HAVE AN EXPERT EYE TEST
BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR EYE HEALTH
As well as checking your eyesight, we take a detailed look at the health of your eyes. That includes monitoring for early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as general health problems such as diabetes and blood pressure.
A vital part of our eye test involves taking time to find out more about you and how you use your eyes. That guarantees we provide bespoke visual solutions suited to your individual needs.
After completing our examination, we'll take time to discuss the condition of your eyes in easy-to-understand terms. And using the latest research, offer expert advice on how to look after your eyes and keep them as healthy as possible.
3D OCT EYE SCANS
Our OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanner uses advanced technology to create high-definition 3D images of the back of your eyes. OCT scanning allows us to view the deeper layers of tissue below the surface of your retina. That means we can detect signs of serious eye conditions at a much earlier stage than ever before. For example, problems like glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and macular holes.
These scans are very simple and comfortable to do. No drops are required and the images are captured in just a few seconds, using low intensity flash. So next time you book an appointment with us, make sure to ask about 3D OCT eye scanning.
At Eric Mercer's we offer an emergency eyecare service under an NHS-funded scheme called NI PEARS. This recognises the role of specially trained optometrists as the first port of call for eye problems. It means you can be seen at our practice first rather than having to attend your GP or A&E.
Our emergency eye clinic is suitable for a wide range of problems, such as:
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Red eyes
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Eye pain or discomfort
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Sudden change in vision
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Flashes and floaters
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Suspected foreign body in the eye
EMERGENCY EYE CLINIC
If you experience any of the above signs or symptoms, simply give us a call. We will offer you an emergency appointment for expert assessment - free of charge under the NHS. Most minor eye conditions can be treated in our practice. However, should your problem turn out to be more serious, we can refer you directly to the correct place.
CHILDREN'S EYE TESTS AND EYECARE
Poor vision can have a damaging effect on a child’s ability to learn. Yet, research shows that as many as one in five children attend school with undiagnosed eye problems. The problem is that children won’t always realise they have a sight defect. Also, there may be no obvious signs for parents and teachers to pick up on.
If you notice any of the following, be sure to give us a call:
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Headaches or eyestrain
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Blurred vision
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Squinting
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Peering closely at books and TV
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Poor performance at school
Eye tests are free for children under 16 and for under 19-year-olds who are in full time education.
DRY EYE CLINIC
If your eyes feel sore, gritty or watery, book an appointment with our optometrist for a dry eye assessment.
Dry eye syndrome or ‘dry eyes’ is a common cause of ocular discomfort. It can be aggravated by 'staring' activities such as reading or using a computer screen. Ageing and certain medications can also be contributing factors.
It is very important to realize that dry eye syndrome is usually a chronic condition, meaning there is no quick fix. However, with the right ongoing treatment, it's irritating symptoms can be successfully controlled. This includes using drops, gels or ointments to help lubricate your eyes.
Some forms of dry eye respond well to regular use of hot compresses. Applying heat helps clear the oil-producing glands at the edges of your eyelids, improving tear stability.
There are also a range of self-help techniques you can try. These include drinking plenty of water, blinking more regularly and eating oily fish and other foods rich in Omega-3 oils.
ERIC'S TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY EYES
1. Have regular eye examinations - Your eyes can provide a window to your overall general health. Having regular eye tests means that the nerves and blood vessels at the back of your eyes are examined and monitored closely. Most adults should have their eyes tested once every 2 years. Diabetics, the over 70s, children and those with a family history of glaucoma should visit annually.
2. Don't smoke - Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do to protect your eyes. It greatly reduces your risk of developing serious eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. If you would like help to stop, there is a wide range of help and advice available. For further information, talk to your GP or pharmacist, or visit nhs.uk/smokefree
3. Eat healthily - The vitamins and minerals found in healthy foods help protect your eyes from conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Dark green leafy vegetables, like spinach, broccoli and kale, are particularly good for macular health.
4. Protect your eyes from the sun - Ultraviolet (UV) light can be damaging to your eyes as well as your skin, increasing your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Sunglasses that have a CE mark fully protect your eyes from harmful UV rays as well as shading them from the glare of harsh sunlight.
5. Take regular exercise - Regular exercise improves blood flow and increases oxygen supply to the retina and optic nerve at the back of the eye. This reduces your risk of developing glaucoma, as well as eye diseases related to diabetes and blood pressure.
Remember, eyesight is priceless, so it makes good sense to look after the health of your eyes as much as you can.
COULD YOU BE ENTITLED TO A HOME EYE TEST?
As you grow older, it is more important than ever to have regular eye tests. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for people with health or mobility problems to lose touch with the services of an optometrist and neglect their eyesight. However, this need not be the case.
Domiciliary eye tests are available to anyone unable to visit an optometrist’s practice unaccompanied. That includes people with poor mobility due to conditions like arthritis, stroke or breathing problems. It can also apply to people with problems like Alzheimer’s, agoraphobia or severe depression who find it difficult to cope with a visit to the optometrist.
Certain groups are eligible for free home visits including:
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Those aged 60 or over
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Diabetics
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People with glaucoma
We can also carry out eye tests for clients in nursing or residential homes. Call the practice to book a home visit today.
FOR ANY CONCERNS ABOUT THE HEALTH OF YOUR EYES, CALL US NOW ON 028 9058 3030.
You can also contact us via the form below.