Young Wrexham

Eyes

Eye Tests

You should have regular eye tests even if you are not suffering from any problems. Regular check-ups can catch eye disease like glaucoma before it affects your sight. It can also detect other health problems like diabetes.

An eye test is not just about getting glasses, it is about keeping your eyes healthy. Eye tests are painless (although they can be slightly uncomfortable, but then only very briefly) and usually take around 30 minutes.

Choose a registered optician (optometrist) near where you live or visit www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/localservices to find one nearest to you. People in the following categories are entitled to a free NHS sight test:

• Are under 16*
• Are aged 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education*
• Age 60 or over
• Diagnosed glaucoma patients
• Aged 40 or over and are either a parent, brother, sister, son or daughter of a diagnosed glaucoma patient, or
• Have been advised by an ophthalmic practitioner that they are at risk of glaucoma
• Diagnosed with diabetes
• Registered blind or partially sighted
• Require complex lenses*
• Those whose sight test is carried out by a hospital eye department as part of the management of an optical condition
• Patient or partner are in receipt of Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseekers Allowance or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit*
• Named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate*
• Named on a valid HC2W certificate
• Partial help if you are named in a valid HC3W you might get some help towards the cost of a private sight test

(*Also entitled to NHS vouchers towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses.)

You can also get NHS vouchers for glasses and contact lenses, which can be used towards the cost at any optician. These will be given to you by your GP or hospital if necessary.

Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery uses a laser to correct long or short-sightedness. There are a number of high street laser eye clinics but make sure an experienced doctor is treating you. If you can, use a recommended surgeon.

Although it is a quick and simple procedure, it can lead to complications like corneal ectasia (fluid pressure builds up on the eye), dry eyes or night vision problems. In some cases, it has also caused a worsening of vision.