SPARKS News

Legendary Singer, Elton John Left Partially Blind After Severe Eye Infection

UK singer, Elton John has been experiencing deteriorating vision for some time, but is currently suffering with partial blindness, due to a severe infection in his right eye. Elton said "It kind of floored me. I can’t see anything, I can’t read anything, I can’t watch anything.” The health of our eyes are invaluable. John said he is unable to write lyrics, which must be devastating as a musician. Be inspired to take the health of your eyes into your hands and be proactive.

Summer Started on June 21st: Don’t Forget Your Sunglasses This Season!

The sun is out, the sky is blue, the heatwaves are upon us, and so it's incredibly important to know that UV rays are powerful, and it's crucial that you wear sunglasses that fit well to protect your eyes. The sun reflects off the ground and other surfaces into your eyes and can cause Blindness (Photokeratitis). Excessive exposure to the sun can cause Cataracts to form and Macular Degeneration. As you start to spend more time outside with family and friends, don't forget your sunglasses. Protecting your eyes is essential, and finding the right pair of sunglasses will safeguard your eyes. Sunglasses should have uv400 protection, so invest in quality eyewear to protect your vision.

Will Smith's 'Seven Pounds' Meets Real Life: Moonshot Research and Eye Transplant Breakthroughs

Dr Kia Washington and a team in Aurora, Colorado, USA will receive $46m to carry out research to complete a full eye transplant. She feels hopeful that a cure for blindness is within reach. If successful, this will be the first ever vision restoring eye transplant, using novel stem cell and bioelectronic technologies. Miami’s Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (#1 eye hospital in the USA) currently remove and preserve eyes from donors. If you haven't seen Will Smith's movie Seven Pounds, it's definitely one to watch.

Wine Grapes Hold Promise as Key Treatment for Vision Loss from Diabetic Retinopathy

Italian Scientists have been researching the benefits of Aglianico grapes (wine making grapes) on vision loss due to Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). Polyphenols are known for combatting oxidative stress in the body, and now this compound found in grape skins can reduce swelling of the Retina in the eye. Testing showed that there was improved visual acuity, reduction in thickness of the central retina and improved visual outcomes. Resveratrol in grapes is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefits. A healthy, well balanced diet is crucial.

Two Border Security Constables Terminated Over Color Blindness Concerns

In the Jammu and Kashmir Indian union territory, 2 Border Security Force Constables have been terminated due to being diagnosed with Colour Blindness. The condition could potentially endanger the public, due to the nature of their jobs. They have been rendered unfit for duties, as they could announce the wrong colour signal, which could cause injury or fatal risk. They can be given roles less dependent on physical ability.

The NHS said "Your eyes can get sunburn too!"

An NHS Pharmacist has shared that your eyes can get sunburn too. Pharmacist Virginia said "Direct sunlight and sunlight that's reflected from sand, water, concrete and snow can all damage your eyes." In order to protect your eyes, you can wear sunglasses which have a UV400 protection rating. These types of sunglasses filter out up to 99% of invisible ultraviolet light from the sun. Sunglasses MUST have a CE mark and UV400 mark to ensure that they meet the British standard; just being dark is not sufficient. If you wear prescription glasses, you can now get SPARKS Prescription Sunglasses. You should wear sunglasses even when it is cloudy to love and protect your eyes. Sunscreen. Sunglasses and Sun Safety

Down Syndrome effects the eyes and the development of vision.

Babies born with Down Syndrome are more likely to have vision problems than the general population. As a result, regular eye exams are recommended so issues such as Cataracts, spots on the Iris and blurry vision can be found and treated in a timely manner. Up to half of Down Syndrome patients need to wear glasses. To prevent increased squinting and excessive watering, sunglasses/ prescription sunglasses should be worn daily.

Signs of a Stroke that shouldn't be ignored!

Double Vision also known as Diplopia is a symptom of a Stroke, that should be taken seriously. A Stroke damages the nerves in the part of the brain that controls eye movement. If you are seeing two images of the same object, you have blurred vision, drooping eyelid, difficulty focusing, an extreme headache and or eye pain; you should seek immediate medical attention. Being proactive can be the difference between regaining your vision and having minimal brain damage and unfortunately, paralysis. Appropriate treatment must be given immediately, so know the signs of a Stroke, to save your life and that of others. Find out more via RNIB - Stroke Related Eye-Conditions

100 secs is enough!

One hundred seconds of unprotected exposure to the sun, especially when the sky is clear can cause permanent Retinal damage. The Retina is the light sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, and the damage can take place when spending time directly in the sun for just 100 seconds. That's one minute and forty seconds without sufficient protection. The damage can lead to vision impairment/ blurry vision, blind spots or even temporary or legal blindness. Enjoy the sun safely, soak up some Vitamin D, but wear top quality sunglasses to love and protect your eyes everyday.