You may have read in the news this week about Bradley Walsh’s struggle with blepharitis, an eye condition which causes inflamed and swollen eye lids. Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, Clinical Adviser at the College of Optometrists explains a bit more about the condition: “Blepharitis is a common but chronic condition…
Do you have diminishing sight and are you seeing images which could not possibly be there? If so, you may have developed Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). This is a natural and very common condition (an estimated 1 million people in the UK) which causes people of any age – children…
To mark Road Safety Week, taking place from 16-22 November, The College of Optometrists has issued advice to drivers encouraging them to ensure their vision is up to standard before getting behind the wheel. The advice comes following research conducted by The College showing that two-thirds (66%) of British adults admit…
Are you planning on having a firework display at home this year? As widespread lockdowns are soon to be in place and many families consider hosting their own fireworks display, the College of Optometrists are urging people to take a moment to think about protecting their eyes as more people…
In line with the government’s new national restrictions in England to reduce the spread of COVID-19 from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December, The College of Optometrists has advised its members that all practices remain open to provide services, continue to prioritise patients based on clinical need and follow…
The College of Optometrists has issued advice for those who notice a change in their vision after the clocks went back last weekend. Daniel Hardiman-McCartney FCOptom, Clinical Adviser for the College of Optometrists explains: “At this time of year, as it gets darker in the evenings, optometrists typically experience an…
The first ever completely blurred film, Focus on Life is launched today to highlight the national issue of our worsening eyesight and its impact on our lives. The College of Optometrists has teamed up with BAFTA award-nominated director Mark Nunneley from the Ridley Scott Creative Group to direct a film…
You may have seen press reports that quote senior government officials as saying they have taken a drive to test their eyesight. We strongly advise against taking a drive to test your eyesight. If you are concerned about your vision please contact your optometrist for advice. At the moment, optometrists…
Your optometrist will keep records of the results of any tests carried out during your visit, as well as any relevant information on your medical history – for example, a history of glaucoma in your family, any allergies and the medications you are taking. These records will inform their clinical…
Many optical practices now offer the option of having an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, alongside your sight test, or during a separate visit. The OCT scan provides the optometrist with additional information that can help contribute to a more accurate diagnosis and a more detailed record of the health…