegal for a criminal defense attorney and as a rideshare driver.

He said doctors told him there is an increased likelihood that he may get glaucoma because his eye is not draining properly, but his sight is mostly ok now.

He says he is suffering from what he believes is post-traumatic stress disorder, related to the incident.

It gives me anxiety when I think about joining protests, he told the Problem Solvers.

Orlin said he would want law enforcement to know that less lethal options are still extremely dangerous.

I cant see any justification for a less-lethal round.If lethality is called for in the very few, rare situations that it might be called for, then lethality is OK, but other than that, I would have rather have been tased.I could not condone the use of continuing to use this type of weapon, he said.

Orlin said he would want the person who shot him to know that its not always okay to follow orders.

You can shoot somebody in the chest just as well as you can shoot them in the head. It will stop them the same way. I dont know what I would say to that person (who fired the shot).

Shawn Murphy

Shawn Murphy said he was planning to head home from the Denver protest before the curfew set in, when he observed some occasional clashes between police and protesters on the street.

The police would try to disperse the crowd, seemingly out of nowhere, he said.No one was breaking curfew. No one was breaking any laws that I could see, but there would be attempts at dispersal which would be launching tear gas, and whoever hung around too long in the area of the tear gas, they would shoot with the pepper pellets. So, it was kind of a constant back and forth.

Murphy said during one of those dispersal attempts, he was struck in the eye with a projectile.

I dont remember any pepper dust or whatever being on me, so I believe it was one of the so-called rubber bullets, foam bullets, whatever you want to call them, he said.

Murphy, who is a software developer, called himself lucky because he was wearing really cheap swim goggles that he had snagged from a woman who was earlier distributing them through the crowd.

I got hit in the eye, and the goggles shattered, exploded, but I really think it saved my eye.I think without that persons really kind and really thoughtful form of activism in helping the protesters, I think she saved my eye.

Murphy said the horror that followed included his thought that he might have lost his eye.

I told friends after, it was the first time in my life where I felt what people mean when they say their life flashed before their eyes. It wasnt in the sense that I remembered everything past, it was that in an instant, I saw my entire life without my eye and what it would be like. All that just flashed through my head just in a second, and I thought I lost my eye. I couldnt see. I think I was in a state of shock somewhat. I was just kind of stumbling around, he said.

Murphy described feeling his bloody skin flapping in the wind. I was just kind of wandering around in a daze.

Murphy said he was able to get medical attention at the emergency room by taking a ride from a stranger who was driving in the area.

He suffered a laceration that required stitches, and his vision was really blurry that evening. He said a doctor had to do emergency surgery to save his retina. His vision is still blurry to this day, and doctors said it could take a year or more to fully heal.

My heart goes out to the people who did lose an eye or worse, he said.It is indescribable. Its life-altering. Its the type of thing that shouldnt happen to anyone under any circumstances let along as the result of the armed force of our state who are engaging with peaceful protesters. It makes it just even more tragic in my opinion.

Murphy said he believes he was possibly targeted.

I dont want to make any accusations, but I do find it hard to believe that it was an accident. Im almost 65. I stick out in a crowd. I have a big head. Its an easy target, he said.When I was hit, I was not in a crowd of people.We were all pretty separated.It wasnt a random ricochet or a gas cannister that bounced weird. It was I was essentially by myself. There wasnt anyone within a 10-20-foot radius of me. Again, the height I am, I find it hard to believe that they wouldnt have been able to hit me somewhere other than the head, so its hard to view it as an accident.

Michael Acker

Michael Acker, 20, a college student who attends school in Grand Junction, said he was wearing an antique gas mask when a projectile smashed the glass over his eye in May.

I just get cracked over the head with something. I have no idea whats going on, he recounted. I just remember grabbing my head. Im still wearing my gasmask, and I cant see anything out of my right eye at this point.

Acker said he ripped off his gasmask, and blood poured all over his face, hands, and the concrete. I didnt know if my eye was gone or is it hanging out of my face? I had no idea.

Acker said he believed he was targeted during the protest, and he has filed a lawsuit against the city.

