Knowledge Hub

Amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," is a common childhood vision condition where one eye does not develop normal visual clarity. While the eye often appears healthy, the brain uses the stronger eye and begins to suppress the weaker one. This condition affects around 2-3% of children and can lead to permanent vision impairment if not treated early. Causes of Amblyopia Strabismus (eye turn): Misalignment of the eyes causes the brain to suppress one eye to avoid double vision. Unequal refractive error: One eye is significantly more long- or short-sighted than the other, leading to imbalance. Visual deprivation: Conditions like cataracts can block vision in one eye and prevent proper development.

Short-sightedness, or myopia, means distant objects look blurry while near ones are clear. It’s becoming more common—especially in kids—and can get worse over time. Why Does Myopia Happen? Myopia often starts in childhood or the teenage years. Genetics play a role, but lifestyle factors contribute too—like lots of near work (reading, study, or screen time) and limited outdoor activities. What Are the Signs? Blurry distance vision Squinting to see the board or TV Headaches or tired eyes after close-up tasks 

Watery eyes might seem like the opposite of dry eyes—but they’re often caused by the same underlying issue: your tears aren’t working as they should. If your eyes are constantly tearing up, feel irritated, or you’re always reaching for a tissue, it might be time to get things checked out. What Causes Watery Eyes? Excessive tearing can happen for a few common reasons: Dry Eye Syndrome – If your tear film isn’t up to scratch, your eyes may produce more watery tears to compensate for irritation. Blocked Tear Ducts – When the drainage system isn’t working properly, tears can’t flow into your nose and overflow instead. Ingrowing Eyelashes – More common as we get older, these can scratch the eye and trigger constant watering. Foreign Bodies – A speck of dust or grit stuck under the eyelid can cause reflex tearing. Allergies or Irritants – Wind, smoke, or pollen can set off excess tearing. Infections or Eyelid Problems – Conditions like blepharitis or a turned-in eyelid (entropion) can irritate the eye’s surface. 

Vision therapy is a structured program designed to improve how your eyes and brain work together. It’s not just about seeing clearly, it’s about how effectively your visual system functions and how your eyes work in coordination with each other. Who Might Benefit? Vision therapy can help both children and adults. It’s often recommended for people who experience: Eye coordination difficulties (like convergence insufficiency) Focusing problems or visual fatigue Amblyopia (commonly known as “lazy eye”) Eye movement issues that affect reading and tracking Visual processing delays that impact learning Even if someone has clear vision on a standard eye chart, they might still struggle with how their eyes work together or how well they focus over time. 

When kids struggle in the classroom, vision isn’t always the first thing parents or teachers think of, but it should be. Clear sight is just part of the puzzle. Your child’s ability to track words, shift focus between the board and their desk, and keep both eyes working together all play a big part in how they learn. Signs Your Child Might Have a Vision-Related Learning Problem: Avoids reading or loses their place easily Complains of tired eyes or headaches Poor reading comprehension Squints, rubs eyes, or blinks excessively Struggles with concentration or copying from the board Many kids can pass a basic eye test and still face difficulties because of focusing or eye coordination issues. 

In Australia, the sun doesn’t take a season off and neither should your eye protection. UV exposure is a leading cause of several serious eye conditions, including pterygium, cataracts, and macular degeneration. And it’s not just about those bright sunny days; UV rays can be just as harmful when it’s cloudy or overcast. What Can UV Damage Do to Your Eyes? Accelerates cataract development Increases the risk of macular degeneration Causes pterygium (aka “surfer’s eye”) Can lead to photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye) May worsen dry eye symptoms What Makes Good Sunglasses? At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists, we recommend sunglasses that offer: 100% UV protection (look for category 3 or 4 lenses) Wraparound designs to block peripheral light Polarised lenses to reduce glare, especially when driving or near water High-quality optics , like Maui Jim lenses with colour-enhancing and anti-glare features We also offer Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses , which combine built-in eye protection with wearable tech. Ask us about our low vision training sessions too!

We all know that sunglasses not only make you look fantastic, but they're also essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists, we pride ourselves on helping you find the perfect pair that balances both style and long-term sun safety. Why UV Protection Matters Just like your skin, your eyes can suffer serious damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths like pterygium, especially in sunny places like Australia. That’s why choosing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays is key for safeguarding your vision in the years to come. 

