Eye health: Can UV cause cataracts?

Nigel Robinson on June 5, 2024

Can UV cause cataracts?

Long days, warm evenings, weekends in the garden or the park. Summer is a time of year when most of us love to be outside enjoying the sunshine. You just can’t beat those easy-going, relaxed, sunny vibes.

However, while we hasten to spend as much time outside as possible, we must also take precautions to protect ourselves from sun damage caused by UV rays. One question our patients often ask is, ‘Can UV cause cataracts?’

Let’s explore the link, symptoms, and how you can stay safe in the sun.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition, most common in people over 60 which typically develops gradually as you age.

This is when the lens in your eye, which is normally clear, becomes cloudy or opaque. It’s caused by proteins in your lens breaking down and clumping together, affecting the quality of your vision. It usually only affects one eye at a time rather than both simultaneously.

Signs and symptoms of cataracts

The signs and symptoms of cataracts typically develop gradually over time:

● Cloudy and blurry vision; often the first and most common symptom.
● Difficulty seeing at night; activities such as driving at night or reading in low light can become difficult.
● Sensitivity to light and glare; bright lights can seem more intense than usual or have a halo effect.
● Fading or yellowing of colours; they can seem less vibrant.

These symptoms can also be caused by other eye conditions. If you’re experiencing any of them, it’s important to book an eye examination to get a professional diagnosis from our experience optometrists.

How do UV rays cause cataracts?

UV rays from sunshine exacerbate the breakdown of proteins in your natural lens, which kicks off the early development of cataracts. These rays can also damage cell membranes in the lens, making them weaker. Additionally, UV rays can lead to the buildup of yellow pigments, which
contributes to lens discolouration.

Protecting your eyes

It’s not all bad news, though! When it comes to your eye health, a belt and braces approach is worth it.

If you’re wondering, “Are cataracts preventable?” The answer is yes, to some degree. While there are other risk factors, such as genetics, one simple yet effective way to protect your eyes and enjoy the sunshine is by wearing a high-quality pair of UV protection sunglasses.

All our sunglasses carry the CE UV400 or British Standard Mark (BSI Kitemark) with lenses that offer 100% UV protection. In terms of sunglasses frames, we recommend oversized and wraparound styles for the most coverage around your eyes to completely shield them from the
sun.

Additionally, your everyday prescription eyewear can protect your eyes
from UV too. The Hi-Vision Meiryo lens coating from our lens supplier
Hoya, provides 100% UV protection on the front and extra protection on
the back of the lens, too.

The importance of regular eye examinations

It’s important for you to attend regular eye examinations as they are the
first port of call for diagnosing cataracts. It also means over time; we can
monitor changes in your vision and any cataract development. If cataracts
are severely affecting your vision, we’ll refer you for cataract surgery. It’s
a simple procedure that’s typically very straightforward and effective.

Contact us for more information

Contact our opticians in Whitley Bay if you have any concerns about your eye health or if you’d like to learn more about cataract symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments.

Our top Father’s Day gift ideas

Nigel Robinson on June 3, 2024

With Father’s Day approaching, it’s an ideal time to pick something special you know they will love. If you’re struggling this year, we have the best Father’s Day gift ideas for you… sunglasses! Not only will they make an excellent gift because they are stylish, but they will show you care.

To help you make your choice, we’ve selected three brands that dads nationwide will appreciate: Tom Ford, Ray-Ban, and Land Rover. Read on to find out more.

Tom Ford

Close-up of a pair of sunglasses

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Having been the creative director at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford put his reputation and name on the line to start something fresh and memorable. High-quality materials, precision engineering and Italian craftsmanship form the backbone of his operation.

These square-framed sunglasses show how Tom Ford manages to weave the vintage with the contemporary. The angular design plays perfectly with round and oval-shaped faces, and the blend of tortoiseshell and moody Havana tones of orange, black, and brown offers versatility with countless aesthetic preferences.

These are sunnies for the chic, stylish and fashion-conscious men amongst us.

