Q: Why should I have an eye check?
A: Having an eye test is not just about how well you can see, it is also an important way to check the overall health of your eyes. By getting your eyes regularly tested, it can be possible to identify potential problems with your eyesight before you experience symptoms. It can even help to indicate other health issues such as raised blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Monitoring children’s eyesight is critical as they grow and develop through to adolescence. Poor vision for a child can have an impact on their learning and early detection of common eye conditions affecting focus and alignment of the eye ensures the best possible outcome following treatment.
Q: How often should I have an eye check?
A: Adults eyes do change over time and we therefore recommend an eye test at least once every 2 years (even if you have no symptoms or deterioration in eyesight) to monitor sight and eye health.
Testing children’s eyesight is more regular than in adults, particularly just before starting school, and is usually carried out annually until they reach the age of 16.
Q. What is a Dispensing Optician?
A. A dispensing optician as a qualified professional who advises on, fits and supplies the most appropriate glasses in accordance with your prescription, lifestyle and vocational needs. Most importantly, they will ensure that the frames suit you! All dispensing opticians are required to be registered with the General Optical Council.
Dispensing opticians are also qualified to advise and dispense low vision aids to partially sighted people and can assist with advice and dispensing of children’s glasses.
Q: So what is an Optometrist?
A: Optometrists are trained specialists in eye examination, who can identify any vision imperfections, signs of injury or abnormality, ocular diseases or any problems with general health. An optometrist is qualified to make a diagnosis, offer advice, and prescribe glasses when necessary.
All Optometrists are also required to register with the General Medical Council.
Q: Do I qualify for a free NHS Eye Examination?
A: Some patients are eligible for free eyecare and optical vouchers to assist with the cost of glasses. To see if you qualify, visit the NHS Eyecare Entitlements page to view the criteria.
Q. Glasses – Choosing the perfect pair
A. We understand that finding the right glasses is a personal choice for every customer but it can be especially difficult for the first time. It is common for most people to be unsure as to which glasses suit the shape of their face and age. It can also be difficult to see yourself clearly when trying on different styles of glasses. In the practice we provide the opportunity to have photographic images taken with you weaing various spectacles to help you with you choice of frame. This is particularly helpful for very long or short sighted customers.
We recommend you start by requesting assistance from an optician. Our highly trained staff are here to assist you, offering a wealth of experience in helping people choose a selection of frames that are suit your lifestyle and create the right look.
Q. Should I choose contact lenses or glasses?
A. There are pros and cons to wearing contact lenses instead of glasses for vision correction and you should consider your personal preference, ease of use and eye health before making a decision. Factors that are likely to influence your decision will be your lifestyle (work and hobbies/sports), convenience, your budget and, of course, how you wish to look.
Whatever your decision, we recommend that contact lens users also retain a current pair of glasses which can be used to rest eyes when necessary, and in case of eye infections or lost lenses.
Q. Can anyone wear contact lenses?
A. In general, most people who wear glasses can also wear contact lenses. Those with specific eye health problems, such as dry eyes or those who work with computer equipment regularly should consult their optician about their suitability to wear contact lenses.