I’m worried about my eyesight

Your vision is precious and like all precious things, you should look after it. Many causes of sight loss are preventable, and half of all sight loss is preventable if it is caught early. If you, or someone you know has an eye condition, and you want to know more about it, there are easy-to-read eye conditions guides on the RNIB website.

Given that your vision is precious, how can you ensure your eyes stay healthy? There are lots of things you can do, but one of the most important things you can do is visit an optometrist and have an eye test. You can search for an optometrist on the Wales Eye Care Services website by selecting ‘Urgent eye problem – Eye Health Examination Wales’ and the geographical area in which you live.

Man having an eye examination
As well as telling you whether you need to wear glasses, having an eye test can detect other health issues

Eye tests are vital, and should be part of everyone’s healthcare regime. An eye test can tell you whether you need to start wearing glasses or contact lenses. If you wear them already, it can tell you that you need to change your prescription. More importantly, an eye test can make sure your eyes stay healthy. Eye tests can help identify potentially serious eye problems, such as glaucoma, and health problems such as diabetes. They can also investigate symptoms such as cloudy vision and floaters.

What happens at an eye test?

An eye test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes (though it can take longer). During an eye test, the practitioner will assess your history; for example, whether this is a routine check-up or if you’ve had any problems with your eyes. You will also be asked about your general health, your work and any hobbies you do. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist at a hospital following an eye examination if signs of an eye condition have been detected.

Everyone should have an eye test at least once every two years as part of their healthcare routine. Looking after your eye health is just as important as looking after the rest of your body. For more information about how to keep your eyes healthy, click here. You should also have an eye test if you think you have a problem with your eyesight. Some people can be eligible for a free eye test or optical vouchers to reduce the cost of glasses or contact lenses. To find out if you’re eligible click here.

What about eye health emergencies?

You should go to a hospital accident and emergency department as soon as possible if you:

  • have a sudden serious change in your vision
  • lose all or part of your vision in one eye or both eyes
  • have an accident involving your eyes
  • suddenly start seeing flashing lights or floaters in your vision.

If you are concerned you may be losing your sight and would like some information or advice, please contact us by telephone or email or by visiting us at Jones Court, Womanby Street, Cardiff, CF10 1BR. You don’t need to make an appointment to come and see us, but we’re a small team, so it’s best to call and arrange a time. That way, we can ensure we have someone available to spend time with you.

You can also email us at [email protected]. Let us know what information and advice you would like, and how you would like us to contact you, and we’ll do our best to help you.

Get in touch

Get in touch with one of our offices or click here to find contact details of specific members of staff.


Sight Life (Head Office)

Jones Court
Womanby Street
Cardiff
CF10 1BR

Telephone:
029 2039 8900

Rhondda Cynon Taff & Merthyr Tydfil

Telephone:
029 2039 8900

Swansea and Neath Port Talbot

Swansea Vale Resource Centre
Ffordd Tregof
Swansea Vale
Swansea SA7 0AL

Telephone:
01792 776360