Ray-Ban

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This company is synonymous with sunglasses and classic, eternal style, and the Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses are a model that will always be a solid choice. The Wayfarer comes in a few different forms, but we are in love with the New Wayfarer Classic, as pictured here. Being a bit smaller, they can accommodate a variety of face shapes, and the rounded design offers a softer yet more compelling finish.

The G-15 polarised lenses only allow 15% of light to pass through, so your dad would be glare-free, cool, and comfortable.

Land Rover

A pair of sunglasses on a window

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Land Rover is a brand seeking out sporty and adventurous souls, and the pair featured here meld this aesthetic with clean and minimalist elements, finished in a lovely matte black.

The frame shape complements rounder faces and harnesses that sought-after timeless style. Land Rover is a British brand known for its attention to detail and for producing superior on and off-road vehicles that can navigate incredible obstacles. This “go-anywhere” attitude and premium feel have been transferred to its eyewear, making these a perfect pair for the thrill-seeking dad.

Visit our Opticians in Whitley Bay

We have the perfect gifts for Father’s Day: sunglasses! Rest assured, all of our shades can be fitted with prescription lenses if needed. We’d love to welcome you to our practice, so please get in touch to book an appointment or visit us to browse our eyewear and sunglasses ranges!

Meet our Optometrists

Nigel Robinson on May 3, 2024

Robinson Optometrists, Whitley Bay Opticians

At Robinson Optometrists, we pride ourselves on having a fantastic team that provides every patient with a service that is second to none. Our practice offers a relaxed and friendly environment to help you feel comfortable when you come for an eye test in Whitley Bay. Our optometrists are the main port of call when you attend your eye exam, so why not carry on reading to get to know them a little better?

John

Up first is our colleague from north of the border, John, who’s been a valued member of the team for 20 years! John moved to Scotland from South Africa in his youth and started with us as a pre-registration student before qualifying in 2004.

As a contact lens wearer, John has a special interest in that area, as well as being involved in the North Tyneside diabetic eye care programme. You’ll find John loves a good chat with patients and will be happy to tell you all about his hobbies, including sea fishing and watching Hibbs as a season ticket holder!

Elaine

Say hello to Elaine! We are incredibly lucky to have Elaine working with us as she is one of only a few independent prescribing optometrists in the area. Elaine has experience working in the eye emergency department of Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI), which is invaluable to us here at the practice.

With years of experience behind her, and as one of our optometrists in Newcastle, it’s safe to say Elaine is passionate about looking after her patients’ eyes, and everyone who meets her also says she is lovely! You’ll see her out and about running, training for a 5k or marathon when she’s not at work.

Andrea

Our optometrist, Andrea, is super popular with our patients and team. As a genuine people person, Andrea loves getting to know our patients and will do everything she can to help them. Her qualifications enable her to provide emergency care for minor eye conditions like red eye.

Andrea is also qualified in paediatrics, and she is a part of the local paediatric scheme. She loves helping people of all ages, even more so if you chat with her about her beloved Newcastle United!

Stop by to say hello

Now that you’ve got a little insight into some of our fabulous optometrists, why not pay us a visit and meet them in person? Contact us to book an appointment with our opticians in Whitley Bay today – we know you’ll love them as much as we do!

Decoding Glaucoma With OCT

Nigel Robinson on March 5, 2024

Glaucoma is a condition that can have serious consequences on your vision. It unfortunately affects a large proportion of the population, with studies showing around 480,000 people in the UK suffer from the most common form of this condition – open-angle glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a chronic condition that occurs when excess fluid builds up in the eye due to poor drainage. This increases the internal eye pressure, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve, which, if undetected and untreated, can lead to vision loss and blindness.

What are the risk factors?

There are several risk factors associated with the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma is usually found among people who are:

In upper age brackets, particularly over 60s
Of Asian, African or Caribbean origin
From a family with a history of glaucoma
Are suffering from diabetes, short or long-sightedness or high blood pressure.

The different types of glaucoma

There are several different types of glaucoma. The most common type is primary open-angle glaucoma. Onset is slow but progressive due to the drainage channels in the eyes becoming gradually blocked.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is less common and is caused by a sudden blockage, raising the pressure in the eye very quickly, causing symptoms and damage to occur rapidly.

