Most people would agree that getting a regular eye test is important, but how many realise that a check up is vital not just for assessing your sight, but in flagging up a number of potentially serious health problems which may otherwise go undetected?
For example, diabetes affects almost 2 million people in the UK and it is estimated that 1 million more people have the condition but don’t even realise it. Often the first indication that someone is suffering with diabetes is a sight problem.
More often than not your optometrist is the first person to suspect diabetes in a person because they can see the changes it causes in the eye or sight. Once diagnosed your optometrist is able to work with your GP to monitor the progress of the disease and its effects. This will be done by examining in detail changes in the appearance of the retina at the back of the eye.
Figures from Brain Tumour UK indicate that an estimated 16,000 people are diagnosed with brain tumours in Britain each year – and as many as 30 per cent of these could be spotted with an routine eye test, often at an early, and life-saving stage.
High blood cholesterol, which leads to coronary heart disease, stroke and heart attack, can also be detected, as well as high blood pressure.
Complex neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease and even cancer can also be revealed during an eye test.
John Biddle Opticians have been taking care of customers across Shropshire since 1972, and take pride in ensuring they receive a service which is personal and friendly, and offers an expertise and professionalism which is second to none. You'll find four branches of JBOpticians across Shropshire, in Telford, Wellington, Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth.
For details and locations of the branches - click here
Read more about JBOpticians here - click here