If you’ve ever wondered why one pair of glasses costs more than another, you’re not alone. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we believe in transparency, so here’s a summary of what affects the price of your specs. 1. Your Prescription This is often the biggest factor. Higher prescriptions usually require thinner , more complex lens designs or materials, like high-index lenses, to keep them light and comfortable. So, the stronger your prescription, the more you might pay for your lenses. 2. Lens Material Lenses come in various materials, and each affects the price: Standard plastic: Affordable, but can be thicker for strong prescriptions. Polycarbonate: Lighter and impact-resistant , ideal for kids or safety wear. High-index: Ultra-thin for strong prescriptions, offering a more refined look. Choosing the right material impacts not only the price, but also the weight, durability, and safety of your lenses. 3. Lens Coatings & Options Coatings play a big role in performance and cost: Anti-reflective: Ideal for night driving or computer use, reducing glare. Photochromic: Transitions lenses that darken in sunlight, perfect for those on the go. Blue light filters: Great for screen-heavy lifestyles, reducing eye strain. Multifocals: For those needing both distance and reading correction. The more advanced the lens, the higher the cost, but also the better the performance. 4. Frame Style & Brand Designer frames or premium materials, like titanium , will naturally come at a higher price, but we also offer great-value options that look stylish and are built to last. Whether you’re after something high-end or budget-friendly, there’s a frame for everyone. 5. Sunglass Options Prescription sunglasses come in various styles, including tints, mirror coatings, and polarised lenses . Brands like Maui Jim offer lenses that reduce glare and improve colour contrast , especially helpful for driving or time on the water. These options will add to the price, but they’re an investment in both your eye health and style. We also offer Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, combining prescription lenses with smart tech features. A perfect fusion of fashion and function!

Eye discomfort can happen suddenly, like after a splash of cleaning product, or gradually, such as dry, scratchy sensations over weeks. Sudden Sore Eyes Sudden soreness may be caused by: Foreign bodies (dust, sand, metal) Chemical exposure Infections like conjunctivitis If you experience severe pain , vision changes , or suspect a chemical injury , seek immediate care . 

Most people know smoking affects the lungs and heart, but did you know it’s also a major risk factor for serious eye disease? Smoking restricts blood flow, increases oxidative stress, and reduces the availability of protective antioxidants in the eye. This increases your risk of developing vision-threatening conditions. Eye Conditions Linked to Smoking: Macular degeneration: Smokers are up to 4x more likely to develop AMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration). Cataracts: Smoking doubles your risk, especially for nuclear cataracts . Dry eye disease: Worsened by toxins and reduced tear film stability. Retinal vascular damage: Higher risk of diabetic retinopathy and blood vessel changes. Delayed healing: After eye surgery or injury. Even passive smoking increases the risk for children developing eye problems like strabismus and allergic conjunctivitis .

Smart glasses are wearable tech that look like regular spectacles but come with built-in features like cameras, speakers and microphones. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists, we offer the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses; a stylish and functional option for those wanting to stay connected, hands-free, and enhance their vision. Key Features : Built-in Camera & Video Recording : Capture moments or scan text easily. Open-Ear Speakers & Voice Control : Listen to audio or make hands-free calls without blocking the sounds around you. Smartphone Integration : Stay connected with calls, messages, and playlists directly from your glasses. 

Has your child brought home a vision screening report from school? These basic checks can sometimes pick up potential vision problems, but they’re not a full eye exam. Even if your child seems to see well, they may still be overworking their eyes to do so. Why Is This Important? Even children who pass school vision screening may have subtle issues with how their eyes focus, work together, or process information. These problems can impact reading, learning, concentration, and even behaviour. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we provide comprehensive children’s eye exams that check more than just eyesight: Focusing and eye teaming (how well the eyes work together) Eye movements (tracking across a page) Refraction (prescription for glasses, if needed) Eye health (checking for any underlying concerns) In some cases, we may also offer vision therapy to help strengthen visual skills, especially if issues are affecting learning. 

A retinal detachment is a serious eye emergency. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss, but if caught early, vision can often be saved. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. If it starts to tear or pull away from the wall of the eye, it can’t work properly; that’s when vision loss begins. Warning Signs to Watch For: A sudden increase in floaters (like spots or cobwebs) Flashes of light in your side vision A dark shadow or curtain across your vision Sudden drop in vision or distortion  These symptoms may affect one eye only and may come on suddenly, or develop over hours.