Secondary glaucoma is caused by an underlying eye condition such as uveitis, and childhood glaucoma is a rare development caused by a genetic abnormality.

Glaucoma symptoms

Due to the slow, creeping nature of open-angle glaucoma, you might not be aware of any damage until it has significantly progressed, resulting in reduced peripheral vision.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, will have symptoms that you must not ignore. It is considered a medical emergency if you are experiencing:

intense eye pain and tenderness
nausea/vomiting
red eyes and headaches
seeing rings around lights
blurred vision.

Test for glaucoma

Regular eye exams (at least every 2 years) are vital, especially for those over 60 – or annually if there’s a family history of glaucoma. While damage is irreversible, early detection can slow down the progression of symptoms and can help manage the condition.

A glaucoma eye test may include an OCT (optical coherence tomography), which is a non-intrusive 3D scan of the eye. The OCT takes multiple images, layering them together to provide optometrists with an instant image of the back of the eye, including the retina. An OCT can detect glaucoma in its earliest stages, up to 5 years before a standard eye test can.

Your local opticians, Whitley Bay

At Robinson Optometrists, we want our patients’ eyes to be in the best shape possible. If you haven’t had an eye test recently or have any concerns, please get in touch for advice or to book an appointment.

Discover The Eyewear Styles We Adore

Nigel Robinson on February 1, 2024

With love in the air this month, we thought we’d introduce you to some of our favourite eyewear styles we’ve fallen head over heels for this season. Could they be inspiration for a gift to give to a cherished loved one, perhaps?

Just Cavalli

Just Cavalli glasses are the perfect choice for anyone wild at heart. Designs are bold, young, and unbelievably flattering, with an urban vibe. Think rock styles and experimental graphics. They’re definitely not for the wallflowers amongst us!

We love this wine-coloured, butterfly-shaped frame. It is wonderfully versatile and perfectly complements oval face shapes or softens a square shape.

Etnia Barcelona

Another frame manufacturer known for its stand-out styles is Etnia Barcelona. An independent brand that favours bright colours and unique designs. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular brands we stock.

Etnia Barcelona glasses emphasise fashion, art and culture inspired by the streets of Barcelona. Expect daring colours, innovative patterns, and a playful vibe. Perfect for anyone who likes to express their artistic side.

These round-eye frames will suit a variety of face shapes, and the range includes on-trend transparent frames. We’re not ashamed to admit that we’re in love with this vibrant and fun red option!

Tom Davies

Handmade in the UK using only the finest materials – it doesn’t get more sophisticated than Tom Davies bespoke eyewear. The brand is known for its commitment to high-quality materials such as natural horn and precious stones and metals, intricate attention to detail, and a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with a sleek, modern design.

This cat eye frame embodies a softened, retro style that perfectly sets off a feminine, vintage look. The red crystal acetate with rose gold accents is sure to get hearts racing.

Visit us

We have many more eyewear brands and a wide range of shapes, colours, and materials to suit any face shape at our opticians in Whitley Bay. Come and visit us, and you’ll be sure to find a pair of glasses to fall in love with.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatments

Nigel Robinson on January 2, 2024

Dry Eye Syndrome at Robinson Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is more than just an occasional irritation. For those who suffer from it, the condition can be a persistent source of discomfort and frustration. Understanding what triggers dry eye can be the first step toward alleviating symptoms. We aim to cover everything you need to know about what causes dry eye syndrome, symptoms to look out for, and the treatment options available to manage it and make life a little more comfortable.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome happens when not enough tears are made, or they evaporate too quickly because they’re poor quality. Tears have three layers: oil, water, and mucin, all vital for eye health. If these layers are off-balance, it can lead to dry eye symptoms.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye can stem from various factors that disrupt the delicate balance of the tear film. Here are some leading causes and how they contribute to this uncomfortable condition:

