The importance of regular eye tests

Having a regular eye test is vitally important, for a number of reasons.

Above all, an eye test can help to prevent your eyes becoming damaged, and in the most extreme circumstances can stop you experiencing sight loss. Eye conditions are relatively common, especially as we now spend so much of our waking time in front of our screens and on our phones, so testing will help to keep them at bay.

Since we rely on them to such a degree, anything affecting our eyes, such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, can have a big effect on our general health and well-being, and on our overall state of mind. Adhering to the old adage of prevention being better than cure is key here.

If you need glasses or contact lenses, it’s best to find out before your eyes deteriorate too far, and this will in turn improve your day-to-day quality of life. Experienced optometrists such as ourselves may also pick up signs of wider health issues such as potential diabetes and high blood pressure during a routine eye test, so it’s advisable to book one at least every two years.

What’s more, you may be eligible for a free eye test if: you’re aged 60 or over you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma you’re under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education you’re 40 or over and have a close relative with glaucoma (your mother, father, sibling or child) you’re registered as partially sighted or blind Please ask us for details.

Eye conditions in children, such as amblyopia – commonly known as ‘squint lazy eye’ – and myopia – or short-sightedness – should be treated as early as possible to prevent them becoming more severe.

Finally, there’s no substitute for keeping your eyes as healthy as possible between tests. Things that can help in this area include quitting smoking, wearing sunglasses, having a healthy diet, exercising regularly and wearing safety goggles where appropriate. Also, taking frequent breaks away from computers, tablets and phones can allow your eyes some rest and respite, as can ensuring that you have a good night’s sleep.

Deteriorating eyesight can be a gradual process, which at times is barely even noticeable, so if you perceive that anything’s changing please call us on 01954 231158 or complete our enquiry form to book an eye test.