I dont know what would be worse if I got hit, and they were just blindly firing into a crowd, or if I got hit and they targeted me. I was wearing a mask. Im not going to lie, its kind of a scary looking thing, but I dont think thats really an excuse for them to target me out of a crowd when Im not causing a problem, he said.

Acker said he did not notice anyone standing with 10-20 feet of him when he was struck.

It really felt like somebody had just snuck up on me with the baseball bat, he said.One minute Im standing there and then I hear a thunk. And then, something just fills my vision. It was really weird.It was kind of like time slowed down and just cracks me over the side of the head. My ears were ringing. I cant really get my bearings at all.

Acker said a piece of glass was stuck in his eyelid, but a doctor helped pull it out when he was in the hospital, and his eyesight ended up being ok.

Had I not been wearing the mask, it probably would have fractured my skull and would have gone into my eye. I would have been a pirate, he said.

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The Mandalorian: Why Being Frozen In Carbonite Makes You Blind – Screen Rant

Wednesday, November 25th, 2020

The Mandalorian's Mythrol complained about being blind after spending time frozen in carbonite, like Han Solo in Return of the Jedi - here's why.

The Mythrol claims that he's still half-blind after being frozen in carbonite in The Mandalorian. Introduced in the Star Wars/Disney+ show's premiere, the unidentified Mythrol was Din Djarin's final bounty before he encountered Baby Yoda. The Mandalorian season 2, episode 4, "Chapter 12: The Siege" brought back the character where he complained about the effects of Mando's decision to keep himin carbonite.

The idea of being frozen in carbonite was introduced in The Empire Strikes Back. Darth Vader had Han Solo frozen after Lando Calrissian turned on his fellow space smuggler and his friends on Bespin. It wasn't until Return of the Jedi that the galactic runner was freed from being trapped in the solidified carbonite by Leia Organa in Jabba the Hutt's lair on Tatooine. While Han came out alive after being frozen, he didn't immediately have the capacity to function, with the character citing being unable to see.

Related:The Mandalorian: Every Star Wars Easter Egg In Season 2, Episode 4

The unnamed Mythrol in The Mandalorian also experienced the same thing when Mando froze him in carbonite in the series premiere. Following an attempt to sabotage their trip back to Nevarro where the blue alien was supposed to be delivered to Greef Karga- the Bounty Guild head at that time - Mando ensured that the rest of his mission was going to go smoothly by freezing Mythrol in carbonite and delivering him in that state. When they reunited in The Mandalorian season 2, Mythrol revealed that one of his eyes is still blind from his time being in the carbonite block. Between Han and Mythrol's experience, losing the ability to see is one of the most common effects ofbeing carbon frozen,and thisis part of the medical condition called hibernation sickness.

First mentioned in the original trilogy, hibernation sickness or carbon sickness is a medical state a creature would be in once they are taken out beingsuspended animation in carbonite. Temporary blindness is one of the symptoms of the condition, and so is exhaustion, weakness, dehydration, dizziness, and memory loss. While not much is known regarding this, as there are only a few instances where Star Wars reconnects with creatures frozen in carbonite, like Han and Mythrol, the loss of eyesight, in particular, could have something to do with the eyes being put under extreme external pressure. In the real world, rubbing the eyes too hard can lead to damaged cornea, and in worst cases, one would need a cornea transplant to restore their eyesight. Even when one puts steady pressure on the eyes for a brief time, vision becomes blurry and distorted. Given this, one can only imagine how much more detrimentalit is if the eyes are subjected to constant and stronger pressure from being frozen in carbonite for a significant amount of time.

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Lutein for Eyes: Benefits for Vision and Eye Health – Healthline

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

Your eyes need a variety of nutrients for optimal health. One of the key nutrients for eye health is lutein, a carotenoid with anti-inflammatory properties.

But what exactly is lutein, and how does it benefit your eyes? And how can you get this nutrient from your diet? Keep reading for answers to these and other questions regarding lutein and your eye health.

Lutein is part of the carotenoid family of antioxidants. Carotenoids are a type of phytonutrient, or plant chemical, found in the cells of many types of plants.

Carotenoids are responsible for the vibrant colors seen in many plants, such as the bright red, orange, and yellow hues of various fruits and vegetables.

