Attend opticians ‘right away’ if vision wanes

A Monklands opticians has highlighted how nearly half of the UK’S residents have noticed their eyesight deteriorate since the first coronavirus lockdown last March.

And Specsavers is urging people to attend its Airdrie and Coatbridge stores “right away” if their vision starts to change.

A study carried out by the firm discovered 42 per cent of people have found their sight has deterioratekd since March 2020; almost double the number of people reported by the College of Optometrists between March and May of last year throughout the original lockdown.

The research also showed that nearly half (44 per cent) of those suffering any deterioration are yet to address the issue and see an optician.

This supports a recent Yougov survey by the charity Fight for Sight, which also found more people experiencing headaches and migraines, as well as difficulty reading and poorer night vision.

Laura Mullett, director at Specsavers Airdrie and Coatbridge, said: “It’s important that anyone noticing a change in their vision gets it seen to right away.

“While usually this is down to a change in prescription or from our eyes feeling tired, in other cases it can be something more serious.

“Our stores remain open for eye and hearing tests, and those unable to leave home unaccompanied can request a home visit from Specsavers or use our Remotecare video and phone consultation service instead.

“For non-urgent enquires there is our Ask The Expert Facebook page, which has seen a surge in people looking for help with eye strain in the latest lockdown, particularly around headaches and migraines, sore, tired eyes and eye twitches.”

Ask The Expert is an innovative service, manned by optometrists who can answer questions relating to everyday eye care or recommend booking an appointment as necessary.

Laura added: “‘Our eyes are not designed to be fixed on a single object for a long period of time.

“When we focus on our screens, especially smaller format laptops, tablets or smart devices, eyes become stressed and strained.

“They may feel uncomfortable, sore, tired and as if they are itching or burning. You may also be experiencing blurred vision and headaches.”

Visit www.specsavers.co.uk for more information, or to request an appointment at your local store.

Seeing clearly Specsavers’airdrie and Coatbridge (pictured) teams are here to help