National Eye Health Week

alex85713
Sep 26
4 min read

National Eye Health Week is an important annual event that raises awareness about the significance of eye health and encourages individuals to take proactive steps in caring for their vision. This year, it will take place from Monday, 22 September to Sunday, 28 September 2025. During this week, we aim to highlight the key symptoms of eyesight issues that should prompt you to seek an eye examination.

If you notice any changes in your vision, it’s crucial to consult an optician as soon as possible. Early detection can make a significant difference in maintaining your eye health.

Key Symptoms of Eyesight Issues

Awareness of symptoms that may indicate potential eyesight problems is essential. Here are some major issues to be conscious of:

Loss of Peripheral (Side) Vision

Experiencing a loss of peripheral vision can be alarming. This condition might indicate serious eye diseases such as glaucoma. A study shows that early detection of glaucoma can reduce the risk of severe vision loss by up to 50%. If you find you cannot see objects to the side while looking straight ahead, it’s essential to get an eye test.

Difficulty Recognising Faces or Reading Signs

If you struggle to recognize familiar faces or have trouble reading signs from a distance, it may be a sign of vision deterioration. For example, those with uncorrected refractive errors may lose as much as 50% of their visual clarity. This symptom can greatly affect your daily life and should not be ignored.

Seeing Floaters or Flashes of Light

Seeing floaters or flashes of light can be common, but if these symptoms become more frequent or are accompanied by other vision changes, it’s important to seek professional advice.

Blurry / Hazy Vision - Glare in low sun or night driving

Blurry or hazy vision can arise from several factors, like cataracts or refractive errors. Individuals with cataracts could start seeing a significant decrease in their clarity of vision. If you notice these changes, it's time to book an eye test.

Sudden Loss of Vision in One or Both Eyes

A sudden loss of vision can sometimes indicate a medical emergency. If you experience this symptom, you need to seek immediate medical attention. It could signify a serious condition such as retinal detachment or a stroke, both requiring urgent care.

Distorted or Wavy Vision

If straight lines appear wavy or distorted, it may indicate macular degeneration. This condition is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting around 10% of those over 50. Symptoms should be evaluated by a professional as soon as possible.

Double Vision

Experiencing double vision can disorient you and may indicate a range of issues, from minor to serious. If you encounter this symptom, it's crucial to seek an eye examination promptly.

How Can We Better Protect Our Eyes?

Taking proactive steps to protect your eyes is essential for maintaining good vision. Here are some effective strategies:

Nutrition

What you eat plays a significant role in your overall health, including your eye health. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods can help keep your eyes healthy. Here’s an A-Z guide to foods and drinks scientifically proven to benefit your vision:

A for Avocados
B for Blueberries
C for Carrots
D for Dark leafy greens
E for Eggs
F for Fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids

Adding these foods to your diet can support your eye health and potentially decrease the risk of vision problems.

The 20-20-20 Rule

In our screen-dominated world, it’s essential to give our eyes a break. The 20-20-20 rule is a simple yet effective way to reduce eye strain. Every twenty minutes, look at something approximately 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help alleviate discomfort and protect against issues like myopia.

Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your eye health. Smoking is linked to various eye diseases, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Studies suggest that smokers are three times more likely to develop cataracts compared to non-smokers.

Eye Tests

Regular eye tests are crucial for maintaining good vision. Even if you feel your eyesight is fine, it’s recommended to have your eyes tested every two years. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to book an eye test as soon as possible.

Did you know? In the UK, the NHS fund eye examinations for many individuals, including children, over-60s, and those on low incomes. This makes regular eye checks accessible for a large portion of the population.

Your Vision Matters

As National Eye Health Week approaches, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of eye health. By being aware of the key symptoms of eyesight issues and taking proactive steps to protect your vision, you can ensure that your eyes remain healthy for years to come. Remember, if something doesn’t look or feel right, don’t hesitate to book an eye test with an optician. Your vision is worth it!