While these pigments play an important role in plant health, they also provide health benefits for people who eat foods that are a good source of this phytonutrient.

Along with lutein, zeaxanthin is another important carotenoid that offers eye health benefits. Its structurally similar to lutein, with just a small difference in the arrangement of its atoms.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only dietary carotenoids found in your retina. Theyre concentrated mostly in the macula region, located at the back of your eye, which is essential for your vision. Because of where theyre concentrated, these two carotenoids are known as macular pigments.

As powerful antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin may protect your body and especially your eyes in numerous ways. With regards to your eye health, research suggests that these nutrients may help:

Aside from the benefits listed above, theres also evidence that lutein and zeaxanthin may provide benefits related to the following eye conditions:

Although theres no recommended dietary intake for lutein, its generally considered to be safe, even in higher amounts. The Food and Drug Administration classifies it as Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS).

Its estimated that many Americans only consume around 12 milligrams (mg) of lutein each day. But research shows that you likely need a higher intake of lutein to reduce the risk for developing AMD.

Research done for the large Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 found that 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin was effective at reducing the progression to advanced AMD.

This study involved more than 4,200 participants over a 5-year span. No adverse health effects were noted with this dosage, except for minor yellowing of the skin.

Additionally, the Council for Responsible Nutrition has noted that a daily dose of up to 20 mg of lutein is safe.

A variety of foods provide healthy doses of lutein. The highest amount of dietary lutein is found in leafy green vegetables, such as:

Lutein can also be found in other foods, such as:

Lutein is absorbed best when its taken with food that has a high fat content. This is because low-density lipoproteins are the main transport vehicle for lutein in your body.

Although dietary consumption is typically the best way to get the lutein you need, you can also boost your lutein intake with dietary supplements.

Lutein supplements are often sourced from marigold flowers and mixed with oils, but they can also be made synthetically.

Shop for lutein supplements online.

A number of nutrients work with lutein (or on their own) to help support eye health. These include:

Lutein is a carotenoid thats synthesized by plants. High concentrations of lutein and a similar phytonutrient, zeaxanthin, are found in the macula region of your eye. This part of your eye is essential for your vision.

Due to its powerful antioxidant properties, lutein may help reduce inflammation in your eyes, fight off free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and boost the sharpness of your vision. Research has shown that it may also have benefits related to various eye diseases and conditions, including age-related macular degeneration.

Although theres no recommended dietary intake for lutein, its generally considered to be safe, even in higher amounts. Large studies that were done with 10 mg doses of lutein didnt report adverse health effects.

Many green vegetables are excellent sources of lutein, but you can also increase your intake with dietary supplements. Talk to your doctor about the dose of lutein thats right for you.

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Survey reveals eyesight struggles of learner drivers – Optician Online

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

Zeiss has conducted a poll in partnership with Intelligent Instructor magazine to survey driving instructors on vision and driving, with a focus on the eyesight of learner drivers.

Conducted as part of Road Safety Week (November 16-22), the poll found that 75% of learner drivers have experienced problems with glare from headlights.

It also revealed that 71% of learner drivers have had problems with heavy rain and 91% have had problems with dazzling sunlight.

A total of 87% of driving instructors felt that learner drivers needed an eye test and 90% said they thought everyone should have an eye test before learning to drive.

Paul Hopkins, professional services manager at optometrist at Zeiss Vision Care UK, said: As we head into winter there is more likelihood of drivers facing these challenging conditions due to shorter days and worsening weather. Glare and dazzle caused by car headlights at night can be a real challenge when driving. Disability glare from headlights is of particular concern as this can affect visual performance which can seriously impact driving performance.

With this in mind eye care practitioners must take care to ensure we are fully meeting this challenge. Regular eye tests and lenses that support the visual needs of drivers are key for ensuring people feel confident when driving in all conditions.

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Opticians advise Wrexham residents to keep their eyes on the road – LeaderLive

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

A WREXHAM optician is calling on drivers to take care of their eyes as part of a national safety campaign.

Five people die every day on the UKs roads on average and someone is injured every four minutes - with drivers eyesight often playing a contributory factor, according to Specsavers.