A red or bloodshot eye is a common reason people seek eye care, but the cause can range from harmless to serious. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we’ll help you figure out what’s going on and what to do next. Common Causes of Red Eyes: Dry eye : When your tears aren’t doing their job properly, the surface of your eye can get irritated. Allergies : Pollen, dust, pets, or other irritants can cause itching and redness. Infection : Conjunctivitis can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. Contact lens irritation : Poor fit, hygiene, or overwear can all lead to red eyes. Blepharitis : Inflammation of the eyelids can make your eyes look red and feel gritty. Uveitis or scleritis : These are less common but serious internal eye inflammations that require urgent care. Subconjunctival haemorrhage : A harmless bright red patch that looks scary but usually clears up on its own.

If you’ve been asked to complete a Queensland Transport Vision Certificate to keep your driver’s licence, we’re here to help. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we regularly perform these visual assessments and provide the necessary paperwork on the spot. Why Am I Being Asked for This? Many drivers are required to provide vision certification for licence renewals, especially older drivers or those with medical conditions that could affect eyesight. It’s a simple process that ensures your vision is up to scratch for safe driving. What’s Included in the Vision Check? The test is quick but thorough. It includes: Visual acuity. Checking the clarity of your vision with and without glasses Peripheral vision (visual fields). Assessing how much you can see side-to-side General eye health. Identifying any conditions that could impact your driving safety

A pterygium (pronounced tuh-RIJ-ee-um) is a non-cancerous growth on the white part of the eye that can gradually extend onto the cornea. It’s often shaped like a wedge and may be pinkish or fleshy in colour. What Causes a Pterygium? The main cause is long-term UV exposure . It’s more common in people who spend lots of time outdoors without sunglasses, especially in sunny climates like Australia. What Are the Symptoms? A visible growth on the white of the eye Redness or irritation A gritty or dry feeling Blurred vision (if the growth reaches the cornea) Should I Be Worried? Pterygia are usually harmless, but they can become uncomfortable or affect your vision if they grow. If that happens, they can be surgically removed. 

Sport and active play are fantastic for growing minds and bodies, but they can also put kids’ eyes at risk. Every year, hundreds of Australian children experience preventable eye injuries from balls, bats, fingers, or flying debris. Most of these injuries could be avoided with the right protective eyewear. Common Risks to Young Eyes: Cricket balls, soccer balls, or footy contact Flying toys or sports gear Sharp or pointy objects in outdoor play Accidental pokes from other children UV damage during outdoor sports 

Struggling to read your phone, menus, or medicine labels? You’re not alone. This gradual change in near vision is a normal part of ageing, and it’s called presbyopia . What Causes Presbyopia? As we get older, typically starting in our 40s, the lens inside the eye becomes less flexible. This makes it harder to focus on things up close. It’s not a disease, just a natural part of ageing, annoying though it may be! Common Signs: Holding things further away to read them Eye strain or headaches with near tasks Blurry near vision , especially in low light

If you’ve noticed your side vision isn’t what it used to be, it could be more than just tired eyes. Loss of peripheral vision, also known as tunnel vision, can be a sign of several underlying eye or neurological conditions. Some of these can be urgent, and many can be managed more effectively if picked up early.  Common Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss: Glaucoma; The most common cause; it damages the optic nerve over time. Retinal detachment; A medical emergency that can cause shadowing or curtain-like vision. Stroke or brain injury ; May affect the visual processing pathways. Diabetic retinopathy ; Especially in the more advanced stages. Inherited conditions, like retinitis pigmentosa.

If you’re tired of wearing glasses or contacts during the day, or if you’re a parent concerned about your child’s vision getting worse, Ortho-K could be the perfect solution. This non-surgical treatment uses custom contact lenses you wear while you sleep. Overnight, the lenses gently reshape your cornea. In the morning, you remove them and enjoy clear vision all day, without glasses or daytime lenses. Who is Ortho-K for? ✅ Teens and adults who want freedom from glasses for sport, work, or travel ✅ Kids and teens with myopia; Ortho-K can help slow the progression of myopia and how quickly their vision changes ✅ People not ready for laser eye surgery Why It Matters Ortho-K doesn’t just correct your vision; it also helps slow the progression of myopia in kids, which can reduce the risk of eye disease later in life.  It’s safe , TGA-approved , and has been successfully used worldwide for over 20 years.

If you’ve ever wondered whether diet or supplements can help your eyes, the short answer is: yes, but not all are created equal. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we focus on the research, not the marketing. Here’s what we know. What Does the Evidence Say? The AREDS2 study found that specific high-dose antioxidant supplements (vitamins C, E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin) can slow the progression of moderate-to-advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, there’s no clear benefit to taking these if you don’t already have AMD or another eye disease. A Mediterranean-style diet (rich in leafy greens, oily fish, and colourful vegetables) supports long-term eye health and reduces the risk of chronic disease. Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish or flaxseed oil) may help some dry eye sufferers, especially if inflammation is a factor.

Macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older Australians. However, with early detection and ongoing care, we have the best chance to slow its progression and protect your sight. AMD affects the macula , the central part of your retina that allows you to see detail. When the macula deteriorates, your central vision becomes blurred or distorted, making it difficult to read, recognise faces, or drive. Types of AMD Dry AMD : The most common form. It progresses slowly and may go unnoticed at first. Wet AMD : A more advanced stage of dry AMD. It’s less common but more severe, involving abnormal blood vessels that can rapidly damage vision and require urgent treatment. Risk Factors Age (most common over 50) Family history of AMD Smoking Poor diet and low antioxidant intake UV exposure

Choosing new glasses? Understanding the different lens types can help you get the most out of your eyewear. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we’ll guide you through the options that suit your vision, lifestyle, and budget. Single Vision Lenses Single vision lenses have one prescription throughout the entire lens. They’re perfect for: Distance (e.g., driving, watching TV) Reading or computer use Everyday wear Hobbies that need specific focus distances, like model building or needlework Multifocal (Progressive) Lenses These lenses gradually change power from top to bottom, clear for distance, intermediate for computer use, and near for reading, all in one lens. They’re ideal for people who need a range of vision correction without switching glasses. Office/Occupational/Extended focus Lenses Designed for close and mid-range tasks. These are perfect for: Office or computer work Trades requiring detailed near or arm’s length vision

High blood pressure doesn’t just affect your heart, it can also impact your eyes. The small, delicate blood vessels in the retina are especially vulnerable to changes in blood pressure. This means your eyes can sometimes show early signs of hypertension, even before you notice any other symptoms. What Can High Blood Pressure Do to Your Eyes? Narrow or damaged retinal blood vessels Retinal swelling or fluid leakage Changes to the optic nerve from prolonged pressure Increased risk of stroke in the eye or blocked vessels Long-term risk of vision loss if left untreated  These changes are often subtle, but with a thorough eye exam, we can detect them, sometimes even before your doctor has picked them up.

As we age, so do our eyes and after 60, those changes can become more noticeable. That doesn’t mean vision loss is inevitable, but it does mean regular eye exams become more important than ever.  Some conditions progress slowly and silently, making early detection key to protecting your sight. Common Age-Related Changes in Vision: Reduced contrast or night vision Difficulty focusing at close range (presbyopia) Increased glare sensitivity Dry eyes or watery eyes More floaters or flashes Development of cataracts, macular degeneration, or glaucoma

Hyperopia, also known as long-sightedness, is a condition where it's easier to see things in the distance than up close. It’s common, especially in children, but many people don’t even realise they have it. What Causes Hyperopia? Hyperopia occurs when the eye is shorter than normal, or when the front part of the eye (the cornea) is too flat. This causes light to focus behind the retina, making it difficult to see things clearly up close. Signs and Symptoms of Hyperopia Eye strain or tired eyes, especially during reading or other close tasks Blurred vision at near (or even at distance, if hyperopia is severe) Headaches , squinting, or avoiding tasks that require close-up focus In children: problems with attention, reading, or learning

Regular eye examinations are crucial for maintaining optimal vision and overall eye health. The frequency of these exams can vary based on age, health status, and risk factors. General Recommendations: Children (0–18 years): Every 1–2 years, especially during key developmental stages. Adults under 65: Every two years. Optometry Australia recommends eye exams every two years in this age group to ensure early detection of asymptomatic conditions. Adults 65 and over: Regular check-ups are important due to the higher risk of age-related eye diseases. Individuals with diabetes: Annually, as diabetic retinopathy can progress without early symptoms.

Seeing sudden flashes of light, like lightning or sparkles in your side vision? These are called flashes, and they can be a sign that something is tugging on your retina. What Causes Flashes? Most commonly, flashes happen when the clear gel inside your eye (the vitreous) starts to shrink or pull away from the retina. This is called a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and is a normal part of ageing. When Should I Be Concerned? Flashes that happen occasionally and without other symptoms are usually nothing to worry about. But if you notice: A sudden burst of new flashes Flashes with a shower of floaters A dark shadow or curtain in your peripheral vision …it could be a retinal tear or detachment, which needs urgent attention.

