WHAT IS VISUAL STRESS? Visual Stress is a visual processing disorder due to sensitivity to light and a believed hyper- excitability of visual brain. Visual Stress is said to affect 20% of the population – 13 million people in UK. It is not the same as dyslexia but it affects about 40% of dyslexics. ​ As humans we are adapted to view natural images. Imagine a picture of a lake and mountains, beach, garden – is that comfortable to look at? Now imagine a stripy black and white shirt or a zebra – is that comfortable? ​ English text is made of striped patterns which are mainly written in black on white paper, to our brain look like stripes – not natural! WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF VISUAL STRESS? Print blurs or goes out of focus Letters move, shimmer or shake Patterns like ‘rivers’ or ‘worms’ appearing when reading black on white text Glare from page or VDU Coloured halos around words Poor tracking, losing place when reading. Sore , watery eyes and headaches when reading VISUAL STRESS FULL ASSESSMENT Full eye examination – 1 hour, payable in advance. In-depth binocular vision investigation. Reading speed test Tracking Near focussing Pattern glare test Colorimetry assessment. VISUAL STRESS PROGRAMME FEES One hour full assessment £195 Follow-up appointments £95 VISUAL STRESS THERAPY PROGRAMME FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN Minimum period of 18 months. Direct debit £16 per month. Full assessment at a discounted rate of £80. Regular follow-up checks (3 to 6 months or as required). 25% off lenses (free lenses supplied if eligible for an NHS voucher). 50% off specialised tint. 50% off spare spectacles. Accidental damage cover (small excess may apply). 25% off non-NHS frames. REFERRAL VISUAL STRESS ASSESSMENT Includes Optomap imaging. 50% discount off all professional fees. 25% off all frames, lenses and tints. Please note – Assessments require 24 hours cancellation notice, or the advanced fee is forfeited. HOW CAN WE HELP? COLOURED FILTERS Filters can reduce discomfort by reducing contrast and filtering out a particular wavelength of light that causes the neurons to fire unnecessarily. But it has to be correct colour, saturation and brightness. A person may be sensitive to a particular wavelength of light and this can explain why a coloured tint can stabilize the visual brain. ​ BINOCULAR VISION & READING Lot of symptoms of visual stress are the same as if the eyes have binocular vision insufficiency so do not work together properly. This could be due to eye muscles weakness so it’s VERY important to have full eye test and detailed binocular vision assessment. Unstable binocular vision can cause fixation to swap between eyes. This can be addressed with prescription lenses that stabilize the vision at near. Then we can proceed to Colorimetry assessment which goes through 6000 colour combinations to find the correct tint. Quick links: CHILDRENS EYECARE EYEWEAR WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. "Can't recommend Taylor Biddle enough. Taras puts my daughter at ease during her visual stress tests. Staff are very welcoming and professional. Nothing is too much trouble." - J. Prosser - 02/2022 via Google

< Back Joanna Peppiatt BSc (Hons) MCOptom Joanna has been qualified Optometrist since 2007 after graduating from Anglia Ruskin University. She enjoys all aspects of optometry and specialises in Eyedream Orthokeratology Contact lenses. She likes reading, running and spending time with family. Optometrist

< Back Devinder Sidhu Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support Dev has been working at Taylor Biddle Opticians since 2007. At the age of 16 she started as a receptionist and after completing an optical dispensing course her role changed to an optical dispenser. She enjoys helping patients with their spectacle journey, choosing frames and lenses which best suit their needs and requirements. Dev likes to socialise with family and friends, as well as cook and read. She also loves football, tennis and badminton. Optical Dispenser

< Back Tracy Morris Tracy has worked at Taylor Biddle as an Optical Assistant since 2014 and enjoys all aspects of working alongside our great team. She loves keeping fit and travelling to new places. Optical Assistant

