Advice
Most of us take our sight for granted and although recent surveys have shown that people fear losing their sight more than any other sense, many of us don’t really know what we should be doing to look after our sight.
Eye Safety
Nearly 50 per cent of eye related injuries occur in the home with over 20,000 accidents a year happening as a direct result of DIY. Many of us are also exposed to occupational risks such as prolonged use of computer screens. So what can you do to protect yourself from these risks:
DIY
A large number of DIY related injuries are caused by flying objects such as shards of metal or chippings. By simply investing in a pair of quality goggles, many of these incidents can be prevented.
Workplace Injuries
Employers are required to conform to health and safety legislation and if you are concerned that you are not being given the correct training or protective equipment you should raise this with your employer.
Prolonged use of a computer screen can result in CVS (computer vision syndrome. The symptoms include eyestrain, double vision, temporary short-sightedness and visual fatigue. Reduce the risk by ensuring you VDU is well positioned and that you have suitable workplace lighting. Also take short, frequent breaks of 5-10 minutes once an hour.
Sports
Sports is the biggest cause of hospital admissions for serious eye injuries. Wearing protective sports goggles will prevent injuries from fast moving balls and rackets.
First Aid for Eyes
It is important to know what to do if you have an eye injury. The right course of action can potentially save you from permanent injury or blindness
Foreign objects
If you have a foreign object in your eye don’t rub it. Pull the upper eyelid down over the lower lid and let the lower eyelashes sweep away the particle by blinking repeatedly. Failing this, wash the eye out with clean water or sterile fluid from a sealed container. If this doesn’t work either, go straight to hospital.
If something is actually embedded in the eye, do not try to remove it – you might cause more damage. Go to hospital!
Cuts in and around the eye
Do not rub the eye, apply pressure, remove any particles or wash the eye out!
Bandage the eye gently and seek medical help.
Chemical splashes
If you’re wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately. Flush the eye out with clean water for at least 10 minutes, while gently holding the eye open. Go to your nearest hospital accident and emergency department straight away.
Physical trauma (black eyes, etc) - Gently apply cold compresses immediately, but without exerting any pressure. This can be repeated for 15 minutes every hour. This should relieve some of the pain and swelling. Go to the doctor’s if there is serious discolouration, as it could indicate internal injury.
Sun Light
Your eyesight can be damaged through exposure to the sun. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses that carry the CE mark (showing they conform to European safety standards
Regular Eye Tests
You can book your eye test with us today by contacting us on 01303 263 770 or by booking online.