by Nilsen Optometrist – Dynamic Vision.

In South Africa optometrist provide our primary eye care. They can look for all conditions including those that may not result in any symptoms at all, until they are very advanced.
Optometrist can provide a referral to an ophthalmologist as required. Early detection and intervention are key to preserving vision and maintaining overall eye health.
Visual loss for many eye conditions can be avoided through early detection and appropriate treatment. I recommend annual eye checks for South Africans over the age of 40. Yearly checkups should start earlier if there is a family history, or any symptoms as stated below.
The five eye health “red flags” to look out for.
1. Blurry or distorted vision.
Sudden or persistent blurriness or distortion in vision can be a sign of various eye conditions, including refractive errors (near or far sightedness), or more serious issues like cataracts, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
2. Eye pain, discomfort or sensitivity to light. Persistent eye pain, discomfort or aches can be indicative of dry eye syndrome, eye infections, or uveitis (inflammation inside the eye).
3. Redness or irritation.
It’s actually normal for eyes to be red occasionally, more so on some days than others, but persistent redness or Irritation, especially if accompanied by discharge, itching, burning or extreme sensitivity to light could be a sign of conjunctivitis or more serious eye conditions such as uveitis (inflammation inside the eye) or keratis (infection of the cornea)
Red eye is extremely important to pick up and address if you are a contact lens wearer. In this situation, contacts should be removed immediately and a visit to the optometrist should not be delayed.
4. Floaters or flashes of light.
The sudden appearance of floaters (cobwebs or shadows) in your vision, or flashes of light may be indicative of a retinal tear or detachment which requires immediate attention to prevent permanent visual loss.
5. Change in eye or eyelid appearance.
Any noticeable changes in the appearance of the eye or eyelids, such as the development of lumps. Bumps or growths should be evaluated by an eye care professional.
These changes can indicate a variety of conditions, including styes, chalazia (a slowly developing lump), eye lid cysts, or more serious issues like skin cancers on the surface of the eye or eye lids. Prompt evaluation and diagnosis are essential to determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the best outcome.
What are the biggest mistakes we are making with our eyes?
1. Neglecting regular eye examinations
Many people only seek an eye exam when they notice a problem with their vision. However, regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting issues early on, before symptoms appear.
2. Ignoring changes in vision.
Vision changes such as blurriness, double vision, or sudden flashes of light should never be ignored. These could be signs of underlying eye conditions that require prompt attention. Delaying treatment may lead to further vision problems or permanent damage.
3. Not wearing protective eyewear.
To prevent eye injuries, it is recommended that you wear the proper protective eyewear, such as safety glasses or goggles, can prevent accidents and protect vision.
I have seen so many life-changing injuries from not wearing protective eyewear. It is always that “one time” when it seems minor, so they didn’t bother getting the safety glasses.
4. Overlooking UV protection.
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun can damage the eyes and increase the risk of cataracts, skin cancers on the eyelids or surface of the eye and other eye conditions.
5. Rubbing the eyes.
Runing the eyes scan introduce harmful viruses, bacteria and irritants, leading to infections or exacerbating existing conditions like dry eye syndrome.
It can also cause wrinkles, but most importantly, rubbing the eyes compresses the delicate corneal tissue and can lead to permanent and irreversible vision loss.
6. Poor contact lens hygiene.
Improper care and maintenance of contact lenses, such as wearing them for too long, sleeping or swimming in them past their use-by-date or failing to clean them properly, increases the risk of eye infections and complications.
7.Smoking or Vaping.
Smoking is not only harmful to overall health but also poses significant risks to eye health. It increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and other eye conditions. People that smoke are also actually more likely to go blind from macular degeneration compared to people that do not smoke. The long-term effects of vaping on eye health are still being studied, but we do know they can disrupt the tear film hence exacerbating dry eye and making sensitive eyes worse.
8. Neglecting overall health.
A Healthy lifestyle will always be the best for your whole being. We have found that certain medications also have a negative effect on your visual system.
What could dry eyes, sensitivity or redness mean?
Some potential underlying causes include.
1. Dry eye syndrome: Chronic dryness in the eyes, often accompanied by redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation, can be indicative of dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears of when tears evaporate too quickly.
2. Conjunctivitis: Redness, itching and sensitivity in the eyes may be symptoms. This common eye condition can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants.
3. Allergic eye diseases: Allergies to environmental triggers such as pollen, dust, pet hair or certain cosmetics can lead to redness, itching and sensitivity in the eyes.
4. Eye infections: Infections of the eye, such as bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, can cause redness, discomfort and sensitivity. Infections can be very serious in the setting of recent eye surgery or contact lens wear and early intervention is crucial.
5. Inflammatory eye conditions: Conditions such as uveitis or blepharitis, which involve inflammation of the eye or eyelids, can cause symptoms such as redness, sensitivity to light and discomfort.
6. Corneal problems: Issues affecting the cornea, such as abrasions, ulcers or infections, can cause redness, pain and sensitivity in the eyes.
7. Systemic conditions: In some cases, dry, red or sensitive eyes may be symptoms of underlying conditions such as autoimmune diseases (e.g. Sjogren’s syndrome) rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders.
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Visit us in the Hartbeespoort Medical Centre.
Madeleine Nilsen has over 30 years of experience in her field and will assist you with all your optical and visual needs.
Cell : 084 241 9072 T: 012 259 1200