If someone in your family has had serious eye problems, there’s a chance you could too. But the good news is that knowing your family history helps us protect your sight. Many eye conditions have a genetic component. That doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get them, but it does mean your risk may be higher. Eye Conditions That Tend to Run in Families: Glaucoma; often silent until damage is done Macular degeneration; Especially age-related (AMD) Myopia (short-sightedness) ; May begin earlier and progress faster Cataracts ; Especially at a younger-than-average age Strabismus or amblyopia In children If a parent, sibling, or grandparent has experienced one of these, let us know at your exam.

An eye turn, also known as strabismus, is when one eye points in a different direction from the other. It can be constant, or only occur when your child is tired or focusing hard. Either way, it’s something worth checking early. What Does It Mean? Strabismus happens when the eyes don’t align properly. One eye may turn in (esotropia), out (exotropia), or less commonly, up or down. It can affect depth perception, visual comfort, and even lead to lazy eye ( amblyopia ) if left untreated. It’s not always obvious and some kids might appear to have a turn when they don’t. This is a pseudostrabismus, caused by a broad nasal bridge. That’s why a proper assessment matters.

When glasses no longer provide the clarity you need, there are still plenty of ways to help you make the most of your vision. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we offer a range of low vision aids tailored to suit your specific needs and lifestyle.  What Are Low Vision Aids? Low vision aids are devices designed to enhance your remaining sight when traditional glasses just aren’t enough. These can include: • Magnifiers; Handheld, stand, or wearable devices that enlarge print or objects • High-powered reading glasses; Stronger than standard specs, perfect for close tasks • Electronic aids; Such as portable digital magnifiers or screen readers • Task lighting; Targeted lighting to reduce glare and improve contrast • Tints and filters; To enhance contrast and reduce light sensitivity We also offer Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, a tech-forward option that enhances everyday function, especially for those with low vision. Plus, our team will provide training sessions to ensure you get the most out of these devices.

Devices like iPads, tablets, and laptops are now part of everyday life, even for kids. But all that screen time can take a toll on growing eyes.  We’re seeing more children with symptoms like headaches, sore eyes, blurry near vision, and even early myopia (short-sightedness). It’s not the screen itself that’s the problem, it’s the prolonged near work and the lack of outdoor play that matters. Common Symptoms of “iPad Eyes”: Tired or sore eyes , especially after school Complaints of blurry vision , particularly up close Headaches or trouble concentrating Squinting , rubbing eyes, or blinking a lot Avoiding reading or homework

It’s a common question, how long will my new glasses take? The answer depends on a few factors, but at VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we always aim to get you seeing clearly as soon as possible. Urgent Glasses In some cases, our Southport practice can often arrange urgent glasses within an hour. Handy if you’ve lost or broken your current pair. Just give us a call, and we’ll do our best to sort things out as quickly as possible. Standard Glasses For most single vision glasses , it usually takes about 5–7 working days . These are the everyday specs for things like distance, reading, or computer use.  Multifocals and Special Orders For multifocals , occupational lenses , high prescriptions , and custom options like photochromic or blue-light filters , it can take a little longer, usually 7–10 working days . These lenses are custom-ground for each eye to suit your prescription and unique visual needs.

You’ve probably heard that blue light from screens can damage your eyes, but is that actually true? Here’s what research shows: blue light from screens does not damage your eyes the way UV light does. However, spending hours on screens can still lead to digital eye strain, and evening screen time may interfere with your natural sleep-wake cycle.  Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain: - Tired, sore or gritty eyes - Blurred vision after screen time - Headaches or difficulty focusing - Dry eyes from reduced blinking - Trouble sleeping after late-night device use

Blurry vision can happen all of a sudden or develop gradually over time. Understanding when it starts can help us figure out what’s going on. Sudden blurry vision may signal something more urgent, such as: Retinal detachment or tear Acute glaucoma attack Vascular events (like a blockage in eye blood vessels) Gradual blurry vision is often caused by: Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) Cataract development Dry eye disease Macular changes (like age-related macular degeneration)

If you’re applying for or renewing your aviation medical, you may need to complete a CASA eye exam with an optometrist. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists, we regularly perform these assessments and know exactly what CASA requires. What is the CASA eye exam? This occupational assessment ensures your vision meets the safety standards for aviation. It covers a wide range of visual functions, not just how well you can read an eye chart.

