A leading Swindon eye surgeon has highlighted the important role local optometrists play in spotting potentially serious eye conditions before they lead to avoidable sight loss.
Adam Ross, consultant ophthalmologist at Newmedica Swindon, has described optometrists as the ‘GPs of the eyes’ as part of National Eye Examination Month.
He says regular eye examinations can identify the early signs of conditions which may not cause noticeable symptoms until a patient’s sight has already been affected.
“There are many eye conditions that, while highly treatable when caught early, can cause rapid deterioration of sight if left untreated, and in some cases even irreversible sight loss,” said Adam.
“We all know we need to visit our GP when we need a check-up or are experiencing health issues, but too many people forget about their eyesight.”
Adam recommends that people have an eye examination at least every two years, even if they believe their vision is perfectly healthy, or more frequently if advised by their optometrist.
He explained that an optometrist can identify changes which might otherwise go unnoticed and refer patients to an ophthalmologist when further investigation or treatment is required.
“The earlier the intervention, the better chance of maintaining good vision,” he said.
The work carried out by optometrists also means specialist eye services can treat patients who have been identified as needing further care.
“The vital work of our local opticians’ practices ensures that we’re able to implement NHS-funded and private treatment plans for hundreds of patients in Swindon every year,” Adam said.
Eye examinations can also provide clues about a person’s wider health. Because blood vessels, nerves and tissue can be viewed in the eye without surgery, optometrists may be able to identify signs associated with conditions including diabetes and high blood pressure.
Adam said people can sometimes overlook changes to their eyesight, adapting their routines rather than arranging an appointment.
“Too many people across Swindon experience what they think are mild eyesight problems and put off an all-important eye exam, making adjustments to their routines rather than make an appointment,” he said.
“I would encourage everyone, whether experiencing symptoms or not, to ensure they are visiting an opticians at least every two years, or more frequently if advised to by them, because they can spot early warning signs and refer you to a treatment specialist such as ourselves if a condition is detected.”
He added that community optometrists play an important role in ensuring patients reach the appropriate specialist care when needed.
“Our optometrist colleagues are a vital part of the patient journey towards maintaining healthy eyes. As the GPs of the eyes, they are often the first point of care for a patient and the first step towards any diagnosis or treatment.”
“The vast majority of our patients are referred to us by external optometrists in the community who identify conditions requiring further treatment. We appreciate their hard work and support in ensuring patients are seen in the most appropriate setting.”
There are also steps people can take themselves to help protect their eyesight. While some conditions, including macular degeneration, can have a genetic link, lifestyle choices can influence the risk of developing a number of eye conditions.
Adam highlighted smoking as a particular risk factor, while maintaining a healthy diet and protecting the eyes from the sun with suitable sunglasses can also help.
Newmedica Swindon is an eye health clinic and surgical centre providing specialist services to patients across Swindon and the surrounding area, including Royal Wootton Bassett, Chippenham and Marlborough.
The clinic is led by Mr Nigel Kirkpatrick, Mr Adam Ross, Mr Antonis Kaintatzis and Mr Fadi Alkherdahji, alongside operations director Jug Singh.