Age: Our eyes make fewer tears as we age. Women may often notice dry eyes developing after menopause.
Medical conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease can affect tear gland function.
Blepharitis: Eyelid inflammation from bacteria and debris can disrupt natural oils, leading to dryness and discomfort.
Environmental factors: Exposure to smoky, windy, or excessively dry environments can accelerate tear evaporation.
Digital screen use: Extended screen time can decrease blinking, potentially reducing tear production and increasing tear evaporation.
Contact lens wear: Prolonged contact lens wear can change tear film dynamics, causing temporary eye dryness.
Eye surgery: Procedures like LASIK can temporarily affect tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms during recovery.
Medications: Beta-blockers, allergy medicine, sleep aids, and antidepressants can cause dry eyes.

Symptoms Of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome causes discomfort and affects vision quality. Recognising its signs is crucial for effective management, alleviating dryness and irritation.

Symptoms include:

Stinging and burning eyes
Blurred vision
Scratchy or gritty feeling
Watery, red, and irritated eyes
Discomfort with contact lenses

Treatment Options

Dry Eye Treatments at Robinson Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

There are a few ways that dry eye can be treated. We offer a comprehensive array of products to alleviate dry eye symptoms effectively. Among the products available are preservative-free eye drops for dry eye syndrome; these mimic natural tears to provide long-lasting lubrication and relief from symptoms. We also stock lid wipes to help remove debris and bacteria from the eyelids, which helps to reduce inflammation associated with dry eyes. A warming eye mask is also available to relieve dry eyes, supporting the function of the meibomian glands and offering long-lasting results.

Take Charge Of Your Eye Health Today

At Robinson Optometrists, your trusted opticians in Whitley Bay, we support you on this journey toward healthier eyes. Contact our practice for more information on effective dry eye management strategies and to explore the full range of treatment products tailored to suit your needs.

Highlights of 2023 From Our Opticians in Whitley Bay

Nigel Robinson on December 3, 2023

It’s been a remarkable year of growth and gratitude for our opticians in Whitley Bay, with 2023 gifting us numerous milestones, heartwarming celebrations, and impactful initiatives. We are proud to share this walk down memory lane with our dedicated community, who have made every benchmark and memory truly special.

A year of new faces

New faces at Robinsons Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

We welcomed a trio of new optometrists—Elizabeth, Carla, and Terry—who infused our practice with a surge of positive energy and seasoned expertise. With a shared commitment to exceptional eyecare, their journeys have already touched the lives of many in our community. Elizabeth’s vibrant aura, Carla’s adventurous spirit, and Terry’s decades of wisdom are pillars within our practice, promising stellar service with every appointment booked.

Celebrating two decades of dedication

Soul 2 Sand art for Robinsons Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

Celebrating 20 years at Robinson Optometrists, our optometrist, John’s commitment to the practice and the local community has been crystal clear. In July, we held a special celebration to mark this incredible milestone. Reflecting on his two-decade contribution, we commissioned a unique sand sculpture by Soul 2 Sand, which serves as an enduring tribute to his steadfast service and the everlasting bond our team shares.

Reaching new heights

Helping charities - Robinsons Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

In July, John, Gail and Angie laced up their boots for a trek up Snowdon, joined by Hoya Vision UK and other like-minded opticians, to raise money for Orbis UK. The breathtaking views they encountered on their climb were only surpassed by the joy of knowing their efforts contributed to a life-changing cause. We raised a remarkable £1,025, supporting Orbis UK in their vision to establish a pioneering vision centre in India, impacting the lives of thousands.

Birthday celebrations

Birthday ceebrations at Robinsons Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

November brought double celebrations as Anth and Gail turned 50. We enjoy marking milestones with the people who give our days their colour and our glasses their style. The team came together for a heartwarming celebration, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

New frame collections

New frames and collections at Robinsons Optometrists, Opticians in Whitley Bay

With a commitment to always provide the latest in eyewear fashion, we introduced several new frame brands to our collection in 2023. From the edgy sophistication of Kaleos glasses to the British elegance of Taylor Morris, we have curated an eyewear wardrobe as unique and diverse as our patients.

