Choose our independent opticians and audiologists for professional services that put you first. We're proud to have served our communities since 1932.
Find answers to frequently asked eye health questions such as "how important are regular eye exams?" and "how often should you have an eye test?"
Let’s take a look at what causes glaucoma, how to spot it early and how regular check-ups can help protect your precious vision for years to come.
The Pantone Colour of the Year is in – and it’s Mocha Mousse! Read on to find out why this earthy shade is perfect for your next pair of glasses.
Myopia, often called short-sightedness, is one of the most widespread eye conditions affecting children. By 2050, it’s estimated that 50% of the global population will be affected by this condition, which is why we are passionate about protecting your child’s eye health. In this article, we’ll explore what myopia is, why it’s important to slow its progression, and the innovative management options we offer to support your child’s vision. What does being short-sighted really mean?
As we step into a new year, there's no better time to reimagine your personal style – and what better place to start than with a new pair of glasses? Eyewear does more than help you see clearly: it’s a fashion statement too. It’s a statement of who you are. Glasses are the first thing anyone sees when they look at your eyes. Our range includes three exceptional brands that can transform your 2025 style game. You’ll find our most popular glasses among these premium collections. Face À Face
At Harrold Opticians , we believe styling glasses is a unique affair. Whether you prefer understated elegance or eyewear that makes a statement, our personalised frame styling consultation ensures every patient finds glasses that perfectly suit their face, lifestyle, and personality. With our expert guidance, what can feel like an overwhelming decision becomes a simple and enjoyable experience. How To Choose The Right Glasses - Our Approach
Have you ever thought about how much work your brain and body do just to keep up with the world around you? Every day, your five senses work together, taking in and processing your environment so you can make sense of life and enjoy it fully. Among them, your ears play a crucial role, picking up sounds and vibrations that allow you to chat with loved ones, stay alert to potential dangers, lose yourself in music, or laugh along with a great story. Our ears and our heaving never go to sleep but remain alert, even when we’re not. That’s why it’s so important to look after them. Today, we’re diving into the signs of hearing loss, why regular hearing tests matter, and the services we offer to keep your hearing in optimum shape. Are you experiencing hearing loss?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects millions of individuals worldwide and is a significant risk factor for various health complications. Among these complications, one lesser-known but critical aspect is its impact on eye health. Here we have connections between high blood pressure and eye disease, focusing on causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches for hypertensive retinopathy. High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Various factors contribute to hypertension, including excess weight, high salt intake, genetic predisposition, stress, and lifestyle habits like drinking alcohol and smoking. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. Hypertensive retinopathy, the eye disease associated with high blood pressure, often progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the condition advances, individuals may experience symptoms such as: Blurred or dim vision Vision loss Double vision Headaches Sudden vision changes, indicating a medical emergency. Examinations: Diagnosing hypertensive retinopathy involves a comprehensive eye examination performed by an eye care professional. Key diagnostic methods include: Ophthalmoscopy: Using an ophthalmoscope, the eye doctor examines the retina to assess the condition of the blood vessels. Narrowing of blood vessels and signs of fluid leakage may indicate retinal damage due to hypertension. Optical Coherence Tomography ( OCT ): This imaging technique provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing for the detection of abnormalities such as retinal swelling (edema) or thickening. Fundus Photography: High-resolution images of the retina are captured to document changes in retinal structure and blood vessel appearance over time. Treatments: The primary goal of treating hypertensive retinopathy is to control high blood pressure to prevent further damage to the retina and preserve vision. Treatment strategies may include: Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of eye complications. Recommendations include maintaining a balanced diet low in sodium, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress through relaxation techniques, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Medication: When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to control blood pressure, healthcare providers may prescribe antihypertensive medications. These medications work to lower blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension, including hypertensive retinopathy. Regular Monitoring: Individuals with hypertension and hypertensive retinopathy require regular monitoring of their blood pressure and eye health. Routine eye examinations allow for early detection of retinal changes and adjustment of treatment strategies as needed. High blood pressure poses a significant threat to eye health, leading to complications such as hypertensive retinopathy. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for this condition is crucial for individuals with hypertension. By effectively managing blood pressure and seeking timely eye care, individuals can reduce the risk of vision loss and preserve ocular health in the presence of hypertension. Book your eye test with Harrolds Opticians today for a full eye health check. Regular communication with healthcare providers and adherence to treatment recommendations play pivotal roles in safeguarding both overall health and vision.