Research shows that poor vision increases a drivers risk of crashing as it limits their ability to recognise hazards and impacts reaction time.

That is why this Road Safety Week (November 16 to 22), road safety charity Brake has partnered with Specsavers to raise awareness of the importance of looking after our sight, particularly when driving.

John Kamaluddin, store director at Specsavers Wrexham, said: "Having good eyesight is one of the most basic requirements of safe driving.

"It means drivers will be able to spot potential dangers, see pedestrians and other vehicles, read road signs and judge speed, distance and movement. Without this, there can be catastrophic consequences on the road.

"While an eye test plays a part in being granted your drivers licence in that you must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away eyesight can change over time, especially as we get older.

"This is why it is so important to have regular eye checks, not only to address any changes in short or long-sightedness but also because an optician can spot sight-threatening conditions that you may not be aware of, such as cataracts, macular degeneration or glaucoma."

Research during lockdown found that cyclists and pedestrians faced almost double the risk of being seriously injured on city roads, caused by drivers increasing their speed due to a decrease in congestion with the same effects potentially happening in other cities throughout the country.

Joshua Harris, Brake director of campaigns, said: Its self-evident that one of the fundamental for safe driving is good eyesight and being able to see the road ahead clearly.

"The earlier a driver can spot a hazard on the road, the quicker they will be able to stop and avoid a crash. When it comes to safe driving, good eyesight and safe speed go hand-in-hand, thats why were delighted to be partnering with Specsavers on Road Safety Week 2020 under the theme No Need to Speed."

Motorists are being encouraged to make sure to discuss any difficulties with their optician so that they can ensure they have the right lenses to suit their needs and lifestyle.

For more information visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/glasses/glasses-lenses/anti-glare-driving-glasses-road-safety

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Monklands optician and road safety charity team up to tackle vision problems on the road – Daily Record

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

A MONKLANDS optician has teamed up with a road safety charity to raise awareness of the importance of people looking after their sight, particularly when driving.

The link between Specsavers and Break comes as research revealed five people die every day on the UKs roads, and someone is injured every four minutes, with drivers eyesight often a contributory factor.

Specsavers Airdrie and Coatbridge director Laura Mullett said: Having good eyesight is one of the most basic requirements of safe driving. It means drivers will be able to spot potential dangers, see pedestrians and other vehicles, read road signs and judge speed, distance and movement.

Without this, there can be catastrophic consequences on the road.

While an eye test plays a part in being granted your drivers licence in that you must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away, eyesight can change over time, especially as we get older.

This is why it is so important to have regular eye checks, not only to address any changes in short or long-sightedness but also because an optician can spot sight-threatening conditions that you may not be aware of, such as cataracts, macular degeneration or glaucoma.

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Signs that dogs are having vision problems – Hometown Focus

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

By Staff | on November 13, 2020

Dog owners take their furry friends health very seriously. Like their human companions, dogs can experience health problems that seemingly come out of nowhere. But unlike the men and women who take care of them, dogs cannot call the doctor when something is bothering them. That responsibility rests on the shoulders of their owners.

A dogs eyes can be a window into the animals overall health. According to the pet care professionals at Memphis Veterinary Specialists & Emergency, serious conditions such as liver disease, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases can all present indicators in a dogs eyes. The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation says that dogs can experience physical and/ or behavioral problems when theyre experiencing eye trouble.

A host of factors can contribute to vision problems in dogs. Age is one such factor, but diseases such as diabetes and hereditary conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy, also can lead to visual impairment. Before dog owners can work with veterinarians to determine the cause of their furry friends vision loss, they must first learn to recognize signs of impairment. The AKC notes that some of these signs may be obvious while others are more subtle.

