An Ulverston-based independent opticians has used advanced lens technology to prevent further eyesight deterioration for 13-year-old patient Daniel.

Daniel has been visiting Ramsay and Roberts Eyecare Excellence for several years, during which time he has experienced a rapid decline in vision due to myopia.

Myopia is a refractive error in which close vision is sharp, but onjects further away may appear blurred.

Director and optometrist at Ramsay and Roberts, Elysia Ramsay, recommended the relatively new Stellest Myopia Control spectacle lenses with hopes of halting Daniel's deteriorating vision.

The results of his first follow-up appointment surpassed expectations, with Daniel's prescription remaining stable for the first time since 2018.

Prior to this his prescription had been consistently increasing by one dioptre per year.

Daniel's mother, Katrina, spoke on the "massive" impact the lenses will have on his overall eye health and life-quality going forward.

“He said that they were the clearest glasses he’s ever had, almost as if he isn’t even wearing any glasses at all," said Katrina.

“Due to the nature of the lenses, there was a slight concern that they would bother him as his ADHD can lead to hypersensitivity sometimes but there were no issues at all and the improvement in his sight is amazing.”

Katrina has also been encouraging him to take frequent breaks from screens and spend more time outdoors to further improve his vision.

She said: “It's difficult because you don’t want to stop your kids from having those experiences and opportunities but it’s such a relief to know that these lenses will help to bring some relief for his vision and slow that progression down despite what the future of technology might hold.”

Daniel will continue to be monitored at six monthly intervals.

Elysia Ramsay said: “We are thrilled to witness such a positive outcome for Daniel.

"Myopia control is a critical area of modern eye care, especially considering that the prevalence of myopia among children in the UK has more than doubled in the last 50 years.

"One parent with myopia doubles the chances of a child developing it, with both parents increasing the likelihood fivefold. Both genetics and lifestyle have a role to play in shortsightedness; indicating the importance of eye tests for all children from a young age.’

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to prevent permanent damage to a patient’s eyesight, especially when they are so young. It’s amazing what this new technology can do and we look forward to seeing Daniel thrive in his new spectacle lenses!’’

To learn more about this Ulverston optician or to arrange an appointment, visit: www.ulverstonopticians.co.uk.