Looking forward to 2024

Our success throughout 2023 would not have been possible without the support of our local residents and the efforts of our team. Thank you for making 2023 extraordinary, and here’s to another year of growth and clarity!

Discover Taylor Morris’ Iconic British Eyewear

Nigel Robinson on November 2, 2023

Taylor Morris feature image @taylormorrisoffical Instagram

In the vast sea of eyewear brands, a rare gem of British elegance and timeless design stands out – Taylor Morris. Born from a fusion of a love for British design, Hollywood glamour, and rock and roll bohemianism, their frames have become iconic in the fashion world. In this blog celebrating British eyewear, we explore why Taylor Morris eyewear is a lifestyle and a fashion must-have for eyewear aficionados worldwide.

About Taylor Morris

In the heart of Britain, Taylor Morris began its odyssey to reimagine eyewear, promising to steer clear of the mundane and the ordinary. Founded by three friends, Taylor Morris took its cues from British heritage, Hollywood glamour, and the renegade spirit of rock and roll. The inspiration behind the brand was simple; they wanted to bring to life eyewear that they’d love to wear themselves, designs that were timeless yet contemporary.

Not content with just being aesthetically pleasing, Taylor Morris sets itself apart with its commitment to sustainability. With an emphasis on ethical sourcing, Taylor Morris frames use premium Mazzuchelli acetate sourced from Italy, among other European materials.

Rock these staff picks

Our expert team at Robinson Optometrists, enthusiastic about eyewear that combines style with substance, has curated a list of Taylor Morris staff favourites.

The TM018, a contemporary take on the nostalgic wayfarer style, reminisces London of the 50s and 60s with vintage hexagon rivets adorning its face. It is a piece that every wider-face man and woman aspires to wear.

The TM036, on the other hand, modernises the classic round-eye frame with a dash of silver and khaki, presenting a perfect option for rectangular, oblong, or oval face structures with its timeless appeal.

An A-list affair

With a coveted A-list following including Cara Delevigne, Pippa Middleton, and Harry Styles, each frame becomes a story, a connection to the celestial whirl of fashion luminaries. What draws these influential names is Taylor Morris’ uncanny ability to elevate individual style while maintaining a collective air of effortless sophistication.

Visit us

Join the ranks of those who appreciate the finer things in eyewear by trying on a pair of Taylor Morris frames at Robinson Optometrists. Our team of eyewear experts is excited to guide you through the collection of these iconic British eyewear pieces. Take a step towards a clearer vision –literally and stylishly – and visit our Whitley Bay opticians to find your next signature look.

The Spooky Truth Behind Halloween Cosmetic Contact Lenses

Nigel Robinson on October 2, 2023

With Halloween around the corner, the frenzy for the perfect costume and accessories is in full swing. Among the myriad of ghastly get-ups, add-ons, and frightful face paints, one item has gained significant traction in recent years – Halloween cosmetic contact lenses. Cosmetic contact lenses might seem like a harmless way to create incredible effects, but the reality is as chilling as a Halloween fright.

What are cosmetic contact lenses?

Designed to alter the natural appearance of your eyes, cosmetic contact lenses come in various forms. Whether you want to change the colour to a mesmerising azure, add a starburst around your iris, or fully embody an alien from Mars, the possibilities are endless. But these contacts are not the same as your standard corrective lenses. They are often bought over-the-counter from novelty shops or online without the consultation of an eye care professional.

Why are these lenses harmful?

The issue with these off-the-shelf spooky lenses is multi-faceted, much like the eyes they cover. The lenses can be made from materials that may not conform to safety standards, leading to an increased risk of scratching the cornea or infection. Some are so thick and opaque that they suffocate the eye, reducing the flow of oxygen — a crucial element for maintaining eye health. Ill-fitting lenses can lead to discomfort and even dislodging, while improper handling during insertion and removal can cause corneal abrasions and infections.

Where to get contact lenses

The witching hour does not overrule the need for proper eye care. Contact lenses, whether cosmetic or not, should only be sourced through a registered optician or a certified stockist. Optometrists will ensure the lenses are not just theatrically pleasing but safe for your eyes. They will fit the lenses to your unique specifications and provide essential training in lens hygiene and wear.