Bumping into walls or furniture: Thisis a clear indicator that a dog is experiencing vision problems. Dog ownerswho notice this is happening evenwhen theres nothing to obstruct theirdogs path should book a vet appointment immediately. Trouble locating food or toys: Mostdogs love to eat and drink and playwith their toys. So, a sudden inabilityto find food or water bowls or a favoritetoy could indicate the dog is havingvision problems. Reluctance to jump on or off acouch: This symptom can be less noticeable than bumping into furniture orhaving trouble finding food. Dogs that

once loved to jump on or off a couchbut now stick to the floor may be doingso due to impaired vision and the fearof not being able to see where theyrejumping. Clinginess: The AKC notes that somedogs cling to their owners as theyexperience vision loss. Aggressiveness: Dogs may begin toshow aggression as they experiencevision loss. Thats because the lossof their eyesight can make them feelvulnerable, leading some to act offensively as a defense mechanism. Physical indicators/behaviors: Dogowners should be on the lookout forred, puffy or swollen eyes. In addition, Memphis Veterinary Specialists &Emergency notes that some dogs maypaw at their face in response to visionloss.

Vision loss in dogs can be caused by many things. The first step to helping dogs overcome diminished vision is recognizing its symptoms.

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How Lockdown Has Affected Our Eyesight And How To Fix It – GLAMOUR UK

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

Is your eyesight worse since lockdown began (again)? Thanks to hours spent staring at Zoom and losing chunks of sleep to 3am procrastinating, my eyes have definitely been feeling the strain.

And interestingly Im not the only one, with leading online glasses retailer, Glasses Direct discovering 1 in 5 Brits believe their vision has declined during lockdown.

The brand's Vision Survey found that women are suffering the most; from the 28% battling tired and sore eyes, to the 24% experiencing headaches. Not to mention, the 28% of participants who've been having trouble falling asleep, most likely exacerbating all the other aches and pains.

Just before lockdown 2.0, I found myself at the opticians. My main issues being dry, tired eyes and a headache from scrolling Insta and replying to emails.

Optician and Head of Professional Services at Glasses Direct, David Hutchfield explains, It is no surprise that screen time has increased during the pandemic, whether it's working from home in front of a laptop all day, reconnecting with friends and family on video calls, or binging boxsets on Netflix. This increased screen time, and the added stresses of lockdown, has inevitably taken its toll on peoples eye health.

Obviously theres no way were giving up Netflix, so what would help?

David reckons there are simple steps we can take, to keep our eyes in tip top condition and prevent side effects like itchy eyes, headaches and blurry vision. Alongside taking a break from screens where possible and trying to get a good nights sleep, he recommends specialist digital blue light lenses.

Protecting your eyes from UV rays with good quality sunglasses is another eye health priority. A pair that blocks out at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays will protect your eyes from any sun exposure, which can both accelerate eye ageing and be a contributing factor in cataracts.

Another practical tip for minimising screen time strain is the 20/20/20 technique (in 2020, we know). Every 20 minutes look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to help relax your eyes. Itll give your eyes a mini break from concentrating and in turn, ease the eyesight tension causing headaches or blurred vision.

To be honest, were up for anything thatll tackle our Zoom fatigue.

Dry eyes can be the result of a few things, including not drinking enough water, lack of fresh air and not giving your eyes enough of a rest to rehydrate. (Guilty as charged.) It's an obvious one, but a good nights sleep will do wonders for your whole body, including giving your eyes a break, which helps to keep them hydrated. Failing that, invest in some eye drops. Ensuring you feel refreshed will prevent those creepy tired twitches too. Which lets face it, is a very weird sensation.

So arm yourself with the tips above to help shift the headaches ASAP. As for me? Im planning some digital blue light lenses so my online shopping habit can continue...

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Walking in the shoes of the blind – The Star Online

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

WITH a white cane in hand and a little faith, Mohamad Khazaen Mat Nasir put on a blindfold and stepped into the world of the visually impaired.

The 28-year-old teacher gamely tried moving around on his own.

Mohamad Khazaen using a white cane to walk while blindfolded.

He was taking part in the World Sight Day 2020 celebration held at St Nicholas Home (SNH) in Jalan Bagan Jermal, Penang.

This is a whole new experience for me.

I never imagined that it would be this difficult to move around without eyesight.

It has definitely embedded an awareness in me that I have been taking my eyesight for granted all these while.

Visitors learning how the visually impaired use their sense of touch to handle currency notes.

Having a blindfold on does not only restrict movements but also takes away a lot of the experiences one can have, he said when met at the event.

