Recurring dryness, redness and irritation could be a symptom of dry eye syndrome . What are the symptoms of dry eye syndrome? Feelings of dryness, grittiness or soreness that get worse during the day Red eyes Eyelids that stick together when you wake up Temporarily blurred vision, which usually improves when you blink [embed id="embed_2"] What causes it? Dry eye syndrome can occur when your eyes stop making tears as they usually would. Tears are an important part of your eye health. They help to keep your eyes lubricated, protect against infections, and clear away debris from the surface of your eyes. Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Your optometrist may give you eye drops to lubricate your eyes or you could need medication to reduce inflammation. If necessary, surgery can prevent tears from draining away too easily. If dry eye is caused by an underlying condition, treating this condition will usually help relieve the symptoms. If necessary, the optician may refer you for further tests. [embed id="embed_1"]

Many people who use computers or screens complain of eye strain . Looking at a monitor for a long time can strain your eyes or can make any other problems you are having with your eyes seem more noticeable. What are the symptoms of computer eye strain? Eye discomfort Headaches Sore, tired, burning or itchy eyes Difficulty focusing Watery eyes Dry eyes Blurred or double vision Increased sensitivity to light [embed id="embed_2"] What can I do to help computer eye strain? Although eye strain can cause discomfort, it usually isn’t serious and goes away once you rest your eyes. Regularly look away from your computer screen and focus on distant objects. For example, take a minute to stare out of the window. Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Regular eye examinations are essential for clear, comfortable vision and you should have one every two years. But they also offer a broader health assessment – the optometrist checks the health of your eyes and looks for signs of other medical conditions. [embed id="embed_1"]

If you find you can see objects far away clearly but that those close by are out of focus, you could have long-sightedness , or hyperopia. Long-sightedness that is related to age is called presbyopia. What are the symptoms of long-sightedness? People with hyperopia will find that they can see objects in the distance clearly, but things up close (like books or phone screens) are out of focus, or look quite fuzzy. [embed id="embed_2"] Long-sightedness makes doing things close up difficult and more tiring for the eyes, as they’re having to work very hard to see. Often this becomes too much of a strain and reading or using your phone becomes out of focus. You may find yourself squinting or holding things further away at arm’s length to try and see clearly. Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Long-sightedness can be picked up during a regular eye test – so it’s important you have one regularly. We’d recommend you have an eye test every two years. Treatment options for long-sightedness include prescription glasses or contact lenses. [embed id="embed_1"]

Red eyes can indicate a number of conditions. They may look alarming, but they’re most likely to be caused by a minor eye condition , like conjunctivitis. What sort of eye conditions cause red eyes? If your red eye is painless, it is most likely caused by a minor eye problem, such as conjunctivitis or a burst blood vessel. These conditions don’t tend to affect your vision and many often get better within a week or two with minimal intervention. Your Specsavers optometrist will identify your symptoms and suggest treatments. [embed id="embed_2"] What if my red eye is painful? If your red eye is painful or you have other symptoms such as reduced vision, the cause could be linked to the below: Iritis Acute glaucoma Corneal ulcer Scratch to the cornea or grit in the eye Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Regular eye examinations are essential for clear, comfortable vision and you should have one every two years. But be sure to contact your GP or optician immediately if you have a painful red eye, a recent eye injury or other symptoms like sensitivity to light, a severe headache or nausea. [embed id="embed_1"]

Floaters are very common, and are usually nothing to worry about. Usually they tend to sink out of your vision fast enough for them not to bother you but if you are concerned, consult your optometrist. What are the symptoms of floaters ? Black or translucent spots or strands, which give the impression of seeing something ‘float’ across your field of vision. Most are very small and move out of your vision very quickly. [embed id="embed_2"] The appearance of new floaters may also be accompanied by seeing flashing lights, such as streaks of bright white light flickering across your vision. Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Regular eye examinations are essential for clear, comfortable vision and you should have one every two years. But it is important to contact your optometrist immediately if you notice new floaters, flashing lights, or both, as these can be an indication of a more serious condition. [embed id="embed_1"]

Swollen or itchy eyes can indicate a number of conditions, including: Hayfever : A common allergic reaction to pollen, particularly in the summer, causing sneezing, itchy/watery eyes or inflammation. Blepharitis : Another common condition causing itchy, sore or sticky eyelids Styes : A small painful lump inside or outside the eyelid, which usually clears up on its own Why should I get a Specsavers eye test? Regular eye examinations are essential for clear, comfortable vision and you should have one every two years. But if symptoms persist, contact your local Specsavers store to arrange an appointment with an optometrist. [embed id="embed_1"]