VDU EXAMINATIONS & COMPUTER SCREENS At some point in the day almost everyone looks at some form of computer screen. This could be in the form of anything from a Kindle, an EPOS screen, laptops, mobile phones or computer monitors for the purpose of either work or leisure. ​ People who work with electronic screens are prone to eye diseases such as Computer Vision Syndrome. This is common among people who use VDU screens at work. These screens can cause stress and issues with the eyes, and the symptoms associated are blurred vision and sore eyes. If you have dry eyes, eyestrain, headaches or even difficulty while focusing right after or during use of a VDU screen then chances are you have computer vision syndrome (CVS) and may need to take measures to avoid it. ​ Your eye examination will include questions regarding the kind of VDU screen you use at work or at home to check whether you are facing any problems. ​ The amount of focus and muscle work your eyes do can be assessed through our eye examination and you will be advised accordingly. TIPS FOR DIGITAL SCREEN USERS Take regular breaks every twenty minutes to look away from the screen. This should be sufficient rest for your eyes. Make adjustments to your monitor or screen. Most screens come with the option of adjusting contrast, this can be manipulated to a point where the stress being caused to the eyes are at a bare minimum. Avoid glare and check for lights around the screen. It is important to make sure there aren’t any bright lights around your computer screen. Anti-glare screens can be used to reduce the damaging reflections off the screen. Blink consistently to avoid dry eyes. Most people while concentrating on a screen for too long do not blink as much. This is one of the main causes of dry eyes among people. However, it can be reduced and relieved by consulting an optometrist to get recommended appropriate eye drops. This symptom is more common among people who use contact lenses. Make regular eye care appointments. The recommended period for adults is once every two years, however, it cannot hurt to be careful and make regular visits to the practice. DO YOU WORK WITH DIGITAL SCREENS? It is important to note that if you are using a VDU screen at work you are entitled to a regular eye checks by your employer. Under the European Legislation employees using VDU screens at work should receive an eye examination when they start and throughout the course of their employment at regular intervals. If a person faces any eye related issues they are entitled to an eye examination funded by their employer. If the need arises for glasses then your employer is duty bound to pay for a basic pair which is for the purpose of use with a VDU screen only. However, you can make your own choice, but will have to pay for the difference in cost. Quick links: EYE EXAMS EYEWEAR

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS If you have feedback following your experience at either of our locations, we would love to hear from you. ​ Click below to leave a review or get in touch! S. Lawton "As always an excellent, thorough eye examination and professional scans with friendly staff. Thank you to Jo and Linda for making me feel at ease. Tom was amazing at helping me select new frames and sunglasses. He knew my style and nothing was too much trouble. Would thoroughly recommend!!!" S.D Claverley “Taylor Biddle Opticians look after three generations in our family with equal care and expertise. Tracey is always available for caring support and we have easy access to appointments. Staff are welcoming and friendly at both practices.” Mubs "First time at Taylor Biddle from a friend’s recommendation, needed my glasses relensed quite urgently and Hasan managed to fit me in the next day! Hasan, Sarah and the rest of the team were so friendly and helpful. Taylor Biddle will be my opticians for all my eye tests and I will be recommending them to all my friends and family!" C.Karatas "Many students from my practice who have reading difficulties such as dyslexia have been referred for further testing and each one has reported improvements in their vision and comfort in reading. I would have no hesitation in recommending Taylor Biddle Opticians." A. Lloyd "Very impressed with our eye examinations at Taylor Biddle. Just moved into the area, so registered as new customers. Incredibly thorough, professional and informative. Didn't feel rushed. Very good first impression and will be staying with them in the future." H. Moore "Had a very thorough eye test with Taras Lac including using 2 different scanners. I felt very confident that every aspect of my eye health was covered. All the staff are very helpful and professional. My partner recently had issues with his eye and they fitted in an emergency appointment and gave him a very detailed examination." J. Prosser "Can't recommend Taylor Biddle enough. Taras puts my daughter at ease during her visual stress tests. Staff are very welcoming and professional. Nothing is too much trouble." E. Somauroo "I had my first appointment at Taylor Biddle today and it was, by far , the best eye test I have had. All the staff were both professional and friendly and put me at ease on my first visit. As well as a regular eye test I had scans of my eyes done which reassured me that all was ok."

< Back Karen Rock Karen have been with Taylor Biddle Opticians since December 2019, working in a number of other customer service roles over previous years. She enjoys all aspects of busy environment working within our Compton team. In free time Karen likes taking long country walks. Admin & Optical Assistant

HEARING CARE We are extremely excited to announce we are now offering hearing care services at Taylor Biddle. We have teamed up with The Hearing Care Partnership (THCP) as they share our passion for personal service and clinical excellence. ​ Services will include: Free hearing assessments Hearing aids Hearing protection Wax removal Tinnitus advice To book an appointment for hearing care, please contact us or visit the THCP website to learn more - www.thcp.co.uk . ​ We are confident we are the only practice you need to visit to accommodate all the eye and hearing care you and your family require. Book a Hearing Test at Wombourne Book a Hearing Test at Compton

< Back Tom Green Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support Tom has been at Taylor Biddle since 2018 and has currently going into his final year of his Dispensing Optician Degree. He enjoys working in our busy environment and is passionate about customer care. Tom likes music, such as The Stone Roses and Oasis as well as wartime history. Also he loves socialising with friends and is a massive West Brom fan. Student Dispensing Optician