Mohamad Khazaen, who experienced walking on raised pavements designed for the visually impaired within the home, said he learnt how the visually impaired navigated their surroundings.

This is new to me. I learnt a lot today.

During the event, some representatives from various schools and government agencies such as the police, Fire and Rescue Department, state Welfare Department and Penang Island City Council took part in station games and watched displays at the educational booths.

A visitor threading beads while blindfolded at a station game booth.

They wore blindfolds while trying to carry out activities like picking up rocks and stones, walking, drawing and feeling items in boxes.

SNH assistant general manager Elsey Akop said the theme for this years celebration was Hope in Sight.

This is the first time that we are holding this event through invitation only.

In previous years, it was always open to the public but due to Covid-19, we had to follow certain SOPs and thus scale it down.

As such, we invited only representatives.

The aim is to raise awareness on the importance of eye health.

Elsey: The aim is to raise awareness on the importance of eye health

We also invited an optometrist to give a talk.

We hope the representatives will benefit from the talk and share what they have learnt with those around them.

Association of Malaysian Optometrists Penang chapter president Khew Jong Mei, who gave the talk, said it was important for the public to be aware of eye health and how to prevent vision impairment.

It is best for children above the age of three to get an eye check-up annually so underlying issues can be detected and early treatments or vision therapy can be carried out.

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Walking in the shoes of the blind - The Star Online

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Xulane Side Effects: Common, Rare, and Long-Term – Healthline

Thursday, November 19th, 2020

Xulane is a brand-name prescription birth control patch thats applied once per week for 3 weeks each month. Each day, the patch releases 150 micrograms (mcg) of progestin and 35 mcg of ethinyl estradiol, a type of estrogen.

Like other forms of birth control, the patch is a highly effective form of hormonal contraception. But unlike oral contraception, where you take pills every day, Xulane works by delivering hormones through the skin via a bandage-like patch.

Hormonal contraception, including birth control patches, has evolved so much so that serious side effects are relatively rare.

However, theres still a risk for side effects while taking Xulane. Your chances of experiencing more serious ones depend on certain underlying risk factors. Some effects may be temporary, while others might be more long-term.

Make sure you understand all of the potential side effects associated with Xulane, and talk with your doctor to determine whether this form of birth control is best for you.

All types of hormonal birth control carry a risk of side effects. These are primarily related to estrogen.

At 35 mcg per day, Xulane contains about 60 percent more estrogen than the average oral contraceptive. Thus, you may be at an increased risk for estrogen-related side effects.

Some of the most common side effects of the Xulane birth control patch include:

Most of these side effects are temporary and usually go away within 3 months after your body gets used to the hormones in Xulane. You should call your doctor if the symptoms last longer than this or if theyre severe.

Its also possible to experience little to no side effects while using the birth control patch.

Xulane may increase your risk for serious but rare side effects. These include:

Your risk for rare or deadly side effects is greater if you take the patch while smoking and are over the age of 35. Obesity may also increase these risks.

There are also possible long-term side effects of Xulane to consider, such as:

Hormonal birth control, including the patch, can increase your risk for:

Xulane may increase such risks even more due to its higher estrogen content. You shouldnt use Xulane if you have a history or a risk for these conditions.

Your risk for serious side effects may also be greater if you have:

Being overweight and smoking may increase these risks, especially if youre over 35.

The makers of Xulane dont recommend their product for women who have a body mass index (BMI) of over 30. Using this patch may increase the risk for blood clots in such cases.

Also, this patch may not be effective in women who weigh 198 pounds or more. They may need to consider another method of birth control.

Xulane isnt recommended if you have any of the following health conditions:

If youre having surgery, stop taking Xulane 4 weeks beforehand. This will help decrease the risk of blood clots. You may need to wait at least 2 weeks after surgery to start taking your patch again.

You shouldnt take Xulane if you currently use certain hepatitis C medications that contain:

These medications can increase certain liver enzymes in your blood that indicate liver damage.

Ask your doctor about Xulane if you take thyroid hormone replacement medications or antiseizure drugs. These may interfere with the hormones in the patch, making them less effective overall.

