It’s National Eye Health Week and we’re joining forces with eye care charities and organisations across the country to make sure everyone is aware of the importance of looking after their eyes.
This year’s event, which runs from Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd September, will draw upon the enormous success of last year’s campaign, which attracted coverage from the national press and broadcast media, featuring on programmes such as BBC Radio 2’S Jeremy Vine Show and ITV’s This Morning.
Avoiding sight loss
As the media coverage highlighted, almost two million people in the UK are living with sight loss – yet vision loss can be avoided in more than one in two cases.
Regular eye tests are essential to ensure the early detection and successful treatment of conditions which could otherwise lead to a loss of vision. The Eyecare Trust recently reported that 20 million people in the UK could be at risk of avoidable sight loss as a result of failing to have regular sight tests.
If you haven’t been to see us or another optician for more than two years – or sooner if you have been advised you may be at high risk of glaucoma or other serious conditions – we recommend you contact us today to book an appointment.
Our qualified optometrists are experienced in recognising any signs of eye disease that could lead to sight loss if left untreated. Furthermore, they are available to take as much time as you need to discuss any eye care problems or concerns you have.
Looking after your eyes every day
As well as attending regular eye tests, there are a number of other ways we can help protect our eyes on a daily basis.
The sun’s harmful UV rays can damage the eyes, increasing the risk of developing cataracts or macular degeneration. Whenever it’s sunny, shield your eyes with a pair of sunglasses with the CE or BS EN 1836:2005 mark for protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamins C and E may also help to prevent vision problems, as can quitting or cutting back on cigarettes if you smoke. Smokers are four times more likely to develop macular degeneration, which is the UK’s leading cause of blindness.
For more tips, visit the National Eye Health Week website (www.visionmatters.org.uk) or pop in to our practice to speak to one of our eye care professionals. We are always happy to provide information and advice.
National Eye Health Week Offer – £10 off an OCT scan*
An OCT scan gives your eyes a complete health check. New patients can book an OCT scan during September for just £15. Simply quote ‘National Eye Health Week’ when booking your appointment.
*An OCT scan usually costs £25