An eye test not only identifies whether your sight needs correction but can also be a tool for detecting underlying health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes as well as exposing eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. It is recommended to have an eye test every two years although some individuals need to be seen more often, for example if you have a family history of glaucoma or are diabetic.

We provide a complete eye test. It includes:

• Discussing your symptoms and needs including any previous ocular history and medical history.

• Assessing your vision and then we determine whether any correction is required.

• External and internal examination of the eye, using the most advanced technology available on the high street.

• Checking if the eyes are working together by testing the muscles that control eye movements.

• Eye pressure is checked which is an important tool for detecting diseases such as glaucoma.

• Peripheral vision is checked using a visual field analyser.

At the end of the test we take time to explain our findings, discuss your requirements and advise when your next test is recommended.

Many people are exempt from eye test charges; these individuals include children under 18 and in full time education as well as individuals claiming certain benefits and individuals that suffer from diabetes and glaucoma. To find out whether you would qualify for an NHS eye test please speak to one of our friendly team.

Guide to the machines the optometrist will use in the eye test:

Slit-Lamp

This is a microscope that allows us to get a better view of the front part of the eye. We can check the health of the lids and the quality of the tear layer, as well as the structures at the front of the eye. It is an essential check-up when a patient wears contact lenses.

Keratometer

This machine allows us to determine the curves of the front surface of the eye (cornea) and is used as part of the examination for contact lenses.

Tonometer

A tonometer checks the pressure in the eye. It is used in conjunction with other tests, to check for signs of eye disease.

Visual Field Analyser

This machine allows us to check the peripheral vision, the things you notice at the edge of your vision. It is important for people who suffer from progressive eye diseases.

Retinal Camera

This is one of the most impressive pieces of machinery within the eye test room. This machine gives us a picture of the retina and works in a similar way to a normal camera. Rather than getting small snap shots of the retina that the optician must recall it gives us one clear picture that can be saved and viewed at any time. It is a permanent copy of the state of the retina at a particular time. This means that on consecutive visits the progress of the retina’s health can be monitored, and changes can be picked up earlier. A retinal camera gives us:

• A clear view of the retina compared to any hand held instruments currently available.

• Accurate identification of eye problems can be made. For example glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure and macular degeneration. It also allows these diseases to be monitored or shared with other medical professionals such as the patient’s doctor or specialist consultant.

• A computerised colour image of the retina instantly that can be permanently stored.

• It is an easy test that can be carried out on most patients and in general no drugs are required to be used.

• The patient is able to view these pictures and it makes them aware of their own condition and what the optician is able to carry out.