Certain herbs may also interact with the birth control patch, such as St. Johns wort. Talk to your doctor about all herbal supplements youre currently taking before using Xulane.

All forms of birth control carry the risk of side effects, but the estrogen content in Xulane may increase such concerns if you already have certain risk factors. A doctor can help you determine which is the safest and most effective form of birth control for you.

You should also talk with a doctor before taking Xulane if youre nursing. Its possible for the patch to decrease milk production. Small amounts of Xulane may also be present in breast milk, which may be passed on to your baby.

If youre interested in taking Xulane after delivering a baby, you must wait at least 4 weeks and must not be breastfeeding.

Xulane is a progestin- and estrogen-containing birth control patch you wear every day for 3 weeks. You change out the patch for a new one each week.

Like other birth control methods, Xulane carries a risk of side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but you should be aware of the more serious risks and call your doctor right away if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Dont stop taking Xulane without talking with a doctor first.

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Feel Safer When Driving With Bad Eyesight – The Intelligent Driver

Thursday, October 22nd, 2020

It shouldnt really need to be stated that your eyesight of the utmost importance when youre on the road. Driving primarily relies on your ability to see around you and to react to changes in your environment by picking up on them visually. There are a lot of drivers who have to wear glasses or contacts in order to do it effectively, but you might feel a little less confident about getting the wheel if you dont have 20/20 vision. Here are a few tips that can help you feel a little safer.

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Get your vision tested

First of all, if youre worried that your vision has changed since the last time you have gotten behind the wheel, or that it has shifted gradually over the past months, then its important to get to the truth of the matter. Arrange a vision test with your optometrist and they can give you definitive answers on whether or not any such changes have occurred. Most importantly, they will be able to inform you as to whether or not you can safely drive on the road. If they say you cannot, then take that as a rule of law, as you can get in trouble if you ignore their advice.

Choose the right glasses

A good eye test will be able to help you get your prescription down, but you still need to pick a good pair of glasses. You can find a store and quickly pick up a pair of frames without issue, but you should take the time to make sure that theyre right for driving with. For one, its a good idea to make sure youre not using frames with chunky edges and choose larger lenses so that youre better able to keep your peripheral vision while driving. You might even want to choose a pair of glasses that use transparent elastic bands to hold frames in place, though they can cost a little more and might not be essential.

Always be prepared

You should always ensure that you have a spare pair of glasses in the glove compartment of your car. That way, should your glasses fall off of your forget to bring them with you, you can make sure that you can hop right back into action. You dont want to be fishing around the floor of your car looking for glasses on the side of the road. Similarly, keep a pack of glasses cleaning wipes at hand so that you can keep your vision clear without too much hassle. Otherwise, if you want to make sure that you have a little added protection on the road, then choose a car that has great safety options just to offer you some peace of mind.

Beware the glare

Its a problem that many glasses wearers are already aware of but, if you havent driven in glasses before, you might be surprised just how much of a headache it can be, literally and metaphorically. For people with issues like astigmia, the glare caused by sunlight hitting your glasses (and the windshield) can cause headaches that can distract you while youre driving. Most people are going to have trouble driving with the sun glaring in their eyes, anyway. There are anti-reflecting coats that can help you, however. These coatings can protect your eyes from the sun, as well as other sources of light, such as taillights, street lamps, and more. That way, you can make sure that youre driving free of distraction.

Use your night driving tools

If youre worried about your vision, then perhaps the tip that will put you best at ease is to simply not drive at night. However, in some cases, it might not be that easy so you should at least be prepared. To that end, you should consider getting a pair of night vision glasses specifically made for people who experience night blindness. Otherwise, make sure that youre relying on the tools that are already at your disposal, such as aiming your car forward at the road accurately. Before you go out driving in the evenings, take care to clean your headlights, too, as grime from the road can build up to obscure them and diminish their ability to light the road ahead properly.

If your vision is really that bad, you wont be allowed to drive on the road and that will be that. Otherwise, keep the tips above in mind to ensure youre always taking the best care of yourself.

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Feel Safer When Driving With Bad Eyesight - The Intelligent Driver

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