Noticing your vision getting cloudy or dimmer, especially when driving at night or dealing with glare? You might be developing cataracts, a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy over time. Cataracts usually develop gradually as part of the ageing process. Other factors that can increase your risk include long-term UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications. What Are the Symptoms? Cloudy, fuzzy, or film-like vision Increased sensitivity to bright light or glare Difficulty with night driving Colours looking faded or yellowed

Colour vision is how your eyes tell the difference between colours. Most people can see colour normally, but about 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women are born with a colour vision deficiency, commonly known as colour blindness. What Is Colour Blindness? Colour blindness is usually inherited. It happens when the colour-sensing cells in your eyes (cones) don’t respond properly to red, green, or blue light. The most common type is red-green deficiency, which makes it harder to tell those colours apart. Less common types affect blue-yellow vision, and a very rare form impacts all colours. Signs of Colour Vision Deficiency People with colour vision issues may: - Struggle to tell red from green - Have trouble reading colour-coded maps, charts or wiring diagrams - Find colour-based tasks challenging at school

A routine eye test is about more than just reading letters on a chart. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we offer comprehensive eye health assessments that check the full health of your eyes—inside and out. Many serious eye conditions can develop without symptoms. A proper exam lets us catch issues early, even before they affect your vision. What’s Included in a Comprehensive Eye Exam? External and internal slit lamp examination ; Checking the front and back of your eye Scans of the macula, optic nerve, and peripheral retina ; OCT when indicated and ultra-wide field retinal scans for thorough care Intraocular pressure testing ; Important for detecting glaucoma Visual field testing (automated perimetry, where indicated) Discussion of lifestyle, medications, and risk factors

Contact lenses offer crisp vision and freedom from glasses—but with so many options available, how do you know what’s right for you? At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists, we help you navigate your choices to find lenses that suit your eyes, lifestyle, and vision needs. Soft Lenses Soft lenses are the most commonly prescribed and come in several options: Daily disposables: The most comfortable and hygienic option. Perfect for sensitive eyes, allergy sufferers, or anyone looking for low maintenance. Backed by research as the safest type of contact lens wear. Fortnightly/monthly lenses: More affordable for regular wearers but require more care. These lenses are safe and effective when used correctly but may carry slightly more risk of dryness or infection. Toric lenses: Designed to correct astigmatism. Multifocal lenses: Provide clear vision at all distances, ideal for those needing both near and distance focus.

If you have diabetes, type 1 or type 2, it’s important to keep an eye on your eyes. High blood sugar can damage the delicate blood vessels at the back of the eye, leading to diabetic retinopathy, macular swelling, or even permanent vision loss. The tricky part? It often starts with no symptoms at all. Why Regular Diabetic Eye Checks Matter: Diabetic eye disease can be silent at first. Early detection gives the best chance to protect your vision. Medicare covers diabetic eye exams for eligible patients. We coordinate with your GP or specialist for complete care. Even if your blood sugars are well managed, regular eye exams are essential.

Dry eye can be more than just annoying, it can make reading, working, or even enjoying the outdoors uncomfortable. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we offer a full suite of treatment options tailored to your needs. What Causes Dry Eye? Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. It can result from age, medications, hormonal changes, screen use, or certain health conditions.

Got something in your eye or suffered a bump to the face? Eye injuries can range from minor irritations to emergencies. Minor Injuries (like a small foreign object or minor scratch): Gently rinse your eye with clean water or saline. Avoid rubbing your eye as this can make things worse. If irritation persists, book an eye exam with VISION Michael Hare Optometrists.

Children rely on their vision to learn, play, and grow. But many vision problems go unnoticed, especially in younger kids who may not know how to describe what they’re seeing. That’s why regular eye tests are so important, even if everything seems fine. At VISION Michael Hare Optometrists , we make eye tests fun and age-appropriate. Our team is experienced with children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Why Test Their Eyes? Vision develops rapidly in early childhood. Kids often don’t complain, they assume everyone sees the same way. Early detection helps prevent learning delays, behavioural concerns, and long-term vision problems. Even if your child sees well, an eye test helps us understand how hard their eyes are working to maintain that clarity.

If your eyes are red, itchy, or watery, especially during the warmer months, your allergies could be at play. Allergic conjunctivitis is a common eye condition where your eyes react to things like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. It's often more pronounced in spring, but it can happen at any time of the year depending on your triggers. What causes it? Allergic conjunctivitis happens when your body’s immune system overreacts to harmless particles (called allergens). This triggers the release of histamine, which causes: Itchy, red, watery eyes Puffy eyelids Stringy or watery discharge Often, both eyes are affected at once