Helen Walsh OpticiansHelen Walsh Opticians

Seeing Behind the eye With OCT scanning

Laura Sweeney — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 15:57:56 +0000

Helen Walsh Opticians is one of just 12 optician practices in the country who currently offer OCT scanning. We have used the OCT technology for over 18 months, during which our professional staff has attended training seminars both in house and with Topcon University.

Helen Walsh

What is OCT?

OCT, or ocular coherence tomography, is a detailed scan similar to an ultrasound, which is used to illustrate the different layers that make up the eye. OCT is an instant scan that provides detail at a near microscopic resolution. No preparation is required before the safe, pain-free test can be conducted. Images are saved digitally to allow for easy storage and sending forward if necessary to the patient’s GP or Ophthalmologist.

Who should have an OCT?

We hope to establish a baseline scan for all patients to help identify the smallest changes.We live in an ageing population and it is expected there will be a 50% increase in visual impairment in the next 20 years. Early detection is key to reducing the risk of loss of vision. That is why regular eye examinations with OCT scanning are so important.

What conditions can an OCT help monitor or identify?

Age related macular degeneration (ARMD)

Diabetes

Glaucoma

Macular holes and vitreous detachments

Helen Walsh Opticians is located in Middle Street Court, Galway. To make a booking for an OCT scan, drop into the store or phone 091-569569.

Suffering from Dry Eye this Winter?

Laura Sweeney — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:31:41 +0000

Dry Eye is a common problem. Especially in this cold, dry weather. Dry eye can effect anyone. The symptoms can increase with age and are often triggered by illness and certain medications. There are glands lining the eyelids that produce a natural oil which thickens the tears and helps to hold them in the eye. Our eyes should be covered in a thin layer of tears at all times, in order to keep the eye moist and comfortable, and also to clear out any dust and dirt. This helps to prevent eye infections. When low in this oil, the tears will quickly evaporate off the eye, causing the eye to dry up as the day goes on. This often leads to a gritty/itchy sensation on the eye, or the eyes feeling tired or heavy as the day goes on.
So how can we prevent Dry Eye?

Diet is very important for alleviating the symptoms of dry eye. Increased intake of foods rich in oils such as oily fish and seeds, along with a generally healthy diet and regular exercise.

A pair of good quality, well-fitting sunglasses will help to protect the eyes when outdoors.

A lubricating ointment can help to soothe the gritty sensation. (Please call in to our shop to pick up some of this)

Drink plenty of water!

Heat is an important factor for sufferers of dry eye. Heat softens the oil already in the eye, it also dilates the oil-producing glands increasing the production of oil in the eye. We carry Eye Spoons and Eye Masks specifically for this purpose. To pick one of these up or simply find out more information about Dry Eye, call in to our store on Middle Street or phone 091-569569 to make an appointment at our Dry Eye Clinic.

Eye tests

Helen — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:37:46 +0000

Prescriptions
Driving Vision Screening
Corporate/Medical Screening
General Health

An eye examination at Helen Walsh Opticians is not just a sight test. As well as measuring for any prescription you may require for spectacles or contact lenses, we will also conduct various tests for a full range of general health conditions that can be monitored at the back of your eyes. At your first appointment records will be kept that will allow us to monitor even the smallest changes on subsequent visits. This is why an eye examination is important, even if you do not need spectacles.
We are committed to providing a high quality Eye Test in a friendly and relaxing environment. We will take the time to explain the tests and answer any concerns you may have.

Eye Examinations and Services Available

Driving Vision Screening
Contact Lenses
Corporate Eye care
Children’s Eye care
Glaucoma & Diabetic Screening
Low Vision Aids
In House Glazing
PRSI and Medical Cards
Retinal Photography

The latest Retinal Imaging technology is used to detect and monitor signs of:

Diabetes
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Glaucoma
High blood pressure

This technology enables high definition digital photographs to be taken of the retina, the delicate light sensitive lining, inside the eye and the smallest changes can be compared over time.

Spectacles and Lenses

Helen — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:26:41 +0000

Spectacle Lenses

We are agents for all the leading manufacturers of lenses.

Designer Frames

We stock all the leading brands:

DKNY
Dolce & Gabbana
Ralph Lauren – Polo
Gucci
Versace
Vogue
Prada
Miu Miu
Marc Jacobs

If we do not have precisely what you need in store, talk to us and we will order it in for you.

Reflection Free Lenses

These are well worth considering for VDU and regular computer users as they eliminate almost all reflections, providing clearer and sharper vision.

HI-Index Lenses

These will ensure your lenses are as light and as thin as possible.

Varifocals

No need for separate distance and reading lenses.

Contact Lenses

Helen — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:25:12 +0000

It is now easier and more comfortable to wear contact lenses than ever before. Contact lenses are great for sports, social events or even just as an alternative to the everyday wearing of glasses. As a specialist contact lens practice we are able to fit and supply almost anyone with contact lenses, regardless of prescription. We also supply lenses to correct astigmatism and progressive lenses that are similar to varifocal spectacle lenses.

Choice of Lenses

As an independent practice, we deal with all the major lenses companies including Johnson and Johnson (Acuvue), Ciba Vision, and Bausch and Lomb. But we also deal with specialised lens makers for custom fit lenses if required. This allows us to offer you a choice of lenses to suit you, your visual requirements and your lifestyle needs.
Contact lens technology is constantly evolving and advancing. If you have been told in the past that you are not suitable for contacts, this may not be the case now. So, if you have been thinking about getting lenses then why not talk to us about your options? We would only be happy to help.

Regular Care

Regular aftercare appointments are essential for maintaining the health and comfort of your eyes. At these, your optician will be able to give you reliable aftercare advice and can help if you have any problems with your lenses. If you are a new wearer, you will need check-ups during the first weeks and months of wear. After that you should have regular check-ups as recommended by your optician.
Contact us today to find out how wearing contact lenses could allow you to get more out of life.

Sunglasses

Helen — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:08:06 +0000

All our sunglasses either with or without your prescription are guaranteed to fully protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. When buying sunglasses it is important not just to choose a pair that make a fashion statement, but have good quality lenses too. This will ensure you do not get headaches due to the distortions often found in some poorer quality lenses. You will be able to choose from a wide range of custom-made prescription sunglasses, as well as non-prescription sunglasses from a range of manufacturers in standard, full UV tints and polarised versions.

Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses are special lenses that change tint precisely when needed. ‘Transitions’ lenses react quickly to every situation, sunlight or shade, indoors or outdoors. They are virtually clear indoors and can rapidly change to a stylish tint outdoors to give protection against harmful glare. They provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB radiation. They are available in a choice of brown or grey tints. They are really convenient when going in and outdoors to save you having to swap spectacles with sunglasses. However, they do not work as well inside a car due to the car windows absorbing the rays which activate the lenses.

Polarized Lenses

Polarising lenses go a step further than conventional sunglasses as they not only filter the harmful effect of bright sunshine but they filter out strong reflected light.
Drivers can find that the reflected glare from the road surface is eliminated. Anglers can cut through the surface glare on water to see the fish below.

Sports Sunglasses/Protective Eyewear

Many sports take place outdoors it is important to ensure that you protect your eyes from sunlight, wind, dust and water. At the same time you need to make sure your visual performance is not restricted, and if possible enhanced by specialist eyewear.