About my optician or optometrist
Who may be involved
Looking after my eyes
It is important for everyone to look after their eyes and know what to do if a problem occurs.
Why is it important to go for regular sight tests?
Eye tests are not just about needing glasses. By visiting your optometrist regularly you will be made aware of any problems with your eyes at the earliest opportunity. All optometrists are skilled at using up-to-date technology to look at every aspect of your eye health, not just to measure visual acuity (how sharp your vision is). But your eye health is not the only reason to get an eye health check. Other conditions can be diagnosed through an eye examination such as the health of your blood vessels, diabetes and unusual reactions to medications.
Regular screening appointments are vital, especially if you have any other health conditions which can affect your sight such as diabetes. The Diabetic Eye Screening Service, for example, is essential for early detection of diabetic retinopathy.
Sudden changes in vision
Where should I go in the case of an emergency/acute eye problem?
You can read more about WGOS2 services at this page.
If you notice sudden changes in your vision, seek medical help immediately. You might experience:
- a loss of all or part of the vision in one eye or both eyes
- an accident involving the eyes
- suddenly starting to see flashing lights or floaters
- double vision which starts suddenly and is constant
- sudden or constant pain in the eyes
- suddenly become very light-sensitive
Depending on your symptoms, you may need to go to the Accident and Emergency department at your local hospital. For non-emergencies where you would need an expert opinion, go to your nearest high street optometrist and ask for an NHS funded free eye examination.
Who do I ask if I have any questions about my sight?
If you have questions about your sight, an optometrist in the first instance would give you an expert opinion. If the issue is out of their field, they might suggest that you talk to an ophthalmologist. This can be done by being referred to the ophthalmology clinic at your local hospital. An optometrist or your GP should be able to do this.
Where do I get advice if I have any other conditions which may affect my sight?
Your GP should be able to advise you concerning other conditions and their impact on your vision, if any. Similarly, your optometrist is likely to know about co-morbidities in relation to vision, including how certain lifestyle factors can affect your eyesight, such as smoking or diabetes.
Can I get free eye examinations?
Most optometrists can also offer an NHS Wales funded Eye Examination provided you meet certain criteria.
More information about NHS Wales funded Eye Examinations, including a full list of criteria, can be found at https://www.nhs.wales/sa/eye-care-wales/wgos/member-of-the-public/