Wearing your contacts safely

A person holding a contact lens on their finger

To ensure your Halloween transformation doesn’t result in a real-life horror show for your eyes, follow these safety tips when wearing your contact lenses for Halloween:

Learn the correct way to insert and remove the lenses.
Apply makeup before inserting the lenses to minimise the risk of contamination.
Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the lenses.
Only use lenses for the recommended length of time.
If your eyes become sore or red, cease use and seek medical advice.
Never share your lenses with others, no matter how bewitching they appear.

Get ready for Halloween safely

This Halloween, remember your eyes are irreplaceable. Contact our friendly opticians in Whitley Bay so they can fit you with the safest pair of spooky lenses. When it comes to cosmetic contact lenses, the only genuinely spooky gaze is the one casting a blind eye to safety.

How Healthy Daily Habits Can Boost Your Eye Health

Nigel Robinson on September 11, 2023

Your vision is invaluable, and in today’s digital age, thanks to increased screen time and the resulting sensitivity to our vision, the overall health of your eyes is more critical to take care of than at any time in the past. With our eyes being the windows to the world, this National Eye Health Week is the perfect time to assess your daily habits and make tweaks that promote strong and vibrant eyes.

There are many ways you can support your eyes beyond regular trips to the opticians. In this blog, we discuss healthy daily habits that can be easily integrated into your routine, ensuring that you take optimum care of your visual health.

Eat well

A balanced diet is essential for all-round health, including your eyes. The right nutrients can significantly reduce the risk of developing age-related eye issues, making it crucial to select vision-friendly foods.

Omega-3 fatty acids – Found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, healthy fats protect against dry eyes, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Lutein and zeaxanthin– These antioxidants are essential to good eye health. They are found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale and are excellent for macular health.

Incorporate vitamins for eyes, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and zinc, into your diet to fight age-related vision issues—available in citrus fruits, nuts, and beans, these antioxidants are crucial for eye health.

Keep up with regular exercise

Staying active can impact eye health, particularly in conditions exacerbated by poor circulation. Aerobic exercise helps maintain healthy blood pressure, ensuring that your eyes get their share of nutrient-rich blood. Why not go for a walk on your lunch break, cycle to work, or relax in the evenings with some yoga?

Ditch the cigarettes

If you need another reason to quit, here it is – smoking can lead to the development of macular degeneration and cataracts. The chemicals in cigarettes can also cause irritation for contact lens wearers and double your chances of developing dry eye syndrome.

Shield your eyes from the sun

To avoid UV damage, wear sunglasses with UV protection every time you step outside. For the best protection, choose wraparound lenses that keep those sneaky UV rays. Keeping sunglasses in your bag, car, or by the door ensures you’re never caught off-guard without them.

Use safety eyewear for risky situations

Be it chopping wood in the garden or a day of DIY, protecting your eyes from potential injury is non-negotiable. Plain, clear safety goggles that you can pop on over your glasses can protect your eyes, helping prevent injury. Make sure the pair you choose meets the safety standards for the activity. If you’re a sports enthusiast, specialist sports eyewear is also available to help avoid eye injuries on the court or pitch.

Take regular screen breaks

Constant exposure to screens can lead to digital eye strain, causing blurred vision, sore eyes, and headaches. For every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. You can optimise your workspace by adjusting screen settings, taking longer breaks, and considering using protective covers that reduce glare.

Schedule eye examinations

This is a no-brainer but is often overlooked. Regular check-ups are vital for catching and managing eye issues early on. Unless advised otherwise by your optometrist, you should attend an eye examination at least every two years.

Don’t ignore symptoms

Implementing these habits can work wonders for your eye health and are simple adjustments to your lifestyle. Make a conscious effort this National Eye Health Week to protect your vision.Persistent dryness, changes in vision, or frequent headaches can be signs of an underlying problem – don’t wait for your next appointment. Book your next eye exam at our opticians in Whitley Bay today.