As many Brits tighten their belts following Christmas spending sprees, an increasing number are turning to Google for eye health advice, risking their vision by bypassing professional opticians. A recent report has revealed that around 500,000 individuals in the UK are relying on search engines for answers about their eye health, with 450,000 searches in a single month alone.
Inquiries such as “Why are my eyes stinging?” and “Why do my eyeballs hurt?” have surged by 60% and 50%, respectively, over the past three months. The broader category of “Why does my eye…” questions saw 349,000 searches last month, marking a 19% increase in just a quarter.
A study by Eye Health UK found that an alarming 19 million Britons are missing out on regular eye tests, with financial constraints leading over half of low-income households to forgo eye exams in the past two years.
However, experts from Feel Good Contacts, an online eyecare retailer, caution that seeking advice online could jeopardize people’s health, even their lives. Serious conditions such as cancers and brain tumors often first show symptoms in the eyes, yet these cannot be detected through online searches.
Tina Patel, a contact lens optician at Feel Good Contacts, emphasized that while online searches are tempting, they should not replace professional eye exams, particularly during financially strained times. “The cost of an eye test is comparable to buying a single Christmas present, but it can have a far greater impact on your health, diagnosing serious conditions that a search engine cannot,” she said.
Patel further explained that Googling symptoms like eye discomfort might offer some initial ideas, but it’s unreliable. “Regular eye check-ups are not only about updating prescriptions – they can save your sight and, in some cases, even your life.”
Eye exams can detect early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes before symptoms appear. In some cases, eye tests can even identify brain tumors, high blood pressure, and other life-threatening health issues.
While the cost of eye tests at high street opticians typically ranges from £20 to £30, it’s a small price to pay considering the potential for early detection of serious health issues. Patel noted that those on lower incomes may be eligible for free eye tests, ensuring that financial concerns don’t compromise eye health.
In the UK, individuals under 16, those in full-time education, seniors over 60, and people with conditions like glaucoma or diabetes are eligible for free NHS eye tests. Additionally, those receiving benefits such as Income Support, Universal Credit, or Pension Credit Guarantee qualify for free tests, as do individuals over 40 with a family history of glaucoma or complex prescriptions.
Tina Patel urges those eligible to take advantage of their entitlement: “Simply inform your optician when booking and bring proof of your entitlement, such as a benefits letter or NHS certificate. Regular eye tests are essential for protecting your sight, catching serious conditions early, and are a right for those who need them the most.”
By prioritizing professional eye care, individuals can safeguard their long-term vision and health, avoiding the risks associated with self-diagnosis and unreliable online advice.
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