optometrists providing quality eyecare in newport gwent
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should i do if I have a red eye?
If you have a red or sore eye, then the first port of call should be an optometrist rather than your GP, as they often will have superior equipment and expereince to deal with the problem. Often advice and/or treatment can be given on the spot, or if needed, a referral to a GP or an NHS specialist can be made.
Can I take my eye test prescription anywhere?
You are entitled to take your prescription elsewhere to a registered optician of your choosing. However, prescribing and dispensing of glasses are closely linked, so its best to have your glasses dispensed where you have had your eyes tested. It can be also easier to resolve any problems you may have.
I'm always afraid I'm giving the wrong answers to the "better one or two" bit!
Don't worry about what the correct answer to that question is. It's a method of checking and double checking your prescription to get it as precise as we can. If you cant see a difference....don't worry, about the same is sometimes the answer we need!
Is it worth spending out for designer frames and fancy lenses?
We stock a wide range of frames , with options to suit every taste and budget. While some styles may well be cheaper than the designer options, it doesn't mean they are any less chic or functional. It can be worth paying for stronger frames if you are heavy handed, or thinner lenses if you are concerned about the weight on your nose. We believe in giving you the options and you making the choices. We won't sell you anything you don't need.
My children have had a medical at school and their eyesight wasnt a problem. Should they still get their eyes tested?
Poor eyesight for children can cause and contribute to learning and behavioral problems. This is especially true for young children, who may find it difficult to explain the difficulties they may have with their vision. They may not be aware that they have a problem at all. Conditions such as squint (eye turn) and amblyopia (lazy eye) can be treated much more effectively if they are caught early. We have special picture testing that enables us to test children who do not know letters yet. We recommend testing children 3 years and upwards, or earlier if you notice a problem.
I am diabetic and have an eye screening every year, do I still need an eye test?
A Diabetic Retinopathy screening will take a photograph of the retina at the back of your eye and this will be examined to look for diabetic changes or damage. However, this will not check your glasses prescription or look for any other health problems so it' s very important to have a routine eye test every year. NHS eye tests are free for people with diabetes.
I've heard that you can tell a lot of health problems by looking in the eyes, is this true?
During a routine eye examination, we will look closely at the retina and optic nerve at the back of the eye. The appearance of these features can often give us clues as to whether there may be any underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and sometimes even more serious conditions. This is why, even if you feel your vision is fine, you should get an eye test at least every 2 years.
What's the difference between an 'optometrist' and an 'optician'? I'm confused!
This is a very common question and, in short, they are both the same thing! An 'optometrist' is the same as an 'ophthalmic optician'. It requires a BSc degree in Optometry and a further years training as a pre-registration optometrist to pass the Professional Qualifying Examinations in order to become registered with the General Optical Council.
I have had a stroke, will this affect my vision?
A stroke can sometime lead to visual loss. This is usually in the periphery (side) of the vision and can affect mobilty or driving. We can check this using a visual fields screener, which is a quick and simple test.
If you have any questions regarding your, or your family's eye health, our staff and optometrists are more than happy to take the time to talk and help in any way we can.
eyecare INFORMATION
At your eye examination, you may be advised by your optometrist that you have one or more of these common eye conditions. Our optometrists are vastly experienced in diagnosing and managing them, but if you require any further information, please see the useful links below.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is an inflammation of your eyelids, making them red, crusty, irritated or itchy. We stock a range of blepharitis treatments in practice.
To find out more about blepharitis please click the PDF.
Cataracts
A cataract is a painless, gradual proccess which occurs when the clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy or misty usually as we get older. We can monitor the development of cataract over time, and will refer you to an ophthalmologist when treatment is necessary.
To find out more about Cataracts please click the PDF.
Flashes and Floaters
Floaters are small, dark spots or strands that appear to float in front of your eyes. Some people also notice they see flashes of light. Very occasionally, flashes or an increase in floaters can be a sign of a retinal detachment, which needs treating as soon as possible. It is Always advisable to have your eyes thoroughly examined as soon as possible if you are experiencing flashing lights or new floaters. If you experience sudden onset of flashes or floaters you are entitles to an EHEW examination.
To find out more about Flashes and Floaters please click the PDF.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases which causes damage to the optic nerve.In the early stages of disease there are little to no symptoms. If you have glaucoma in your family (parent/sibling/child) you are at a higher risk of developing the condition. If this applies to you, an annual eye examination is recommended. These examinations are covered by the NHS if you are over the age of 40. To find out more about Glaucoma please read click the PDF.
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The macula is an area at the back of your eye that you use for seeing fine detail such as reading a book and face recognition. As we get older, we more susceptible to wear and tear in this area. Symptoms include difficulties with seeing small print or detail on the TV and central distortion, blank patched or blurring. These changes can be slow and progressive, or can happen overnight.
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Any problem with central vision needs to be investigated quickly and with OCT technology, we can differentiate between the different types (dry or wet) and refer on to the appropriate NHS specialist.
For more information, please click the PDF.
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