DRY EYE & RED EYE ASSESSMENTS At our practice, we often come across patients with ocular hyperaemia (red eye), discharge and discomfort. This is primarily managed with ocular lubricants, over-the-counter remedies and remedial eyelid hygiene. For patients who are not entitled to exemptions from NHS charges, we can prescribe ointments and eye drops via signed orders. ​ We find that the majority problems leading to red eyes are not from infections, but often allergic/seasonal conjunctivitis which would not benefit from anti-biotic medication. ​ It may be that your case requires urgent intervention and so we ensure to see red eye patients as soon as possible upon arrival to the practice. We find a brief appointment (15 minutes) is sufficient to make a diagnosis. As the examination is only of the external eye, a full eye examination or refraction is not normally required. WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE? Ageing over 60’s are the most common group to suffer Hot, dry or windy climates – causes evaporation of tears Inflammatory diseases – e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joints is associated with higher risk of dry eyes. Side effects from medications – e.g. The oral contraceptive pill HOW IS DRY EYE SYNDROME TREATED? There is no absolute ‘cure’ for dry eye syndrome. However, most people can get significant relief from symptoms using a variety of treatments and measures. LID MARGIN HYGIENE If the underlying cause is blepharitis or lid margin disease, then treating this can often improve the ocular surface and reduce symptoms. ​ This can be done by simply applying a hot compress using hot tap water and a clean flannel to the eye each day, and then cleaning the lid margin with the water and the flannel. Some people recommend using chemicals such as baby shampoo and sodium bicarbonate, but more often than not, these can cause ocular surface irritation, and so at least initially, are best avoided. LUBRICANTS Regular lubrication in the form of gels or drops can help keep the surface of the eyes wet, and thus reduce symptoms. Often, this is combined with lid margin hygiene. ​ There are a wide range of eye drops available – consult your optometrist, GP or ophthalmologist for advice on which to use. For a full dry eye and red eye assessment contact us at Taylor Biddle today. GET IN TOUCH

< Back Tracey Taylor BSc (Hons) MCOptom Tracey graduated in Optometry from Aston University, then worked for independent opticians, and as a locum optician for a few years to gather experience. She met up with Mike Biddle whilst working in the old Wolverhampton Eye Infirmary- and they went into partnership starting Taylor Biddle Opticians in Compton in 1994, followed by the Wombourne practice in 1996. Mike retired from the partnership and Olha joined in 2014 and Hasan in 2021. Tracey was on the Local Optical Committee for over 15 years, becoming co-chair. She has always been keen to embrace new technology and TBO were the first in the Midlands to have retinal cameras, then 3D OCT scanner, and Optomap. She strongly believes that the patient is the centre of the business and this has become the ethos for the whole business. Tracey is a keen tennis player and horse rider, competing in eventing horse trials. She is married to Andrew, a vet, and they have two daughters. They enjoy walking holidays- in fact all sorts of holidays, and seeing friends. Optometrist Director

EYECARE PLANS We are now offering exclusive Eyecare plans to spread the cost of enhanced eyecare . Currently the standard NHS funded eye exam is the same as it was when it was first implemented in 1948, but technology and expertise have increased a hundredfold since then. ​ Eye conditions that previously would have caused blindness are often treatable, and there is now the ability to detect these problems early with the aid of cutting-edge technology like our OCT & Optomap. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Inclusive Eye examinations As often as needed Extended eye examinations Longer appointment times Value for money Spread the cost monthly, no lump sum Peace of mind ​ Terms & Conditions apply PRIVATE EYE EXAMINATION PLAN (PEEP) Our PEEP plan provides excellent value for money and peace of mind. For a monthly fee of just £6.50, it will cover all of your professional charges, see you as often as required, and not at strictly defined time intervals as laid out by the NHS. ​ You will be booked for a longer appointment so that there is more time to discuss your requirements and to carry out any further tests as needed so that we can provide the best possible care for you. WHATS INCLUDED? £7.50 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30’s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment TAYLOR BIDDLE OPTICIANS EYECARE PLAN (TBO ECP) This Premium Plan covers the extended eye examination and all the benefits included in PEEP, but also gives a greater value for spectacle wearers with 25% discount on all eyewear and a two year accidental damage guarantee for an additional peace of mind. £13 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment Consultant requested fields test plus report Consultant requested retinal scans plus report 25% discount off spectacles and lenses 15% discount off all products and solutions (excluding contact lenses). A guarantee on new spectacles for two years (small excess applies) Minimum contract 18 months, and then 6 months after the latest purchase. WHATS INCLUDED? CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR EYECARE PLANS GET IN TOUCH Quick links: OCT & OPTOMAP EYEWEAR